How Much Does Building Inspection School Cost?
There are many different educational avenues to become a building inspector. One way is to get a degree in building inspection. Another is to get an engineering or architecture degree. Regardless of which educational path you intend to take to ultimately become a building inspector, you are no doubt concerned about how much you will be spending to obtain this training.
The cost of going to building inspection school will depend on whether you intend to take an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and if you will be attending a public or private school. Private institutions are no doubt more expensive. You would most likely be able to save a considerable amount if you go to a public college or university in your state of residence since you will save a lot with the highly-discounted tuition rates.
A two-year associate’s degree in building/home/construction inspection can range anywhere from a around $9,000 to about $21,000 annually. This covers the cost of tuition and other fees, housing and books and supplies. The yearly cost for this program at Phoenix College and Scottsdale Community College is the same at $8,962 for in-state students and $14,746 for out-of-state students. In California, Butte College offers this program for $13,976 a year for in-state students and $18,776 for out-of-state students. At Chemeketa Community College in Oregon, the yearly cost for in-state students is $13,620 and $20,910 for out-of-state students.
If you want to take the engineering route as your educational background towards a career as a building inspector, you’ll most likely have to spend four years in college to get your bachelor’s degree. The cost of tuition of an undergraduate engineering degree can range anywhere from a little over $7,000 to more than $41,000. At the Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, the tuition cost for in-state students is $7,718 and $27,022 for out-of-state students.
Another public school which is also known for its engineering programs is The University of Texas at Austin which charges tuition of $9,790 for in-state students and $33,128 for out-of-state students. At Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a top private school for engineering, the cost of tuition which is $41,770 annually is the same for all students regardless of residency status. At Stanford University, another top private school for engineering, the tuition cost is similar at $41,250.
You have to keep in mind that these quotes are just the initial costs of tuition and other fees. Most students are eligible for some form of financial aid. Visit the financial aid office of your school to check if you qualify to apply for scholarships and grants. You can also obtain student loans if you really need more funds to finance your college degree.
You can also find part-time work opportunities, preferably in the engineering and construction fields, to help you pay for your college expenses. Finding work in an engineering, architecture or construction firm is highly recommended as this would enable you to have practical experience in the industry while earning at the same time.
Career Spotlight: Building Inspector
Hospitals, classrooms and other buildings are being constructed each year. A lot of people often stay and frequent these places for long periods of time every day. It is important that these structure[...]
