32 Credits DIP2462, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
The Carpentry program prepares students for a career in residential and commercial carpentry. The program coursework includes a mix of technical and general education, theory and hands-on learning experiences starting with the basics in tool usage, construction safety and print reading and progressing to advanced applications of residential and commercial carpentry skills and knowledge.
Campus: Faribault
Program Start Semester: Fall
Base estimate for 33 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $7,077
Tools and Equipment: $500 - $600
Total Estimated Cost: $7,577 - $7,677 *
Compare the costs and you'll see that tuition at South Central College is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Required Technical Courses (9 Courses)
Complete all of the following courses:
CARP1009 Carpentry Math (2 credits)
This course is designed to equip students with the foundational mathematical skills essential for success in the field of carpentry. Emphasizing practical applications, the curriculum focuses on mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques relevant to carpentry tasks. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on exercises, students will develop the mathematical proficiency required for accurate measurements, material estimation, and construction calculations. Understanding angles, triangles, and geometric shapes in construction are all component requirements. (Pre-Requisites: None)
CARP1111 Carpentry Tools and Safety (3 credits)
The course covers the safe operations of carpentry tools in the construction industry. Hand tools and stationary power tools will be covered. Job site safety, scaffolding, and ladders will be covered in depth. (Prerequisite: Declare Carpentry as a major)
CARP1112 Print Reading (3 credits)
This course will focus on Residential Print Reading and the importance of being able to read and interpret construction prints. Students will learn to read floor plans, elevations, plot plans, sections and details. Students will be expected to participate in class discussions and answer questions from the workbook and quizzes.
CARP1123 Residential Principles I (5 credits)
This course will cover the initial framing of a residential building project. It may involve an addition or remodeling an existing residence. Students will construct basement bearing walls, knee walls, well openings, posts, and beams. Students will install the sill, sill seal, rim joists, floor framing, floor plywood, and wall construction. All types of floor systems and wall framing techniques will be covered and implemented where applicable. (Prerequisite: Declare Carpentry as a major)
CARP1130 Residential Principles II (5 credits)
This course will continue the residential building project started in Residential Principles I. Students will do layout for roof trusses, ceiling joists, or rafters. The roof will be installed on the residential project to match the existing structure according to building points. All types of roof construction and roof framing will be analyzed, discussed, and implemented where applicable. Roof plywood, roof edge, ice and water guard, along with tar paper, will be installed. Students will shingle and flash the roof according to manufacturer's recommendations and local building codes. Window installation on the project will also be completed in the course. (Corequisite: CARP 1123)
CARP1225 Stairway Technology (3 credits)
This course covers all the aspects of stairway installation in residential construction. Students will learn the many code requirements involved with stairways. Students will layout, cut, and install a set of stairs. Stairs will also be constructed on the class residential building project. These stairways may be installed in the residence, off decks, or in the main entry. Skirt board, treads, risers, and handrails will be installed to finish a stairway to meet code requirements. (Prerequisites: CARP 1111; CARP 1112)
CARP1229 Exterior Finish (4 credits)
This course covers the exterior finish of the student build residential project. This includes soffit and fascia, door and window trim, flashing, starter, corner boards, and siding. Many different types of siding will be discussed and studied from our text book and real world examples. Deck or patio construction would be completed at this time as well. (Prerequisites: CARP 1110 or CARP 1111)
CARP1239 Interior Finish (4 credits)
This course is the completion of the inside of the residential building project constructed in earlier classes. This course covers the installation of doors, casing, window trim, and base. Students will install cabinets, counter tops, and all the details to finish a kitchen. This may include crown mold, base shoe, toe kick, and flooring. Students will also be involved in the finishing of closets, shelving, door bumpers, and door knobs. (Prerequisite CARP 1110 OR CARP 1111 AND CARP 1130)
CARP2105 Job Site Experience (4 credits)
This course is the culmination of the second year project. Students will do a number of things to complete the house including patios, decks, sidewalks, garage doors and some finished floor installation. Students will also facilitate the return of tools and equipment back to college and lumber yard. The yard will be readied with appropriate landscape and the house will need to pass a final inspection. (Prerequisites CARP 1110 OR CARP 1111 AND CARP 1123)
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
