How to Visit the Dunwoody College of Technology

Dunwoody College of Technology is a nationally recognized leader in career-focused technical education, offering hands-on training in fields such as advanced manufacturing, construction, automotive technology, health sciences, and information technology. For prospective students, parents, counselors, and industry professionals, visiting the campus is one of the most valuable steps in understanding whether Dunwoody is the right fit for future academic and career goals. Unlike traditional academic institutions, Dunwoodys learning environment is built on real-world labs, industry-standard equipment, and direct connections to employers making an in-person visit essential to fully appreciate its unique educational model.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for planning, executing, and maximizing the value of your visit to Dunwoody College of Technology. Whether youre considering enrollment, supporting someone who is, or simply exploring technical education options, this tutorial ensures youll arrive prepared, ask the right questions, and leave with actionable insights. Well cover everything from scheduling your tour to navigating campus facilities, interacting with faculty and students, and leveraging digital tools before, during, and after your visit.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Your Visit Purpose

Before taking any action, clarify why youre visiting. Are you a high school student exploring career paths? A parent helping your child choose a college? A counselor advising multiple students? Or perhaps an employer seeking internship partnerships? Your purpose will shape your experience. For example:

• Prospective students should focus on program offerings, lab access, and student life.
• Parents may want to understand tuition, financial aid options, and post-graduation outcomes.
• Industry representatives may prioritize partnerships, apprenticeship programs, and workforce development initiatives.

Knowing your goal allows you to tailor your questions and prioritize which departments or labs to visit. This step alone can significantly increase the value of your time on campus.

2. Research Programs and Facilities

Dunwoody offers over 20 career-focused programs, each with dedicated labs and equipment. Before your visit, explore the official website and identify programs that align with your interests. Key areas include:

• Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering CNC machining, robotics, welding, and automation labs.
• Construction & Design Full-scale building projects, electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC training spaces.
• Automotive & Transportation Hybrid/electric vehicle diagnostics, diesel technology, and collision repair bays.
• Health Sciences Clinical simulation labs for nursing, medical assisting, and dental hygiene.
• Information Technology & Cybersecurity Network security labs, server rooms, and software development workstations.

Review program length, credentials earned (certificates, diplomas, associate degrees), and industry certifications embedded in each curriculum. This background knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during your visit.

3. Schedule Your Visit

Dunwoody offers guided campus tours by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accommodated due to the hands-on nature of the programs and safety protocols in labs. To schedule:

1. Visit dunwoody.edu/visit to access the online scheduling portal.
2. Select your preferred date and time. Tours are typically offered Monday through Friday during business hours.
3. Choose the type of visit: General Campus Tour, Program-Specific Tour, or Group Visit (for schools or organizations).
4. Provide basic contact information and indicate any special needs or interests (e.g., interested in automotive technology or accommodating mobility needs).
5. Confirm your appointment via email. Youll receive a reminder 48 hours before your visit with parking instructions and building locations.

Group visits (10+ people) require at least two weeks notice. Educators, guidance counselors, and community organizations are encouraged to book in advance to ensure adequate staffing and program access.

4. Prepare for Your Visit

Once your visit is confirmed, prepare thoroughly to make the most of your time:

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes Youll be walking through labs, workshops, and classrooms, often on concrete or industrial flooring.
• Bring a notebook or digital device Record key details about programs, instructors, and student experiences.
• Prepare a list of questions See the FAQs section later in this guide for inspiration.
• Review the campus map Available on the Dunwoody website. Identify key buildings: the Main Building, the Technical Education Center, the Health Sciences Building, and the Automotive Technology Center.
• Check the weather Dunwoodys campus is spread across multiple buildings. Be prepared for outdoor walking between sites.

If youre traveling from out of town, consider booking nearby accommodations. The college is located in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, with several hotels within a 5-mile radius, including options near the I-35W and Highway 280 interchange.

5. Arrive and Check In

On the day of your visit, arrive 1015 minutes early. Parking is free and available in designated visitor lots near the Main Building. Look for signs labeled Visitor Parking.

Check in at the Welcome Center located on the first floor of the Main Building. Staff will verify your appointment and provide you with a visitor badge, campus map, and program brochure. If youre visiting with a group, a designated liaison will meet you at the entrance.

Security is a priority on campus due to the use of industrial equipment. All visitors must wear their badge visibly at all times. Do not enter restricted areas without a guide.

6. Participate in the Guided Tour

Your tour will be led by a current Dunwoody student or admissions representative with in-depth knowledge of campus operations. Expect a 6090 minute experience that typically includes:

• A brief overview of Dunwoodys history, mission, and educational philosophy.
• Walkthroughs of 35 program-specific labs or classrooms.
• Opportunities to observe students in action welding, coding, diagnosing engines, or practicing clinical skills.
• Q&A sessions with instructors and current students.
• Time to explore the student commons, library, and career services center.

Dont be afraid to ask questions. Instructors appreciate curiosity. You might hear things like:

• This CNC machine is used in our advanced manufacturing program students graduate with industry certifications in Fanuc and Haas systems.
• Our automotive students complete 200+ hours of hands-on training before they even start internships.
• 92% of our health sciences graduates pass their licensing exams on the first attempt.

Take note of how students interact with equipment, instructors, and each other. The energy in Dunwoodys labs is distinct focused, collaborative, and purpose-driven.

7. Engage with Students and Faculty

One of the most valuable aspects of visiting Dunwoody is speaking directly with those currently enrolled. Ask students:

• What surprised you most about the program?
• How did you decide on Dunwoody over other schools?
• Whats a typical day like in your program?
• Have you done an internship or co-op? How did you get it?
• What support services helped you succeed?

Faculty members are industry professionals with active careers in their fields. Ask them:

• What are the biggest challenges students face, and how do you help them overcome them?
• How often do you update curriculum to reflect industry changes?
• Which employers regularly hire your graduates?

These conversations often reveal insights not found on brochures or websites the real culture of the college.

8. Explore Additional Resources

After the main tour, take time to visit:

• The Career Services Center Learn about job placement rates, employer partnerships, and resume workshops.
• The Library and Learning Commons See study spaces, technical manuals, and digital resources available to students.
• The Student Life Office Discover clubs, leadership opportunities, and student organizations.
• The Financial Aid Office If applicable, schedule a 15-minute consultation to discuss scholarships, grants, and payment plans.

Many visitors overlook these areas, but theyre critical to understanding the full student experience. Dunwoodys job placement rate exceeds 95% a statistic rooted in strong career services and employer relationships.

9. Follow Up After Your Visit

Dont let the momentum fade after you leave. Within 24 hours:

• Review your notes and highlight key takeaways.
• Send a thank-you email to your tour guide or admissions contact it leaves a positive impression.
• If youre considering applying, request a program-specific information packet or schedule a follow-up call.
• Connect with Dunwoody on social media to stay updated on events, open houses, and student spotlights.

Consider inviting a friend or family member to join you for a second visit. Sometimes, a second perspective helps clarify your decision.

Best Practices

1. Visit During the Academic Year

While summer visits are possible, the most authentic experience occurs during the fall or spring semesters when classes are in session. Youll see active labs, engaged students, and live instruction not empty equipment or rehearsed demonstrations. Avoid visiting during holidays, breaks, or finals week, as many staff and students may be off-site.

2. Prioritize Hands-On Observation

At Dunwoody, learning is doing. Dont just watch ask if you can observe a student operating a 3D printer, troubleshooting an electrical panel, or using a medical simulator. These moments reveal the colleges commitment to experiential learning. If permitted, ask if you can handle a tool or safety helmet (under supervision) to better understand the physical demands of the trade.

3. Ask About Industry Partnerships

Dunwoodys strength lies in its deep ties to local and national employers. Ask: Which companies sponsor equipment, donate tools, or hire your graduates? Youll likely hear names like 3M, Medtronic, General Mills, Xcel Energy, and local contractors. These partnerships ensure curriculum relevance and direct pathways to employment.

4. Compare Multiple Programs

If youre undecided on a career path, request to visit two or three different program areas in one visit. For example, compare the precision of a CNC lab with the clinical environment of the nursing simulation suite. This helps you identify which learning style resonates with you mechanical, technical, interpersonal, or creative.

5. Bring a Checklist

Create a simple checklist before your visit to ensure you cover all critical areas:

• Programs offered in my field of interest?
• Equipment and tools used industry-standard?
• Student-to-instructor ratio?
• Internship/co-op opportunities?
• Job placement rate for graduates?
• Financial aid and scholarship availability?
• Student support services (tutoring, counseling, disability accommodations)?

Use this checklist to compare Dunwoody with other institutions youre considering.

6. Be Open to Career Shifts

Many visitors arrive with one career in mind but leave considering another. For example, someone interested in automotive technology might discover a passion for robotics after seeing the automation lab. Dunwoodys flexible curriculum allows students to pivot between related programs with minimal credit loss. Keep an open mind.

7. Document Your Experience

Take photos (where permitted) of labs, student projects, and campus landmarks. Record audio snippets of student testimonials if allowed. These become valuable references when making decisions later. Consider creating a simple digital journal using Google Docs or Notion to compile your thoughts, photos, and contact information.

8. Involve Family or Advisors

If youre a minor or unsure about your decision, bring a parent, guardian, or school counselor. They can ask questions you might not think of especially about cost, safety, and long-term career prospects. Dunwoody welcomes family participation in tours.

Tools and Resources

1. Dunwoody College of Technology Website

dunwoody.edu is your primary resource. It includes:

• Interactive campus map
• Program descriptions with course lists
• Admissions requirements and deadlines
• Financial aid calculators
• Virtual tour videos
• Student success stories

Bookmark this site and revisit it after your visit to reinforce what you learned.

2. Virtual Tour

Cant visit in person? Dunwoody offers a comprehensive virtual tour featuring 360-degree views of labs, classrooms, and student spaces. While not a substitute for an in-person visit, its an excellent preview tool especially for out-of-state applicants.

3. YouTube Channel

Dunwoodys official YouTube channel features short videos of students in action: building a house, coding an app, repairing a hybrid engine, or performing a medical procedure. Search Dunwoody College of Technology on YouTube to see real-time demonstrations of curriculum delivery.

4. Social Media Platforms

Follow Dunwoody on:

• Instagram @dunwoodycollege daily student life updates, lab highlights, and event photos.
• Facebook Dunwoody College of Technology announcements, open house dates, and alumni features.
• LinkedIn Dunwoody College of Technology industry partnerships, job postings, and graduate success stories.

These platforms offer an unfiltered look at campus culture and student achievements.

5. Program Brochures and Catalogs

Request printed or digital copies of the program catalog and course guide. These documents detail curriculum structure, prerequisites, credit hours, and certification outcomes. Theyre invaluable for comparing programs side-by-side.

6. Net Price Calculator

Use Dunwoodys online Net Price Calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket cost after scholarships and grants. This tool considers family income, residency, and program type to give you a realistic financial picture.

7. Career Outlook Tools

Supplement your visit with external resources:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Research job growth projections for your desired field.
• O*NET Online Explore detailed job descriptions, required skills, and salary ranges for technical careers.

Combine this data with Dunwoodys placement statistics to evaluate return on investment.

8. Alumni Network

Request contact information for recent graduates in your field of interest. Many alumni are willing to share their experiences via email or brief phone calls. Dunwoodys alumni network is active and supportive a testament to the colleges lasting impact.

Real Examples

Example 1: High School Student Marcus, Age 17

Marcus was interested in cars but unsure whether to pursue automotive technology or mechanical engineering. He scheduled a visit to Dunwoody and requested tours of both the Automotive Technology Center and the Advanced Manufacturing Lab.

During the visit, he watched students diagnose a hybrid vehicles battery system using OEM software. In the manufacturing lab, he observed a team programming a robotic arm to assemble a prototype part. He spoke with two students: one who had already landed an internship at a local dealership, and another who was working on a capstone project with a regional manufacturer.

Marcus realized he preferred hands-on problem-solving over theoretical design. He applied to the Automotive Technology program and was accepted. He now works part-time at a local shop while completing his diploma and he credits his campus visit for making the right choice.

Example 2: Parent Lisa, Mother of Two

Lisas daughter, Elena, was a top student but overwhelmed by traditional college options. Lisa visited Dunwoody alone to assess whether it was a viable alternative.

She asked about safety protocols, financial aid, and job outcomes. She was impressed to learn that 87% of Dunwoody students receive some form of scholarship, and that graduates earn an average starting salary of $52,000 higher than many four-year liberal arts degrees.

Lisa also toured the Health Sciences Building and saw students practicing CPR on mannequins with real-time feedback systems. She later brought Elena for a second visit. Elena applied to the Medical Assisting program and is now in her second semester, working in a clinic two days a week.

Example 3: Career Counselor Jamal, from a Public High School

Jamal brought a group of 15 students from a Title I high school to Dunwoody. He wanted to expose students to careers they hadnt considered especially those that didnt require massive student debt.

Dunwoodys team customized the tour to highlight pathways into skilled trades, including apprenticeships that pay while you learn. Students met graduates who were earning $60,000+ after two years of training.

Three students from Jamals group applied to Dunwoody that semester. Two were accepted and received full-tuition scholarships through workforce development grants.

Example 4: Industry Professional Priya, HR Director at a Manufacturing Firm

Priya visited Dunwoody to explore potential internship partnerships. She toured the Advanced Manufacturing Lab and was struck by the quality of equipment identical to what her company uses.

She met with the program director and learned that Dunwoodys curriculum is updated annually with input from industry advisory boards. Within six weeks, her company partnered with Dunwoody to sponsor a robotics competition and offer paid internships to top students.

Priya now recruits exclusively from Dunwoody. They dont just train technicians, she says. They train problem-solvers who understand quality, safety, and efficiency from day one.

FAQs

Do I need to be a high school graduate to visit Dunwoody?

No. High school students, parents, counselors, and community members are all welcome to visit. Many students visit while still in 9th or 10th grade to begin exploring career paths early.

Is there a cost to visit Dunwoody?

No. Campus tours, informational sessions, and access to resources are free for all visitors.

Can I shadow a student for the day?

Shadowing is not typically offered during standard visits, but you can request a longer, customized experience if youre a counselor or employer. Contact the admissions office to discuss options.

Are tours available in Spanish or other languages?

Yes. Upon request, Dunwoody can arrange for bilingual staff or interpreters for Spanish, Somali, Hmong, and other languages spoken by the local community.

How long does a typical visit last?

Most guided tours last between 60 and 90 minutes. Additional time can be scheduled for meetings with financial aid, program directors, or career services.

Can I visit without an appointment?

Walk-ins are not permitted due to safety and staffing constraints. All visitors must schedule in advance.

What should I wear on my visit?

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and casual clothing. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or loose clothing that could pose a safety risk in labs.

Are there opportunities to apply on the spot?

While you cant submit a full application during the tour, admissions staff can help you start the process, answer questions, and provide application packets. Many students complete their applications within days of their visit.

How do I know if Dunwoody is right for me?

If you learn better by doing, enjoy working with your hands, and want to enter the workforce quickly with little debt, Dunwoody is likely a strong fit. If you prefer theoretical coursework or plan to pursue a Ph.D., a traditional university may be more appropriate.

Can I visit multiple times?

Yes. Many students visit twice once to explore, and again after receiving acceptance letters to compare programs or meet with specific instructors.

Conclusion

Visiting Dunwoody College of Technology is not just a tour its an immersion into a world where education meets industry, where skills are forged in real-time, and where careers begin before graduation. Unlike passive classroom experiences, Dunwoodys model demands engagement, curiosity, and hands-on learning and your visit should reflect that same energy.

By following the steps outlined in this guide from researching programs to engaging with students and following up after your visit you transform a simple campus walk into a strategic decision-making tool. Youll gain clarity on your future, understand the tangible value of technical education, and connect with a community that values competence over credentials.

Dunwoody doesnt just prepare students for jobs it prepares them for careers that matter. And the best way to understand that is to see it for yourself. Schedule your visit today. Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. And prepare to be inspired by whats possible when education is rooted in real-world purpose.