Books, Tools, and Approximate Costs | Bismarck State College

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Books, Tools, and Approximate Costs

Lineworker students practice climbing and working on tall wooden utility poles outdoors at Bismarck State College, each wearing safety gear and harnesses as part of their electrical lineworker training.Students will be provided BSC approved tools during the summer class offerings.  Tool vendors will be invited to BSC while the students are in the last week of the summer classes, during which students that pass will order their tools for the program.

This document provides a list of tools and vendors, approximate costs, as well as frequently asked questions regarding ordering tools and purchasing textbooks.
 

Approximate Costs

  • Tuition and Fees – see the BSC Tuition & Fees page for tuition and mandatory fee information. 
  • CDL Fee - $3,800
    • This fee may be waived for students who already possess a valid CDL.
  • Program books - $850 (total for fall and spring)
  • Laptop Computer – Price Varies
  • Tools and Supplies - $700 - $1200
    • Summer Semester - Must be purchased and available on the first day of the summer session (June)
      • Steel-toed boots (ankle high)
      • Light leather work gloves
    • Fall Semester
      • 4D ring body belt
      • Climbers with pads
      • 5-pocket holster
      • Nut and bolt bag
      • Tool bag
      • Wood pole fall restriction device & secondary lanyard
      • Side-cutting pliers
      • Channellock pliers
      • 9/16” and 3/4” rachet wrench
      • Lineman’s wrench
      • 20 oz hammer
      • Lineman’s knife
      • 6” flathead screwdriver
      • Hard hat liner – one size
      • Adjustable wrench

Tool Ordering FAQ

  • When do I need my tools in the classroom.
    • All tools must be purchased and present in the classroom during the first week of fall classes.
  • Where do I purchase my tools?
    • Students will purchase their tools through the BSC bookstore.
  • When do I purchase my tools for fall semester?
    • Tool vendors will be available at the Lineworker Campus during the last week of the summer courses.
  • Is there a down payment required up front to purchase tools?
    • A down payment of $100 is required.
  • Who do I pay, and when is my tool purchase payment due?
    • All payments are made to the BSC Bookstore directly; payment is due on the first day of fall classes.
  • Can I use Financial Aid to pay for my tools?
All tuition and fees will be paid first; excess aid, which can be used for tool purchases, is typically disbursed in the third week of the semester.

Textbook FAQ

  • Where do I purchase my books?
    • The Lineworker (Electrical) faculty chooses the specific book and edition to be used for your courses. Not all courses require books; those that do can be purchased at the BSC Bookstore in person or online.
  • Where do I get my book list?
    • Go to the BSC Bookstore Shopbookstore website, select Textbooks, and then select Order Textbooks. For each course, select the appropriate section and instructor. The generated book list will show if a course does not require a book and purchase options for new or used books.
  • When do I purchase my books?
    • Textbook sales begin in August for the Fall semester and in December for the Spring semester. Purchase dates will vary depending on your choice of payment, such as paying with cash, check, or credit card or charging against financial aid or a third party. Review the Academic Calendar for specific dates.
  • Can I use Financial Aid to pay for my books?
    • Yes. Students in good standing and have completed a financial aid file can charge books against their excess financial aid. Excess financial aid is your total accepted financial aid less your student account balance, which includes tuition, fees, and housing charges.