Floor and Tile Installation: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepared for a career in skilled construction trades, this program equips learners with the technical expertise and hands-on proficiency required to execute precision flooring and tiling projects across residential, commercial, and institutional environments. Students gain comprehensive training in material selection, surface preparation, installation techniques, and project estimation, preparing them for immediate entry into the skilled trades workforce.
- Surface Preparation and Measurement: Learn systematic methods for assessing substrates, leveling uneven surfaces, and accurately measuring areas to ensure proper material fit and minimize waste.
- Material Installation Techniques: Master the application of diverse flooring systems, including carpet, linoleum, vinyl, hardwood, and a variety of tile types such as ceramic, marble, quarry, mosaic, and terazzo, across floors, walls, and staircases.
- Tool and Equipment Operation: Develop proficiency in the safe and effective use of hand tools and power equipment, including saws, trowels, grinders, and tile cutters, to achieve professional-grade results.
- Cost Estimation and Project Planning: Acquire skills in calculating material quantities, labor hours, and overall project costs to support accurate bidding and efficient job management.
- Occupational Safety and Compliance: Receive structured training in industry safety protocols, hazard prevention, and adherence to building codes and workplace regulations to maintain a secure working environment.
Floor and Tile Installation Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Floor and Tile Installation Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Floor and Tile Installation degrees, including First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers, Terrazzo Workers and Finishers and Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 890,240 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers 47-1011 | $78,690 | $51,290 - $126,690 | 806,080 | $37.83 |
| Terrazzo Workers and Finishers 47-2053 | $57,260 | $39,360 - $104,510 | 1,450 | $27.53 |
| Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles 47-2042 | $54,340 | $37,190 - $97,180 | 24,850 | $26.13 |
| Tile and Stone Setters 47-2044 | $52,240 | $36,140 - $82,960 | 38,740 | $25.11 |
| Carpet Installers 47-2041 | $49,850 | $32,830 - $83,200 | 14,980 | $23.97 |
| Floor Sanders and Finishers 47-2043 | $49,150 | $35,790 - $66,510 | 4,140 | $23.63 |
Floor and Tile Installation Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $45,173 in Montana to $96,330 in District of Columbia—a 113% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Hawaii, and New Jersey. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 890,240 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Floor and Tile Installation by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 1 institutions offering Floor and Tile Installation programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Floor and Tile Installation is found at Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (21 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 21 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
21 | Indianapolis, Indiana | Public | ivytech.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Floor and Tile Installation programs
How much can I earn with a Floor and Tile Installation degree?
Salaries for Floor and Tile Installation graduates vary by role and location. First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers earn a median of $78,690 annually, while Terrazzo Workers and Finishers earn around $57,260. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $96,330 compared to $45,173 in Montana. Approximately 890,240 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Floor and Tile Installation programs?
Currently 1 accredited institutions offer Floor and Tile Installation degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Ivy Tech Community College (Ivy Tech) (21 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Floor and Tile Installation degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers, Terrazzo Workers and Finishers, and Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles. Related occupations employ approximately 890,240 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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