Your Hands Can Build Your Future
Connect with top-rated trade schools in your area
Where passion meets profession
Find Trade School Programs
That Lead to Real Jobs
Compare accredited vocational programs in skilled trades, healthcare, technology, and more. Shorter timelines. Lower costs. Hands-on training that employers actually value.
The Short Answer
Trade schools (also called vocational or technical schools) offer focused, hands-on training that prepares you for specific careers—typically in 6 to 24 months. You'll pay less than a four-year degree, spend your time on skills employers actually need, and enter the workforce faster with industry-recognized credentials.
What Is a Trade School?
Trade schools prepare you for specific careers through applied, hands-on learning—not years of general education courses. Programs are designed with employer input, so you spend your time building competencies that translate directly to the job. You graduate ready to work, often with certifications or hours toward licensure already complete.
Specialized Training
Focused paths in high-demand fields
Hands-On Learning
Labs, workshops, real equipment
Accelerated Timeline
Most programs: 6–24 months
Career-Focused
Certification prep, job placement
Explore Trade School Programs by Career Path
Our network includes over 1,200 accredited trade schools and technical colleges offering training across dozens of in-demand fields. All programs are reviewed for proper accreditation, industry alignment, and job placement outcomes.
Healthcare & Medical
Skilled Trades
Automotive & Transportation
Energy & Renewable Tech
Technology & Design
Culinary Arts
Beauty & Wellness
Business & Professional
Specialty Trades
Trade School vs. College: A Quick Comparison
Not sure which path fits your goals? Here's how trade school stacks up against other options.
| Path | Time | Cost Range | Focus | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trade School | 6–24 months | $5,000–$15,000 | Skills, labs, certification | Job-ready credentials |
| Community College | 2 years | $7,000–$20,000 | General ed + applied | Associate's degree |
| Four-Year University | 4+ years | $40,000–$150,000+ | Theory + broad academics | Bachelor's degree |
How Much Does Trade School Cost?
$5,000–$15,000Most programs fall in this range before financial aid. Costs vary by program type, equipment needs, and location.
- Shorter programs = less total investment
- Earlier employment = faster ROI
- Many employers offer tuition assistance
- Paid apprenticeships available in some trades
How Long Is Trade School?
6–24 MonthsProgram length depends on the field and credential level. Some include capstone projects or required apprenticeship hours.
- Certificate programs: 6–12 months
- Diploma programs: 12–18 months
- Associate's (technical): 18–24 months
- Plus certification exam prep
How to Choose the Right Trade School
Use this checklist to evaluate programs and find the right fit for your goals, budget, and learning style.
- Clarify your goals: Target income, preferred schedule (day/evening), work environment (shop, clinic, field, kitchen)
- Research local demand: Check hiring trends and required certifications or licenses in your area
- Calculate the ROI: Compare tuition + living costs against starting wages and time-to-employment
- Verify accreditation: Confirm the school is accredited by a recognized agency (important for financial aid and employer credibility)
- Tour the facilities: See the labs, meet instructors, ask about equipment and class sizes
- Talk to graduates: Ask where they work now and how the program prepared them
- Understand the pathway: Know which certifications you'll earn and what comes next (journeyman hours, advanced certs, etc.)
- Compare financial options: Review scholarships, grants, employer-sponsored programs, and paid apprenticeships
Frequently Asked Questions
Is trade school worth it?
For many students, yes. Trade school offers faster training, lower costs, and direct pathways to in-demand jobs. Graduates often see a quicker return on investment compared to four-year degree holders—especially in fields with strong hiring demand and competitive wages.
Can I do trade school online?
Some coursework (theory, safety training, exam prep) can be completed online, but most trade programs require hands-on lab work. Many schools offer hybrid formats that combine online learning with scheduled in-person sessions.
Do apprenticeships pay?
Many do. Paid apprenticeships are common in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled trades. You earn wages while gaining supervised experience and working toward journeyman status or licensure.
Do employers respect trade school credentials?
Employers value relevant certifications, documented lab experience, and verified competencies—especially from accredited programs aligned with current industry standards. In many trades, certifications matter more than degree type.
What are the highest-paying trades?
Pay varies by region and experience, but electrical, HVAC, plumbing, welding, and advanced manufacturing roles often offer strong earning potential. Healthcare technology and IT support positions are also competitive. Many skilled trades pay $50,000–$80,000+ with experience and certifications.
Trade school vs. community college—how do I choose?
If you want speed and specialization, trade school is typically the better fit. If you want broader academics, general education credits, or the option to transfer to a four-year school, community college offers more flexibility.
Ready to Start Your Trade Career?
The skilled trades are hiring—and the path to get there is shorter than you might think. Search programs near you, compare your options, and take the first step toward work that values what you can do.