Trade and Vocational Schools
What Is Trade School?
Trade, vocational, and technical schools provide practical, hands-on training for specific jobs and career paths. These institutions offer traditional face-to-face options and online career training programs, creating a wealth of choices for students. These programs usually lead to a certificate or diploma, but some may confer two-year associate degrees.
People often use the terms “trade school,” “technical school,” and “vocational school” interchangeably. However, slight but notable differences usually define each of these institution types:
Trade Schools
Trade schools emphasize a class of professions known as “skilled trades.” These involve hands-on technical duties that often require certification or licensure.
At trade schools, programs usually favor practical, hands-on instructional methods over theory.
Technical Schools
Technical schools usually offer a wider variety of practical, career-focused programs, some of which have a more academic focus.
These programs may lead to associate degrees, which trade schools do not typically award.
Vocational Schools
This umbrella term can describe trade schools, technical schools, and institutions that do not neatly fit into either of these categories.
By definition, vocational schools host vocational programs — courses of study that emphasize practical skills over theoretical learning.
Explore Trades and Vocations
Accreditation Matters
Many trades and vocations require a state-issued license and/or professional certifications. To qualify for these credentials, you may need to graduate from an accredited program.
