Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools offer career-centered programs that prepare students for specific occupations. Also referred to as vocational or tech schools, these programs prepare students for careers in areas like plumbing, auto mechanics and repair, healthcare, and technology.
Trade schools offer several advantages. Trade schools typically only take 1-2 years to complete, preparing graduates for the workforce faster than four-year programs. Additionally, professionals with an occupational credential experience lower unemployment rates than professionals with academic credentials, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
This guide provides important information for students considering vocational schools in Florida, including financial aid opportunities, potential careers and salaries for graduates, and answers to frequently asked questions.
FAQ on Florida Trade Schools
Yes, students at trade schools typically qualify for financial aid opportunities. However, students must attend an accredited school to qualify for federal aid.
Some two- and four-year colleges accept transfer credits from accredited trade schools. Students should research the transfer credit policies at each prospective school.
Technical schools often offer computer-oriented training programs, while trade schools focus more on occupations that require manual skills, such as plumbing and construction.
Most trade school programs take about 1-2 years to complete.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to factors like faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, trade, and vocational schools.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges grants regional accreditation to Florida schools, while organizations like the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges grant national accreditation to vocational schools. Additionally, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits online schools.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, many professional licenses and certifications require an accredited degree.
Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
The following list ranks the best vocational schools in Florida to help students find the right program for their needs.
These rankings include
#1 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida State College at Jacksonville offers 53 associate programs and 98 certificate programs. From its main campus, the public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. The flexible course options make it easier for students to work while pursuing a certificate or degree.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 10
Total Online Certificate Programs: 17
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,947
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students advance their education in 43 associate programs and 82 certificate programs at Indian River State College. Learners choose from online and on-campus courses offered from the Fort Pierce, Florida, campus of the public institution. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
With a certificate, graduates apply for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Indian River State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,496
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,360
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Palm Beach State College
Lake Worth, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Palm Beach State College provides 39 associate programs and 82 certificate programs for students. From its Lake Worth, Florida, campus, the public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. After an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Palm Beach State College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,424
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,712
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Miami Dade College
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Miami Dade College offers 66 associate programs and 67 certificate programs. From its main campus in Florida, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills including critical thinking, communication, and writing. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates often apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Miami Dade College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 7
Total Online Certificate Programs: 14
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,987
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,947
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Gulf Coast State College
Panama City, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Gulf Coast State College lets learners choose from 35 associate programs and 48 certificate programs. From its main campus in Panama City, Florida, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Gulf Coast State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,064
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Broward College
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Broward College provides 53 associate programs and 68 certificate programs for students. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, campus. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Broward College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,968
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $1,968
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Valencia College
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students enroll in 38 associate programs and 61 certificate programs at Valencia College. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online courses and classes on the Orlando, Florida, campus. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
Most associate degree and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for careers. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Valencia College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,984
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,933
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students choose from 32 associate programs and 58 certificate programs at Seminole State College of Florida. Based in Sanford, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Seminole State College of Florida at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 20
Total Online Certificate Programs: 28
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,393
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,494
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Tallahassee Community College
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tallahassee Community College offers 29 associate programs and 45 certificate programs. Located in Florida, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Degree and certificate students often balance school with work.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes related to their field with no requirements outside of their major.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or bachelor's programs.
Tallahassee Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,002
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,982
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Pasco-Hernando State College
New Port Richey, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Pasco-Hernando State College, learners can pursue 27 associate programs and 42 certificate programs. Learners choose from online and on-campus courses offered from the New Port Richey, Florida, campus of the public institution. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Pasco-Hernando State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 8
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,297
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,272
#11 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Manatee Technical College
Bradenton, FL - 2 years
- Campus
Manatee Technical College offers 61 certificate programs. Learners benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options at the Bradenton, Florida, location. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers develop critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
#12 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Daytona State College
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Daytona State College enrolls students in 38 associate programs and 58 certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Florida. The flexible course options make it easier for students to work while pursuing a certificate or degree.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
A certificate trains graduates for entry-level positions in a specific field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Daytona State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 10
Total Online Certificate Programs: 8
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,072
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,960
#13 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Northwest Florida State College
Niceville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students advance their education in 30 associate programs and 44 certificate programs at Northwest Florida State College. From its Niceville location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. These enrollment options appeal to working students and other busy learners.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Northwest Florida State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 7
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,496
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,552
#14 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Orange Technical College
Orlando, FL - 2 years
- Campus
At Orange Technical College, students learn in 38 certificate programs. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Orlando, Florida, campus. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, learners gain industry-specific skills. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
With a certificate, graduates pursue entry-level positions in their field. After an associate program, graduates enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
#15 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Santa Fe College
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
At Santa Fe College, students learn in 37 associate programs and 42 certificate programs. Located in Gainesville, Florida, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. After earning an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Santa Fe College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 37
Total Online Certificate Programs: 42
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,872
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,418
#16 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students choose from 44 associate programs and 54 certificate programs at St. Petersburg College. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Clearwater, Florida, campus. Busy students benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates take classes related to their field with no requirements outside of their major.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 15
Total Online Certificate Programs: 15
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774
#17 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students advance their education in 34 associate programs and 59 certificate programs at Eastern Florida State College. Located in Cocoa, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Busy students benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. Associate degree graduates can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Eastern Florida State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 8
Total Online Certificate Programs: 11
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,892
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,573
#18 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Pensacola State College
Pensacola, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With 32 associate programs and 53 certificate programs, Pensacola State College offers options for many students. From its main campus in Pensacola, Florida, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and writing. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. An associate degree qualifies graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Pensacola State College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 6
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,887
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,547
#19 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Lake-Sumter State College
Leesburg, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Lake-Sumter State College provides 12 associate programs and 16 certificate programs for students. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Leesburg, Florida. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their area of study rather than general education courses.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. With an associate degree, graduates either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Lake-Sumter State College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,232
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,336
#20 Vocational Trade Schools in Florida
Marion Technical College
Ocala, FL - 2 years
- Campus
At Marion Technical College, learners can strengthen their skills in 27 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Ocala, Florida, campus. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
A certificate trains graduates for entry-level positions in a specific field. With an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Find Vocational and Trade Schools in Florida
In Florida, students can begin taking career and technical education (CTE) courses as early as ninth grade, and continue that education through community college. Florida hosts 718 public high schools and 63 community colleges that offer CTE training.
Use the search tool below to find the best vocational and trade schools in Florida.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Trade school graduates can work in diverse roles, like nail technician, aviation mechanic, network administrator, and occupational therapy assistant. Due to the abundant variation of roles, salaries for trade school graduates vary significantly. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that vocational school careers offer an average annual salary of around $55,000.
Healthcare support occupations pay around $45,000 per year, on average, while personal care and service occupations pay around $32,000 annually. Meanwhile, managerial roles pay an average of over $96,000 per year.
Many trade school careers offer above-average growth potential. For example, the BLS projects HVAC technicians, paralegals, and occupational therapy assistants to experience much faster-than-average job growth between 2018 and 2028.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
According to the Florida Department of Education, 36% of the fastest-growing job sectors in the Sunshine State require a postsecondary non-degree career certificate or an associate degree. Therefore, trade schools in Florida play an important role in providing well-trained workers to support the state's economy. The following list outlines several popular trade school programs.
Dental Hygienist Schools
An accredited dental hygienist trade program typically takes 18 months of full-time study to complete. Students complete career-focused classes in addition to hands-on training. According to the BLS, dental hygienists earned an annual median salary of $76,220 in 2019 and enjoy an 11% projected job growth rate between 2018 and 2028.
Most states require dental hygienists to hold a license. Licensure requirements include passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. Only students who complete a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation can sit for the exam.
Mechanic Schools
Trade school mechanic programs usually take one year to complete and include extensive hands-on training. Completing a trade school mechanic program or apprenticeship meets the educational requirements to sit for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification administered by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.
The ASE also requires a minimum of two years of on-the-job training. Professionals in this field can specialize in a variety of areas, such as electrical/electronic systems, collision repair, and suspension and steering. The BLS does not project a robust growth rate for jobs in this sector, although automotive and service technicians earn a median salary that exceeds the national average.
Paralegal Schools
Most paralegals need an associate degree or a certificate. Many vocational schools offer paralegal certificate programs that comprise 18-30 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. Learners study topics such as legal research, ethics, administrative law, and contracts.
The BLS projects a 12% growth rate for paralegal jobs between 2018 and 2028. These professionals earned a median annual salary of more than $51,000 in 2019. Paralegal certificate programs prepare students for entry-level positions, but many employers prefer candidates with a related associate degree.
Radiology Technician Schools
Many organizations require radiology technicians to hold an associate degree in the field. While vocational schools that offer two-year associate degrees in radiology technology exist, these programs are more often available at community colleges.
Most radiology technicians work in general medical and surgical hospitals, but they may also work in doctors' offices, outpatient care centers, and medical and diagnostic laboratories. The BLS reports that radiology technicians earned a median annual salary of $62,280 in 2019. These professionals enjoy a faster-than-average projected job growth rate of 9% between 2018 and 2028.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
While trade and vocational programs typically cost much less than four-year programs, they still require a significant financial investment. Students can help offset the cost of their education through financial aid opportunities, such as loans, scholarships, and grants. Learners at accredited trade schools qualify for federal financial aid. Students must submit the FAFSA every year to determine their eligibility for federal aid.
Students with demonstrable financial need can also apply for federal grants like the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. Unlike loans, grants and scholarships do not require repayment, making them the ideal forms of financial aid.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
The following list highlights several scholarship and grant opportunities for students at vocational schools in Florida. Learners can also research additional scholarship opportunities based on factors like their identity, financial need, and area of study.
Who Can Apply: Students accepted to a welding training program at a trade school or community college can apply for this scholarship. Students submit applications through their local AWS district.
Amount: $1,000
Who Can Apply: This funding opportunity accepts applications from learners facing socioeconomic or physical difficulties that prevent them from continuing their vocational education or training.
Amount: $2,000-$10,000
Who Can Apply: Florida students enrolled at least part time in a career certificate program at an accredited trade school can apply for this grant.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Florida students enrolled at least part time in a career certificate program at an accredited trade school can apply for this grant.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Candidates for these scholarships must be under 30, enrolled in a technical education program, and demonstrate financial need.
Amount: $2,500
Who Can Apply: Applicants must show proof of enrollment in a plumbing and heating/cooling program at a trade school or community college. Plumbing and heating apprentices and professionals can also apply to the program.
Amount: Varies