Vocational Trade Schools in Hawaii
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools, also known as vocational schools, offer career-centered programs that equip students with skills required in specific occupations. Traditional vocational programs cover trades like auto repair, elevator installation, HVAC, and welding.
The continued rise in the number of students who choose to enter the workforce sooner has fueled a demand for more diverse vocational programs. Trade schools now offer programs in information technology, medical assisting, and computer network management.
Vocational programs often take under two years to complete. By offering career-focused programs, trade schools save students time and money. Additionally, some vocational credits can transfer to an associate or bachelor’s program.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that 74% of students with an occupational credential work in jobs that are directly related to their field of study. On the other hand, 53% of students with academic credentials find work in their field of study after graduation.
As such, vocational schools in Hawaii and beyond can lead to lucrative and fulfilling careers.
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Vocational Trade Schools in Hawaii
The following list ranks the best trade schools in Hawaii. Ranking criteria include accreditation status, financial aid options, cost of attendance, and graduation rates.
Honolulu Community College
Honolulu, HI- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students can choose from 25 associate programs and 20 certificate programs at Honolulu Community College. From its Honolulu campus, the public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. These flexible options help enrollees work while in school.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. With an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Honolulu Community College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,144
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,280
- In-State$3,144
- Out-of-state$8,280
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,510
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationNo
Kapiolani Community College
- Honolulu, HI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Kapiolani Community College offers 20 associate programs and 17 certificate programs. Learners choose from online and on-campus courses offered from the public school's Honolulu campus. 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. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. With an associate degree, graduates can either enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Kapiolani Community College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,144
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,280
- In-State$3,144
- Out-of-state$8,280
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,488
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationNo
Hawaii Community College
- Hilo, HI
- 2 year
- Campus
Hawaii Community College enrolls students in 25 associate programs and 20 certificate programs. Based in Hilo, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Enrollees rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, students gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
Professionals can apply for positions in their field with a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Hawaii Community College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,144
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,280
- In-State$3,144
- Out-of-state$8,280
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,615
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationNo
University of Hawaii Maui College
- Kahului, HI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Hawaii Maui College enrolls students in 23 associate programs and 17 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which includes online enrollment and classes on the Kahului campus. These flexible options appeal to busy students balancing school with other obligations.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
A certificate trains graduates for entry-level positions in a specific field. After an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
University of Hawaii Maui College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,144
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,280
- In-State$3,144
- Out-of-state$8,280
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,992
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Leeward Community College
- Pearl City, HI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students can enroll in 16 associate programs and 13 certificate programs at Leeward Community College. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Pearl City campus. These flexible options help students work while in school.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills such as writing and critical thinking. 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. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Leeward Community College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,144
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,280
- In-State$3,144
- Out-of-state$8,280
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,568
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationNo
How We Rank Schools
Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation. When ranking schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.
Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.
FAQ on Trade Schools
What is trade school?
A trade school is a postsecondary institution that offers skills-focused programs that prepare students for jobs in a specific sector or industry.
Can I go to trade school online?
Some vocational programs are available online. However, many online trade school programs use a hybrid delivery method.
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Yes. Trade school students can receive financial aid from the U.S. Department of Education (ED).
Are scholarships available for vocational students?
Most states maintain scholarship and grant programs specifically for trade school students. These programs typically include a residency requirement.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
A self-review and peer-review process, accreditation involves the close examination of a school’s academic programs to determine whether they meet standards established by recognized accrediting organizations. Postsecondary institutions voluntarily seek accreditation to demonstrate their commitment to their students.
In the United States, the ED and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process. Nonprofit universities typically seek regional accreditation. They can be public, private, two-year, or four-year schools. For-profit trade and sectarian schools usually seek national accreditation.
If you plan to apply for any type of financial aid from the government to help pay for your education, make sure you enroll in an accredited institution. The ED only channels federal assistance packages through accredited schools.
Additionally, schools holding the same type of accreditation often accept transfer credits from one another. Accredited institutions rarely accept credits earned at non-accredited schools.
The ED and CHEA recognize the Distance Education Accrediting Commission as the main accreditor for offsite education in the country, which includes online programs and schools . TheAccrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges serves as the principal accreditor for institutions offering technical or trade programs.
A school’s license to operate is not the same as accreditation. An operating license means a school meets the minimum requirement to offer educational programs within the state. Accreditation evaluates the quality of a school’s academic offerings. Be wary of schools that claim accreditation and a license are the same.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Several factors influence career options and salary levels, including education, industry, and experience.
For example, most trade school programs only require 12-18 months to complete. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some trade school occupations earn higher salaries than jobs that require a two-year associate degree.
Electrical and electronics repairers earn a median annual salary of $78,410. Diagnostic medical sonographers, who need at least an associate degree to qualify for entry-level positions in the field, earn a median annual salary of $71,410.
The NCES cites psychology as one of the most popular bachelor’s programs, with 117,000 degrees awarded during the 2015-16 school year. However, some of the most common positions for psychology graduates — like rehab counselors ($35,950) and social workers ($50,470) — earn much lower median annual salaries than plumbers ($55,160) and electricians ($56,180).
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Many vocational schools continue to offer programs in fields like automobile maintenance and repair, aviation mechanics, and plumbing. In addition, trade schools now offer different types of programs, including six-month certificates and two-year associate degrees in applied technology degrees.
Some tech schools partner with workers’ unions or private companies to administer apprenticeships, which can last up to four years.
See below for some of the most common vocational programs available today.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Begin your search for financial aid by completing the FAFSA. Most accredited postsecondary institutions (including vocational schools) rely on the information you provide on the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for scholarships or grants.
Private donors and sponsoring organizations often also use FAFSA information to allocate financial aid packages. Trade school students may qualify for need-based federal programs like the Pell Grant. Some trade schools also offer their own scholarship programs, which can be need-based or merit-based.
If you need to take out a student loan, consider borrowing from the government before consulting private lenders. Federal student loans typically maintain lower interest rates that remain fixed for the life of the loan. In most cases, loan repayment starts only after you graduate from your program.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Hawaii is proud of its long heritage and seeks to support its native students through scholarship opportunities. The foundation-based scholarships below each administer several financial aid programs.
