Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools train students for careers in allied health, skilled trades, and other high-demand industries. Vocational programs in healthcare prepare students for opportunities as medical assistants, dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, and occupational therapy assistants. Many of these careers offer strong salary and growth potential.
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During a vocational program, students receive job-focused training in their field. Most programs combine classroom instruction with practical experiential learning. For example, paramedic students practice their skills in a medical setting, allied health students complete clinical requirements, and skilled trade students apply their learning through laboratories and practica. FIND PROGRAMS By Staff Writer Published on August 06, 2020
Trade schools offer several benefits over four-year academic programs. A vocational certificate or degree generally takes 1-2 years, meaning students finish their program and enter the workforce faster. As a result, trade school students often save money on their degree.
In addition, professionals with an occupational credential benefit from a higher employment rate than those with an academic credential, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Many trade schools also offer self-paced, accelerated, and online options for busy students who prefer a flexible schedule.
Our list introduces the top vocational schools in Maine. By researching top-ranked programs, students can find the best fit for their interests and professional goals.
This page also explores career and salary data for trade school professions, introduces popular vocational programs, and lists scholarship opportunities for trade school students.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is trade school? | Trade schools provide career-focused vocational programs that blend classroom and experiential learning. Trade programs prepare graduates for careers in skilled trades and healthcare. |
| Can I go to trade school online? | Yes. Many trade schools offer online programs. Online trade school students complete experiential learning requirements in their local area. |
| Can I get financial aid for trade school? | Yes. Accredited trade schools in Maine qualify for federal financial aid programs. Trade school students can also apply for grants and scholarships from private organizations. |
| When can I apply to trade school? | Many trade schools admit students on a rolling basis and offer multiple start dates throughout the year. As such, prospective students can often apply to trade school any time. |
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Prospective trade school students should always check a school's accreditation and licensure status before applying. Attending an accredited and licensed trade school in Maine ensures that students receive the best education possible and enter the workforce prepared for career advancement.
Accreditation recognizes colleges and universities that meet high standards in educating students. Schools seeking accreditation must undergo a rigorous review, during which an independent accrediting agency evaluates the school's student learning outcomes, academic mission, and faculty qualifications. Accredited schools regularly repeat the review process to maintain their status.
Students benefit from accreditation in several ways. Credits earned at an accredited institution are more likely to transfer to other schools. An accredited degree meets more professional licensure and certification requirements, and students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid programs.
In Maine, several accrediting organizations grant accreditation to vocational programs. Community colleges and four-year universities typically hold regional accreditation. The New England Commission of Higher Education grants regional accreditation to Maine schools.
Trade and vocational schools in Maine often hold national accreditation. Agencies such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges grant national accreditation to career-focused schools. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission grants accreditation to online schools.
In addition to accreditation, trade schools in Maine should hold a license to offer higher education programs. The Maine Department of Education licenses postsecondary programs in the state. The department also maintains a list of non-accredited colleges and degree mills, which prospective students should avoid.
Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Trade schools in Maine train professionals for in-demand careers in healthcare, skilled trades, and other vocational fields. By choosing a top-ranked program, students can advance their education and increase their earning potential.
Our list ranks the best vocational schools in Maine to help prospective students find the right fit to reach their career goals.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Eastern Maine Community College
Bangor, ME - 2 years
- Campus
At Eastern Maine Community College, students learn in 35 associate programs and 27 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Bangor, Maine, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. Busy enrollees benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
In the school's career-focused programs, participants gain industry-specific skills. 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.
With a certificate, graduates enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. After an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student. Undergraduate tuition at the college averages $2,820 for in-state students and $5,641 for out-of-state students.
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With 44 associate degrees and 21 certificate programs, Southern Maine Community College offers options for many students. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the South Portland, Maine, campus. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
Most associate and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
A certificate trains recipients for entry-level positions in a specific field. After earning an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Southern Maine Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
York County Community College
Wells, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
York County Community College lets learners choose from 22 associate programs and nine certificate programs. Students benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Wells, Maine, campus. These flexible options help enrollees continue to work while in school.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. 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.
With a certificate, graduates apply for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate, degree-holders enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
York County Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 12
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Washington County Community College
Calais, ME - 2 years
- Campus
With 13 associate programs and 17 certificate programs, Washington County Community College offers options for many students. Located in Calais, Maine, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Busy learners 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. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program. The college's undergraduate tuition costs $2,820 for in-state students and $5,640 for their out-of-state peers.
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Kennebec Valley Community College
Fairfield, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Kennebec Valley Community College offers 27 associate programs and 14 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Fairfield, Maine, campus. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
In the school's career-focused programs, learners gain industry-specific skills. Students in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate program participants complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares recipients for entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Kennebec Valley Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 13
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Central Maine Community College
Auburn, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Central Maine Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 26 associate programs and 12 certificate programs. Located in Auburn, Maine, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and writing. Certificate students take courses in their area of study rather than general education courses.
A certificate helps recipients advance their career or move into a new role. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Central Maine Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 6
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,640
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Northern Maine Community College
Presque Isle, ME - 2 years
- Campus
Learners advance their education in 18 associate programs and 19 certificate programs at Northern Maine Community College. From its main campus in Presque Isle, Maine, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills such as writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs. The college's undergrad tuition costs $2,820 for in-state enrollees and $5,640 for their out-of-state peers.
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
The University of Maine at Machias
Machias, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students advance their education in four associate programs and nine certificate programs at the University of Maine at Machias. Located in Machias, Maine, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Working professionals find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Many of the school's programs encourage participants 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. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. After earning an associate degree, alumni pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
The University of Maine at Machias at a Glance:
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,250
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
The University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At the University of Maine at Presque Isle, learners advance their education in five associate programs and two certificate programs. Enrollees select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Presque Isle, Maine. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
The University of Maine at Presque Isle at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 99%
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,460
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
Maine College of Health Professions
Lewiston, ME - 4 years
- Campus
Maine College of Health Professions enrolls students in two associate programs and five certificate programs. From its main campus in Lewiston, Maine, the private institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. These enrollment options appeal to working professionals and other busy learners.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train participants for a particular role. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate program enrollees take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
With a certificate, recipients apply for entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Maine College of Health Professions at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 52%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,290
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,290
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Many career paths available to trade school graduates offer strong salaries and high demand.
Technical and trade school occupations pay around $55,000 per year on average. Earning potential for trade school graduates varies depending on industry, location, and experience.
Personal care and service jobs earn under $33,000 per year, while management occupations pay over $96,000 annually. Healthcare practitioners and technical occupations earn around $55,000 per year, while healthcare support occupations pay just over $45,000 per year.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many trade school careers offer strong job growth. The BLS projects much faster-than-average job growth for respiratory therapists, HVAC technicians, and dental hygienists between 2018 and 2028.
Salaries for trade occupations vary by state. In Maine, prospective trade school students can research Maine wage data to learn about the earning potential for different fields. For instance, Maine's dental hygienists earn around $67,500 per year, while respiratory therapists make $60,000 per year on average. More experienced professionals often earn higher wages.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Trade and tech schools in Maine offer several career-focused certificates and degrees. Vocational programs train students for careers in emergency services, healthcare, skilled trades, and legal services. Graduates pursue careers as dental hygienists, HVAC technicians, cosmetologists, and respiratory therapists.
The following list introduces some of the most common trade school programs. In addition to these programs, prospective students can research certificates and degrees for paralegals, occupational therapy assistants, electricians, and other trade school careers.
Paramedic Schools
Paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) provide emergency medical care for patients. They respond to emergency calls, assess patients, administer emergency medical treatments, and transport patients to medical facilities.
Many paramedics hold an associate degree in emergency medical technology or paramedic studies. During a paramedic studies program, students take courses in emergency care training, patient assessment, and field equipment. Students also complete specialized training in a hospital or ambulance practical experience.
BLS data shows that paramedics earned a median annual salary of over $35,000 in 2019. The field also reports faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028. Paramedics and EMTs must hold a license to practice. In Maine, the Board of EMS licenses paramedics.
Learn more about paramedic programs.
HVAC Training School
HVAC technicians specialize in installing and maintaining heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems in houses, businesses, and other buildings. They install electrical components, test HVAC systems, and repair defective parts. HVAC technicians also perform maintenance to improve system performance.
Many HVAC technicians complete vocational programs with coursework in refrigeration systems, electrical systems, and mechanical maintenance. They also gain training through an HVAC technology practicum.
HVAC technicians earn a median income of nearly $49,000 per year with much faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028. In Maine, HVAC technicians do not need a license. However, specialists in oil burner or solid fuel heating systems must apply for a license from the Maine Fuel Board.
For more information, visit our page on HVAC training programs.
Dental Hygienist Schools
Dental hygienists clean teeth and look for signs of oral diseases. They typically work in a dentist's office where they take dental x-rays, assess patients' oral health, and educate patients about oral hygiene.
Dental hygienists generally hold an associate degree with coursework in anatomy, oral diseases, and periodontics. Programs also incorporate clinical training through which students strengthen patient care skills.
BLS data reports that dental hygienists earned a median annual pay of over $76,000 in 2019. The field also benefits from much faster-than-average job growth projections between 2018 and 2028.
Dental hygienists must hold a license to practice in every state. The Maine Board of Dental Practice licenses dental hygienists who meet dental hygiene education requirements and pass the National Dental Hygiene examination.
Learn more about dental hygienist programs.
Beauty and Cosmetology Schools
Beauty and cosmetology professionals provide beauty services to clients, including haircutting and styling, facial treatments, and makeup analysis. To work in Maine, cosmetologists must meet training requirements, which many professionals complete through a vocational program. During cosmetology programs, students take courses in hairstyling and skincare.
The earning potential for beauty and cosmetology graduates varies depending on their career path. Barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists earned annual salaries of around $26,000 in 2019, according to the BLS, while skincare specialists earned around $34,000. These career paths report strong projected job growth.
In Maine, the Office of Professional and Financial Regulation grants barbering and cosmetology licenses.
For more, visit our page on beauty and cosmetology programs.
Respiratory Therapist Schools
Respiratory therapists treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They perform diagnostic tests, develop treatments, and monitor patients' progress. Respiratory therapists also teach patients to use equipment like ventilators.
Vocational schools in Maine offer associate programs to train respiratory therapists. During a respiratory therapy program, students take courses in therapeutic procedures, diagnostic tests, patient assessment, and respiratory equipment. Programs also incorporate clinical requirements to help students gain supervised experience with patient treatment.
The BLS reports that respiratory therapists earned a median annual income of over $61,000 in 2019 and benefit from much faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028. In Maine, the Board of Respiratory Care Practitioners licenses respiratory therapists. Applicants must complete an accredited educational program and pass an exam.
Learn more about respiratory therapy programs.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Trade school students often save money on their program compared with students pursuing academic credentials.
For example, Maine's public universities cost over $9,000 per year in tuition and fees, while private universities cost more than $37,000 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In contrast, Maine's public community colleges charge around $3,700 per year in tuition and fees.
In addition to choosing a more affordable school, students can also pay for their vocational program through financial aid. Students attending accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans.
Applicants must complete the FAFSA every year to receive federal financial aid. However, not all schools meet the requirements for federal aid programs. Students can check with specific schools to learn whether they qualify.
Grants and scholarships remain one of the best forms of financial aid. Unlike loans, which students must pay back, scholarships and grants offer financial support at no cost to the student.
The following section covers scholarships for students at vocational schools in Maine.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Students attending trade and vocational schools in Maine qualify for multiple scholarship opportunities. For example, the Maine Community Foundation awards over $4 million per year in scholarship funds to Maine students. In addition to the following scholarships, trade school students can research opportunities based on their field.
Maine Community Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The Maine Community Foundation offers scholarships to Maine residents attending accredited colleges and tech schools in Maine. Eligibility requirements vary
depending on the scholarship.
Amount: Varies
The Richard H. Pierce Memorial Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Maine residents attending an accredited two-year or four-year college can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation and a
personal essay.
Amount: $5,000
Maine Island Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Offered by the Island Institute, this scholarship supports students from Maine's islands with financial need. Recipients must enroll at a postsecondary education
institute.
Amount: $1,000-$2,500
Futurama Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The Futurama Foundation offers several scholarships to Maine women who demonstrate financial need. Recipients must attend an accredited college or postsecondary
education program.
Amount: $1,500
AGC Maine Education Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Maine residents studying a construction-related field at an accredited Maine school qualify for this scholarship. Applicants must submit an essay and
transcript.
Amount: $1,000-$3,000