Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools offer career-focused programs that prepare students for specific occupations in skilled trades like plumbing, aviation mechanics, HVAC, and electronics technology and repair. Also referred to as vocational and tech schools, trade schools provide intensive practical training in addition to classroom instruction.
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Due to socioeconomic factors and technological advancements, vocational schools have expanded their offerings to include programs in fields like multimedia animation, web design, and diagnostic technology.
Trade school programs usually take under two years to complete, with many lasting between 12-18 months. In addition to saving time, students save money, since they only have to pay tuition for up to two years.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 74% of students with an occupational credential from a vocational school find jobs that are directly related to their field of study after completing their program. By contrast, only 53% of students with academic credentials from four-year colleges find work in their major after graduation.
By offering short, career-focused programs and graduating skilled professionals, trade schools meet the educational needs of students and the occupational requirements of American workplaces.
Read on to learn more about trade schools in Mississippi and vocational education in general.
FAQ on Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi
Trade schools offer career-based programs with extensive fieldwork components. Colleges offer two-year and four-year degrees that incorporate general education and major courses.
The average cost of trade school is $33,000 for an entire program, or the equivalent of approximately one year of enrollment at a four-year university.
Examples of vocational jobs include aviation mechanics, dental hygienists, cosmetologists, barbers, and automotive technicians.
Some trade schools focus on technology and offer more programs in fields like computer programming and web design. Other trade schools offer programs in more traditional skilled trades like plumbing, auto repair, and welding.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Accreditation attests to the quality of a school's educational programs. Postsecondary institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and private and public universities, voluntarily go through the accreditation process to demonstrate their commitment to providing quality education.
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process in the United States. Nonprofit universities typically seek regional accreditation. For-profit career-based schools, including trade and sectarian schools, often seek national accreditation. Programmatic accreditors evaluate specific programs instead of entire schools.
A school's accreditation plays an important role for students who plan to apply for scholarships and grants to help pay for their education. The ED only channels federal financial aid through accredited institutions. In addition, accredited schools only accept credits for transfer if students earned them at another accredited institution.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges serves as the main accreditor for trade schools in Mississippi. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits online schools and programs.
All states require schools within their borders to be licensed before they can open. While important, licensure does not equate to accreditation.
A license means a school meets the minimum state requirements to offer educational programs. Accreditation examines the quality of a school's offerings to make sure they meet the rigor and standards established by the ED, CHEA, and the larger academic community.
Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi
#1 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
East Mississippi Community College
Scooba, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At East Mississippi Community College, learners can study in 91 associate programs and 16 certificate programs. Students benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Scooba, Mississippi campus. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train participants for a particular role. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
A certificate prepares recipients for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
East Mississippi Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 70
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,300
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,300
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest Mississippi Community College offers 28 associate degrees and 28 certificates. From its Senatobia, Mississippi, location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Northwest Mississippi Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,000
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Hinds Community College
Raymond, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Hinds Community College enrolls students in 58 associate programs and 63 certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Raymond, Mississippi. These flexible options help attendees continue to work while in school.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
With a certificate, recipients enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. After earning an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Hinds Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 14
Total Online Certificate Programs: 11
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,200
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,250
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Meridian Community College
Meridian, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Meridian Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 28 associate degrees and 29 certificates. Located in Meridian, Mississippi, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. These flexible options help learners work while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate students complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, alumni either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Meridian Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,024
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,004
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Pearl River Community College
Poplarville, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Pearl River Community College, students learn in 38 associate programs and 20 certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Poplarville, Mississippi. Busy enrollees benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
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 that does not include classes outside of their field.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Pearl River Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,250
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,648
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Jones County Junior College
Ellisville, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Jones County Junior College, students advance their education in 27 associate programs and 24 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Ellisville, Mississippi, campus. These flexible options help attendees work while in school.
The school's career-focused programs train participants for specialized career paths. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
A certificate helps recipients advance their career or move into a new role. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Jones County Junior College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,750
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Wesson, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Copiah-Lincoln Community College enrolls students in 65 associate programs and 27 certificate programs. Based in Wesson, Mississippi, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Many enrollees work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
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 program participants take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Copiah-Lincoln Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 26
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,800
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Summit, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southwest Mississippi Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 17 associate degrees and nine certificates. Based in Summit, Mississippi, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
Many of the school's programs encourage participants to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate students complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates qualify for entry-level roles in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Southwest Mississippi Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 9
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,880
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,580
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Mississippi Delta Community College
Moorhead, MS - 2 years
- Campus
At Mississippi Delta Community College, learners advance their education in 50 associate programs and 27 certificate programs. Enrollees choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Moorhead, Mississippi, campus of the public institution. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
Most associate degree and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. 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, alumni either enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student. Undergrad tuition costs $3,060 for Mississippi residents and $5,260 for students living elsewhere.
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Perkinston, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, students advance their education in 85 associate programs and 51 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Perkinston, Mississippi, campus. These flexible options make it easier for attendees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills, like communication and writing. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate enrollees complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
With a certificate, recipients apply for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, alumni either enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 14
Total Online Certificate Programs: 7
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,100
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,200
#11 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Northeast Mississippi Community College
Booneville, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Northeast Mississippi Community College offers 82 associate programs and 13 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Booneville, Mississippi, campus. Enrollees can sometimes work full time while in school.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate students complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Northeast Mississippi Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 49
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,310
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,290
#12 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Holmes Community College
Goodman, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students choose from 78 associate programs and 27 certificate programs at Holmes Community College. Based in Goodman, Mississippi, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain industry-specific skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate students 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, alumni either enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Holmes Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 78
Total Online Certificate Programs: 21
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,600
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,180
#13 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
East Central Community College
Decatur, MS - 2 years
- Campus
At East Central Community College, learners can study in 20 associate programs and 22 certificate programs. Located in Decatur, Mississippi, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for attendees. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or bachelor's programs. The college's undergraduate tuition costs $2,660 for in-state students and $4,760 for their out-of-state peers.
#14 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Coahoma Community College
Clarksdale, MS - 2 years
- Campus
Coahoma Community College offers 64 associate programs and 18 certificate programs. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Clarksdale, Mississippi, campus of the public institution. These enrollment options appeal to working students and other busy enrollees.
The school's career-focused programs train participants for specialized career paths. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
With a certificate, recipients apply for entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. At the college, undergrad tuition costs $2,850 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
#15 Vocational Trade Schools in Mississippi [2022 Guide]
Itawamba Community College
Fulton, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Itawamba Community College, students learn in 81 associate programs and 19 certificate programs. From its Fulton, Mississippi, location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Attendees often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills, like critical thinking and writing. Certificate program enrollees take courses in their area of study rather than general education courses.
With a certificate, graduates move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. With an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Itawamba Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 61
Total Online Certificate Programs: 5
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,900
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,100
The following institutions are some of the best vocational schools in Mississippi. Read on to find out more about each school's accreditation, available programs, online options, and scholarship opportunities.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for all trade school occupations is $59,370. Lucrative trade school occupations include electrical line installers, aircraft mechanics, and elevator installers and repairers.
As in most fields, job location impacts career options and salary levels. The states that hire the highest number of trade school graduates are as follows: Indiana (196,740), Tennessee (190,390), Alabama (130,840), Louisiana (129,370), and Iowa (108,690).
The BLS projects strong growth rates between 2018 and 2028 for plumbers (14%), HVAC technicians (13%), and electricians (10%). On the other hand, the BLS projects little to no change at all in the growth rates for automotive service technicians and air traffic controllers.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Vocational schools in Mississippi typically offer programs that support and address the needs of local industries and businesses. For example, trade schools in states with a thriving manufacturing sector tend to offer more programs in areas like industry automation, logistics, and transportation.
The following vocational programs represent a small sample of trade school offerings,
Dental Hygienist Schools
Dental hygienist programs prepare students for the workforce by providing intensive practical training along with comprehensive classroom instruction. Courses include oral anatomy, radiography, and nutrition and oral health.
States require dental hygienists to earn a license before they can practice. Although each state maintains specific licensure requirements, most states require students to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination after completing an accredited program from a trade school or community college. The Commission on Dental Accreditation serves as the main accrediting agency for dental hygienist programs.
According to the BLS, dental hygienists earned a median annual salary of $76,220 in 2019 with a projected 11% growth rate between 2018 and 2028.
Mechanic Schools
Trade schools usually offer 12-month mechanic programs that prepare students for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exams. The exams cover more than 40 specialty areas, including medium/heavy trucks, collision repair, truck equipment, and school bus.
Candidates need at least two years of on-the-job training. Candidates who completed an accredited mechanic program can sit for the test with only one year of on-the-job training. Mechanics must retest every five years to maintain their certified status.
According to the BLS, automotive service technicians and mechanics earned a median annual salary of $42,090 in 2019.
Paralegal Schools
Trade schools usually offer 12-month mechanic programs that prepare students for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exams. The exams cover more than 40 specialty areas, including medium/heavy trucks, collision repair, truck equipment, and school bus.
Candidates need at least two years of on-the-job training. Candidates who completed an accredited mechanic program can sit for the test with only one year of on-the-job training. Mechanics must retest every five years to maintain their certified status.
According to the BLS, automotive service technicians and mechanics earned a median annual salary of $42,090 in 2019.
Radiology Technician Schools
General medical and surgical hospitals employ the highest number of radiology technicians, who also work in physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, and medical and diagnostic laboratories.
Radiology technology programs include courses like radiation biology, X-ray machine operation, imaging analysis, and radiation physics. Since radiology technicians work directly with patients, most programs also include coursework in patient care procedures and professional ethics.
Most states require radiologic technicians to obtain a license before they can practice. The American Registry of Radiologic Technicians administers several tests that states use as a basis for licensure.
According to the BLS, radiology technicians earned a median annual salary of $62,280 in 2019 with a 9% projected growth rate between 2018 and 2028.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
For many American students, the search for financial aid begins by completing the FAFSA. Most trade schools, community colleges, and universities rely on FAFSA information to determine each student's eligibility for scholarships and grants. Private nonprofit organizations and several trade organizations that administer student financial aid programs also rely on FAFSA information in allotting financial aid to applicants.
Trade school students with demonstrable financial need can apply for Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Students do not have to repay the money they receive from these programs as long as they meet and comply with the requirements.
When students must take out a loan, they should borrow from the government before approaching private lenders. Federal student loans often come with lower interest rates and deferment options.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Since they do not need to be repaid, scholarships are the best form of financial aid. Students enrolled in trade schools in Mississippi can begin their search for financial aid by exploring the scholarship programs below.
Horatio Alger Association Career & Technical Scholarships
Who Can Apply: This program accepts applications from students who are under 30 years of age and facing extreme financial need. Applicants must demonstrate how they have overcome
adversity in their life.
Amount: $2,500
Key Thinker Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Applicants must submit an essay on financial responsibility and the steps they are taking to achieve it. Applicants must be full-time students at any college,
trade school, or university in the United States.
Amount: $1,000
Mississippi Automotive Manufacturers Association
Who Can Apply: This program accepts applications from students enrolled in an automotive program at a college or trade school in Mississippi. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must submit an essay.
Amount: $1,500
National Future Farmers of America Scholarships
Who Can Apply: This program accepts applications from students enrolled in an agricultural program at a trade school, college, or university. Each scholarship maintains specific requirements and criteria.
Amount: Varies
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractor National Association Educational Foundation Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: This program accepts applications from students pursuing a plumbing and heating/cooling program at an accredited trade school or community college. Plumbing and heating professionals seeking to upgrade their skills can also apply.
Amount: Varies