Vocational Trade Schools in Missouri
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools offer career-focused programs that prepare graduates for specific occupations. Students graduate with workplace-ready skills in a variety of trades such as aviation mechanics, plumbing, or cosmetology.
Similar to vocational and tech schools, trade schools offer programs that typically take 1-2 years to complete. Some offer two-year associate degrees but most offer certificate and diploma programs that learners can complete sooner.
Data from the National Center for Education Statistics show that 51% of undergraduate credentials awarded in 2015 consisted of sub-baccalaureate programs, which include trade school certificates and diplomas. Graduates with occupational credentials also experience lower unemployment rates than their counterparts holding academic credentials, such as a four-year bachelor’s degree.
Recognizing the role that trade school graduates play on the national economical stage, the Office of Vocational and Adult Education maintains several funding programs for students pursuing vocational or technical programs. Many vocational schools offer programs in new career pathways, such as industrial automation technology, alongside programs in traditional skilled trades, such as welding and collision repair.
Use this guide to learn more about trade school programs, specifically about vocational schools in Missouri. It contains important information regarding accreditation, financial aid, and careers and salaries for trade school graduates.
Best Trade Schools in Missouri
Missouri offers career and technical programs in several growth-oriented fields such as agriculture, health sciences, business, and technology and engineering. The list below ranks some of the best vocational schools in Missouri according to several key aspects including accreditation, financial assistance options, and program variety.
Metropolitan Community College
Kansas City, MO- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Metropolitan Community College, learners can strengthen their skills in 37 associate programs and 33 certificate programs. Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. 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 complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Metropolitan Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,490
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,170
- In-State$5,490
- Out-of-state$7,170
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled15,770
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Ozarks Technical Community College
- Springfield, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Ozarks Technical Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 45 associate programs and 33 certificate programs. Located in Springfield, Missouri, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Most associate degree and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
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.
Ozarks Technical Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,939
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,040
- In-State$3,939
- Out-of-state$5,040
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,762
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
State Fair Community College
- Sedalia, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At State Fair Community College, students advance their education in 31 associate programs and 26 certificate programs. Learners choose from online and on-campus courses offered from the Sedalia, Missouri, campus of the public institution. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
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 that does not include classes outside of their field.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
State Fair Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 16
Total Online Certificate Programs: 12
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,080
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,520
- In-State$4,080
- Out-of-state$5,520
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,288
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Jefferson College
- Hillsboro, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Jefferson College, students learn in 26 associate programs and 23 certificate programs. Learners benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Hillsboro, Missouri, location. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates apply for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Jefferson College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,040
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,720
- In-State$5,040
- Out-of-state$6,720
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,196
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
St. Charles Community College
- Cottleville, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students choose from 28 associate programs and 25 certificate programs at St. Charles Community College. Based in Cottleville, Missouri, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Working professionals benefit from the ability to attend school without leaving their job.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
A certificate helps graduates 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.
St. Charles Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,770
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,480
- In-State$4,770
- Out-of-state$6,480
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,363
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Louis Community College
- Bridgeton, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With 44 associate programs and 44 certificate programs, Saint Louis Community College offers options for many students. From its main campus in Bridgeton, Missouri, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. These options appeal to working students and other busy learners.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Saint Louis Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 5
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,320
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,120
- In-State$4,320
- Out-of-state$6,120
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled17,294
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Crowder College
- Neosho, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Crowder College, students can enroll in 35 associate programs and 42 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which includes online enrollment and classes on the Neosho, Missouri, campus. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
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 take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
With a certificate, graduates pursue entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Crowder College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,552
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,552
- In-State$3,552
- Out-of-state$3,552
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,401
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Missouri Western State University
- Saint Joseph, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Missouri Western State University offers vocational and academic programs, with four associate programs and four certificate programs. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Saint Joseph campus of the public institution. Degree and certificate students often balance school with work.
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. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Missouri Western State University at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,096
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,573
- In-State$6,096
- Out-of-state$12,573
- In-State$7,188
- Out-of-state$11,581
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,608
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Ranken Technical College
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students enroll in 16 associate programs and 31 certificate programs at Ranken Technical College. Learners benefit from the private institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Saint Louis, Missouri, location. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. 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.
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.
Ranken Technical College at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,664
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,664
- In-State$14,664
- Out-of-state$14,664
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,799
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
North Central Missouri College
- Trenton, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At North Central Missouri College, learners can strengthen their skills in 25 associate programs and 10 certificate programs. Based in Trenton, Missouri, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
North Central Missouri College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 11
Total Online Certificate Programs: 6
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,440
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,370
- In-State$4,440
- Out-of-state$5,370
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,746
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Missouri State West Plains
- West Plains, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students advance their education in 17 associate programs and 20 certificate programs at Missouri State West Plains. The public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. These flexible options appeal to working students and other busy learners.
In the school's career-focused programs, learners gain industry-specific skills. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates pursue entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Missouri State West Plains at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 7
Total Online Certificate Programs: 14
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,900
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,920
- In-State$3,900
- Out-of-state$7,920
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,951
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
East Central College
- Union, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students choose from 27 associate programs and 18 certificate programs at East Central College. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Union, Missouri, campus. The flexible course options make it easier for students to work while pursuing a certificate or degree.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
East Central College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,528
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,232
- In-State$3,528
- Out-of-state$5,232
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,649
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Moberly Area Community College
- Moberly, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Moberly Area Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 19 associate programs and 19 certificate programs. Based in Missouri, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. These enrollment options appeal to working students and other busy learners.
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. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Moberly Area Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,590
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,270
- In-State$4,590
- Out-of-state$6,270
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,849
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Mineral Area College
- Park Hills, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Mineral Area College offers 30 associate programs and 25 certificate programs. From its main campus in Park Hills, Missouri, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build 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.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Mineral Area College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,530
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,090
- In-State$4,530
- Out-of-state$6,090
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,640
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
State Technical College of Missouri
- Linn, MO
- 2 year
- Campus
Students enroll in 27 associate programs and 16 certificate programs at State Technical College of Missouri. Learners benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Linn, Missouri location. These flexible options appeal to busy students balancing school with other obligations.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in foundational courses. Instead of general education classes, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their area of study.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or bachelor's programs.
State Technical College of Missouri at a Glance:
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,258
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,515
- In-State$5,258
- Out-of-state$10,515
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,724
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
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.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
A voluntary process, accreditation attests to the quality and rigor of a school’s academic programs. Accreditors review factors including an institution’s finances, governance and administration, and operational sustainability.
Degree-granting nonprofit public and private institutions apply for regional accreditation. Vocational and trade schools as well as sectarian and for-profit schools apply for national accreditation. A third type, programmatic or specialized accreditation, reviews specific programs instead of entire schools. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process in the United States.
The Higher Learning Commission grants regional accreditation to schools in Missouri and in 18 other states. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges grants national accreditation to trade and vocational schools across the U.S. ED and CHEA recognize the Distance Education Accrediting Commission as the main accreditor for online schools.
Accreditation matters for two main reasons: First, only students enrolled in accredited schools qualify for federal financial assistance. Second, most schools accept transfer credits only from accredited institutions. Moreover, professional arenas that require licensure or certification prior to practice often also require the completion of a program from an accredited school.
Keep in mind that a school’s license to operate does not mean it holds accreditation. A license indicates that a school meets the state’s minimum requirements to operate as a learning institution and offer academic programs. Accreditation reviews and attests to the quality of those programs.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Since trade schools prepare students for work in diverse professional arenas, trade school graduates earn a range of salaries. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows an average annual salary of approximately $55,510 for vocational school careers.
Some workers with a trade school education earn more than professionals who complete two-year associate degrees. For instance, electrical and electronics repairers earned a median annual salary of $78,410 in 2019, while nuclear medical technologists earned $75,660.
The BLS also projects robust growth rates between 2023-2033 for several jobs in the trade sector, including plumbers and pipefitters (6%), HVAC technicians and installers (9%), and electricians (11%). The projected growth rates for these jobs exceeds the 5% projected growth rate for all other occupations.
Job location also influences career options and salary levels. The five states hiring the highest number of trade school workers include Indiana (196,740), Tennessee (190,390), Alabama (130,840), Louisiana (129,370), and Iowa (108,690). Students with a vocational school certificate stand a better chance of being hired in these and other states that have plenty of jobs in the skilled trade sector.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Responding to current market demands, technological advances, and various socioeconomic factors, trade schools have begun offering programs in a variety of emerging professional arenas as well as in traditional skilled trades. See below for some programs available in many trade schools in Missouri and in other states.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Completing a trade school program costs less than pursuing a four-year degree. Not only are the programs shorter, but vocational schools often do not have large overhead expenses to maintain. However, for trade school students who still need financial assistance, the first step usually involves completing the FAFSA.
Schools and organizations that administer grants and scholarships rely on an applicant’s FAFSA information to determine their eligibility for financial assistance. Scholarship programs typically award applicants who meet measurable criteria such as high academic performance, artistic talent, or athletic abilities. Grant programs, often channeled through schools and organizations, focus on other factors such as a student’s social, economic, and ethnic qualifications.
Trade school students can also apply to federal student loan programs, which offer lower interest rates and payment deferment options. Some loan programs do not require student borrowers to start paying back while they are still in school.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Missouri supports the education and career objectives of its trade school students, as evidenced by the scholarship and grant opportunities outlined below. Many trade schools in Missouri provide students with an excellent starting point in their search for financial assistance.
FAQ
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Yes, trade school students can explore financial aid packages from the U.S. Department of Education just like students in four-year programs.
Are scholarships available for vocational students?
Many states maintain scholarship and grant programs specifically for trade school enrollees who reside in the state.
When can I apply to trade school?
Most trade schools require applicants to be at least 16 years old. However, this varies by state and field of study.
How long does trade school take?
Most trade school programs take fewer than two years to complete.
