Vocational Trade Schools in Nebraska
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools in Nebraska provide career-focused training in high-demand industries like healthcare, skilled trades, and technology. With a vocational certificate or degree, graduates can find work as medical assistants, occupational therapy assistants, and dental hygienists. They can also pursue careers as electricians, paralegals, paramedics, and HVAC technicians.
During a vocational program, students complete fieldwork in addition to their coursework. For example, paramedic studies learners train in ambulances and hospitals, while electricians build career-ready skills through a practicum.
Vocational programs offer several benefits over four-year academic degrees. A vocational certificate or degree generally takes 1-2 years, meaning students complete their program and enter the workforce in less time. As a result, vocational training generally costs less than a bachelor’s degree.
Professionals with an occupational credential also benefit from a higher employment rate than those with an academic credential, according to 2009 data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
Many vocational programs offer self-paced or accelerated options to fit the schedule of busy students. Learners can also choose an online vocational program for the most flexible schedule.
Our list ranks the best vocational schools in Nebraska to help prospective students find the right fit to reach their career goals. This page also provides career and salary data for vocational occupations, introduces popular vocational programs, and lists scholarship opportunities for trade school students in Nebraska.
Top Vocational Trade Schools in Nebraska
Trade schools in Nebraska provide career-oriented training for industries like healthcare, the skilled trades, and personal services. By choosing a top-ranked vocational program, professionals can advance their education and increase their earning potential in 1-2 years.
Central Community College
Grand Island, NE- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Central Community College provides 32 associate programs and 54 certificate programs for students. Based in Grand Island, Nebraska, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. These flexible choices make it easier for attendees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
In the school's career-focused programs, participants gain industry-specific skills. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares recipients for the workforce. An associate degree prepares alumni for the workforce or bachelor's programs.
Central Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 10
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,700
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,050
- In-State$2,700
- Out-of-state$4,050
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,368
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Metropolitan Community College
- Omaha, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Metropolitan Community College offers 71 associate programs and 112 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Omaha, Nebraska, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. Busy students benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Metropolitan Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 9
Total Online Certificate Programs: 11
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,880
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,320
- In-State$2,880
- Out-of-state$4,320
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled14,300
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Mid-Plains Community College
- North Platte, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Mid-Plains Community College, learners can strengthen their skills in 18 associate programs and 24 certificate programs. Located in North Platte, Nebraska, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take 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.
Mid-Plains Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 6
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,820
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,660
- In-State$2,820
- Out-of-state$3,660
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,125
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Southeast Community College
- Lincoln, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students enroll in 34 associate programs and 29 certificate programs at Southeast Community College. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Lincoln, Nebraska, campus. 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 participants for a particular role. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Southeast Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 7
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,448
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $2,952
- In-State$2,448
- Out-of-state$2,952
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,756
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Northeast Community College
- Norfolk, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students enroll in 73 associate programs and 34 certificate programs at Northeast Community College. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Norfolk, Nebraska, campus. Busy learners benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
Many of the school's programs encourage enrollees to train for a particular vocation after graduation. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. 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. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Northeast Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 13
Total Online Certificate Programs: 5
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,170
- In-State$2,970
- Out-of-state$4,170
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,258
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Western Nebraska Community College
- Scottsbluff, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Western Nebraska Community College, learners can study in 47 associate programs and 17 certificate programs. From its Scottsbluff, Nebraska, campus, the public institution lets attendees choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate trains graduates for entry-level positions in a specific field. An associate degree prepares recipients for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Western Nebraska Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 5
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,496
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $2,520
- In-State$2,496
- Out-of-state$2,520
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,722
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture
- Curtis, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture offers vocational and academic programs, with three associate programs and three certificate programs. Located in Curtis, Nebraska, 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 programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
With a certificate, graduates move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. With an associate degree, alumni can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture at a Glance:
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,590
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,590
- In-State$4,590
- Out-of-state$4,590
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled331
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Clarkson College
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students advance their education in three associate programs and three certificate programs at Clarkson College. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the private institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Omaha, Nebraska, campus. These enrollment options appeal to working professionals and other busy attendees.
The school's career-focused programs train participants for specialized career paths. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
With a certificate, recipients move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. With an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Clarkson College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 46%
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,392
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,392
- In-State$13,392
- Out-of-state$13,392
- In-State$11,178
- Out-of-state$11,178
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate46%
- Students Enrolled1,108
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
Nebraska Methodist College
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Nebraska Methodist College offers six associate degrees and three certificates. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the private institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Omaha, Nebraska, campus. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
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. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
With a certificate, recipients enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. With an associate degree, alumni apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Nebraska Methodist College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,422
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,422
- In-State$15,422
- Out-of-state$15,422
- In-State$11,955
- Out-of-state$11,955
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled1,128
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Creighton University
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Creighton University, learners can study in five associate programs and nine certificate programs. From its Omaha, Nebraska, campus, the private institution lets students choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. These enrollment options appeal to working professionals and other busy attendees.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills such as writing and critical thinking. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
With a certificate, recipients pursue entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, alumni can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Creighton University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 74%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $39,630
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $39,630
- In-State$39,630
- Out-of-state$39,630
- In-State$16,128
- Out-of-state$16,128
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled8,821
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- 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.
FAQ
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Prospective trade school students should always check a school’s accreditation and licensure status before submitting an application. An unaccredited degree does not meet the requirements for many professional licenses.
Accredited schools meet high standards for educating students. Colleges and universities earn accreditation by undergoing an extensive review by an independent accrediting agency. During the review, the accrediting agency evaluates the institution’s student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic mission.
Students benefit from accreditation in several important ways. First, credits earned at an accredited school are more likely to transfer to other institutions. Second, accredited degrees meet the requirements for more professional licensure and certification requirements. Finally, only students attending accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid programs.
Many schools offer vocational programs, including trade schools, technical colleges, community colleges, and four-year universities. These schools may hold regional or national accreditation. Most community colleges and four-year universities hold regional accreditation. In Wisconsin, the Higher Learning Commission grants regional accreditation to schools.
Vocational and trade schools often hold national accreditation from a specialized agency such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, which accredits more than 650 trade and technical schools. Other specialized accrediting agencies include the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, which accredits online schools.
Postsecondary schools also need a license to operate. In Nebraska, the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education provides a directory of approved schools.
Learn more about the accreditation process.
Find Vocational and Trade Schools in Nebraska
Community colleges, career training centers, and trade schools throughout Nebraska all offer vocational and trade education. Many programs include internship and apprenticeship opportunities so that students can get the practical training they need to take on specialized jobs.
The state is committed to educating its workforce, and provides career and technical education (CTE) as early as high school. Several high schools in Nebraska offer vocational programs in which students concentrate on CTE classes. Data shows that students who participate in CTE courses are 7.5 times more likely to stay in school.
Use the search tool below to find accredited trade schools in Nebraska that meet your needs.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
The career and salary outlook for trade school graduates remains strong. In many fields, trade school occupations pay high salaries and offer strong growth potential. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects much faster-than-average job growth for HVAC technicians and dental hygienists between 2023 and 2033.
The earning potential for trade school graduates varies depending on the industry and location. Overall, trade school occupations pay an average salary of around $55,000 per year.
On the high end, management occupations earn over $96,000 per year. In the healthcare field, practitioners and technicians with vocational training make around $55,000 per year, while healthcare support occupations earn $45,000 per year. With experience, many trade school professionals see their income increase.
In Nebraska, multiple trade school careers pay above the state’s mean annual wage of $58,000. Occupational therapy assistants and paralegals both earn around $60,000 per year. Dental hygienists in Nebraska make over $82,000 annually on average, while electricians earn nearly $59,000 per year.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Trade school programs train students for careers as dental hygienists, mechanics, paralegals, and radiology technicians. Through classroom and fieldwork requirements, students gain the skills needed for the workforce. Vocational training prepares graduates for high-demand industries like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
This section introduces popular trade school programs, including their earning potential and licensing requirements.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Trade school students can pay for their certificate or degree using loans, scholarships, or grants. Students attending accredited schools can receive federal financial aid, which includes grants, loans, and work-study programs, by completing the FAFSA. Prospective students can check with specific schools to learn whether they meet the eligibility requirements for federal financial aid.
Unlike loans, which recipients must pay back, scholarships and grants decrease the cost of a vocational program with no repayment obligation. As a result, they are the best form of financial aid. Many Nebraska organizations offer scholarships for trade school students.
The following section introduces scholarship opportunities for students at vocational schools in Nebraska.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Students attending vocational schools in Nebraska qualify for multiple scholarship opportunities. Private foundations, community organizations, and professional associations all support trade school students through scholarships. In addition to the following opportunities, students can research scholarships based on their school or field of study.
