Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade school students acquire career-ready technical skills by earning certificates, diplomas, and degrees. Trade schools provide a pathway to lucrative and in-demand careers in fields like plumbing, robotics, cybersecurity, and auto repair.
Career and technical education (CTE) blends experiential learning and classroom lectures. Students in New Jersey can begin exploring careers as early as middle school to see if a particular field grabs their interest.
At the secondary level, students in New Jersey can take vocational education at comprehensive high schools. New Jersey also operates a unique system of secondary county vocational-technical schools that integrate academics and vocational training focused on career clusters.
At trade schools in New Jersey, students can pursue short-term certificates, one-year diplomas, and two-year associate degrees.
Vocational education continues to grow in the Garden State. For the 2023 fiscal year, New Jersey received approximately $28,875,894 in CTE funding.
Read on to learn more about vocational schools in New Jersey.
Best Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
Camden County College
Blackwood, NJ- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Camden County College, learners can strengthen their skills in 49 associate programs and 60 certificate programs. Enrollees select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Blackwood, New Jersey. Students often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train participants for a particular role. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. With an associate degree, alumni either enter the workforce or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Camden County College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,330
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $3,330
- In-State$3,330
- Out-of-state$3,330
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled9,735
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College at Burlington County
- Mount Laurel, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Learners advance their education in 42 associate programs and 20 certificate programs at Rowan College at Burlington County. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Mount Laurel, New Jersey, campus. Degree and certificate students often balance school with work.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. 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.
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.
Rowan College at Burlington County at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,806
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,548
- In-State$3,806
- Out-of-state$5,548
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled8,439
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Raritan Valley Community College
- Branchburg, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With 42 associate programs and 37 certificate programs, Raritan Valley Community College offers options for many students. Located in Branchburg, New Jersey, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. These flexible options make it easier for learners to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
With a certificate, graduates qualify for entry-level roles in their field. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Raritan Valley Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,088
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,088
- In-State$5,088
- Out-of-state$5,088
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled7,793
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Bergen Community College
- Paramus, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Bergen Community College lets learners choose from 39 associate programs and 38 certificate programs. Students benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Paramus, New Jersey, location. These flexible options help attendees work while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, participants gain industry-specific skills. 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.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Bergen Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,224
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,602
- In-State$7,224
- Out-of-state$7,602
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled12,968
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Passaic County Community College
- Paterson, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students enroll in 32 associate programs and 32 certificate programs at Passaic County Community College. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Paterson, New Jersey. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. In associate programs, participants strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates qualify for entry-level roles in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Passaic County Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,260
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,300
- In-State$7,260
- Out-of-state$9,300
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled6,497
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Mercer County Community College
- West Windsor, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Mercer County Community College, students learn in 46 associate programs and 50 certificate programs. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the West Windsor, New Jersey, campus of the public institution. Attendees often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
The school's career-focused programs train enrollees for specialized career paths. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate helps recipients advance their career or move into a new role. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Mercer County Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,434
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,702
- In-State$4,434
- Out-of-state$6,702
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled7,480
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
County College of Morris
- Randolph, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At County College of Morris, students advance their education in 32 associate programs and 15 certificate programs. From its Randolph, New Jersey, campus, the public institution lets learners choose from 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 provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
With a certificate, graduates apply for entry-level positions in their field. With an associate degree, alumni can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as transfer students.
County College of Morris at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,220
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,790
- In-State$8,220
- Out-of-state$11,790
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled7,488
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Sussex County Community College
- Newton, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Sussex County Community College, students learn in 22 associate programs and 14 certificate programs. From its Newton, New Jersey, location, the public institution welcomes attendees to online and on-campus classes. Students often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
With a certificate, graduates qualify for entry-level roles in their field. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Sussex County Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,040
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,720
- In-State$5,040
- Out-of-state$6,720
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled2,318
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College of South Jersey - Cumberland
- Vineland, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Rowan College of South Jersey - Cumberland lets learners choose from 27 associate programs and 24 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Vineland, New Jersey, offers online and on-campus enrollment options which appeal to a variety of students. Busy attendees benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and writing. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates 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.
Rowan College of South Jersey - Cumberland at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,960
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,920
- In-State$3,960
- Out-of-state$7,920
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled2,989
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus
- Sewell, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students choose from 36 associate programs and 23 certificate programs at Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus. From its Sewell, New Jersey campus, the public institution lets learners choose from online and on-campus enrollment options. Many enrollees work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
The school's career-focused programs provide cutting-edge training in specific career paths. 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.
A certificate helps recipients advance their career or move into a new role. With an associate degree, graduates either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,080
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,400
- In-State$4,080
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled6,953
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Union College of Union County, New Jersey
- Cranford, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Union College of Union County, New Jersey, learners can strengthen their skills in 42 associate programs and 19 certificate programs. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Cranford, New Jersey, campus. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
With a certificate, graduates apply 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.
Union County College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 6
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,562
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,562
- In-State$10,562
- Out-of-state$10,562
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled9,181
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Hudson County Community College
- Jersey City, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Hudson County Community College offers 26 associate programs and 13 certificate programs. From its main campus in Jersey City, New Jersey, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. Busy students benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
With a certificate, recipients enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. After an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Hudson County Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,152
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,560
- In-State$7,152
- Out-of-state$10,560
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled8,202
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Brookdale Community College
- Lincroft, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students advance their education in 38 associate programs and 15 certificate programs at Brookdale Community College. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Lincroft, New Jersey, campus. Attendees can sometimes work full time 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 courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Learners in certificate programs take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Brookdale Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,605
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,355
- In-State$7,605
- Out-of-state$8,355
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,489
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Ocean County College
- Toms River, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Ocean County College lets learners choose from 25 associate programs and 27 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Toms River, New Jersey, offers online and on-campus enrollment options which appeal to a variety of students. Many enrollees work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
Many of the school's certificate and associate programs emphasize industry-specific skills that prepare graduates for a particular career path. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Ocean County College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 9
Total Online Certificate Programs: 10
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,750
- In-State$4,170
- Out-of-state$6,750
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled8,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Essex County College
- Newark, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Essex County College enrolls students in 37 associate programs and 10 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Newark, New Jersey, offers online and on-campus enrollment options which appeal to a variety of learners. Busy attendees benefit from the school's flexible options, which make it easier to work while in college.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
A certificate trains recipients for entry-level positions in a specific field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or pursue a bachelor's degree.
Essex County College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,590
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,590
- In-State$7,590
- Out-of-state$7,590
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled7,434
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Atlantic Cape Community College
- Mays Landing, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Atlantic Cape Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 33 associate degrees and 23 certificates. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Mays Landing, New Jersey, campus. Students often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. With an associate degree, learners can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as transfer students.
Atlantic Cape Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,796
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,296
- In-State$5,796
- Out-of-state$7,296
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled5,048
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Middlesex College
- Edison, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus
At Middlesex College, learners can strengthen their skills in 46 associate programs and 33 certificate programs. From its main campus in Edison, New Jersey, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
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. At the college, in-state and out-of-state student both pay $5,472 in undergraduate tuition.
- In-State$5,472
- Out-of-state$5,472
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,142
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Warren County Community College
- Washington, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus
With 22 associate programs and 10 certificate programs, Warren County Community College offers options for many learners. Located in Washington, New Jersey, 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.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates 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. In-state students pay $5,100 in undergraduate tuition while out-of-state students pay $5,700.
- In-State$5,100
- Out-of-state$5,700
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled3,243
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Montclair State University offers 4 certificate programs. The public institution features flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Montclair, New Jersey, campus. Many students continue to work while pursuing a flexible degree or certificate.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills, such as writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Montclair State University at a Glance:
Admission Rate: 76%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,082
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,042
- In-State$12,082
- Out-of-state$20,042
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$18,432
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled21,007
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Salem Community College
- Carneys Point, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students advance their education in 29 associate programs and 7 certificate programs at Salem Community College. Learners benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Carneys Point, New Jersey, location. These flexible options make it easier for enrollees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Instead of general education classes, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their area of study.
A certificate trains recipients for entry-level positions in a specific field. With an associate degree, alumni either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Salem Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,210
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,960
- In-State$6,210
- Out-of-state$6,960
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled996
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- 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 About Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
What do trade schools offer?
Trade schools in New Jersey provide certificates, associate degrees, and apprenticeships to more than 32,000 secondary school students and 5,000 adult students.
How much does a trade school cost?
Trade schools receive funding from local taxes and state and federal aid, which makes programming free to local residents. Learners pursuing additional training at two-year community and technical colleges pay low tuition rates that vary by program.
What is the difference between a trade school and a college?
Trade schools prepare learners for specific technical jobs after graduation. Colleges take a more comprehensive approach by incorporating general education courses.
Can trade school credits transfer?
Possibly. Some trade schools maintain articulation agreements with local two-year and four-year colleges to facilitate a seamless transition. However, credits from unaccredited schools do not transfer.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Students should verify that their desired school holds accreditation. To receive accreditation, institutions undergo a comprehensive third-party review process to ensure they meet rigorous standards. The review process considers factors like faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student outcomes.
Only students who attend an accredited school can apply for federal financial aid. Furthermore, accredited schools typically accept transfer credits only from other accredited institutions. Employers often vet students to ensure their degree comes from an accredited school.
Tech schools in New Jersey hold either regional or national accreditation. Degree-granting schools in the United States hold regional accreditation from one of six agencies, and each accredits schools within a designated region. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education regionally accredits schools in New Jersey.
National accreditation applies to for-profit vocational institutions and trade schools. More than 650 trade and vocational schools across the country receive national accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Some organizations award programmatic accreditation in specific fields. Automotive programs, for instance, hold accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits online programs at trade schools.
Trade schools in New Jersey need a license to operate. Licensure signifies that a school meets certain minimum requirements. The New Jersey Department of Education provides license information for vocational schools and the state’s community colleges.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Trade school graduates can expect to earn a competitive salary that varies depending on their chosen industry, experience, and where they live.
As students investigate career options, they should factor in career and salary outlook. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a great resource with current information on median annual salaries, entry-level job requirements, and job growth projections.
Trades with strong projected growth rates include electricians, nursing assistants, registered nurses, and computer support specialists. All of these jobs pay well and do not necessarily require a bachelor’s degree.
Trades feature prominently on the BLS’ list of jobs with high projected growth rates between 2023 and 2033.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Vocational schools in New Jersey offer more than 450 programs for high school students and adults. These programs train learners for jobs in the state’s key industries, including advanced manufacturing; health sciences; logistics and transportation; and science, technology, engineering, and math.
The following section highlights four common trade school programs.
- 1
Dental Hygienist Schools
Working under the guidance of licensed dentists, dental hygienists perform oral healthcare by taking X-rays, cleaning teeth, screening for diseases, and educating patients about dental hygiene.
To enter this profession in New Jersey, candidates must complete at least a certificate or associate degree from an accredited dental hygiene program in the U.S. or Canada. It takes about two years to complete a dental hygiene program.
Graduates must pass an exam administered by the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments, which is required for licensure by the New Jersey Board of Dentistry. The board also requires the state Jurisprudence Exam.
According to the BLS, dental hygienists earned a median annual salary of $87,530 in 2023 with a 9% projected job growth rate between 2023 and 2033.
For more information about dental hygienist schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 2
Mechanic Schools
Automotive and engine technology programs in New Jersey lead to a one-year General Service Technician certificate or two-year associate degree. Students can begin their studies in secondary school, transferring credit to a postsecondary program.
New Jersey’s automotive programs hold certification from ASE Education Foundation. Many employers require that their technicians complete ASE certification.
According to the BLS, auto mechanics earned a median annual salary of $47,770 in 2023.
For more information about mechanic schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 3
Paralegal Schools
Paralegals support lawyers by interviewing witnesses, conducting case research, drafting legal documents, and filing court briefs. They must have at least a certificate in paralegal studies or an associate degree to enter the field.
While New Jersey does not require licensure for paralegals, some employers may want new hires to complete paralegal certification from an organization like the National Federation of Paralegal Associations.
According to the BLS, paralegals earned a median annual salary of $60,970 in 2023.
For more information about paralegal schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 4
Radiology Technician Schools
Radiology technologists use X-rays and CT scans to take images for diagnostic purposes. To practice in New Jersey, these professionals must complete a two-year diagnostic radiography program approved by the state’s Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Learners must pass the American Registry for Radiologic Technology exam or a board-approved equivalent once they complete a program. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection awards licensure in this field.
According to the BLS, radiology technologists earned a median annual salary of $76,020 in 2023 with a 6% projected job growth between 2023 and 2033.
For more information about radiology technician schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Students can attend secondary trade schools in New Jersey for free, as these schools receive funding from local taxes and state and federal aid. Learners pursuing postsecondary education at a two-year community and technical college generally pay less tuition than they would in a four-year academic program. Students at these two-year institutions qualify for scholarships, loans, and grants.
To qualify for federal financial aid, students must complete the FAFSA. Scholarships do not require repayment, while federal loans offer low interest rates.
Prospective students with demonstrated financial need may qualify for the federal Pell Grant, which pays for undergraduate education and does not require repayment. Students can check with the school they plan to attend to find out if its students can receive federal student aid.
The following section provides more details about scholarships to pay for vocational schools in New Jersey.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Many organizations offer scholarships for students based on financial need, academic merit, or identity. The following section lists several scholarships to help learners pay for tuition at tech schools in New Jersey.
Community College Opportunity Grant
Who Can Apply: New Jersey students enrolled at one of the state’s 18 community colleges may qualify for free tuition. Applicants must enroll in at least six credits per semester in any program, meet income requirements, and complete the FAFSA.
Amount: Varies
New Jersey Governor’s Industry Vocations Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Women and people of color planning to pursue a certificate or degree in a construction-related field can apply. Applicants must earn admission to one of the state’s vocational tech colleges and qualify for financial aid.
Amount: $2,000
SkillsUSA
Who Can Apply: An organization for CTE students, SkillsUSA and its partners offer several scholarships. These scholarships pay for college/postsecondary career training in fields such as HVACR, culinary arts, and homebuilding. Application requirements vary.
Amount: $1,000-$3,000
Associated General Contractors Scholarships
Who Can Apply: This scholarship is open to students planning to enroll in an accredited construction or engineering bachelor’s program. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or documented permanent residents.
Amount: $2,500
Education Matters Scholarship
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens qualify for this scholarship if they plan to attend an accredited postsecondary institution. Applicants must submit an essay outlining why education matters to them.
Amount: $5,000
