Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on July 23, 2024

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.

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Best Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

Camden County College

  • Blackwood, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

27%

Online Enrollment

$3,330

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

61%

Retention Rate

$3,330

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
9,735
Institution Type
Public
#2

Rowan College at Burlington County

  • Mount Laurel, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

N/A

Online Enrollment

$3,806

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

65%

Retention Rate

$5,548

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
8,439
Institution Type
Public
#3

Raritan Valley Community College

  • Branchburg, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

22%

Online Enrollment

$5,088

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

69%

Retention Rate

$5,088

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
7,793
Institution Type
Public
#4

Bergen Community College

  • Paramus, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

25%

Online Enrollment

$7,224

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

65%

Retention Rate

$7,602

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
12,968
Institution Type
Public
#5

Passaic County Community College

  • Paterson, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

18%

Online Enrollment

$7,260

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

60%

Retention Rate

$9,300

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
6,497
Institution Type
Public
#6

Mercer County Community College

  • West Windsor, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

22%

Online Enrollment

$4,434

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

64%

Retention Rate

$6,702

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
7,480
Institution Type
Public
#7

County College of Morris

  • Randolph, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

28%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,220

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

74%

Retention Rate

$11,790

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
7,488
Institution Type
Public
#8

Sussex County Community College

  • Newton, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

55%

Online Enrollment

$5,040

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

69%

Retention Rate

$6,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
2,318
Institution Type
Public
#9

Rowan College of South Jersey - Cumberland

  • Vineland, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

39%

Online Enrollment

$3,960

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

65%

Retention Rate

$7,920

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
2,989
Institution Type
Public
#10

Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus

  • Sewell, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

36%

Online Enrollment

$4,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$8,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
6,953
Institution Type
Public
#11

Union College of Union County, New Jersey

  • Cranford, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

25%

Online Enrollment

$10,562

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

68%

Retention Rate

$10,562

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
9,181
Institution Type
Public
#12

Hudson County Community College

  • Jersey City, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

16%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,152

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

58%

Retention Rate

$10,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
8,202
Institution Type
Public
#13

Brookdale Community College

  • Lincroft, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

18%

Online Enrollment

$7,605

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

70%

Retention Rate

$8,355

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
11,489
Institution Type
Public
#14

Ocean County College

  • Toms River, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

36%

Online Enrollment

$4,170

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

73%

Retention Rate

$6,750

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
8,171
Institution Type
Public
#15

Essex County College

  • Newark, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

9%

Online Enrollment

$7,590

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

52%

Retention Rate

$7,590

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
7,434
Institution Type
Public
#16

Atlantic Cape Community College

  • Mays Landing, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

41%

Online Enrollment

$5,796

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$7,296

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
5,048
Institution Type
Public
#17

Middlesex College

  • Edison, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

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.

22%

Online Enrollment

$5,472

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

69%

Retention Rate

$5,472

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
11,142
Institution Type
Public
#18

Warren County Community College

  • Washington, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

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.

12%

Online Enrollment

$5,100

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$5,700

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
3,243
Institution Type
Public
#19

Montclair State University

  • Montclair, NJ
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

31%

Online Enrollment

$12,082

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

80%

Retention Rate

$20,042

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
21,007
Institution Type
Public
#20

Salem Community College

  • Carneys Point, NJ
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

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

37%

Online Enrollment

$6,210

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

67%

Retention Rate

$6,960

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
N/A
Students Enrolled
996
Institution Type
Public

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


question-mark-circleWhat 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.

question-mark-circleHow 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.

question-mark-circleWhat 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.

question-mark-circleCan 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

plusCommunity 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

plusNew 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

plusSkillsUSA

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

plusAssociated 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

plusEducation 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

Additional Education and Career Resources

State association for New Jersey’s community colleges. Provides information about schools and program offerings, including scholarship opportunities.
A nonprofit association representing vocational and technical schools in New Jersey. Provides information about the schools and their programs.
Official website for New Jersey’s education system. Provides information about various academic offerings, news and events.
Provides a variety of information and statistics about New Jersey’s workforce and labor market, including wage information, employment projections, workforce development programs and resources for jobseekers.
Comprehensive source of information regarding New Jersey’s higher education system, including school profiles.