Vocational Trade Schools in Tennessee
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade schools offer career-focused programs that develop each student’s technical abilities and train them to perform specific tasks required in a skilled profession. Common trade school programs include auto repair, cosmetology, computer programming, and dental hygiene.
Students who enroll in trade or vocational schools are a diverse group. Many learners are high school graduates who are not ready to embark on a four-year educational journey. Professionals who are changing careers or want to refresh their skills also enroll in vocational programs.
Trade school programs typically take under two years to complete. Graduates enter the workforce sooner, equipped with the necessary skills and training to accomplish the tasks required for a specific occupation.
Some vocational programs include courses that can transfer to a four-year degree. However, keep in mind that colleges and universities often follow strict transfer policies. Be sure to ask about the type of trade school credits that a prospective four-year institution accepts.
Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reveals that 51% of all undergraduate credentials awarded in 2012 were in the sub-baccalaureate level, including trade school diplomas and certificates. As such, vocational education is an integral part of the current educational landscape in the United States.
Vocational Trade Schools in Tennessee
In addition to the accreditation status of a school or program, be sure to find out about other important aspects such as retention and completion rates, online or on-campus options, and any available scholarship or grant programs.
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Jackson
Jackson, TN- 2 year
- Campus
At the Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Jackson, students advance their education in 36 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Jackson, Tennessee, campus. 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, learners gain industry-specific skills. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
A certificate helps recipients advance their career or move into a new role. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student. Prospective applicants should contact the school for more information about their programs.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled562
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Cleveland State Community College
- Cleveland, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
Students enroll in 19 associate programs and 21 certificate programs at Cleveland State Community College. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Cleveland, Tennessee, campus. Degree- and certificate-seekers often balance school with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
A certificate prepares recipients for the workforce. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs. At the college, undergraduate tuition is $4,032 for in-state students and $16,608 for out-of-state students.
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,370
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Walters State Community College
- Morristown, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Walters State Community College, learners can strengthen their skills in 23 associate programs and 16 certificate programs. Located in Morristown, Tennessee, 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.
The school's career-focused programs provide the knowledge and skills required for specialized roles. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. After earning an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Walters State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,903
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,903
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,279
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Pellissippi State Community College
- Knoxville, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
Students advance their education in 17 associate programs and 25 certificate programs at Pellissippi State Community College. Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. The flexible course options make it easier for enrollees to work while pursuing a certificate or degree.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level. Undergraduate tuition at the college is $4,032 for in-state learners and $16,262 for out-of-state learners.
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,262
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled10,694
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Columbia State Community College
- Columbia, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
At Columbia State Community College, learners choose from 16 associate programs and 12 certificate programs. Students benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Columbia, Tennessee, location. Many attendees 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. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
With a certificate, recipients qualify for entry-level roles in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or bachelor's programs. In-state students pay $4,242 in undergraduate tuition and out-of-state students pay $17,448.
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$17,448
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,305
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Memphis, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students enroll in 27 associate programs and 18 certificate programs at Southwest Tennessee Community College. From its main campus in Memphis, Tennessee, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. Many learners 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. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or for bachelor's programs.
Southwest Tennessee Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,433
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Roane State Community College
- Harriman, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Roane State Community College, learners choose from 30 associate programs and 15 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Harriman, Tennessee, campus. Degree and certificate students often balance school with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take classes related to their field with no requirements outside of their major.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. With an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education with a bachelor's degree.
Roane State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,342
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,448
- In-State$4,342
- Out-of-state$17,448
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,861
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Chattanooga State Community College
- Chattanooga, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Chattanooga State Community College, enrollees learn in 28 associate programs and 31 certificate programs. From its Chattanooga, Tennessee, location, the public institution welcomes attendees to 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 take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, recipients move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Chattanooga State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,050
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Northeast State Community College
- Blountville, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Northeast State Community College offers vocational and academic programs, with 23 associate degrees and 26 certificates. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Blountville, Tennessee, campus of the public institution. Students often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their area of study rather than general education courses.
Professionals with a certificate enter the workforce and apply for jobs in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Northeast State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,085
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Volunteer State Community College
- Gallatin, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Volunteer State Community College, students advance their education in 22 associate programs and 12 certificate programs. From its main campus in Gallatin, Tennessee, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. These enrollment choices appeal to working professionals and other busy learners.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train graduates for a particular role. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
A certificate prepares recipients for entry-level positions in their field. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Volunteer State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 7
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate49%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,144
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Nashville State Community College
- Nashville, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With 28 associate programs and 25 certificate programs, Nashville State Community College offers options for many students. From its main campus in Nashville, Tennessee, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. These flexible choices appeal to busy learners balancing school with other obligations.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. 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. With an associate degree, alumni can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as transfer students.
Nashville State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate49%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,885
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Dyersburg State Community College
- Dyersburg, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
Students choose from 16 associate programs and 15 certificate programs at Dyersburg State Community College. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Dyersburg, Tennessee, campus of the public institution. These flexible options make it easier for attendees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
Many of the school's programs encourage enrollees to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
A certificate prepares recipients for entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, alumni enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. At the college, in-state students pay $4,032 in undergraduate tuition while out-of-state learners pay $16,608.
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,840
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Motlow State Community College
- Tullahoma, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
At Motlow State Community College, learners can strengthen their skills in 14 associate programs and 4 certificate programs. Attendees select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Tullahoma, Tennessee. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
The school's career-focused programs train participants for specialized career paths. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
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.
Motlow State Community College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$16,608
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,992
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski
- Pulaski, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
Students choose from 13 certificate programs at The Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Pulaski. From its Pulaski, Tennessee, location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Working professionals 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 critical thinking and writing skills. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
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. Prospective applicants can contact the school for more information about the programs offered.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled602
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Livingston
- Livingston, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Livingston offers 21 certificate programs. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Livingston, Tennessee, campus of the public institution. These flexible options help students work while in school.
Many of the school's 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 classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
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. Prospective applicants can contact the school or visit the website to learn more about the different programs offered and their admission requirements.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,267
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment0%
- AccreditationYes
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Oneida/Huntsville
- Huntsville, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
At The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Oneida/Huntsville, students advance their education in 12 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which include online enrollment and classes on the Huntsville, Tennessee, campus. Attendees 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 take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
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 transfer students. Prospective applicants can visit the school's website for more information on available programs and admission requirements.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled320
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Jacksboro
- Jacksboro, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Jacksboro lets learners choose from 19 certificate programs. From its main campus in Jacksboro, Tennessee, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. 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 requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
With a certificate, recipients pursue entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student. Interested learners can find out more about available programs and admission requirements by visiting the school's website.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled265
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment0%
- AccreditationYes
Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis
- Memphis, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
At Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis, students learn in 40 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Memphis, Tennessee, campus. Working professionals find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Most associate degree and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. An associate degree prepares recipients for the workforce or for bachelor's programs. Those interested in applying to the school can check its website for available programs and entry requirements.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,356
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Jackson State Community College
- Jackson, TN
- 2 year
- Campus
Jackson State Community College lets attendees choose from 14 associate programs and 6 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Jackson, Tennessee, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. These different choices for enrollment appeal to working students and other busy enrollees.
The school's career-focused programs train participants for specialized career paths. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs. The school's undergraduate tuition rate is $4,032 for in-state students and $12,576 for out-of-state students.
- In-State$4,032
- Out-of-state$12,576
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,899
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Athens
- Athens, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Athens enrolls students in 22 certificate programs. From its main campus in Athens, Tennessee, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. The flexible course choices make it easier for learners to work while pursuing a certificate or degree.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student. People interested in applying to the school can visit its website for more information about available programs.
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled238
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
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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
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is trade school? | A trade school is an educational institution that offers skill-focused programs related to a specific professional field such as practical nursing, welding, or culinary arts. |
| Can I go to trade school online? | Most online vocational programs use a hybrid delivery format. Students complete some aspects of the program off campus while also completing on-campus practical instruction. |
| Can trade school credits transfer? | Trade school credits earned at accredited institutions can transfer to schools with the same level or type of accreditation. Students may be required to complete additional steps to transfer credits to an institution with a different kind of accreditation. |
| How long does trade school take? | Most trade school programs take under two years to complete. |
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the accreditation process in the United States. They make sure accreditors maintain and apply the established standards of academic quality throughout the accreditation process.
Nonprofit private and public institutions usually seek regional accreditation, while for-profit career-focused schools typically pursue national accreditation. Some accreditors review specific programs instead of entire institutions.
The ED and CHEA recognize the Distance Education Accrediting Commission as the main accrediting organization for distance learning, which includes online schools and programs. It is important to remember that a license is not the same as accreditation. A license simply means a school meets the minimum state-mandated qualifications to operate. Accreditation attests to the quality of education offered by an institution.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) acts as the main accreditor for trade schools and is recognized by the ED in this role. The ACCSC accredits institutions that offer academic programs specifically designed to educate students for trade, technical, or occupational careers.
The ED channels federal student aid packages only through accredited institutions. This holds true whether you plan to enroll in a degree-granting or a career-focused school. The type of accreditation an institution holds also affects your ability to transfer credits from one school to another. As a rule, a regionally accredited institution only accepts transfer credits earned at a school holding the same type accreditation.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 6% of jobs require the completion of a postsecondary non-degree credential. Workers with this level of education earned a median annual salary of $47,740 in 2023. Most vocational schools offer these types of programs in several professional arenas.
Vocational schools in Tennessee can lead to lucrative degrees. For example,the BLS shows that electrical and electronics repairers earn a median annual wage of $78,410. This exceeds the median annual salary of $47,740 for all other occupations.
Some states also hire more trade school graduates than others. The five states that hire the highest number of workers with postsecondary non-degree education include Indiana (196,740), Tennessee (190,390), Alabama (130,840), Louisiana (129,370), and Iowa (108,690).
Completing a postsecondary non-degree program offered by accredited vocational schools can open the door to lucrative occupations.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Vocational schools offer non-degree training programs in diverse occupational fields. NCES data shows the most popular areas of study include health sciences (36%), business and marketing (17%), and consumer services (8%).
Explore the vocational programs listed below, keeping in mind that they comprise only a sample of trade school offerings.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Whether you plan to enroll in a trade school, a two-year community college, or a four-year university, your search for financial assistance begins with the FAFSA.
Trade school students with demonstrable financial need can qualify for the Pell Grant. The Career Training Smart Option Loans from Sallie Mae offer competitive interest rates and no prepayment penalty for vocational school students. The loan can cover tuition, books, and other school-related expenses like housing or a laptop.
Find out if your prospective school participates in any federal student assistance program earmarked specially for trade school enrollees. Remember, you can only apply for federal grant monies if your school is accredited. Specific schools and some specialized programs administer scholarships from private donors who are keen to support students pursuing a career in a particular field.
Begin your search for financial assistance with the scholarship and grant opportunities below.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
The information you include in your FAFSA helps schools determine your eligibility for any type of financial assistance. You must submit the form for every year that you apply for aid. In your search for funding assistance, be sure to include scholarship programs from local chapters of trade unions, organizations that serve minority populations, and special interest groups.
