Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on September 5, 2023

Trade schools in Texas provide career-focused training in high-demand fields like healthcare, the skilled trades, and technology. Graduates can work in roles such as paralegal, medical assistant, electrician, automotive service technician, and dental hygienist. Vocational programs also train cosmetologists, paramedics, chefs, and construction managers.

Vocational programs combine coursework with hands-on training. For example, paramedic studies students train in ambulances and hospitals, while electrician students complete laboratory and practicum training.

Many vocational schools offer self-paced or accelerated options to fit the schedule of busy students. Learners can also consider online vocational programs to maximize flexibility.

Vocational programs offer several benefits over four-year academic programs. For example, a vocational certificate or degree generally takes 1-2 years to complete, meaning students complete their program and enter the workforce faster than students in four-year programs. As a result, vocational training often costs less than a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, professionals with an occupational credential benefit from a higher employment rate than those with an academic credential, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Our ranking lists the top vocational schools in Texas to help prospective students find the best fit to reach their career goals. This page also provides career and salary data for trade school professions, introduces popular vocational programs, and lists scholarship opportunities for Texas trade school students.

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Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Trade schools in Texas can help students advance their careers and increase their earning potential. Our list ranks the best vocational and tech schools in Texas to help students find the right program for their needs.

#1 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

South Texas College

  • Location-markerMcAllen, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,610
  • Out-of-state$6,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled33,054
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment26%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Dallas County Community College District

  • Location-markerDallas, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students EnrolledN/A
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationNo
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Lone Star College System

  • Location-markerThe Woodlands, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,696
  • Out-of-state$5,016
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate53%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled74,300
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment40%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Texas State Technical College

  • Location-markerWaco, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,877
  • Out-of-state$10,191
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled10,720
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment27%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

San Jacinto Community College

  • Location-markerPasadena, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,240
  • Out-of-state$5,040
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled32,452
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment41%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Vernon College

  • Location-markerVernon, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,280
  • Out-of-state$3,840
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate44%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,930
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment53%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Palo Alto College

  • Location-markerSan Antonio, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,450
  • Out-of-state$13,980
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled10,763
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment45%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Tarrant County College District

  • Location-markerFort Worth, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,402
  • Out-of-state$8,235
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled50,519
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment23%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

North Central Texas College

  • Location-markerGainesville, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,760
  • Out-of-state$4,944
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate55%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled9,577
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

El Paso Community College

  • Location-markerEl Paso, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,560
  • Out-of-state$4,368
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled29,080
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Odessa College

  • Location-markerOdessa, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,832
  • Out-of-state$3,750
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate58%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,828
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Temple College

  • Location-markerTemple, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,848
  • Out-of-state$2,832
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled4,887
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment46%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Austin Community College District

  • Location-markerAustin, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,010
  • Out-of-state$12,480
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled41,056
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Midland College

  • Location-markerMidland, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,540
  • Out-of-state$4,800
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled5,115
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment35%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Central Texas College

  • Location-markerKilleen, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,390
  • Out-of-state$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate56%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled16,719
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment64%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Houston Community College

  • Location-markerHouston, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,904
  • Out-of-state$3,624
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled56,151
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Texas Southmost College

  • Location-markerBrownsville, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,800
  • Out-of-state$3,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled8,628
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Wharton County Junior College

  • Location-markerWharton, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$768
  • Out-of-state$2,016
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,904
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment24%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

Amarillo College

  • Location-markerAmarillo, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,128
  • Out-of-state$2,664
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate67%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled9,739
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas

St. Philip's College

  • Location-markerSan Antonio, TX
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,450
  • Out-of-state$13,980
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled12,962
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes

How We Rank Schools

Accredited Schools Online uses trusted data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools based on quality, affordability, and reputation. When ranking schools, we look at factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition and other costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.

Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.

Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools

Prospective trade school students should always check a school’s accreditation and licensing status before applying. To earn accreditation, schools must voluntarily submit to a rigorous review from an independent accrediting agency. During the review, the accrediting agency evaluates the school’s student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic mission. Only schools that meet high standards can earn accreditation.

Accreditation benefits students in several ways. For example, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, many professional licenses and certifications require an accredited degree.

Schools that offer vocational programs may hold national or regional accreditation. Community colleges and four-year universities typically hold regional accreditation. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges grants regional accreditation to Texas schools.

Trade and vocational schools in Texas may also hold national accreditation from a specialized agency like the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, which accredits over 650 trade and technical schools nationwide. Similarly, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission grants accreditation to online schools. National and regional accrediting agencies should hold approval from the Department of Education.

In addition to accreditation, postsecondary schools need a state license. In Texas, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board maintains a list of approved schools.

Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates

The career and salary outlook for trade school graduates varies by location, industry, and experience, but trade school careers pay an average of around $55,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Careers in personal services pay under $33,000 per year, on average, while management occupations pay more than $96,000 annually.

In Texas, BLS wage data shows above-average incomes for many trade school occupations. For example, occupational therapy assistants in the state earn over $73,000 per year, on average, and paralegals make over $63,000 per year. 

Many trade school careers also offer strong job growth projections. For example, the BLS projects jobs for dental hygienists and HVAC technicians to grow much faster than the national average between 2023 and 2033.

What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?

Trade school programs prepare students for jobs like dental hygienist, paralegal, and radiology technician. By blending classroom and hands-on training, these programs provide the knowledge and skills necessary for the workforce.

In addition to the following popular trade school programs, prospective students can research programs for aspiring professionals such as electricians, cosmetologists, paramedics, and medical assistants.

  • minusDental Hygienist Schools

    Dental hygienists conduct dental examinations and provide preventative care for patients. They look for signs of oral diseases, apply treatments to protect teeth, and report their findings to dentists. Dental hygienists also educate patients about oral hygiene.

    An associate degree is the minimum education requirement for careers as a dental hygienist. During a dental hygienist program, students complete laboratory, clinical, and classroom requirements, including courses in periodontics, anatomy, and dental hygiene. 

    The BLS reports that dental hygienists earned a median annual income of over $87,000 in 2023, with much faster-than-average projected job growth between 2023 and 2033. These professionals need a state license to practice. The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners licenses dental hygienists in the state.

    Learn more about dental hygienist programs.

  • minusMechanic Schools

    Mechanics, also known as automotive service technicians, inspect and repair vehicles. They use diagnostic equipment to identify problems, conduct repairs on cars and trucks, and perform basic care to keep vehicles running smoothly. Mechanics also explain automotive problems to clients.

    Automotive technology certificates and degrees prepare mechanics for the workforce. During an automotive technology program, students learn about engine repair, automotive servicing, and brake maintenance. Programs also incorporate laboratory or practicum requirements to build hands-on experience.

    After completing a program, mechanics can pursue professional certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, which offers specialty credentials in areas like electronic systems, engine performance, and automatic transmissions. Mechanics earned a median annual income of around $47,000 in 2023.

    Learn more about mechanic programs.

  • minusParalegal Schools

    Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and researching laws and regulations. They may also investigate the facts of a case, summarize reports for lawyers preparing for trial, and file briefs and appeals with the court.

    Vocational schools in Texas offer paralegal studies degree and certificate programs. During a paralegal studies program, students take classes on topics like legal research, corporate law, contract law, and legal writing. Some paralegals also pursue professional certification to stand out in the job market.

    The median annual pay for paralegals and legal assistants exceeded $60,000 in 2023.

    Learn more about paralegal programs.

  • minusRadiology Technician Schools

    Radiology technicians take diagnostic images using equipment like x-ray machines. They prepare patients for imaging procedures, position patients to capture images, and evaluate image quality. Radiology technicians must follow safety procedures.

    Most radiology technicians hold an associate degree. During an associate program, prospective radiology technicians study topics like radiation physics, patient care, and pathology. Programs also incorporate hands-on training through clinical requirements. After earning their degree, many graduates pursue certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

    BLS data shows that radiology technicians earned a median annual pay of over $62,000 in 2019, with faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028. In every state, radiology technicians need a license to practice. The Texas Medical Board licenses radiology technicians.

    Learn more about radiology technician programs.

Financial Aid for Trade School Students

Trade school students can pursue financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of their education, such as loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. To qualify for federal financial aid, students must submit the FAFSA every year. However, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal aid.

In addition to pursuing financial aid, trade school students can research the most affordable programs to lower the cost of their education. For example, Texas public universities charge over $8,500 per year in tuition and fees, on average, while private universities cost more than $32,000 per year. In contrast, Texas community colleges charge around $2,200 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Scholarship for Trade School Students

Students attending vocational schools in Texas can pursue scholarship opportunities from private foundations, government agencies, and professional organizations. The following list outlines several of many scholarship opportunities for vocational students in Texas.

plusThe Community Foundation of West Texas

Who Can Apply: Students in the South Plains area can apply for over 100 scholarships through The Community Foundation of West Texas. Requirements vary by scholarship.

Amount: Varies

plusAmarillo Area Foundation

Who Can Apply: This foundation administers multiple scholarships that fund students from the Amarillo area. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the scholarship and the institution attended.

Amount: Varies

plusTexas Education and Training Voucher Program

Who Can Apply: This program funds former foster children attending a postsecondary institution, including certificate and two-year programs.

Amount: Up to $5,000

plusMaximum Independence Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Students living in North Texas can apply for this scholarship. Recipients must demonstrate at least 15 hours of community service and enroll as a first-time student in a vocational trade school or college.

Amount: $1,000

plusStars Scholarship Fund

Who Can Apply: This fund grants awards to part-time and full-time students pursuing a degree at a community college. Students must demonstrate a minimum 2.7 GPA and live in South or West Texas to qualify.

Amount: Varies

Additional Education and Career Resources

  • Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE)

    National organization dedicated to helping youth and adults advance in their careers. Provides resources for professional development in any field and listing of associations by state and region.
  • Career Colleges and Schools of Texas

    Information about scholarships and membership opportunities for those interested in completing a program at a licensed career school or college in Texas.
  • Directory of Licensed Career Schools and Colleges

    Maintained by the Texas Workforce Commission, this is a comprehensive database of licensed career schools and colleges in every city and town in Texas. The online tool makes it easy to search for schools and review courses.
  • Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Career Development

    Information about guidelines and expectations for career training programs under the Texas Education Code. Includes guidelines for both middle schools and high schools. Maintained by the Texas Education Agency.
  • Texas Workforce Commission

    Provides tools for exploring educational opportunities with Texas CARES and tips for finding the right career school or college. Also covers financial aid options for vocational school students.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Schools (FAQ)

Q. What is the difference between a trade school and a college?

Trade schools provide job-oriented training for specific careers, while colleges focus on academic credentials. However, many colleges offer vocational programs.

Q. What can you learn at a trade school?

Trade schools combine classroom and experiential learning to prepare graduates for careers in areas like healthcare, technology, emergency services, and the skilled trades.

Q. What are examples of vocational jobs?

Vocational jobs include medical assistant, radiology technician, mechanic, paralegal, paramedic, and cosmetologist.

Q. How much does a trade school cost?

Cost varies by program and school, but in Texas, many community colleges offer vocational programs for under $2,200 per year.