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. FIND PROGRAMS By Staff Writer Published on August 10, 2020
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.
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.
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. Learn more about the accreditation process here.
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.
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
McAllen, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
South Texas College is a McAllen-based institution providing college-level degrees to learners near and far. The public institution provides three bachelor's programs.
Every student benefits from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework. Degree-seekers complete coursework that covers foundational and advanced topics relevant to their field. Students can further their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships.
Throughout their studies, enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution connects students with a variety of funding opportunities, with 89% of all enrollees receiving aid.
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Dallas County Community College District
Dallas, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Dallas County Community College District offers exceptional programs for learners from all walks of life. The public institution provides associate degrees and certificates.
Students benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Students can pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities.
Enrollees can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Lone Star College System
The Woodlands, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Lone Star College System, a public college located in The Woodlands, supports educational opportunities for learners of all levels.
Enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Candidates can take advantage of career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Prospective applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities for their education. The college notes that approximately 56% of all incoming students receive financial aid. Institutional support contributes to the college's 18% graduation rate.
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Texas State Technical College
Waco, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Texas State Technical College supports in-person and online learning opportunities from its main campus in Waco.
Enrollees connect with premier faculty and gain skills and knowledge from industry-relevant coursework. Students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities during their program.
Learners can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance. The financial aid office can connect applicants with funding opportunities. At the college, 82% of all enrollees receive financial aid. Of all enrollees, 37% graduate.
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
San Jacinto Community College
Pasadena, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
San Jacinto Community College provides numerous educational opportunities from its main campus in Pasadena.
Whether in person or online, enrollees benefit from a rigorous curriculum, engaged faculty, and experiential learning opportunities. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework in their subject area. Enrollees can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Candidates can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Prospective applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities for their education. Of all enrollees, 51% receive internal and external funding awards. The college boasts a 32% graduation rate.
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Vernon College
Vernon, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Vernon College provides premier study opportunities to learners through its hybrid programs. Every student benefits from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework.
Enrollees complete advanced and general classes, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their field of study. Participants can explore collaborative opportunities throughout the duration of their program, including faculty-led research projects, internships, and professional activities.
Candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. According to the institution, 88% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The institution reports a 22% graduation rate.
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Palo Alto College
San Antonio, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible degree should consider an education through Palo Alto College in San Antonio. Enrollees benefit from robust coursework, skilled faculty, and flexible study options.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework in their subject area. Learners can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to determine scholarship eligibility. The institution discloses that 85% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Of all admitted students, 30% graduate.
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Tarrant County College District
Fort Worth, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Fort Worth, Tarrant County College District provides premier study opportunities through its hybrid programs.
Students benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework as part of their program curriculum. Candidates can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Learners can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Candidates can meet with the financial aid to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Of those admitted to the college, 62% receive financial aid.
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
North Central Texas College
Gainesville, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
North Central Texas College, a public institution, provides a variety of programs suitable for in-person and online study.
All enrollees benefit from rigorous core curriculums, skilled faculty, and supportive learning environments. Learners complete foundational classes and subject-specific coursework throughout their studies. Students can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Candidates can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Students can connect with the financial aid office to explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 62% receive internal and external funding awards. Institutional support contributes to the college's 18% graduation rate.
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
El Paso Community College
El Paso, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
El Paso Community College offers a variety of degrees from its main campus in El Paso. Students benefit from robust coursework, skilled faculty, and flexible study options. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Learners can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities during their degree.
While enrolled, students can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. The financial aid office connects students with funding opportunities and can help prospective enrollees determine their eligibility for financial aid. The institution connects students with a variety of funding options, with 85% of all enrollees receiving aid. The college reports a 21% graduation rate.
#11 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Odessa College
Odessa, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Odessa College offers exceptional programs for learners from all walks of life. Whether in person or online, enrollees benefit from a rigorous curriculum, engaged faculty, and experiential learning opportunities.
Degree-seekers complete coursework that covers foundational and advanced topics relevant to their field. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. According to the institution, 73% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The college boasts a 23% graduation rate.
#12 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Temple College
Temple, TX - 2 years
- Campus
A leader in hybrid education, Temple College supports in-person and online learning opportunities from its main campus in Temple. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, attentive faculty, and competitive degree options. Candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework in their subject area. Enrollees can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
The college connects students with numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to determine scholarship eligibility. The institution connects learners with a variety of funding options, with 78% of all enrollees receiving aid.
#13 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Austin Community College District
Austin, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Austin Community College District, a leader in hybrid education, boasts numerous in-person and fully remote programs.
Students benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework as part of their program curriculum. Enrollees can further their learning by pursuing opportunities such as internships and research projects.
Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. The financial aid office can connect learners with funding opportunities. Typically, 57% of all admitted students receive financial aid. Of all enrollees, 10% graduate from their program.
#14 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Midland College
Midland, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible degree should consider an education through Midland College. The public institution provides two bachelor's degrees, one of which is available online.
Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework as part of their program curriculum. Candidates can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.
Enrollees can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Students can connect with the financial aid office to explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The college discloses that 73% of all incoming students receive some form of financial aid. Of all admitted students, 27% graduate from the college.
#15 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Central Texas College
Killeen, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Central Texas College, a public institution, provides a variety of programs suitable for in-person and online study. Candidates benefit from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework. Enrollees complete industry-specific and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Participants can explore collaborative opportunities throughout the duration of their program, including faculty-led research projects, internships, and professional activities.
Students can take advantage of career services and academic advising throughout their program. Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to determine scholarship eligibility. At the college, 72% of all enrollees receive financial aid awards. The institution reports a 15% graduation rate.
#16 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Houston Community College
Houston, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Houston Community College, a leader in hybrid education, boasts numerous in-person and fully remote programs. Students benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework as part of their program curriculum. Candidates can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities during their program.
Learners can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Enrollees can learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities that can be applied to their education through the financial aid office. The college reports that 63% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. The college reports an 18% graduation rate.
#17 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Texas Southmost College
Brownsville, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible degree should consider an education through Texas Southmost College. Enrollees connect with premier faculty and gain skills and knowledge from industry-relevant coursework. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Participants can explore collaborative opportunities throughout the duration of their program, including faculty-led research projects, internships, and professional activities.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. The college offers a variety of financial aid awards, with 90% of all enrollees receiving aid.
#18 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Wharton County Junior College
Wharton, TX - 2 years
- Campus
Wharton County Junior College is public school supporting in-person and online programs from its main campus in Wharton. Students benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Candidates can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.
Throughout their studies, learners benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to determine scholarship eligibility. Typically, 55% of all admitted students receive financial aid. The institution reports an 18% graduation rate.
#19 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
Amarillo College
Amarillo, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Amarillo College, a leader in hybrid education, boasts numerous in-person and fully remote programs. Candidates benefit from a supportive learning community, attentive faculty, and competitive degree options. Enrollees complete advanced and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their field of study. Students can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Participants benefit from institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. Students can learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities that can be applied to their education through the financial aid office. Out of all incoming enrollees, 72% receive financial aid.
#20 Vocational Trade Schools in Texas
St. Philip's College
San Antonio, TX - 2 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in San Antonio, St. Philip's College offers a variety of college-level programs to diverse learners. Enrollees connect with premier faculty and gain skills and knowledge from industry-relevant coursework. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Enrollees can further their learning by pursuing internships and research projects.
Learners can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Typically, 86% of all admitted students receive financial aid. The college reports a 31% graduation rate.
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 $67,000 per year, on average, and paralegals make over $54,000 per year.
Many trade school careers also offer strong job growth projections. For example, the BLS projects jobs for dental hygienists, HVAC technicians, and paralegals to grow much faster than the national average between 2018 and 2028.
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.
Dental 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 $76,000 in 2019, with much faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028. 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.
Mechanic 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 $42,000 in 2019.
Learn more about mechanic programs.
Paralegal 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 $51,000 in 2019, and the field benefits from much faster-than-average projected job growth between 2018 and 2028.
Learn more about paralegal programs.
Radiology 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.
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
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
Who Can Apply: This program funds former foster children attending a postsecondary institution, including certificate and two-year programs.
Amount: Up to $5,000
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
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