Why Choose Trade School?
Many career-minded students enroll in trade schools in West Virginia to gain skills for in-demand careers in hospitals, administrative and support services, and scientific and technical services.
Vocational schools in West Virginia offer a faster path to stable careers for a fraction of the cost of a four-year college. Certificates and diplomas at trade schools in West Virginia take about one year. Associate degrees require up to two years. However, self-paced and accelerated programs may speed up the graduation process.
Tech schools in West Virginia focus on a specific skill and offer fieldwork opportunities through internships and clinical. Flexible online programs give students freedom not enjoyed by on-campus learners who often face long commutes.
Vocational programs usually cost less than a four-year college, especially since West Virginia offers on-the-job training. This program reimburses employers who help pay for students to finish school while they continue to work.
Read on to learn more about the best tech schools in West Virginia.
FAQ
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Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Accrediting agencies serve as the gatekeepers to vocational schools in West Virginia. The accreditation process protects students to ensure that they receive a quality education for their money. Accreditation, especially regional accreditation, is also prestigious. Colleges can earn regional or national accreditation.
Earning accreditation means that a school completed a review and met educational standards set by independent accrediting agencies. The U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee accrediting agencies qualified to accredit schools and programs.
Recognized accrediting agencies include the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, which accredits schools that primarily offer distance learning.
Students cannot receive federal financial aid if they attend an unaccredited college. Attending an unaccredited school can negatively impact graduates' career prospects.
Vocational schools in West Virginia must also earn licensure. State licensure of tech schools involves a similar quality control process in which creditors assess a school's academic mission, faculty performance, and curriculum standards.
Students can save time and money by attending accredited online schools. Learn more about the benefits of an online education and read our tips on how to find an online college on this page.
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
The vocational schools listed below offer flexible and affordable programs geared toward working students.
#1 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
Martinsburg, WV - 2 years
- Campus
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College offers 37 associate programs and 39 certificate programs. From its Martinsburg, West Virginia, location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
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. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
With a certificate, recipients move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. With an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level. Undergraduate tuition at the colleges costs $408 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
#2 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
West Virginia Northern Community College
Wheeling, WV - 2 years
- Campus
Students choose from 23 associate programs and 13 certificate programs at West Virginia Northern Community College. From its main campus in Wheeling, West Virginia, the public institution provides flexible enrollment options. Many learners work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take courses in their area of study rather than general education courses.
A certificate prepares graduates 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. The college's undergrad tuition costs $3,360 for West Virginia residents and $10,800 for attendees living elsewhere.
#3 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College
Mount Gay, WV - 2 years
- Campus
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College offers 24 associate programs and 13 certificate programs. Located in Mount Gay, West Virginia, the public institution provides online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Many students work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
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 enrollees take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
A certificate prepares recipients for the workforce. After an associate degree, graduates enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student. Undergrad tuition at the college is $3,864 for in-state enrollees and $5,964 for their out-of-state peers.
#4 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College
Moorefield, WV - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College, learners can strengthen their skills in 14 associate programs and 11 certificate programs. From its main campus in Moorefield, West Virginia, the public institution offers both online and on-campus enrollment options. Degree and certificate students often balance school with work.
Most associate and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills, such as writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, alumni either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,432
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,816
#5 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Carver Career and Technical Education Center
Charleston, WV - 2 years
- Campus
Carver Career and Technical Education Center enrolls students in two associate programs and eight certificate programs. Learners choose between online and on-campus courses offered from the Charleston, West Virginia, campus of the public institution. Attendees often choose to work while enrolled at the school.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate program enrollees complete courses in their field of study without general education requirements.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs. Prospective applicants can learn more about admission by visiting the school's website.
#6 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Mountwest Community and Technical College
Huntington, WV - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Mountwest Community and Technical College, learners can study in 42 associate programs and 24 certificate programs. Located in Huntington, West Virginia, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for attendees. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking and writing skills in general education courses. Certificate candidates take classes related to their field with no requirements outside of their major.
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.
Mountwest Community and Technical College at a Glance:
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,182
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,392
#7 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Pierpont Community and Technical College
Fairmont, WV - 2 years
- Campus
At Pierpont Community and Technical College, learners can study in 27 associate programs and eight certificate programs. From its Fairmont, West Virginia, location, the public institution welcomes attendees to online and on-campus classes. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
Most associate and certificate programs build specialized skills related to a defined career path or field of employment. Associate programs include general education requirements that build broad, transferable skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates enter the workforce prepared for many entry-level roles. An associate degree prepares alumni for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs. Undergraduate tuition at the college is $3,764 for in-state students and $10,318 for out-of-state learners.
#8 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
New River Community and Technical College
Beaver, WV - 2 years
- Campus
New River Community and Technical College lets learners choose from 25 associate programs and 22 certificate programs. Based in Beaver, West Virginia, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of students. Many enrollees work while pursuing a degree or certificate.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills, like critical thinking and writing. 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 earning an associate degree, alumni pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student. In-state undergrad tuition at the college is $4,372 while out-of-state tuition is $6,900.
#9 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
West Virginia University Potomac State College
Keyser, WV - 4 years
- Campus
With 12 associate programs, West Virginia University Potomac State College offers options for many students. The public institution offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes and courses offered at the Keyser, West Virginia, campus. These flexible options make it easier for attendees to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
In the school's career-focused programs, learners gain industry-specific skills. The general education courses in associate programs build transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and writing. Certificate program enrollees complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
With a certificate, graduates move into the workforce and pursue entry-level roles. Associate degree-holders can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program. At the college, in-state undergrad tuition costs $4,536 and out-of-state tuition costs $11,544.
#10 Vocational Trade Schools in West Virginia
Mercer County Technical Education Center
Princeton, WV - 2 years
- Campus
Mercer County Technical Education Center offers vocational and academic programs, with 5 certificated available. The public institution, located in Princeton, West Virginia, offers online and on-campus enrollment options, which appeal to a variety of learners. Working students benefit from the flexible course options.
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. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
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. The school admits 80% of all applicants. Interested student can learn more about admission requirements on the college's website.
Find Vocational and Trade Schools in West Virginia
Several trade schools in West Virginia offer degrees and certificates. Use the search tool below to find the right match for you.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Employers in West Virginia need skilled workers in mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality.
Many of the top industries in West Virginia offer strong salaries and stability. However, wages vary, even in the same field and occupation. Factors such as region, company standards, experience, and industry all influence salary potential.
Education influences salary potential more than any other factor. Vocational schools in West Virginia teach many trades, some of which pay better than others. Before students commit to a program, they can explore careers on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website, which provides median annual salary information, job growth, and on-the-job duties for different trades.
According to the BLS, graduates of technical and trade schools earn a mean annual salary of $55,270.
Salaries differ among trades. Air traffic controllers, for example, made a median annual salary of $122,990 in 2019, while welders made a median annual salary of $42,490.
To earn higher salaries, professionals can gain more experience and earn professional certifications.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
The following section includes more information about four types of trade schools in West Virginia.
Dental Hygienist Schools
Dental hygienists usually need an associate degree and a license. Students can earn either an associate or certificate in dental hygiene from vocational schools in West Virginia. An associate degree takes 1-2 years. Certificates take up to one year.
During dental hygiene programs, students participate in dental clinics and labs. They learn to use equipment, conduct X-rays, and identify oral diseases.
Dental hygienists earned a median annual wage of $76,220 in 2019, according to the BLS. The BLS projects an 11% job growth rate for these professionals between 2018 and 2028.
Learn more about dental hygiene programs on this page.
Mechanic Schools
Mechanic schools train students to become mechanics, service technicians, and auto shop managers. Students can earn a certificate in automotive systems repairs in one year or an associate degree in two years. Vocational schools in West Virginia also offer specialized degrees in diesel power technology and diesel mechanics.
Mechanics make inspections and repairs to help people get their cars and trucks running on the road. They work full time in automobile dealerships and private repair shops.
Mechanics earned a median annual salary of $42,090 in 2019, according to the BLS.
Learn more about the top auto mechanic programs.
Paralegal Schools
Paralegals assist lawyers with every aspect of the legal process, including organizing files, speaking with witnesses and clients, and writing legal documents. They work on trials, hearings, and depositions.
These professionals need a minimum of an associate degree, but many hold bachelor's degrees and certificates. Paralegals earned a median annual salary of $51,470 in 2019, according to the BLS.
Visit this page to learn more about paralegal programs.
Radiology Technician Schools
Radiology technicians prepare patients for X-rays and imaging exams, working with doctors to review results. Most technicians work in state, local, and private hospitals.
According to the BLS, radiology technicians made a median annual salary of $73,410 in 2019. The BLS projects a 9% growth rate for these professionals between 2018 and 2028.
All radiology technicians need an associate degree at minimum. In most states, radiology technicians must have a state-issued license to practice.
Read more about the radiology technician programs on this page.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Overall, students can expect to pay less for vocational schools in West Virginia than four-year colleges. Federal loans allow students to borrow funds to pay for tuition and then repay them after college. However, students should be careful about taking out more loans than they need. Additionally, some programs and schools cannot receive federal financial aid because they do not meet eligibility requirements or hold accreditation.
To determine how much federal financial aid they can receive, prospective students must submit their financial information by completing the FAFSA.
Scholarships can also help students pay for college. Read on to learn more about scholarships available to trade students.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Trade school students can find state, institutional, and private scholarships. Scholarships provide students with money for tuition, books, and other college-related expenses.
Students do not need to repay scholarships. As such, scholarships are the best form of financial aid. To apply, students must submit application materials and meet academic and financial eligibility requirements.
See below for some scholarships for students at trade schools in West Virginia.
'No Essay' College Scholarship'
Who Can Apply:
As its name suggests, this scholarship does not require applicants to submit an essay. Applicants must be 18 years or older and enrolled in a school listed on niche.com.
Amount: $2,000 Apply for Scholarship
WV Invests Grant
Who Can Apply: Students enrolled in certificate and associate programs in high-demand fields can receive funding for tuition and fees through this grant.
Amount: Varies
Higher Education Adult Part-Time Student Grant Program
Who Can Apply: West Virginia residents attending community college can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a high school or GED
diploma. Exact award amounts depend on the legislature's budget.
Amount: Varies
West Virginia Higher Education Grant
Who Can Apply: This grant assists high school graduates who demonstrate financial need and high academic achievement. Applicants must be enrolled in an eligible school in West
Virginia or Pennsylvania.
Amount: $2,500