7 Types of Trade Schools To Explore

Trade schools are a type of postsecondary school that focuses on the trades. Trade school graduates may go on to careers like carpenters, plumbers, mechanics, hair stylists, chefs, and more.

These programs teach technical skills and offer hands-on learning so that students are prepared to go directly into the specific career they trained for after graduation. Keep reading to learn more about different trade schools.

Types Of Trade Schools

There are a few different types of trade schools. Some trade schools or vocational schools offer a variety of program types, while others are more specialized. We've broken down some of the more focused trade schools below.

1. Cosmetology School

Cosmetology schools provide training programs for cosmetologists, such as those who want to become:

• Hairstylists
• Estheticians
• Nail technicians

Some also teach things like makeup application.

At times, cosmetology schools may cross over with wellness and massage schools, which often cover fields like massage therapy. Additionally, some cosmetology schools specialize in a specific field, like hair.

2. Culinary Arts School

Culinary arts schools are for learners who want to go into fields that involve cooking and baking. They teach students not only the fundamentals of the culinary arts but also things like sanitation and management.

Many trade schools and vocational schools offer culinary arts programs, but there are also many well-known culinary arts schools, such as the Culinary Institute of America.

3. Electrical Trade School

Electrical schools offer education programs that cover electrical trades and electrical engineering technology. Students can pursue careers like residential or commercial electricians for buildings or choose to work as electrical technicians on specific types of devices.

These programs often involve a lot of hands-on learning and may also offer apprenticeship programs so students can jump right into the job market upon graduation.

4. Healthcare and Medical Trade Schools

Healthcare and medical trade schools may offer training for a variety of different healthcare careers, including:

• Dental hygiene
• Diagnostic imaging and radiology
• Healthcare administration
• Laboratory technology

Some healthcare and medical trade schools offer nursing programs as well. As with other programs on this list, these schools usually require hands-on learning and may require clinical experience as part of the program.

5. HVAC Trade School

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These programs train learners to understand and repair these systems so they can become HVAC technicians.

In many cases, HVAC programs also cover refrigeration and may be called something like HVACR programs. Hands-on experience, including internships, is often a core part of HVAC and HVACR programs.

6. Mechanic and Automotive School

Mechanic and automotive school is for those who want to work on cars and other large machinery like:

• Boats
• Motorcycles
• Excavators
• Bulldozers

These programs use hands-on training to teach students how to diagnose, service, and repair a variety of vehicle types.

7. Plumbing Trade School

Plumbing trade school is what it sounds like: it teaches students how to understand plumbing and repair plumbing issues. Students learn to:

• Read blueprints
• Understand plumbing systems
• Make necessary fixes

In many cases, plumbing schools are often combined with welding schools. Again, hands-on coursework is common and internships or apprenticeships may be available.

What is a Trade School?

Trade schools offer programs that train students in specific trades. Some types of trade schools, like those listed above, offer specific types of programs, while others offer a variety of trade training programs.

These programs usually offer:

• Associate degrees
• Certificate programs
• Diplomas
• Apprenticeships in skilled trades

Some may also offer general associate degree programs as well.

Trade schools are also usually less expensive than traditional colleges and also have higher acceptance rates, making them a great choice for those with career goals in the trades.

High-Earning Trades

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the trade careers with the highest median annual salary include:

• Construction project managers
• Elevator technicians
• Radiation therapists
• Nuclear medicine techs
• Dental hygienists
• Electronics engineering technicians
• Aircraft mechanic
• Boiler technician
• Building inspectors
• Electricians

It's important to note that the salary you earn can be dependent on many factors, including licensure, years of experience, and where you live.

Easiest Paths Through Trade School

While any academic program is going to require commitment and work, some trade school programs offer lower barriers to entry and shorter timeframes that make them easier to complete.

Many programs, like those in cosmetology, culinary arts, or HVAC have open enrollment, meaning so long as you've earned a high school diploma or a GED you'll be accepted.

These programs are great for recent high school grads or those without previous college experience. They often focus specifically on job training and don't require general education courses.

Many of these trade programs can be completed in less than a year and allow students to enter their specific trade immediately after graduation so long as they obtain any necessary licenses.

Although these programs may be 'easier,' entry-level trade programs still have the potential to lead to in-demand careers.

Trade Schools vs. Vocational Schools

Trade schools and vocational schools are very similar, as both offer job training in the skilled trades. The primary difference is that trade schools generally focus on one field of trade, while vocational schools offer a broader range of training programs.

Technical schools and colleges also provide job training, but often less hands-on training and less specific training than trade schools or vocational schools.

They don't always provide training for specific trades; for example, they may offer programs in information technology that a student can then use for a variety of careers.

Community colleges| may offer some trades, but they also offer a greater range of associate degrees that can be used to transfer to a bachelor's degree program at a four-year college.

Financial Aid For Trade Education

Most of the same financial aid options are available for students pursuing trade school programs as are available to those in more traditional college programs.

Options like scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs can all make education accessible to trade school students.

Making Trade School Affordable

When looking for financial aid, the first thing you should do is fill out your Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Many financial aid applications require you to have completed the FAFSA.

Keep in mind that the accreditation of your school is highly important in qualifying for financial aid, as unaccredited schools are usually not eligible for financial aid programs.

Trade School FAQs

How Long Is Trade School?

The length of the trade school depends on the specific program. Associate degrees usually take about two years of full-time study to earn, but certificates and diplomas can take a few weeks to a few months.

Can I Earn a Living From a Trade Job?

Many trade jobs allow workers to earn a living. While this depends on things like your specific trade, your experience, and the cost of living in your area, millions of Americans make a living from the trades.

Do I Need a College Degree To Go to Trade School?

You do not need a college degree to go to trade school. Most people in trade school do not have their degree yet and are in trade school to earn their college degree.

Find A Trade School Today

Trade schools are a low-cost way for students to receive hands-on training and develop technical skills for specific trade careers. With the guide above, you can determine if a trade school is the right choice for you.