College is a great option. But it’s definitely not your only option, and it’s also not for everyone. A college degree is also not required to secure a stable, high-paying job. For that, you do have other options, like attending a trade school.
Some trade school jobs report median annual salaries of $100,000+. Also, you can complete most trade school programs in two years or less for a fraction of the cost of obtaining a four-year college degree.
BUT… you must approach finding and enrolling in a trade school with careful consideration. Not every trade or trade school is worth your time and money.
How do you know whether it’s the right path for you? What should you look for in a trade school program? And what is trade school, exactly?
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to make an informed decision.
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(click to skip ahead)What is trade school?
A trade school (sometimes called a vocational school or technical school, though those can also mean different things) prepares students to work in specific fields requiring technical expertise. For example, you’d attend a trade school to learn how to start a career as an electrician, HVAC tech, dental hygienist, plumber, or hairstylist. Compared to traditional colleges, trade schools offer affordable short-term study programs that emphasize hands-on learning for students who want to enter the workforce quickly.
And as mentioned above, time and tuition for learning a trade are generally much less than those required to get a four-year degree.Consider the following examples of trade school programs to get a better idea if this could be a good fit for you.
Trade school programs
How are trade school programs structured? What do you learn? The answers to these questions depend on the trade program and field you choose, so to understand, let’s look at some examples (with a disclaimer that we cannot vouch for the quality of any specific program listed below, so spend time doing your due diligence).
Automotive Technology
Automotive technology is the study and practice of diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing vehicles. It encompasses various aspects of automotive systems, including engines, transmissions, brakes, and electrical components.
After graduating from an automotive technology program, you’d be qualified to work as a technician in auto repair shops or dealerships.
Examples of automotive technology programs:
Carpentry
Carpentry is a skilled trade that requires technical knowledge of blueprint reading, woodworking techniques, and building codes to construct and finish projects effectively.
Graduates of carpentry programs can secure jobs as carpenters or construction laborers. They can even pursue entrepreneurial opportunities as becoming contractors or carpentry business owners.
Examples of carpentry programs:
Plumbing
Plumbers do more than just fix leaky pipes. They also install and maintain various plumbing systems, such as water heaters, sewage, and gas lines, requiring the technical expertise taught in a plumbing trade school program.
As a plumbing program graduate, you can pursue careers such as a plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter.
Examples of plumbing programs:
Electrical Work
Electricians are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in various settings, including homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.
In an electrical work trade school program, you’d learn about wiring techniques, safety procedures, and building codes.
You’d also gain hands-on experience working with electrical components and systems under the guidance of experienced instructors. Many programs also include an apprenticeship.
Examples of electrical work programs:
Welding
Welding is the practice of joining metals together using heat and pressure. It’s a versatile skill used in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive.
A welding degree program can provide comprehensive training in various welding techniques, safety procedures, blueprint reading, and metallurgy. The training prepares students for various careers, such as welders, fabricators, or welding inspectors.
Examples of welding programs:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
The maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is essential for ensuring indoor comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
By studying HVAC, you can gain expertise in installing, troubleshooting, and servicing HVAC systems. Graduating from a trade program in this field can prepare you for a career as an HVAC technician, installer, or maintenance specialist.
Examples of HVAC programs:
Refrigeration Air Conditioning Technology Associate Degree | NEIT
Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC) (C.C.)
Culinary Arts
Culinary arts encompasses the art and science of food preparation and presentation, focusing on culinary techniques, cooking methods, and kitchen management.
When you attend a culinary arts degree program, you'll receive comprehensive training in various culinary skills, such as food safety and sanitation, menu planning, and recipe development. You'll also gain practical experience through hands-on cooking labs and internships in professional kitchens.
Examples of culinary arts programs:
Graphic Design
Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or persuade consumers.
They work on various projects, including logos, websites, advertisements, and product packaging, using their creativity and technical skills to bring concepts to life.
Students who graduate from a graphic design program can pursue careers in various industries, such as advertising, publishing, or marketing.
Examples of graphic design programs:
Dental Hygiene
Dental hygienists work under the supervision of dentists to provide patients with services such as teeth cleaning and oral health education.
In a dental hygiene program, you will receive extensive training in dental anatomy, oral hygiene techniques, periodontal therapy, and radiography. You'll also learn about patient assessment, dental instrumentation, and infection control protocols.
Upon completing a dental hygiene program and passing licensure exams, you can work as a licensed dental hygienist in dental offices, clinics, and hospitals.
Examples of dental hygiene programs:
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system by assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing customer service to patients. They work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
A pharmacy technician program will teach you about pharmaceutical calculations, medication dosages, pharmacy laws and regulations, inventory management, and medication compounding. You'll also receive training in customer service skills and how to use pharmacy software systems.
Examples of pharmacy technician programs:
Pharmacy Technician | Online Course | San Francisco State University
Pharmacy Technician Training Program | NYU School of Medicine
Veterinary Assistant
Veterinary assistants provide essential support to veterinarians in animal healthcare settings.
They assist with various tasks, including animal restraint, administering medications, collecting specimens, maintaining equipment and facilities, and providing compassionate care to animals.
After graduating from a veterinary assistant program, you’ll know about animal anatomy and physiology, basic medical terminology, veterinary office procedures, animal handling and restraint techniques, and infection control protocols.
Examples of veterinary assistant programs:
Construction Management
Construction management involves overseeing and coordinating construction projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
Construction managers are also responsible for planning, scheduling, budgeting, and managing resources such as materials, equipment, and labor.
Studying construction management will teach you about project management principles, construction methods and materials, building codes and regulations, contract management, and safety protocols.
Examples of construction management programs:
How is a trade school different from college?
It isn’t just the focus on technical skills and career paths that makes a trade school different from college. There are also the following differences:
Practical hands-on learning
In trade school, you’ll spend a significant portion of your time actually doing the work you’re learning about.
For example, if you’re in a veterinary assistant program, you won’t just read about how to assist in surgeries or handle animals. Instead, you’ll practice these skills in a hands-on environment under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Smaller class sizes
Many colleges pack entire lecture halls with students for introductory courses. Trade schools have much smaller class sizes.
Smaller class sizes mean you’ll have more personalized attention from instructors who can focus on your individual needs and provide tailored support. You’ll also have more opportunities to know your peers and form connections that may benefit you later in your career.
Cheaper tuition
The average total cost for a trade school program ranges from around $3,600 to $16,000 (you can explore various reports at that link). The average cost at a public four-year in-state college is $26,027 per year ($104,108 total over four years).
Quicker entry to the workforce
Trade school programs are typically shorter in duration compared to four-year college degrees.
Instead of spending four or more years in school, you can learn a trade skill that leads to a new job in as little as six months to two years.
Fewer barriers to admission
Trade schools often have more relaxed admissions requirements than traditional colleges and universities. You may not need to submit standardized test scores or have a high GPA to get accepted.
Additionally, many trade schools offer open enrollment, allowing you to start your program at various times throughout the year.
Pros and cons of trade school
Trade school may sound like a good idea if you already know a traditional four-year college isn’t for you. Still, it’s not without its drawbacks. So it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make an informed decision.
Pros
Quicker and cheaper than a traditional college education
Trade school programs typically take less time to complete and cost less than a four-year college degree. That means you can start your career sooner and with less student loan debt.
Real-world work experience during studies
Trade school often integrates hands-on training and apprenticeships into the curriculum. This means you'll gain practical experience and industry-specific skills while you study, making you more valuable to employers once you graduate.
Learn from professionals in the field
In trade school, you'll learn from instructors who have real-world experience in the industry you're studying. You'll benefit from their expertise, insights, and connections, gaining valuable knowledge and networking opportunities that can help you succeed in your career.
Preparation for in-demand jobs
Trade schools often focus on training students for careers in industries with high demand for skilled workers, such as healthcare, technology, construction, and manufacturing. Completing a trade program can help you secure employment in a stable and growing field, increasing your job security.
Cons
Limited skill development
While trade school programs provide training in specific trades, they may not offer as broad an education as traditional colleges. This could limit your overall skill set and versatility in the job market, potentially making it harder to adapt to changing industry demands.
Little flexibility to change career paths in the future
Trade school programs often focus on specific skill sets for particular trades, which may limit your ability to switch career paths. If you decide you want to pursue a different field in the future, you may need additional education or training to make the transition.
Fewer financial aid opportunities
Trade schools may have fewer options for financial aid, such as scholarships and grants, than traditional colleges and universities. This could mean that, despite being cheaper than a traditional college, you may have to rely more on personal savings or, as a last resort, loans to finance your education.
May not lead to a high-paying job
While trade school can lead to lucrative careers in certain industries, not all trade jobs offer high salaries. Some trade occupations have lower earning potential than professions requiring a bachelor's degree or higher education.
It's important to research salary prospects in your chosen field to ensure they align with your financial goals. The next section of this guide will help!
Trade school careers list
Here’s a list of 20 popular careers that you can pursue with a trade school education, along with their 2023 median annual salaries according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics:
| undefined | 2023 Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Air Traffic Controller | $137,380 |
| Construction Manager | $104,900 |
| Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer | $102,420 |
| Dental Hygienist | $87,530 |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $84,470 |
| Physical Therapist Assistant | $64,080 |
| Electrician | $61,590 |
| Plumber | $61,550 |
| Chef | $58,920 |
| Graphic Designer | $58,910 |
| Carpenter | $56,350 |
| HVAC Technician | $57,300 |
| Welder | $48,940 |
| Automotive Technician | $48,630 |
| Massage Therapist | $55,310 |
| Skincare Specialist | $43,200 |
| Medical Assistant | $42,000 |
| Pharmacy Technician | $40,300 |
| Veterinary Assistant | $36,440 |
| Barber/Hairstylist | $35,080 |
Keep in mind that these salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and industry specialization.
These salaries also only represent the median annual earnings, which means they are the midpoint in a range of salaries. For example, while the median annual salary for a dental hygienist is $87,530, those in the top 10% report earning more than $118,400 annually.
Should I go to trade school?
We can’t answer that for you directly, but here are five questions to ask yourself to help determine if attending trade school is the right path for you.
1. Am I interested in learning the technical skills required for the trade I'm considering?
Trade school focuses heavily on hands-on training and practical skills development, so having a genuine interest in the subject matter is essential for success in the program.
2. Have I researched job prospects and earning potential in my chosen trade to ensure it aligns with my long-term career goals and financial expectations?
Understanding the job market and salary potential for your chosen trade will help you make an informed decision about enrollment. It can also help you manage expectations for what your career might look like after graduating.
3. Am I financially prepared to invest in trade school tuition and potentially incur student loan debt?
Consider the cost of tuition and other expenses associated with trade school. Ensure you can afford the investment in your education without facing significant financial strain.
4. Have I explored alternative educational paths and considered the advantages and disadvantages of trade school compared to other options, such as traditional college?
Trade school isn’t for everyone. So it’s important to thoroughly consider the advantages and disadvantages of trade school compared to other options to ensure you make the best decision for your education and career goals.
5. Have I researched the reputation and accreditation of potential trade schools to ensure they provide quality education and reputable credentials in my desired field?
It’s important to choose a reputable and accredited trade school to ensure you receive a high-quality education and obtain credentials that are recognized and respected by employers in your industry.
How to find a trade school
Finding a trade school near you can be as simple as a quick Google search or asking professionals already working in your desired field.
Many trade school programs take place at local community colleges, so you may also find relevant information on their websites or by contacting admissions offices. Some programs may also be available online.
But, remember: you don’t just want to find any trade school.
You want to find one that meets your specific needs, provides quality education, and prepares you to attain any licenses or certificates required to work in your field. How do you do that?
We recommend checking to see if the trade schools you’re interested in are listed in the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) directory of accredited schools.
Accreditation ensures that the school meets specific standards of quality and credibility, giving you confidence in the education you'll receive.
Additionally, you can research reviews and testimonials from current and former students to gauge their satisfaction and success with the program.
And we’d highly recommend exploring this HEA Group report (linked within this Inside Higher Ed article), which breaks down what schools and programs across the US seem worth it from a financial perspective—some programs (at both trade schools and 4 year colleges) are not sound financial choices.
Trade school vs vocational school
Is trade school the same as vocational school? Yes and no.
Generally, "trade school" focuses on specific skilled trades, such as carpentry or plumbing. On the other hand, "vocational school" may offer a broader range of vocational programs, including fields like healthcare or technology.
Still, many people use the terms “trade school” and “vocational school” interchangeably.
FAQ on trade school
What’s the “best” trade to learn?
The "best" trade to learn is whichever trade aligns with your interests, skills, and career goals, as well as the current and future demands of the job market in your area. If you’re primarily learning a trade to strengthen your income potential, be sure to check the HEA report linked above for data on how much graduates of various programs tend to earn.
What is the highest-paying trade school job?
Based on data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics on median annual salaries in 2023, Air Traffic Controllers ($137,380) are among the highest-paying trade school jobs. Construction Managers ($104,900) and Dental Hygienists ($87,530) are also high-paying trade school jobs.
What trades are in high demand?
Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, carpenters, and construction managers are among the high-demand trade jobs.
How long is trade school?
The duration of a trade school program varies. You can complete some programs in as little as a few months, while others can take you two years or more to finish.
How much is trade school?
How much you’ll spend on a trade school education depends on factors such as the type of program, its length, the school's location, and any additional expenses such as books, materials, and certification exams. The average total cost for a trade school program ranges from around $3,600 to $16,000.
Does FAFSA cover trade school?
Yes, you can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA for some (but not all) trade schools. Check with the school’s financial aid department to determine if they participate in federal student aid programs and to learn about the specific types of financial aid available for students, such as grants, loans, or work-study opportunities.
Key takeaways on trade school
Learning a trade can be a smart alternative to pursuing a traditional four-year college degree if you prefer hands-on learning, want to enter the workforce sooner, or are interested in a specific skilled trade.
Trade schools are also generally more affordable and offer shorter program durations than traditional colleges.
Still, trade school jobs aren’t for everyone. So, it’s important to carefully consider your interests, career goals, and financial situation before you commit to a trade school program.
If you’re debating whether to attend a trade school or a traditional college, read this next: Is College Worth It? Pros and Cons of Going to College.
Special thaks to Ameer Drane for writing this blog post
Ameer is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about college admissions and career development. Prior to freelancing, Ameer worked for three years as a college admissions consultant at a Hong Kong-based education center, helping local high school students prepare and apply for top colleges and universities in the US. He has a B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Spanish Linguistics from UCLA. When he’s not working, Ameer loves traveling, weight lifting, writing, reading, and learning foreign languages. He currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Top values: Growth / Diversity / Empathy
