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What Is Trade School?

Trade schools offer education and training programs that narrowly focus on preparing graduates for one particular occupation. These are often but not necessarily technical in nature; for example, you can find trade school programs in electrician preparation, culinary arts, plumbing technology, and massage therapy. You can study for a variety of trade careers online. 

Trade schools usually feature open admissions policies — you're accepted as long as you provide proof of a high school diploma or GED. Given the of vocational programs, it's possible that some institutions will become more selective in the future. Depending on the school, you might also need to prove some technical or mechanical aptitude before enrollment, or you may need to take further steps before you qualify for a trade position, such as working under supervision as an apprentice before passing a licensure exam.

Is a Vocational School the Same as a Trade School?

Yes, most people use the terms "trade school" and "vocational school" in the same way. Although Merriam-Webster maintains separate definitions for and , each definition boils down to a post-high-school institution that teaches a specific occupation's special knowledge and skills. 

Online Learning in Trade School

You may find dozens of online certificate or associate programs during your trade school research, in almost any field. Many of these options feature asynchronous coursework, meaning that you can sign in to a learning management system at your convenience rather than at set times. Once signed in, you can watch lectures, interact in discussion forums, access readings, and submit assignments. 

Many online vocational programs are hybrid, combining online classes with occasional on-campus demonstrations. This format lets instructors teach necessary hands-on, real-world skills while granting you more flexibility than a traditional certificate program would. In some cases, you might submit videos or other media to show that you've mastered a particular skill. Many online trade programs feature detailed, sometimes interactive video content that shows the inside of complex machines or the proper way to perform tasks. However, the hands-on nature of many skilled trades means that you might need to make occasional visits to the school for supervised instruction and field experience. 

Types of Trade School Programs

There are many varieties of online trade schools, from institutions offering diploma programs in several areas to schools that specialize in a particular cluster of trades, such as automotive repair or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). Some people use the term "trade" to refer to jobs installing or repairing mechanical equipment, but the definition is much broader than that and also includes careers in the culinary arts, beauty and cosmetology, and healthcare.

Trade schools top out at the certificate or associate level. You need to apply to a four-year college if you want to earn a bachelor's degree or higher. In most cases, instructors design vocational programs to prepare graduates for whatever licensure or certification they need to practice their trade. For example, a plumbing program will usually include a course to help you study for the state licensure exam for plumbers.

Below, we list some examples of specialized vocational schools and the kinds of programs they typically feature:

How Much Does a Trade School Cost?

Costs differ by a number of factors, including the amount of time needed to complete a program. We used the Department of Education's to find average the 2020-2021 tuition costs for trade schools by program for popular fields. 

• Cosmetology and related personal grooming services: $15,203
• Culinary arts: $21,995
• Health care: $17,125
• Vehicle maintenance and repair: $26,101

Most trade schools are private entities that don't receive funding from tax dollars. In general, public education is more affordable for in-state or in-district residents than private school. It's worth checking your local community college for vocational programs when you're searching for options. 

Financial Aid for Trade School Students

Financial aid is an important factor for most postsecondary learners, and the good news is that you may be eligible for assistance at a trade school. Your first step is completing a (FAFSA), which helps the government determine your financial need. Depending on this need, you may qualify for federal money through the or programs. You might also apply for to aid veterans and their families. 

Beyond the federal government, some states offer financial aid to vocational students — check your state's department of education site for information. Some professional groups also provide scholarships to students in their discipline. For example, the Washington State Auto Dealers Association gives to automotive technology students in Washington. Because of the vast range of vocational trades, it may be helpful to search the internet thoroughly for relevant opportunities.

Is Trade School Worth It?

This is a question that only you can answer, and then only after the fact. But trade school can definitely be worthwhile if your goal is to quickly start practicing a trade at the entry level.

• On the plus side, vocational school programs are typically short, lasting about six months to two years at a full-time course load. You'll usually be ready to apply for jobs right after graduating, having accrued far less student debt than the average college graduate. Some occupations might require you to pass a certification or licensure test. If your field requires an apprenticeship period, you'll typically be paid for your work during this time.

• On the negative side, trade schools may be more expensive than community colleges with similar programs — you can compare community college programs to trade schools you find on the . Beyond cost, trade schools also narrowly qualify you for specific careers. You probably won't be able to transfer your credential into another occupation or educational program if you change your mind later. 

How To Choose a Trade School

You might consider dozens of factors when deciding on a trade school, and you might weigh them differently from someone with similar goals. You can read through the questions below to see which might help in your school search. 

• Is the school accredited? Accreditation is an important signifier of a school's quality. To be accredited, the institution has to pass a thorough, independent review of its faculty and curriculum. Most trade schools are nationally rather than regionally accredited. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation , so you can search for your school through one of these organizations.
• What does it cost? Trade school programs typically last about a year but can extend up to two years, so cost is a potential concern. We cover this in more detail in the How Much Does a Trade School Cost? Section.
• Does it offer online learning? Not all vocational schools offer distance education programs, but browsing through their websites should reveal what's on offer.
• What else do I want from a school? Think about any extra factors that matter to you. Maybe you want to enroll with a friend in the same program, which requires you to agree on a school. Or you might need special disability accommodations that some institutions can't provide as well as others. Your answer to this question may help serve as a tiebreaker in close cases.

Why Choose an Online Trade School?

Many people are attracted to online learning programs for their flexibility. Most of them offer asynchronous courses, which means you can sign in to do your work at convenient times rather than on a set schedule.

Indeed, convenience is the chief reason for the popularity of online degrees, and online trade programs are no different — to a point. As discussed, most vocational programs call for some hands-on experience, so you'll often find hybrid programs that have some in-person elements.

Whether online trade school is the best fit for you depends on your learning style and personal circumstances. You might find it hard to concentrate on recorded lectures and educational videos at home or in public, where there are constant opportunities for distraction. It can be especially challenging to study at home with children around. But distance learning is worth considering if you think you have the means and temperament to stay disciplined with coursework outside of rigid class times.

FAQs About Trade Schools

Resources for Trade School Students

We've collected resources here that may be helpful in your trade school search. 

• | A professional group for trade school educators with a library of resources about vocational and career education. It might interest you if you're interested in teaching your trade once you've practiced it for a few years.
• | Introduces federal statistics about vocational schools, including enrollment numbers and funding. Most of these are a few years old.
• Guide to Trade School Careers | An overview of possible career paths you can take with trade school preparation
• Highest Paying Trade Jobs | Details about the most lucrative jobs you can get with a trade school certificate

Bottom Line

Trade schools — also called vocational schools — provide postsecondary job training for specific careers. There are online and in-person trade school programs for a large number of occupations, most of which last between six months and a year.