Trade schools in California are becoming increasingly popular as students seek alternative paths to traditional four-year colleges and universities.
These institutions offer hands-on training in a variety of skilled trades, such as plumbing, welding, and cosmetology, and provide students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.
According to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, there are over 100 trade schools and community colleges in the state, offering programs in a wide range of trades. We have written about the cheapest community colleges in USA for international students – so check it out.
In the 2019-2020 academic year, over 2.1 million students were enrolled in California’s community colleges, with over 148,000 of those students enrolled in career education programs.
One of the benefits of trade schools is that they offer a more affordable option for students who may not be able to afford the high tuition fees associated with traditional four-year colleges and universities.
What Are Trade Schools In California?
Trade schools, also known as vocational schools or technical schools, are educational institutions that provide students with hands-on training in a specific trade or occupation.
There are different types of trade schools. These schools offer programs in a wide range of fields, such as plumbing, welding, cosmetology, automotive repair, and many others.
Trade schools typically offer shorter, more focused programs than traditional four-year colleges and universities, with many programs taking anywhere from six months to two years to complete. The programs are designed to give students the skills they need to enter the workforce in their chosen trade or occupation.
Why Trade Schools? – Quick Facts
As trade schools in California breed graduates that are in high demand, with many employers struggling to find workers with the necessary skills to fill open positions, here are more reasons to choose trade schools.
- More affordable: The cost of tuition at a trade school is typically much lower than at a traditional four-year university. For the duration of the program, trade schools in California might cost up to $30,000 or more. Contrarily, four-year institutions can set you back $100,000 or more before you graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
- Quicker completion: Trade school programs are typically shorter than traditional four-year university programs, which means that students can complete their education and enter the workforce sooner. Many trade school programs can be completed in two years or less, while four-year university programs can take up to four years or longer.
- Hands-on training: Trade schools provide hands-on training that prepares students for careers in specific fields. This kind of training is often more practical and applicable to the workforce than the theoretical education provided by traditional universities.
- In-demand skills: Trade schools provide training in fields where there is high demand for skilled workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many skilled trades professions are projected to see above-average growth between 2020 and 2030. For example, employment in the electrician field is projected to grow 8% during this time period.
- Personalized attention: Trade schools often have smaller class sizes than traditional universities, which means that students can receive more personalized attention from instructors. This can be particularly beneficial for students who prefer a more hands-on learning environment.
- Flexibility: Trade schools often offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes. This makes it easier for students to balance work and family commitments while pursuing their education.
Overall, trade schools provide a practical and cost-effective option for students who want to enter the workforce quickly and gain the skills necessary for in-demand careers.
Related: Top Universities for Data Science in USA
List of California Trade Schools And Colleges
The following trade schools in some of the biggest California cities.
Trade Schools in Bakersfield, CA
- San Joaquin Valley College: A private, for-profit college that offers certificate and associate degree programs in a variety of fields, including healthcare, business, and trades like welding and HVAC. The college has been serving the Bakersfield community since 1977 and has additional campuses throughout California.
- Lyle’s College of Beauty: A private beauty school that offers programs in cosmetology, esthetics, and manicuring. The school has been providing beauty education in Bakersfield since 1961 and is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences.
- Milan Institute: A private, for-profit college that offers certificate and diploma programs in a variety of fields, including healthcare, beauty, and trades like welding and HVAC. The college has been providing career training in Bakersfield since 1985 and has additional campuses throughout California, Nevada, and Idaho.
- Milan Institute-Bakersfield West: A branch campus of Milan Institute that offers diploma programs in medical assisting, dental assisting, and massage therapy. The campus opened in 2011 and is located on the west side of Bakersfield.
- UEI College: A private, for-profit college that offers diploma programs in a variety of fields, including healthcare, business, and trades like welding and HVAC. The college has been providing career training in Bakersfield since 2012 and has additional campuses throughout California, Arizona, and Georgia.
Also Read: 15 Best Online Trade Schools In California
Trade Schools in Oakland, CA
- International College of Cosmetology: Located in the heart of Oakland, the International College of Cosmetology offers programs in cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology. The school is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) and has been in operation for over 60 years.
- Moler Barber College: Moler Barber College is a barber school located in Oakland that has been in operation since 1916. The school offers a comprehensive 1,500-hour program that covers all aspects of barbering, including hair cutting, shaving, and grooming. Moler Barber College is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) and has a long history of producing skilled barbers.
Also Read: Top 10 Online Universities in USA and Their Tuitions
Trade Schools in Fresno, CA
- Paul Mitchell the School: This beauty school offers programs in cosmetology, barbering, and esthetics. Students receive hands-on training in a modern facility and have the opportunity to work with industry professionals.
- San Joaquin Valley College: This trade school offers programs in fields such as business, healthcare, and skilled trades. Students receive hands-on training from experienced instructors and have access to career services to help them find employment after graduation.
- Lyle’s College of Beauty: This beauty school has been serving the Fresno community for over 50 years and offers programs in cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology. Students receive hands-on training in a professional salon environment.
- UEI College: This trade school offers programs in fields such as business, healthcare, and skilled trades. Students receive hands-on training from experienced instructors and have access to career services to help them find employment after graduation. UEI College also offers online programs for students who prefer a more flexible learning environment.
Also Read: List of University of Phoenix Online Degrees and Courses
Trade Schools in Anaheim, CA
- Coba Academy
- United Education Institute
- Brownson Technical School
- North-West College
- Coba Academy: Coba Academy is a cosmetology school that offers programs in hair, skin, and nail care. The school offers hands-on training in a modern salon setting, and prepares students for careers in the beauty industry.
- United Education Institute: United Education Institute (UEI) is a career college that offers programs in a variety of fields, including healthcare, business, and technology. The school provides hands-on training and real-world experience, and offers job placement assistance to graduates.
- Brownson Technical School: Brownson Technical School offers programs in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and electrical technology. The school provides hands-on training and prepares students for careers in the skilled trades.
- North-West College: North-West College is a career college that offers programs in healthcare, business, and legal studies. The school provides hands-on training and offers job placement assistance to graduates, as well as financial aid options to those who qualify.
Trade Schools in San Francisco, CA
- San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology Inc
- Cinta Aveda Institute
Trade Schools in Sacramento, CA
- Paul Mitchell the School
- MIXED Institute of Cosmetology & Barber
- Federico Beauty Institute
- My Beauty & Barber College
- MTI College
- Charles A Jones Career and Education Center
- Independent Training & Apprenticeship Program
- UEI College
- Carrington College
Trade Schools in San Diego, CA
Trade Schools in San Jose, CA
Trade Schools in Long Beach, CA
All Trade Schools in California (Summary)
In conclusion, trade schools in California offer an affordable, practical, and in-demand alternative to traditional four-year colleges and universities. With a wide range of programs available, these institutions provide students with the skills they need to succeed in a variety of skilled trades, and offer an opportunity to start their careers sooner and with less debt.
More Topics:
