15 Best Trade Schools in Bakersfield | Costs, Requirements, and How to Apply

This article explores the best trade schools in Bakersfield.

Graduates of trade schools are prepared for careers in the legal profession, technology, healthcare, and skilled trades like plumbing and welding. 

For many students, trade school is a wise investment because many of these careers have good pay and room for advancement. 

Students in a vocational program take classes in their chosen subject while also receiving hands-on training through internships or fieldwork. 

For instance, veterinary technicians take labs and complete an internship at an animal hospital while dental hygienists develop their skills through clinical hours. 

Students looking for a targeted workforce training program are drawn to trade schools. 

Graduates are prepared for the workforce by completing a one-year certificate or a two-year associate degree at a vocational school in Bakersfield. 

Compared to professionals with academic credentials, those with occupational credentials enjoy a higher employment rate.

The data gathered here is intended to assist people who want to learn a new trade, in selecting the best school for them. 

The compilation gives general details about some of the best vocational schools in Bakersfield, including tuition prices, admission requirements, and contact information. 

The organizations on this list provide top-notch instruction that equips students for careers in a variety of high-demand fields, including allied health, transportation, skilled trades, and more.

Are there Trade Schools in Bakersfield?

To help prospective students learn more about vocational programs, this article describes trade schools in Bakersfield and provides a list of the best-ranked programs. 

Additionally, it offers details on well-liked vocational courses, the earnings potential of trade school graduates, and financial aid options for trade school students.

  1. SJVC Bakersfield
  2. Contractors State License Services
  3. High Desert Medical College
  4. Advanced Career Institute
  5. Western Truck School
  6. Bakersfield Adult School
  7. Lyle’s College of Beauty
  8. Altamont Healthcare
  9. Liberty Career College
  10. Bakersfield Barber College
  11. Bakersfield college
  12. Santiago Canyon College
  13. Skyline College
  14. College of the Sequoias
  15. Mount San Jacinto College

How Much Does Trade School Cost in Bakersfield?

In Bakersfield, trade and vocational schools frequently have lower tuition costs than four-year colleges and universities. 

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, private universities in Bakersfield cost more than $33,000 per year in tuition and fees, whereas public universities in Bakersfield cost about $8,000 annually. 

Community colleges, on the other hand, cost Californians about $1,200 a year. 

Students can save thousands on their certificate or degree by selecting a reasonably priced vocational program.

What are the Requirements for Trade Schools in Bakersfield?

Program-specific requirements differ when applying. 

For the majority of programs, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent in the US. 

The number of open seats in a classroom determines enrollment.

What are the Best Trade Schools in Bakersfield | 2024?

Students are prepared for in-demand careers by trade schools in Bakersfield, and other regions of the state. 

Graduates can advance their careers and increase their earning potential by enrolling in a top-ranked program.

 To assist potential students in finding the institution that best suits their interests and objectives, we rank the top vocational and trade schools in California.

1. SJVC Bakersfield

Accelerated career training programs are available at San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) Bakersfield for students with an interest in the medical, dental, business, criminal justice, industrial, or trades fields. 

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges has granted SJVC accreditation.

Courses offered:

  • Dental Assisting
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Clinical Medical Assisting
  • Medical Office Administration
  • Pharmacy Technology
  • Respiratory Therapy
  • Surgical Technology
  • Veterinary Assistant
  • Business Administration
  • Criminal Justice: Corrections
  • Electrical Technology
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology

Visit school here 

2. Contractors State License Services

The Contractors State License Schools, which has over 25 contractor license schools in California, offer training courses to help people pass the contractors’ license exam. 

The largest school for construction professionals in California is Contractors State License Services (CSLS). 

Every month, CSLS offers a scholarship for one free program with a maximum value of $895.

Courses offered:

Exam Prep Classes

  • In-School Law & Trade
  • Law & Business Online
  • Home Study Law & Trade
  • Crash Course
  • Test Taking Skills
  • Construction Math Review

Seminars and Continuing Ed

  • Blueprint Reading Seminar
  • California Electrical Cert.
  • EPA-RRP Certification
  • Mold Remediation
  • Home Inspection Course
  • ICC Certification

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3. High Desert Medical College

Students at High Desert Medical College receive training for careers in allied health. 

More than 26,000 square feet of space are devoted to medical education on the Bakersfield campus. 

HDMC is a Legacy Education Institution and a college with national accreditation. 

Enrollment. Filling out the admissions inquiry form and scheduling a campus tour are the first steps. 

Candidates for admission must possess a high school diploma or GED. 

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They must take and pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam, a nationally recognized test. 

At least 18 years of age is required for applicants. 

Parents must sign on behalf of prospective students who are 17 years old or older.

Courses offered:

Certificate programs:

  • Clinical Medical Assisting
  • Dental Assisting
  • Medical Administrative Assistant
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Ultrasound Technician
  • Vocational Nursing

Degree programs:

  • Ultrasound Technician

Visit school here 

See Also: 15 Best Trade Schools in Dallas | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply

4. Advanced Career Institute

The Bakersfield Campus of Advanced Career Institute offers welding classes, a CDL Refresher Course, Ag Transportation Training, and Class A CDL Training. 

In as little as 38 weeks, the Advanced Welding Technology program can be finished. 

In 20 weeks, the Ag Transportation program can be finished. 

Also, ACI is recognized as a private business and trade school by the State of California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE). 

In addition, veteran training is permitted to be provided by the school.

Courses offered:

  • Professional Truck Driver
  • Advanced Professional Truck Driver
  • Ag Transportation
  • Commercial Driver 1 Week
  • Commercial Driver 2 Weeks
  • Commercial Driver 3 Weeks
  • School Bus Driver
  • Commercial Bus Driver
  • Advanced Welding Technology
  • Basic Plate Welding

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5. Western Truck School

For those who want to work in the trucking industry, Western Truck School offers training programs. 

Since its establishment in 1976, the school has trained more than 40,000 students. 

Enrollment. A Class A Commercial Driver’s License cannot be obtained unless the applicant is at least 18 years old. 

You are not permitted to leave California until you are 21 years old. 

A copy of the applicant’s driver’s license, social security card, and transcripts are required. 

Additionally, a copy of the student’s 10-year DMV report is required by the school.

Courses offered:

  • Class A Commercial Driver Program
  • Class A Commercial Driver Extended Program
  • Class B/P Combined Commercial Driver Program
  • Class A Advance Commercial Driver Program
  • Class A Master Commercial Driver Program
  • Class B Commercial Driver Program
  • Class P Passenger Commercial Driver Program
  • Class A or B Specialized/Refresher Commercial Driver Program
  • Class A/P Combined Commercial Driver Program
  • Forklift Course

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6. Bakersfield Adult School

Adults in Kern County receive education and training in career-related skills from Bakersfield Adult School. 

Joining the Bakersfield trade school community since 1917 is the Adult School. 

The school offers courses for students interested in vocational training, ESL/ELD/EL Civics, older adults, and adults with disabilities.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges has granted Bakersfield Adult School approval. 

Enrollment: Program-specific requirements differ when applying. 

For the majority of programs, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent in the US. 

The number of open seats in a classroom determines enrollment.

Courses offered:

  • Vocational Nurse
  • Health Career Worker
  • Home Health Aide
  • Nurse Assistant
  • Medical Assistant
  • Medical Billing and Coding
  • Business Certification
  • Computer Certification

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7. Lyle’s College of Beauty

For those who want to work in the beauty industry professionally, Lyle’s College of Beauty offers educational programs. 

The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences has granted the school accreditation. 

The instruction at Lyle’s College of Beauty combines theory with practical training in a clinical setting. 

The Esthetician program instructs students in the use of airbrushing, waxing, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and other aesthetic procedures. 

Also, students who enroll in the cosmetology program graduate with the knowledge and abilities necessary to launch successful careers as stylists, colorists, salon owners, product specialists, or technicians for a manufacturer. 

Additionally, the school offers a program in manicuring that teaches students how to do manicures as well as personal ethics, salon management, and employer/employee/client relations.

Courses offered:

  • Esthetician
  • Manicuring
  • Cosmetology
  • Teacher Training

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8. Altamont Healthcare

People who want to work in the healthcare sector are trained by Altamont Healthcare. 

The school offers intimate classes led by knowledgeable professors with extensive backgrounds in their subject. 

Altamont Healthcare has partnerships with hospitals where students can complete real-world externship hours. 

In addition, students have the chance to become certified sterile processing and distribution technicians in as little as five weeks thanks to the Altamont Sterile Processing and Distribution Certification Program. 

In order for medical equipment to be used safely on numerous patients, it must be sterilized and cleaned. 

It only takes seven weeks to complete the EKG Tech Program.

Courses offered:

  • SPDT Certification Program
  • EKG Tech Program
  • Surgical Tech Program
  • CPR/BLS Certification
  • Endoscope Reprocessing Certification

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9. Liberty Career College

Effective post-secondary vocational training programs are offered by Liberty Career College, preparing students for careers in their areas of study. 

The new Hybrid Medical Assistant Program at the school is designed to cut down on in-class time. 

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The program makes use of a textbook that is compatible with the lab activities’ use of the school’s Electronic Health Record software. 

This trade school in Bakersfield, lets students work independently to complete the lectures in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and clinical lab, but they have access to an instructor for guidance and questions. 

The students will attend class each week for lab time, assessments, lectures, announcements, and lab demonstrations. 

Also, students who enroll in the Phlebotomy Technician program learn about risk factors, difficulties with specimen requisitions, issues with coagulation cascade, and book collection and handling safety. 

In addition, those studying pharmacy technology gain knowledge of processing prescriptions, pharmaceutical calculations, drug classification & safety, dosage calculations, and more.

Courses offered:

  • Medical Assistant
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • Pharmacy Technician

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10. Bakersfield Barber College

Future barbers can enroll in training programs at Bakersfield Barber College. 

In a classroom outfitted with cutting-edge technology, students learn. 

There are daily theory and practical education classes in the course. 

Also, the College gives students the opportunity to practice their skills on real people, other students, or mannequins. 

The school provides free assistance with finding a job. 

The goal of the barbering program is to get students ready for both a lucrative career and the Board Licensing Exam. 

The 1600-hour cosmetology course or a current cosmetology license obtained through the Board Licensing 

Examinations are prerequisites for the Cosmo/Barber course, which is intended to prepare students for employment.

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11. Bakersfield college 

Bakersfield College was established in 1913 and now enrolls about 31,000 students annually in the certificate, associate, and bachelor’s programs. 

To assist students in achieving their academic and career goals, BC divides its academic offerings into 10 learning and career pathways. 

As a Hispanic Serving Institution, BC offers a program called English for Multilingual Students that helps students improve their English communication abilities. 

Also, important academic skill workshops, tutoring sessions, transfer assistance, and academic, career, and personal counseling are additional student support services. 

Additionally, students can look into plumbing, electrical, sheet metal, and carpentry apprenticeship opportunities. 

BC maintains articulation agreements with three private Golden State institutions as well as a number of UC and CSU campuses. 

Additionally, BC provides funding for undocumented students through the California Catalyst Grant. 

This is the accrediting body for Bakersfield College.

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12. Santiago Canyon College

The Rancho Santiago Orange campus of Santiago Canyon College opened its doors in 1971.

 In 1985, the school changed its name, and in 2000, it received independent accreditation. 

SCC now enrolls about 11,000 students yearly and provides 68 associate degree and certificate programs in addition to 21 transferable associate degrees. 

Additionally, SCC offers apprenticeship programs in a variety of disciplines, including cosmetology, engineering, and carpentry. 

SCC provides resources and support services like academic and personal counseling as well as services for job preparation. 

Students can improve their job search skills, pick up helpful interviewing tips, and get help writing resumes. 

Additionally available to students are computer labs, math and writing centers, as well as online and in-person tutoring sessions. 

The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the United States has granted Santiago Canyon College accreditation.

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13. Skyline College

Skyline College, the foremost trade school in Bakersfield was founded in 1969 and now enrolls 17,000 students annually while providing more than 100 degree and certificate programs. 

The College divides its academic offerings into four main categories: science, technology, health, business, and management; arts, language, and communication; and society and education. 

In addition to private colleges and universities spread out across the Golden State, Skyline College also maintains articulation agreements with a number of campuses of the University of California and California State University. 

Also, the school’s Transfer Center organizes college and university fairs, holds workshops and offers other assistance to students who intend to enroll in a four-year college or university after graduation. 

Students can find an internship, training, and employment opportunities with the aid of the Career Readiness and Job Placement Center. 

Apprenticeship opportunities are provided by their automotive technology programs.

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14. College of the Sequoias

College of the Sequoias, established in 1926, enrolls about 11,000 students yearly and provides associate and certificate programs in 15 fields of study.

 In five areas—art, music, sport management, elementary teaching preparation, and math and science education—the school offer associate degrees for transfer. 

Students have access to assistance with writing, supplemental instruction, online and in-person tutoring sessions, and ESL support. 

For students who want to continue their education at four-year institutions, COS also provides transfer services. 

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The school maintains articulation agreements with private institutions inside and outside of California, as well as campuses of the University of California and California State University. 

In addition, students can meet with counselors who can assist them with the transfer process, attend free workshops online or on campus, and more.

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15. Mount San Jacinto College

Mt. San Jacinto College, which opened in 1963, now has more than 26,500 students enrolled annually.

 30 associate degrees for transfer are among the 59 degree and occupational credential programs offered by MSJC. 

Academic, crisis, and transfer counseling are all available through the school’s counseling department. 

The Accommodation Services Center helps students with disabilities gain access to a range of resources and support services that will enable them to pursue their academic objectives. 

The MSJC also offers career services and twice-monthly food distribution campaigns as additional student support services. 

During the fall 2020 semester, MSJC intends to begin an apprenticeship program in automotive technology. 

A social media marketing, video production, and visual effects apprenticeship program is currently available through MSJC’s Digital Media Department. 

The Commission on Community and Junior Colleges accredits Mt. San Jacinto College.

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How Much do Traders Make in Bakersfield?

Graduates of trade schools find employment in a variety of fields, including healthcare, technology, and hospitality. 

As a result, the outlook for trade school graduates in terms of careers and salaries varies by industry. 

For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average annual wage for technical and trade occupations is about $55,000. 

Healthcare professionals make more than $55,000 per year, while installation, maintenance, and repair occupations earn $50,000 annually. 

Management positions bring in more than $96,000 annually. 

Also, for state-specific information, students thinking about attending trade and vocational schools in California can look up California wage estimates. 

In California, for instance, dental hygienists make over $106,000 annually, while respiratory therapists make close to $84,000.

How do I become a Trader in Bakersfield?

The largest higher education system in the nation and a major source of workforce development in its community colleges. In Bakersfield, there are other vocational and trade schools besides community colleges. 

Through California’s Regional Occupational Centers and Programs (ROCPs), apprenticeship programs, and adult education programs, postsecondary students can also receive career and technical education. 

Secondary students in Bakersfield receive vocational and trade education from comprehensive high schools, magnet schools, early-college high schools, and ROCPs.

Best Paying Jobs In Bakersfield with Salary 

Programs in allied health fields, professional trades, legal services, and other in-demand fields are offered by vocational and trade schools in Bakersfield.

Also, at a trade school, students can train to become occupational therapy assistants, veterinary technicians, or dental hygienists. 

Graduates of vocational programs can also pursue careers in cosmetology, medical assisting, and plumbing.

  • The median annual salary for dental hygienists exceeded $76,000
  • Occupational therapy assistants earn a median annual wage of over $61,000
  • Paralegals and legal assistants earned a median annual salary of nearly $52,000
  • Respiratory therapists earned a median annual salary of over $61,000

Frequently Asked Questions 

Describe a trade school. 

For careers in high-demand fields like healthcare, law, technology, and others, trade schools offer job training. Usually lasting one to two years are trade programs.

Is financial aid available for trade school? 

Yes. Federal financial aid as well as other types of financial aid, like scholarships, are available to students in California attending accredited vocational schools. 

Can Credits from trade schools be transferred? 

Yes. Transfer credits from other schools are commonly accepted by trade schools. The likelihood of transferring credits from a school with regional accreditation is generally higher.

Conclusion

Finding the career of your dreams may require learning a new trade. 

Trade schools in Bakersfield provide excellent instruction geared toward preparing students for some of the most marketable fields. 

There are many schools ready to help you launch a well-paid career, whether you want to work as a professional truck driver, cosmetologist, or medical assistant. 

In conclusion, make an informed decision and make sure to consider all of your options.

References 

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