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15 Best Trade Schools in Maine | Costs, Requirements, and How to Apply
This article explores the best trade schools in Maine.
Students who attend trade schools are prepared for careers in in-demand industries like allied health and skilled trades.
Students who enroll in healthcare vocational programs are prepared for careers as occupational therapy assistants, dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, and medical assistants.
There are excellent growth and salary prospects in many of these professions.
A vocational program provides job-focused training in the student’s chosen field.
In the majority of programs, experiential learning in the real world is combined with classroom instruction.
Students of skilled trades put what they have learned into practice in labs and practicals, while students of allied health complete clinical requirements and paramedic students practice their skills in a medical setting.
There are many benefits to trade schools over four-year academic programs.
The time it takes to earn a vocational certificate or degree is typically between one and two years, so students can finish their studies and begin working sooner.
As a result, trade school degrees are frequently less expensive to obtain.
Professionals with an occupational credential have a higher employment rate than those with an academic credential, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Students who attend trade schools acquire practical skills that are directly related to their chosen careers.
A traditional four-year college education typically costs more than twice as much as attending a trade school.
Additionally, highly qualified professionals will have the chance to join the workforce right away.
Maine is home to some of the top trade schools in the nation, many of which are well-known regionally.
See Also: Best Trade Schools in New Jersey | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply
Are there Trade Schools in Maine?
The best vocational schools in Maine are highlighted in our list.
Students can find the best program that matches their interests and career goals by researching highly regarded programs.
- The Landing School
- Spa Tech Institute
- United Technologies Center
- Northern Maine Community College
- Heavy Construction Academy
- Maine College of Art
- Helping Hands Maine
- Mid-Maine Technical Center
- Waldo County Technical Center
- Mid-Coast School of Technology
- Eastern Maine Community College
- Southern Maine Community College
- York County Community College
- Washington County Community College
- Kennebec Valley Community College
How Much Does Trade School Cost in Maine?
Trade school students frequently pay less for their programs than students pursuing academic credentials.
For instance, the National Center for Education Statistics estimates that tuition and fees at private universities in Maine cost over $37,000 annually, compared to over $9,000 at public universities.
In contrast, public community colleges in Maine charge an average of $3,700 in annual tuition and fees.
Students can choose a more affordable school while also using financial aid to pay for their vocational program.
Students attending accredited institutions have access to federal financial aid programs like grants and loans.
What are the Requirements for Trade Schools in Maine?
All applicants must meet the following requirements in order to enroll:
- They must submit a form of application.
- A personal statement is required.
- Must present a high school diploma or GED as proof of education.
- two recommendation letters
- Complete the admissions representative interview.
What are the Best Trade Schools in Maine | 2024?
Trade schools in Maine train professionals for sought-after positions in the healthcare industry, skilled trades, and other professions.
By choosing a top-ranked program, students can advance their education and increase their earning potential.
We list the top vocational schools in Maine to help prospective students find the best program to further their careers.
1. The Landing School
An exciting institution with a focus on marine industry technology is The Landing School.
Their instructors’ expertise and enthusiasm cannot be replaced.
Each of them is a well-known business expert with extensive experience in the marine sector.
The facilities are well-equipped, employ contemporary equipment, and adhere to current business trends.
Students will also receive counseling, support, and mentoring from the outstanding faculty staff in addition to formal education.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges first granted accreditation to a school of this kind, The Landing School.
Additionally, this institution was named a 2014 ACCSC School of Distinction.
2. Spa Tech Institute
All students interested in a career in beauty can get a top-notch education at Spa Tech Institute. Spa Tech Institute is considered one of the best trade schools in Maine.
They are regarded as one of the top companies in the field, with outstanding facilities and motivating instructors.
The school uses cutting-edge teaching strategies to give its students a top-notch education.
All applicants must fulfill the following requirements in order to enroll:
- At least 18 years of age is required.
- a high school diploma, GED, or an equivalent is required as proof of education.
- interview for admission is required.
If you’re interested in beauty and want to work in the industry, then this school is irreplaceable.
See Also: Best Trade Schools in Corpus Christi | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply
3. United Technologies Center
The network of career and technical schools in Maine includes United Technologies Center.
Here, a wide range of courses is available that adhere to the most recent national and industry standards.
In order to strengthen their newly acquired skills, instructors encourage students to participate in a variety of activities that are hands-on.
Additionally, they are actively involved and give students advice out of a desire to help them succeed.
Many of these skills are in high demand in the labor market, making them very lucrative.
Enrollment: A high school diploma or GED is required for all applicants as proof of education.
Fees: To learn more about the tuition fee and other costs, call the school at the number provided below.
4. Northern Maine Community College
A renowned vocational school, Northern Maine Community College has educated hundreds of students from across the state.
The small size of the college is ideal for effective learning and building relationships.
The Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, which also accredits Harvard and numerous other renowned universities, has granted accreditation to NMCC.
Depending on the course, students will graduate with either an associate degree or a certificate.
Enrollment: All candidates must follow these steps.
- Must fill out an application
- official high school transcripts or GED results must be presented.
- Obtain SAT scores if any are available. Placement testing may be necessary if not
- Must arrange a campus visit and an interview
Fees: To learn more about tuition costs and other expenses, get in touch with their admissions office.
5. Heavy Construction Academy
The best and most well-known educational facility for heavy machinery is the Heavy Construction Academy.
They have been successful in training and certifying countless aspiring business professionals.
They use cutting-edge tools, contemporary methods, and the most recent government and commercial standards.
Students can select a three-week or six-week program, and they are not required to have any prior knowledge of operating heavy machinery.
Because they have an unrivaled network of over 350 partner companies, HCA also provides career services that further distinguish them from the competition.
They will support students in advancing their job search and interview skills and assist them in achieving their objectives.
Professionals in the construction sector are in high demand, so this could be a great opportunity.
All applicants must fulfill the following requirements in order to enroll:
In order to determine whether they are eligible for any of their programs, they must complete an enrollment interview.
age requirement of at least 18 years.
Fees: Their programs have an $18,700 tuition cost. For eligible students, the school also provides student loans.
6. Maine College of Art
Maine College of Art, one of the best trade schools in Maine, is a place that encourages originality, ambition, and creativity.
They have a facility right in the middle of Portland.
They have skillfully converted a former department store into a cutting-edge educational facility, which is appropriate.
Both the National Association of Schools of Art and Design and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges have accredited their programs.
Since its establishment in 1882, Maine College of Art has aided thousands of students in realizing their artistic ambitions.
All applicants must fulfill the following requirements in order to enroll:
- need to fill out an application
- A $50 application fee is necessary.
- A personal statement is required.
- must present a portfolio of 15-20 pieces of art
- Transcripts from high school or GED results are required.
- must possess two letters of recommendation
Fees: The tuition fee is $35,694
7. Helping Hands Maine
The excellent Helping Hands Trade School is committed to educating future healthcare professionals.
They are one of the cheapest places around and offer a variety of courses at fair prices.
The demand for skilled workers in the healthcare sector is always growing.
It’s a fantastic chance for anyone looking to enter the medical industry and consider their career options in the future.
Enrollment: A non-refundable application fee is required of all applicants (see information below). Additionally, they need to show proof of education, such as a high school diploma or GED.
A non-refundable application fee of $40 for all other programs and $100 for phlebotomy, pharmacy technician, dental assisting, and medical assistant programs must also be paid by all applicants.
8. Mid-Maine Technical Center
On the campus of Waterville High School is the Mid-Maine Technical Center.
All of their programs adhere to the most recent federal and industry standards, allowing students to earn over 42 recognized certifications.
It’s a renowned institution with the mission of motivating students and assisting them in realizing their aspirations.
The atmosphere is very welcoming, safe, and student-centered.
They provide a wide range of courses taught by numerous well-known industry leaders and experts.
MTC has a cutting-edge building with more than $1 million worth of high-tech equipment.
While teaching the most critical theoretical information, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on practical learning.
Students who enroll in this school will have the opportunity to find employment quickly because so many of the certifications offered are in high demand.
Enrollment: There are no unique prerequisites. The application is open to all.
Fees: For more information about the tuition costs, get in touch with their admissions department.
9. Waldo County Technical Center
Another institution in Maine’s network of career and technical education institutions is Waldo County Technical Center.
They provide a range of programs with an emphasis on practical training backed by pertinent theoretical knowledge.
They are subject to a stringent set of regulations because they are a part of Maine’s network, which was established to guarantee that the students receive the best education possible.
Their instructors are extremely passionate and committed, and they have assisted hundreds of students in reaching their objectives.
The entire institution is focused on students, and its facilities are state-of-the-art.
They only teach the most recent strategies and techniques in their curriculum.
Enrollment: Prospective participants must complete the online application form and wait to hear whether they are accepted into one of the programs.
Fees: For more information on tuition prices and other fees, get in touch with the admissions office.
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10. Mid-Coast School of Technology
Since the Mid-Coast School of Technology is a part of Maine’s network, they must adhere to strict standards in order to give their students the best possible education.
The ability to use this school’s post-secondary agreements with colleges to earn credits is one of its unique features.
This is a fantastic institution with many options for students who want to explore a variety of specialized-skill industries.
After finishing, students will be qualified to begin working on their own and benefiting from the high demand.
Enrollment: There are no unique prerequisites. The application is open to all.
Fees: To learn more about tuition costs and other expenses, call the school at the number provided below.
11. Eastern Maine Community College
In addition to its 72-acre Bangor campus, EMCC, one of the biggest trade schools in Maine, operates a flexible online learning platform.
Students have access to a wide range of technical and professional programs, including options in restaurant management, automotive technology, fine woodworking, digital graphic design, and small business development.
EMCC primarily offers associate degrees, though it also offers a few certificates, such as those in substance abuse technician and medical assistant.
A unique live-in apprenticeship program in fire science is provided by the EMCC, allowing participants to gain knowledge of the field while working and living in a firehouse in the Bangor area.
Apprentices respond to emergency calls, attend weekly fire science classes, and are paid on a regular basis.
The apprenticeship has pre-service training and a successful interview as requirements. EMCC urges students to apply early for a live-in position.
Within three years, 85% of students complete the fire science apprenticeship.
12. Southern Maine Community College
SMCC, Maine’s biggest and oldest college, enrolls nearly 6,000 students each year.
The university has several satellite campuses in cities like Windham, Bonny Eagle, and Biddeford in addition to its main campus in South Portland. It also operates a campus in Brunswick, which is located on the midcoast of Maine.
With options in early childhood education, horticulture, communications and new media, manufacturing, precision machining, and architectural engineering and design, SMCC—one of the top trade schools in Maine—offers a broad range of career and technical programs.
Students at SMCC benefit from the wide range of professional resources available to them, including a variety of paid and unpaid internships and co-op education.
Through internships, students can make contacts and gain professional experience, and they frequently result in academic credit.
Additionally, SMCC offers a few unpaid internships. A variety of professions, such as automotive, culinary arts, and emergency medical services, are open to student interns.
13. York County Community College
At its Wells main campus and its Sanford site for industrial trades training, YCCC teaches about 1,600 students annually.
One of the top technical schools in Maine, YCCC offers numerous associate degree and certificate programs in fields like accounting, animal care and management, and precision machining technology.
The college offers generous financial aid to its students, including the annual YCCC Foundation Scholarships program.
YCCC provides students with a variety of support services, including academic tutoring and tools for finding employment.
The school’s Student Success Commons offers on-campus and online tutoring in subjects like writing, math, science, and research.
The Career & Transfer Services Office assists students in preparing by offering internships, volunteer and employment opportunities, and a yearly career fair.
14. Washington County Community College
One of New England and Maine’s most affordable trade schools is the WCCC in Calais.
The professional and technical programs provided by this two-year college cover a number of professional fields, such as adventure recreation and tourism, criminal justice and conversation law, and welding technology.
The associate, certificate, and diploma programs at WCCC can be completed in one or two years. About 450 students enroll annually.
To assist graduates in finding employment or transferring to four-year institutions, WCCC offers a wealth of resources.
The Calais CareerCenter, which has a location on the WCCC campus, provides job seekers with employment and training services, including job listings, career guidance, and connections to recruiters.
Additionally, WCCC has transfer agreements with several four-year institutions in New England that enable students to transfer between the two institutions.
15. Kennebec Valley Community College
With its main campus in Fairfield and satellite campuses in Alfond, Buker, and Rockland, KVCC is a public two-year institution.
Technical and vocational training in fields like energy services and technology, medical office specialist, physical therapist assistant, and precision machining technology is given to about 2,500 students at the school each year.
Among the online courses that KVCC offers are those in early childhood education, business administration, and mental health rehabilitation.
The KVCC office of advising, enrollment, and transfer services supports students as they advance through their education by assisting them in selecting courses for registration, understanding the entrance requirements for different majors, developing an academic plan, and monitoring their academic progress.
Additionally, advisors can collaborate with other institutions’ admissions offices, create application materials, obtain transcripts, and assist students in identifying transfer options.
Several four-year institutions have articulation agreements with KVCC.
How Much do Traders Make in Maine?
Graduates of trade schools have access to numerous lucrative and in-demand career options.
Technical and trade school-related work typically have an annual salary of around $55,000.
Depending on their industry, location, and level of experience, trade school graduates can earn a variety of salaries.
While management positions pay more than $96,000 per year, jobs in personal care and services pay less than $33,000.
The average yearly salary for healthcare practitioners and technical positions is $55,000, while positions in healthcare support pay just over $45,000.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a variety of trade school careers have bright futures for job growth.
The BLS forecasts much faster-than-average job growth for respiratory therapists, HVAC technicians, and dental hygienists between 2018 and 2028.
States have different pay scales for trade jobs.
How do I become a Trader in Maine?
Trade and technical schools in Maine offer career-focused certificates and degrees.
Vocational training prepares students for careers in the legal profession, medical field, skilled trades, and emergency services.
Graduates go on to work as dental hygienists, HVAC technicians, respiratory therapists, and cosmetologists.
Best Paying Jobs In Maine with Salary
- The median annual salary for paramedics was over $35,000.
- The median annual salary for HVAC technicians is close to $49,000.
- The median annual salary for dental hygienists was over $76,000.
- The average yearly salary for barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists was around $26,000.
- Skincare experts made about $34,000 annually.
- The median annual salary for respiratory therapists was over $61,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trade schools offer vocational programs with a focus on careers that combine classroom and hands-on training. Graduates of trade schools are prepared for careers in the medical field and skilled trades.
Yes. Online courses are offered by many trade schools. Students at online trade schools fulfill their local requirements for experiential learning.
Yes. Maine’s accredited trade schools are eligible for government financial aid schemes. Students in trade schools may also submit an application for grants and scholarships from private institutions.
Numerous trade schools offer multiple start dates throughout the year and admit students on a rolling basis. As a result, potential students can frequently apply to trade schools whenever they like.
Conclusion
As you can see, trade schools offer a variety of amazing and fascinating courses that are beneficial for job searching.
By enrolling in one of these schools and graduating with a certificate, you can enter the workforce quickly and find a rewarding position.
Another advantage is that many of the courses are only two years or less in length and have flexible scheduling, which makes it easy for you to juggle school and additional work.
References
- Accreditedschoolonline.org – Vocational Trade Schools in Maine
- Onlytradeschools.com – Best trade schools in Maine 2022
- Niche.com – 2023 best trade schools in Maine
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