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15 Best Trade Schools in Phoenix | Costs, Requirements, and How to Apply
This article explores the best trade schools in Phoenix. Students are prepared for a range of careers in fields like healthcare, law, cosmetology, and technology at vocational and trade schools.
There are many advantages to trade schools, including affordability.
Students can save money by attending trade schools, which frequently have lower tuition costs than four-year universities.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, those who earn an occupational credential enjoy higher employment rates than those who do so with an academic credential.
Phoenix has numerous schools that offer trade and vocational programs.
The majority of vocational programs combine classroom instruction with practical training through practical, internships, or apprenticeships.
In a vocational program, it usually takes between one and two years to complete a certificate or associate’s degree.
For students looking for a quicker option, some schools offer self-paced or accelerated options.
College students seeking greater flexibility can also research online vocational programs.
Many people have the option of attending trade schools to receive job-specific training and become employable in a matter of months.
Phoenix trade schools provide instruction in a range of academic fields, including medicine, skilled trades, transportation, cosmetics, and more.
Young graduates and adults who want to begin a new career have many options.
Before choosing, we encourage you to read our list and consider all of your options.
See Also: Best Trade Schools in Rhode Island | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply
Are there Trade Schools in Phoenix?
- The Refrigeration School
- Pima Medical Institute – Phoenix Campus
- Vocational Training Institute
- Avalon School of Cosmetology
- UEI College
- West – MEC
- WCUI School of Medical Imaging and Nursing
- Roberto Venn School of Luthiery
- The Studio Academy of Beauty
- Southwest Truck Driver Training, Inc.
- Phoenix College
- Estrella Mountain Community College
- Rio Salado College
- Paradise Valley Community College
- South Mountain Community College
How Much Does Trade School Cost in Phoenix?
In Phoenix, students who decide to attend a vocational or trade school frequently pay less in tuition than those who enroll in four-year colleges and universities.
The average cost of tuition and fees for four-year public schools in Phoenix is over $10,000 per year, compared to $2,000 for two-year public schools, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
To help with the cost of their education, students can look into financial aid options.
Students must complete the FAFSA each year in order to be eligible for federal financial aid. Loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs are all possible forms of federal aid.
Depending on the program, total costs range from $6,825 to $29,776. For those who qualify, financial aid is offered.
What are the Requirements for Trade Schools in Phoenix?
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or the GED equivalent.
Prospective students must be at least 18 years old, and anyone under that age must have a parent, guardian, or guarantor sign the Enrollment Agreement on their behalf.
What are the Best Trade Schools in Phoenix | 2024?
Graduates from trade schools in Phoenix are prepared for in-demand professions.
To assist prospective students in finding the best course of study for their interests and objectives, we rank the top trade schools in Arizona.
1. The Refrigeration School
The Refrigeration School provides educational opportunities geared toward preparing students for careers in welding, electrical technologies, and other fields.
In 1965, the school was established in Phoenix.
While the Electro-Mechanical Technologies program can be finished in 9 months, the Electrical Technologies program can be finished in 3 months.
It is possible to finish the programs in as little as six months.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has granted accreditation to The Refrigeration School, Inc.
Courses offered:
- Electrical Technologies
- Refrigeration Technologies
- Electro-Mechanical Technologies
- Mechanical Maintenance Engineering
- Electrical Applications
- Welding Specialist
2. Pima Medical Institute – Phoenix Campus
Future skilled healthcare workers can choose from three associate degree programs and six certificate programs at the Pima Medical Institute-Phoenix Campus.
The 2015-opened Campus provides services to Glendale, Peoria, Sun City, Goodyear, Scottsdale, and other nearby cities in the western Phoenix region.
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools has granted accreditation to Pima Medical Institute.
Courses offered:
Certificate programs:
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Administrative Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Sterile Processing Technician
- Veterinary Assistant
Associate Degree Programs:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Surgical Technology
- Veterinary Technician
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3. Vocational Training Institute
Future HVAC/R technicians can enroll in training programs offered by the Vocational Training Institute.
The school has two main classrooms where students learn theory and a workshop where they put their troubleshooting and diagnostic skills to use.
The contemporary workshop at the school is furnished with the same equipment used in the field.
Students can also practice their service and installation techniques in an outdoor workshop.
The Institute offers part-time and full-time schedules for day and evening classes.
In their field, school teachers have a lot of experience.
The Vocational Training Institute provides assistance with job placement for life.
Courses offered:
- Entry-Level Technician Training Program
- HVAC/R Technician Training Program
4. Avalon School of Cosmetology
The Avalon School of Cosmetology offers courses for aspiring estheticians, makeup artists, and cosmetologists.
The Arizona State Board of Cosmetology has granted Avalon School of Cosmetology a license to conduct business and granted it accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences.
Full-time students can finish the cosmetology program in 55 weeks, while part-time students can finish it in 86 weeks.
The course teaches students about hair, nails, rules and regulations, hygiene, sterilization, first aid, chemistry, and more. It also covers the fundamentals of cosmetology and state board principles.
Part-time students can finish the esthetician program in 32 weeks, while full-time students can finish it in 25 weeks.
Students studying aesthetics gain knowledge in a variety of topics, including makeup, skin analysis, anatomy, physiology, hygiene, sterilization, first aid, and more.
Courses offered:
- Cosmetologist
- Esthetician
- Cosmetology Student Instructor
- Advanced Make-up
- Advanced Hair Extensions
- Advanced Eyelash Extensions
5. UEI College
UEI College is listed among the best trade schools in Phoenix and offers technical education in fields like HVAC, medical/dental, and computer technology.
In 2015, the campus in Phoenix was inaugurated.
There are 25 classrooms in the building, along with a dental lab, two labs for allied health, two labs for HVAC, one for information technology, and computer labs.
In addition, a library, study spaces, and outdoor spaces are available to students.
It is possible to finish the programs in 10 months.
Students who complete a program at the College are qualified to start at the entry level of their industry.
The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) has granted UEI College accreditation to award diplomas.
Courses offered:
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- Medical Billing and Insurance Coding
6. WCUI School of Medical Imaging and Nursing
Private postsecondary technical college called West Coast Ultrasound Institute.
At its main campus in Los Angeles as well as at its satellite campuses in Ontario, California, and Phoenix, Arizona, West Coast offers bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs.
The Institute provides a curriculum that combines in-class instruction, laboratory practice, and closely supervised clinical experience.
The Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education has granted WCUI a license to offer educational services in Arizona.
The 24-month Associate Degree Programs can be finished.
Depending on the program, the Diploma programs can be finished in 9–15 months.
Courses offered:
The Phoenix Campus is offering the following associate degree and diploma programs.
- Academic Associate of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Academic Associate of Science in Cardiovascular Sonography
- Academic Associate of Science in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging Diploma-Long
- Pediatric Cardiac Ultrasound and Congenital Heart Disease-Diploma
7. West – MEC
Training programs are available from West-MEC for both adults and high school students.
With four campuses in Glendale, Phoenix, Surprise, and Buckeye, West-3,685 MEC’s square mile district boundary spans the northern and western cities of Maricopa County and offers career and technical education.
Classroom instruction, laboratory instruction, work-based learning, and a Career and Technical Student Organization are all included in the programs.
The Commission of the Council on Occupational Education has accredited West-MEC.
The Federal Aviation Administration has accredited West-Aviation MEC’s Technology Program as a 14 CFR Part 147 Airframe and Powerplant training facility.
Courses offered
Career training programs available at the Phoenix campus:
- Air Conditioning Technology – a one-year program
- Automotive Collisions Technology – a two-year program
- Automotive Technology – a two-year program
- Electrical Trade Specialty – a one-year program
- General Construction Technology – a one-year program
- Medical Assisting – a two-year program
- Pharmacy Technician – a one-year program
- Veterinary Sciences – a two-year program
- Coding – a two-year program
- Medium/Heavy Diesel Technology – a two-year program
8. Roberto Venn School of Luthiery
The Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery has been teaching the art of making guitars since it was established in 1975.
Roberto-880-hour Venn’s course is made to impart the fundamental abilities required for employment in the fields of guitar making, guitar repair, and other related fields.
Students build at least one acoustic and one electric guitar during the five months of instruction, as well as perform fundamental guitar repairs and setup tasks.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges has granted accreditation to Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery.
Courses offered:
- Guitar Making and Repair Program
- Guitar Repair Course
- Pickup Winding
- Mojotone Tube Amp
- Effect Pedal
- Set-up and Maintenance
- Case Building
- Lap Steel
- French Polish
9. The Studio Academy of Beauty
At its campus in Phoenix, the Studio Academy of Beauty is a trade school that offers training courses in cosmetology, esthetics, hairstyling, laser, and educator programs.
Students learn about European facials, skin science, products, massage techniques, full-body waxing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and much more in the esthetics program.
Licensed estheticians can work in a variety of rewarding fields, including skincare, spa management, waxing, and product sales, among others.
Students learn about the most recent cutting methods, hair coloring, products, hair types, and much more during the cosmetology program.
A successful career as a hairstylist, hair colorist, spa manager, spa owner, makeup artist, product salesperson, or nail technician can be started by a licensed cosmetologist.
In fashion shows, charitable events, high school presentations, and weddings, students can put their skills to practice.
Courses offered:
- Cosmetology
- Esthetics
- Hairstyling
- Educator Program
- Laser
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10. Southwest Truck Driver Training, Inc.
For almost 20 years, Southwest Truck Driver Training, Inc. has been preparing students for driving careers.
Gary P. Williams and a small group of his family and friends established the neighborhood-based, independent SWTDT in 1999.
The school has state-of-the-art trucks and knowledgeable instructors in its facilities.
Students receive individualized instruction and practical training.
In order to adapt the curriculum to the demands of the modern industry, Southwest Truck Driver Training keeps making improvements and changes.
The school employs a number of bilingual teachers who assist students who require help with the language transition from Spanish to English.
Graduates are given assistance with employment for life.
The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles and the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division have granted Southwest Truck Driver Training licenses for Class A, B, C, and Bus Training.
The school employs third Party Testers for on-site CDL testing.
SWTDT offers several financing assistance options.
Courses offered:
- Class A CDL
- Class B CDL
- RV Training
- Refreshers Course
- Military
11. Phoenix College
Phoenix College, which was founded in 1920, provides career and technical programs to about 17,000 students annually.
More than 150 associate degree and certificate programs in disciplines like dental assisting, paralegal studies, and emergency medical technology are available for students to choose from.
Practicums and internships are two ways that students can gain practical work experience.
For instance, the phlebotomy certificate offers students real-world training opportunities for processing lab samples.
The program and a student’s credits from prior learning determine how long their education will last.
For military service, work experience, and/or professional certifications and licenses, learners may be granted credit toward their certificate or degree.
Online applications, high school transcripts, and placement exams for English and math are all requirements for prospective students.
12. Estrella Mountain Community College
In order to prepare students for employment in in-demand fields, EMCC, the newest two-year institution in the Maricopa Community College system, opened its doors in 1992.
The institution is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution and provides a huge range of associate degrees and certificates.
The study of subjects like legal studies, culinary arts, and automated industrial technology is available to students.
With the exception of the associate in the nursing program, many of the school’s associate degrees prepare students for seamless transfer to bachelor’s programs.
While the certificate programs typically take less than a year, the associate programs at the school typically require two years of full-time study.
Academic counseling and career services are available to students.
13. Rio Salado College
Rio Salado College, one of the best trade schools in Phoenix, which was established in 1978 and is based in Tempe, provides more than 130 associate degrees and certificates in fields like paralegal studies, basic automotive maintenance, dental hygiene, and construction trades.
Corporate and business partnerships with the college provide a range of opportunities for experiential learning that are advantageous to students.
Additionally, many programs prepare students for a smooth transition to bachelor’s programs.
As a part of America’s Online Community College, Rio Salado’s National Division enables out-of-state students to enroll in online courses.
The asynchronous nature of online courses enables students to juggle their academic obligations with those of their personal and professional lives.
14. Paradise Valley Community College
With its main campus in Phoenix and a second campus in Scottsdale, PVCC was established in 1985 as a part of the Maricopa Community College system and serves students from all over the Copper State.
The college offers associate degrees and certificates in more than 75 disciplines, including legal studies, emergency response and operations, and dietetic technology.
The majority of programs give students practical field experience by combining classroom and experiential learning.
A certificate can typically be earned in one semester of full-time study, and an associate’s degree can be earned in two years.
Numerous programs at the school are available online, allowing working students to balance their studies with other commitments.
15. South Mountain Community College
75% of the student body at SMCC, which enrolls about 6,000 students each year and is recognized as a Minority Serving Institution, identify as minorities.
The institution offers classes online, at an extension center in Laveen Village, and on its main campus in Guadalupe.
More than 60 associate degrees and certificates, including ones in engineering technology, culinary basics, and legal studies, are available to students.
Online courses are available in many programs. For instance, students pursuing a certificate in culinary basics may enroll in an online course on baking and pastries that covers preparation and presentation methods.
Students have access to academic counseling and career services created to support them in achieving their academic and professional objectives.
How Much do Traders Make in Phoenix?
Graduates from trade schools can find employment as a paramedic, ultrasound technicians, electricians, or medical assistants.
Careers in trade services, aerospace, and healthcare can also be attained through vocational and trade schools.
Roles, locations, and experience all have a significant impact on pay, but on average, graduates of technical and trade schools make over $55,000 a year.
Researching Phoenix salaries by occupation can help students considering trade and technical schools learn more about the earning potential in their field.
For instance, avionics technicians in Phoenix make over $60,000 annually, while dental hygienists average over $84,000.
How do I become a Trader in Phoenix?
Arizona trade and vocational schools provide certificates and degrees in highly sought-after industries like healthcare, law, and hospitality.
Many of these professions have promising prospects for job growth and pay that is above average.
Best Paying Jobs In Phoenix with Salary
- veterinary technicians earn a median salary of over $35,000
- beauty and cosmetologists earn median annual salaries from $25,000-$35,000
- paralegals and legal assistants earned a median annual salary of over $51,000
- occupational therapy assistants earned a median annual salary of $59,200
- EMTs and paramedics earn a median salary of over $35,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to trade school online?
Yes. Many trade schools in Arizona offer online programs. Online students can often meet a program’s in-person requirements at an approved site in their community.
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Yes. Accredited trade and technical colleges in Arizona meet the requirements for many financial aid programs, including federal aid.
Can trade school credits transfer?
Yes. Students can often transfer the credits they earn from accredited trade and vocational schools in Arizona to other institutions.
When can I apply to trade school?
Many trade schools offer rolling admissions policies, which let prospective students submit an application at any time. Similarly, trade schools often offer multiple start dates each year.
Conclusion
Many excellent trade schools with excellent hands-on training programs are located in Phoenix, where you can prepare for a new career in as little as a few months.
It can be challenging to select the program that best meets your educational needs.
When choosing a trade school, a number of factors should be taken into account, including the duration of the courses, the cost, the completion rate, the accreditation of the school, the graduation rate, and student reviews.
So get going early and go slowly!
References
- Accreditedschoolonline.org – Vocational Trade Schools in Phoenix
- Onlytradeschools.com – Best trade schools in Phoenix 2023
- Niche.com – 2023 best trade schools in Phoenix
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