Best Online Vocational Trade Schools

Online vocational trade schools train learners for specific careers. Students learn through traditional instruction and hands-on experience. Applicants may need a high school or GED diploma. Online trade schools offer majors leading to many careers, such as electrician, HVAC technician, and welder.

Graduates may work in the mechanical, construction, or industrial trades. They may also work in the medical or culinary fields. Salaries vary for different trade school careers.

This page lists some of the most affordable online trade schools. Read on for answers to frequent questions and to learn about costs and potential degrees.

View Our Rankings List Here

FAQ About Vocational Trade Schools

What jobs can you get with a vocational degree?

Vocational school careers include automotive technician, dental assistant, and electrician technician. Academic and career advisors can help students choose a professional path.

What kind of degrees do you get from a vocational school?

Online vocational trade schools may offer certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. The latter appeals to learners planning to enroll in a bachelor's-completion program.

What are some of the highest-paying trade jobs?

Some of the highest-paying trade school careers include elevator technician, boilermaker, and electrician. Plumbers also earn wages that exceed the median national salary for all jobs.

Why Earn a Vocational Degree?

Online vocational schools offer many advantages over four-year colleges. These schools' programs train learners for specific careers. Some programs feature many annual start dates. Hands-on training helps enrollees develop in-demand skills. Some schools also accept learners without a high school or GED diploma.

Many trade careers pay above-average salaries. Elevator and escalator installers earn a median annual salary of $88,540, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters earn $56,330. Workers can increase their salary potential by working for a specific employer or moving to a state with a higher median salary.

How Much Does a Vocational Degree Cost?

Online vocational trade schools charge different tuition rates. Enrollees typically spend less than degree-seekers at four-year colleges. This advantage helps learners lower their student debt.

Students not only save money but also enter the workforce faster than traditional college learners. Full-time students can complete most vocational programs in 1-2 years. Part-time associate degree-seekers may need an extra year.

Students can lower their out-of-pocket expenses by applying for scholarships and grants. They should also submit the FAFSA.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online vocational trade schools charge students more than just tuition. For example, students may need to pay graduation or technology fees. Online learners may need to buy a computer that meets their school's technology requirements. Students should also budget for commuting to work sites.

Some workers need more than a trade school education to achieve their career goals. They can improve their resume by earning a professional certification. A certification shows mastery of specific skills. Students should budget for certification fees. Career advisors can help learners select the right certifications.

Example Courses at an Online Vocational Trade School

Online vocational trade schools feature specialized curricula. Learners take classes specific to their chosen career. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education classes in the humanities, sciences, and other subjects. They can transfer these classes to a bachelor's-completion program.

Students in a certificate in welding program often take the following three classes. Please note that not all trade schools offer this program online or in a hybrid format. Students should research potential schools' graduation requirements before applying. They can also contact an admissions advisor for details.

• Introduction to Welding, Safety, and Careers

  Students take this class before starting hands-on training. Coursework covers standard welding tools, methods, and protective equipment. Other class topics include popular careers and the most in-demand certifications. These lessons provide the academic foundation learners need before developing their skills in a welding lab.

• Gas Metal Welding Arc I

  Learners study how to set up and inspect equipment. Students use this equipment to learn basic welds. Learners show their skills by creating different welding joints. Other coursework involves replacing worn-out parts, such as the wire spool.

• Welding Applications I

  This class lets students uniquely show their skills. Learners work with an instructor to develop a project. Requirements include planning, blueprinting, and execution. Students use welding equipment throughout the process. The final product must include different welds an instructor grades with a rubric.

Example Degrees at an Online Vocational Trade School

Online vocational trade schools feature many fully online and hybrid degrees. Local junior and community colleges may also offer vocational certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. Learners can complete some programs in 12 months or less. Degree-seekers complete local in-person labs or internships. Some of these experiences prepare students to earn an industry certification.

The three programs below train learners for specific occupations. Please note that programs vary by school. Students should check with their prospective schools' admissions department for information.

• Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

  This program trains aspiring HVAC technicians and systems engineers. Classes focus on the techniques professionals use to install, maintain, and fix HVAC equipment. Learners master the latest industry standards throughout coursework and labs. Top programs prepare graduates to earn Environmental Protection Agency certification. Most entry-level jobs require this certification.

• Physical Therapist Assistant

  Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) help people regain function and mobility. Coursework covers rehabilitation best practices, patient/client relationships, and data recording. Other class topics include patient management and special populations. Top PTA programs hold accreditation from the American Physical Therapy Association. Graduates may work in hospitals or private physical therapy offices.

• Pharmacy Technicians

  Pharmacy technicians work at drugstores, hospitals, and grocery stores. Top programs train students in customer service, laws and regulations, and medicine preparation. Learners also master common management software. Programs qualify graduates to earn the national certification needed for entry-level positions.

Best Online Vocational and Trade Schools