College is expensive and time-consuming, and for many adults, a seemingly impossible pursuit when the demands of family, work, and everyday life get in the way. However, the growing economy and booming industries needing more workers make online trade schools an excellent alternative to a four-year degree. Online trade schools cater to busy adults, and many have dedicated resources to help students achieve success. Many online trade schools provide continuously evolving programs as they work together with local communities to ensure graduates have a variety of career options following graduation. Our goal is to help students of all ages and backgrounds find the best certificate and degree programs for their schedules and professional goals.
Our Ranking Criteria
To create our list of the top 20 online trade schools, we researched over 120 colleges and universities across the U.S. and narrowed them down to this list of the twenty best online trade schools. We based our research on the materials available online at each school’s website, including aggregate rankings from reputable publications to compare the best schools. Important criteria were based on four key factors: academic quality, graduation rate, cost and ROI, and available student resources.
The 20 Best Online Trade Schools
1. Columbus State Community College
Intelligent Score: 99.98
At Columbus State, students can expect cutting-edge curriculums in high-demand fields like healthcare and information management. Columbus boasts affordable tuition rates and over sixty certificate programs that students can pursue on-campus or online. Though the campus caters to over 40K students at any given point, class sizes remain small, with around 20 students in each class. Columbus State has been providing online classes since the 1990s, so they attract quality professors with industry and work experience that students can benefit significantly from.
Learn more about Columbus State Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,038 |
| Student Enrollment | 45,000+ full & part-time students |
| Graduation Rate | 18% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 3-39, Associate: 60-67 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Columbus, OH |
2. Gateway Community and Technical College
Intelligent Score: 99.80
Gateway Community and Technical College (GCTC) consistently ranks as one of the top online community colleges for its class offerings and affordability. With the lowest tuition rates in Kentucky, Gateway offers several programs entirely online, and with multiple start dates, they make it easy to find a program that fits your schedule. Students can expect the same quality online resources that they’d find as traditional, on-campus students, including a local eLearning support center for students who need a little more support while pursuing a new career.
Learn more about Gateway Community and Technical College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $4,328 |
| Student Enrollment | 4,093 |
| Graduation Rate | 36% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 4-24, Associate: 60-63 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Florence, KY |
3. West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Intelligent Score: 99.34
In the town of Paducah sits West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC), one of the top five community colleges in the country for its low tuition rates and history of student success. In 2021, WKCTC was a Finalist of Distinction for the Aspen Prize. This national award recognizes the best community colleges for their high performance and achievement of equitable outcomes for their students during and after college. WKCTC understands that learning is a challenging endeavor and aims to be a partner invested in their student’s academic and professional success.
Learn more about West Kentucky Community and Technical College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,679 |
| Student Enrollment | 4,869 |
| Graduation Rate | 42% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 4-29, Diploma: 36-50, Associate: 60-68 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Paducah, KY |
4. Rio Salado College
Intelligent Score: 98.88
With over 600 online class offerings and classes starting every week, Rio Salado College (RSC) has a flexible career plan for you. There’s no fee to apply, so there’s no risk in making the first step toward a new career. RSC also provides Fast track certificates, which can be completed in two semesters or less, for those students looking for an accelerated program in fast-growing fields like Computer and Information Technology and Health Sciences.
Learn more about Rio Salado College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $9,170 (in-state tuition is significantly cheaper) |
| Student Enrollment | 6,288 |
| Graduation Rate | 18% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 12-30, Associate: 62-73 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Tempe, AZ |
5. Southwest Mississippi Community College
Intelligent Score: 97.99
Southwest Mississippi Community College (SMCC) hosts an idyllic campus on the edge of town with sixty acres of tall shade trees, robust shrubs, and a multitude of flowering plants. With such a beautiful setting, you may reconsider distance learning, though SMCC has a large variety of career and technical education programs to capture your interest. Among the programs offered are cosmetology, carpentry, and automotive technology certificates. If students are exploring certificate education in preparation for outside employment upon completion of the program — SMCC provides financial assistance to qualified students.
Learn more about Southwest Mississippi Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,029 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,675 |
| Graduation Rate | 35% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Associate: 60 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Summit, MS |
6. Shoreline Community College
Intelligent Score: 96.76
North of Seattle, Shoreline Community College (SCC) caters to students looking to transition into a new career or update their current occupational knowledge. SMCC makes it affordable with opportunities for workforce funding and worker retraining so that students can find low-cost options for their technical training. In addition to learning from faculty with extensive real-world experience, a panel of industry experts determines the course content. Students can find flexible schedules and short-term programs tailored to their educational needs and professional goals.
Learn more about Shoreline Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $7,866 |
| Student Enrollment | 2,879 |
| Graduation Rate | 44% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 55, Associate: 60-93 |
| Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Location | Shoreline, WA |
7. Stanly Community College
Intelligent Score: 96.41
If a career in the growing field of healthcare sounds like the ideal opportunity, then Stanly Community College (SCC) is a great choice. With their 29-week course, students can be educated in the post-primary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) practice. In as little as six months, students can have a brand-new career without the high cost of traditional four-year colleges. SCC offers many other certificate programs that won’t disrupt your life.
Learn more about Stanly Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,533 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,581 |
| Graduation Rate | 29% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 18, Associate: 60-68 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Albemarle, NC |
8. Holmes Community College
Intelligent Score: 96.28
At Holmes Community College (HCC), students can find an abundance of technical programs and e-learning courses to suit their educational goals. Students can get specialized training in careers like Forest Technology, EMT, and Culinary Arts, among many others. HCC makes it easy for students to customize their schedule and career plan, so whether students are looking for a quick promotion or a lifelong career change — HCC has the right option for you.
Learn more about Holmes Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,978 |
| Student Enrollment | 4,514 |
| Graduation Rate | 24% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Associate: 60 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Goodman, MS |
9. Hutchinson Community College
Intelligent Score: 95.97
With a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, students at Hutchinson Community College get the personalized education of a big school without the price tag. HCC offers more than 250 online courses for students to complete an Associate degree or specialty certificate. HCC allows students to mix and match classroom and online courses to help them reach their goals as quickly as possible. Students can expect engaging coursework and dedicated faculty invested in students far beyond the classroom.
Learn more about Hutchinson Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $6,969 |
| Student Enrollment | 3,110 |
| Graduation Rate | 28% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 16-54, Associate: 60 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Hutchinson, KS |
10. Central Georgia Technical College
Intelligent Score: 95.89
With one of the lowest average tuition rates of all the colleges listed, Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC) in Warner Robins, GA, is committed to distance education with 100% online, hybrid, and telepresence options. Course offerings include programs in early childhood education, cybersecurity, and metrology. Students enjoy getting an education on their terms and without a financial hangover.
Learn more about Central Georgia Technical College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $2,404 |
| Student Enrollment | 5,922 |
| Graduation Rate | 41% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 9-36, Diploma: 37-59, Associate: 60-72 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Warner Robins, GA |
11. West Georgia Technical College
Intelligent Score: 95.89
West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) has 100 degree, diploma, and certificate programs suited for every style of student. WGTC’s online class catalog is divided into three schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, Business and Public Services, and Health Sciences. Students can explore exciting new fields like Fire Science Technology, Cybersecurity, and Medical Coding. WGTC believes that many courses lend themselves well to the online format and makes education more accessible for individuals regardless of their geographic location. WGTC also has partnerships with many other U.S. States so students can pick the right place to start their new life.
Learn more about West Georgia Technical College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $4,974 |
| Student Enrollment | 7,184 |
| Graduation Rate | 29% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 9-18, Diploma: 37-42, Associate: 60-65 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Waco, GA |
12. Richmond Community College
Intelligent Score: 95.03
Richmond Community College (RCC) has an extensive list of diploma, certificate, and degree programs, including hundreds of online classes that can transfer to higher education institutions across the U.S. With highly-trained faculty, students receive established support and quality instruction on their own time. Criminal Justice Technology is one of RCC’s more unique options, offering students the opportunity for a career in public service. Although the class is 100% online, students work on projects that take education to the next level. Fans of crime shows will appreciate the hands-on activities such as fingerprinting, blood-spatter analysis, and crime scene investigations.
Learn more about Richmond Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $4,388 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,429 |
| Graduation Rate | 28% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 18, Associate: 60-68 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Hamlet, NC |
13. Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Intelligent Score: 94.72
Copiah-Lincoln Community College is well-known in Mississippi as a school with cutting-edge educational and community colleges. They’re also the only community college in the state with an International award-winning Underwater Robotics Team. Co-Lin has 37 traditional technical and 34 eLearning programs that can be completed entirely online. Co-Lin has five online career-technical programs, including accounting technology, administrative office, business and marketing management, and healthcare data technology. Students enjoy the convenience and fast pace of Copiah-Lincoln Community College.
Learn more about Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $3,833 |
| Student Enrollment | 2,150 |
| Graduation Rate | 34% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Associate: 60-66 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Wesson, MS |
14. Northcentral Technical College
Intelligent Score: 93.68
Northcentral Technical College (NTC) may be the right online school for you if you want a smaller institution with programs in high-demand fields. Popular majors include Emergency Medical Technician (EMT Paramedic), Nursing, and Welding. NTC has six campus locations in north central Wisconsin, so students who value a hybrid alternative can find the most convenient location. Compelling programs include Crop Science, Fire Medic, and Applied Mechanical CAD Technician. NTC has some of the most diverse technical offerings, and its website makes it easy to find an online program that works for you.
Learn more about Northcentral Technical College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $10,000 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,212 |
| Graduation Rate | 54% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 13, Associate: 61-62 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Wausau, WI |
15. Madisonville Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.98
Fermentation Science is just one of the many interesting programs that Madisonville Community College (MCC) has to offer. Students can explore hydroponics in their Agriculture department or learn how to fly and earn FAA-approved certifications to become a pilot or flight instructor. Students interested in education or healthcare can find several programs, including interdisciplinary early childhood education and occupation therapy. MCC also has a Mining Technology program that students can complete entirely online to become electricians, engineers in operations, mechanics, operators, or supervisors. No matter what the future holds, MCC has a program that fits your needs.
Learn more about Madisonville Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $3,996 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,906 |
| Graduation Rate | 40% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 16-20, Associate: 60 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Madisonville, KY |
16. Clovis Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.94
Not to be confused with the Clovis Community College in California, the New Mexico university with the same namesake has non-credit and credit online programs for students to explore. Non-credit courses are perfect for adults looking to level up their skills quickly without the time commitment of more extended programs. Students can pursue certificates in complementary and integrative health, sign language, or speed Spanish, among many others. Clovis Community College’s Paralegal Certificate approaches the law from a broad perspective, so students can consider the many areas of law before committing to a specialty.
Learn more about Clovis Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $5,411 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,528 |
| Graduation Rate | 21% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 31, Associate: 60 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Clovis, NM |
17. Trinity Valley Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.56
If college athletics is a passion you’d love to turn into a lifelong career, then Texas’s Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) is the perfect place to pursue an Athletic Training degree. With their entirely online program, students can apply their associate’s degree toward becoming exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, and athletic trainers. TVCC’s Robotics Technology Certificate can open the door for students to learn real-world skills like industrial automation and Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). The level one certificate is perfect for students looking for a foot in the door of the growing Robotics field.
Learn more about Trinity Valley Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $8,031 |
| Student Enrollment | 4,476 |
| Graduation Rate | 29% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 18, Associate: 60-63 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Athens, TX |
18. Eastern Gateway Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.05
Eastern Gateway Community College (EGCC) is a two-year school with a host of online course options. Students can potentially pursue courses in exciting areas of business management, such as cannabis, digital and social media marketing, and sustainable environments. Students love EGCC for its low-cost tuition and evolving program offerings. Students interested in the cannabis industry will learn directly from industry pioneers. Whether individuals are hoping to gain advanced job skills and knowledge in manufacturing, dispensary management, or cultivation, EGCC ensures that post-graduation students are entrenched in the local employer network so they can put their degrees to use as soon as possible.
Learn more about Eastern Gateway Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $2,543 |
| Student Enrollment | 38,613 |
| Graduation Rate | 20% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 38, Associate: 61 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Steubenville, OH |
19. Vance-Granville Community College
Intelligent Score: 91.3
Vance-Granville Community College (VGCC) is an excellent option for students wanting to study skilled technologies like air conditioning, automatic systems, or carpentry. Taught by leading professionals, VGCC has over forty further education courses that can be completed in a student’s timeframe. Most courses have multiple starting dates throughout the semester, which makes it easy to start classes at any time. Students can choose from many popular programs at VGCC in fields like Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Humanities.
Learn more about Vance-Granville Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $3,283 |
| Student Enrollment | 1,817 |
| Graduation Rate | 24% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Associate: 60-70 |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | Henderson, NC |
20. Pitt Community College
Intelligent Score: 89.94
Pitt Community College’s (PCC) mission since 1961 is to educate and empower people for success. They achieve this goal through their many distance education programs. Students can expect quality instruction from some of the industry’s leading experts and small class sizes that cater to individualized student learning. For students who want the best of both worlds, Pitt offers several courses with a hybrid option where students complete lab work on campus. Curriculum, like their Nuclear Medicine Technology, prepares individuals for entry-level careers in the health industry while opening up pathways of continuing education and financial freedom.
Learn more about Pitt Community College’s online trade school programs.
| Tuition | $4,192 |
| Student Enrollment | 5,374 |
| Graduation Rate | 26% |
| Required Credits to Graduate | Certificate: 15, Diploma: 30, Associate: 74 |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | Winterville, NC |
Why This Matters
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for workers with a postsecondary nondegree award, the typical level of education for trade school graduates, is $44,420. This is over $6,000 more than the average salary for workers with only a high school diploma ($38,290).
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects that, from 2021 to 2031, the number of jobs for workers with a postsecondary nondegree award will grow by 6.7%, while the number of jobs for those with a high school diploma will grow by just 2.9%.
- Many online trade schools offer associate degree programs in addition to nondegree award programs — workers with this level of education earn an average salary of $59,260, and their job opportunities are expected to grow by 8.8% over the next decade.
What is the Difference Between an Online Trade School and an Online College?
Compared to online programs at traditional four-year universities, online trade school programs are generally easier to get into and allow you to graduate faster. One drawback, though, is that trade schools generally offer a smaller selection of academic programs for you to choose from.
| Online Trade School | Online College |
| Online trade school programs tend to be focused on specialized, hands-on skills such as massage and respiratory therapy. | Most traditional colleges offer online programs for a wide variety of subject areas. |
| Online trade schools usually accept all students who apply. | Online colleges are often selective with their admissions and may deny an applicant based on their high school GPA, SAT/ACT scores, etc. |
| Many trade school programs can be completed in just a few months. | It takes most students at least two years to graduate from an online college. Students seeking a bachelor’s degree or higher will likely need to stay in school for four or more years. |
How Much Does an Online Trade School Cost?
Before committing to an online trade school program, prospective students should know how much it’s going to cost them. Some schools even offer resources for evaluating which programs will yield the greatest return on investment, which will help you make the most informed decision possible.
The cost of tuition for trade schools, which are considered two-year institutions, depends on whether you attend a public or private school. On average, public two-year institutions charged in-state students $3,900 for tuition and fees in the 2020-21 academic year, while private nonprofit two-year institutions charged $18,000.
It should be noted that most public schools charge significantly higher tuition rates for out-of-state students than in-state students. If you have just moved to a new state and plan to attend a public trade school, you should consider waiting until you have met the residency requirements for in-state tuition.
In addition to tuition and fees, there are other expenses involved with attending online trade school as well. For example, some of your courses may require you to buy a textbook, and you might find it necessary to buy equipment for attending your classes remotely, such as a microphone, headphones, or home office furniture. Keep these additional costs in mind when planning out the financing for your postsecondary education.
The Top 10 Fastest-Growing Trades
The table below reviews some of the fastest-growing jobs for workers with a postsecondary non-degree award or associate degree. For each of these career options, we’ve noted the median salary, job growth rate, and which schools featured above offer such programs:
Online Trade School FAQs
What are the benefits of attending an online trade school?
It’s no secret that tuition rates have skyrocketed over the past few decades, with the student loan debt crisis highlighting the exorbitant tuition rates of traditional four-year public universities. If the high cost of continuing education is a barrier to returning, an online trade school is a smart compromise that prioritizes workforce readiness and on-the-job training without the time and cost associated with traditional colleges.
Distance education is a valuable tool for students looking to save time and money, whether the plan is to transfer later to a four-year university or utilize their associate degree right away. During the pandemic, the need for accessible education increased rapidly across the country. Many online trade schools responded to this growing need and began adapting their program offerings to suit evolving industries like manufacturing and health care. Whether you’re a student looking to enhance a current career or trying to break into an emerging field like cannabis — online trade schools are one of the best options for students today.
What are the disadvantages of attending online trade schools?
The most significant disadvantage of online trade schools is for traditional learners who thrive in a physical classroom. Asynchronous learning is challenging and requires a great deal of time management and dedication for students to succeed. Many individuals may find the structure of traditional on-campus classes helpful as they begin their degrees. At the same time, others may discover on-campus life less conducive to their educational goals. Reputable online trade schools have advisors to help determine if distance learning is the right pathway for you.
Who should attend online trade schools?
Just about anyone can attend an online trade school. They’re a great option for students pursuing a new career or job promotion at their own pace. Ideally suited for adults with bustling work and home life, attending an online trade school is a cost-effective way to gain valuable educational and work experience that can translate to the real world. Students who work best asynchronously will benefit significantly from taking their education into their own hands.
Since these programs cater to students with rich lives outside of the classroom, students of all abilities and backgrounds are welcome to start their educational journey from the comfort of their homes.