20 Best Trade Schools In Texas In 2022

If you live in Texas and want to attend a trade school, you’re in luck because Texas has some of the best trade schools in the world. Being skilled in any field necessitates dedication and ongoing development. And development does not occur through wishful thinking; rather, it occurs through study. These trade schools are dedicated to assisting students in furthering their careers. They also provide appealing professional opportunities that can help anyone advance his or her career to the next level.

You will learn about the top 20 best trade schools in Texas that can help you launch a successful career. Follow the contents outlined below carefully to get an overview of everything this post entails.

Why Attend Best Trade Schools in Texas?

Trade schools provide a unique opportunity to enter a career without attending a traditional college. Trade schools offer on-the-job training for specific career paths, whereas colleges focus on academics. Many colleges offer both academic and vocational/trade programs. Students can expect to learn what they need to know for a specific career in fields such as emergency services, technology, or health care at trade schools. Other skilled trades, such as mechanics and diving, are also taught in trade schools.

Texas vocational and trade schools have been providing specialized career training for some of today’s top industries, such as health, information technology, skilled trades, and wellness. Each trade school program typically includes a curriculum that has been developed and is constantly being updated to meet the needs of the industry. This is accomplished through strong ties with employers, professional associations, and manufacturers. Essentially, the comprehensive programs are designed to accommodate a wide range of skill levels while also preparing each student to succeed in their chosen field. 

In addition, a wide range of student services are available, including free individual tutoring and graduate employment assistance, which can assist students with everything from resume writing to interviewing skills. There are several reasons why you should think about enrolling in Texas trade schools. Some of the reasons are as follows:

• Texas trade schools work hard to ensure that students have a positive and supportive educational experience from beginning to end.
• Most Texas trade schools offer financial aid in the form of scholarships to qualified students.
• Students can also benefit from flexible schedules, which may allow for a smooth transition between programs or the ability to switch between day and evening schedules with minimal disruption (depending on scheduling and availability).
• Many Texas cities, including Austin, Houston, and Dallas, to name a few, will provide the social aspects required to have a good time when taking a break from studying.

These benefits are only available if you are enrolled in one of the country’s trade schools. However, if you do not meet the basic requirements, you will be denied admission to Texas vocational schools. Read on to find out how to get started.

What Are Best Trade Schools in Texas?

Here are the top 20 best trade schools in Texas that will help you. These institutions offer hands-on training and skills that can be applied in the workplace immediately after completing a certification program or an associate’s degree. Our selection criteria for these programs are based on the benefits provided and the potential for advancement. We also considered the quality of education, average graduate earnings, accreditation, and several other relevant factors. As you continue reading, you will learn more about the various programs offered by the free online schools listed below.

1. Texas State Technical College-Waco

Texas State Technical College is regarded as one of the best trade schools in Texas which offers vocational school programs in texas. It is a public college in Waco, Texas, in McLennan County that was founded in 1965. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited the school to award Associate degrees and Certificates of Completion. Waco is the state’s only school with a funding model based on student employment outcomes. You must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00 (based on all terms of enrollment) and a term GPA of at least 2.00 during each period of enrollment to be admitted to Waco.

Tuition – $5,500

No. of Programs – 29

Student-Teacher ratio – 13.1

2. El Paso Community College

This is one of the best trade schools in Houston that offers vocational school programs in texas. It was founded in 1972. El Paso Community College (EPCC) is a community college in El Paso, Texas, in the United States. EPCC has over 150 programs, and you can earn a variety of associate degrees and technical certificates in as little as two years. The school has a significant impact on a student’s development; it provides the tools required to compete in the real world.

Tuition – $2,518

No. of Programs – 38

Student-Teacher ratio – 26.1

3. FORTIS College 

Fortis College is an excellent choice if you are looking for a school that provides a wide range of healthcare and medical career training. Fortis Technical College is one of the Texas technical colleges that offer offers vocational school programs in Surgical Technology, Medical Assisting, Sterile Processing Technician, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration, Medical Billing and Coding, and Healthcare Management. The Houston Sterile Processing Technician program educates students on medical terminology and procedures for keeping surgical instruments contaminant-free. 

Tuition – $22,539

No. of Programs – 6 

Student-Teacher ratio – 20:1

4. South Texas Vocational Technical Institute

If you are looking for one of the best trade schools in Texas that offers vocational school programs, then look no further. South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT) offers a high-quality education that prepares students for rewarding careers. Their primary focus is on business, health care, and skilled trades training. In addition to the school program, STVT provides deserving students with an average financial aid of $4,086. The school also prepares its students for employment in the companies for which they wish to work. The following courses are available as Diplomas at the school;

• Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration
• Automotive Service Technician
• Business Studies
• Combination Welding
• Dental Assisting
• Diesel – Heavy Truck
• Medical Administrative Assisting Technology
• Medical Assisting

Tuition – $18,260

No. of Programs – 8 

Student-Teacher ratio – 22:1 

5. Tulsa Welding School 

Tulsa Welding School is the best place to learn valuable skills for careers in welding, pipefitting, electrical work, or heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR). These vocational school programs will allow you to gain real-world technical abilities that employers in a variety of industries require. After completing your training, you will be able to pursue any opportunity in a variety of exciting industries all over the world. In addition to the academic program, the school provides qualified students with financial aid, student housing, or temporary employment.

Tuition – $16,195

Total Number of Programs – 5

Student-Teacher ratio – 30:1

6. Edge Tech Academy

Arlington, Texas is the home of Edge Tech Academy which is one of the best trade schools that offers vocational school programs. When you enroll, you will receive hands-on training from instructors with real-world industry experience at Edge Tech, which will provide you with valuable skills and confidence. The school specializes in the installation, maintenance, and repair of systems in both residential and commercial buildings. Edge Tech is also close to a large number of potential employers.

Tuition – $15,000

Number of Programs – 3 

Student-Teacher ratio – 4:1

7. Grayson College

This is one of the best trade schools in texas that offers trade school programs in demand. Grayson offers a wide range of vocational certificate degrees on-campus and online, with GC providing student counseling. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. The school is regarded as one of the best technical colleges in Texas. Students who want to enter the workforce immediately after graduation can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree. There is also an Associate of Arts in Teaching degree for aspiring teachers who plan to continue their education at a four-year college.

Tuition – $2,952

Number of Programs – 21 

Student-Teacher ratio – 18:1

8. Lamar Institute Of Technology

Lamar Institute of Technology is one of the best trade schools in Texas that offers vocational school programs. Certificate programs are available at the institute in areas such as healthcare, energy, technology, and public safety. Lab Technician, Instrumentation Technician, and Police and Criminal Science are all popular majors. It has a total enrollment of 1,313 undergraduate students and a 100% acceptance rate. Lamar Institute has a 33% graduation rate, and alumni earn an average starting salary of $30,600.

Tuition – $14,703

Number of Programs – 4 

Student-Teacher Ratio – 16:1

9. ECPI University

Without ECPI University, the list of top trade schools in Texas would be incomplete as they offer vocational school programs. The university offers a variety of bachelor’s, associate’s, and diploma programs. ECPI focuses on assisting students in developing widely used communication, comprehension, and problem-solving skills that are essential for becoming valuable, productive employees. School programs are available in a variety of formats, including online, on-site, and a hybrid of the two. The following advantages are provided by the school:

• Programs designed in response to industry expectations and actual employer feedback.
• Externship and clinical opportunities for professionals.
• Due to year-round schedules, program lengths are reduced.
• Faculty who have been carefully selected and are eager to share their knowledge.
• Team-based tutoring services are available on a flexible basis.

Tuition – $16,639

No. of Programs – 5 

Student-Teacher ratio -11:1

10. Aviation Institute of Maintenance Programs

This is one of the top trade schools in Texas that offers vocational school programs. The Aviation Institute of Maintenance is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and offers FAA-approved programs (FAA). Avionics Technician, Aviation Maintenance Technician, Combination Welding, and HVAC Technology are among the skill trade programs offered at the school. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. After graduating from the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, you will be prepared to begin your career in the aviation industry thanks to the training you will receive.

Tuition – $19,078

Number of Programs – 4

Student-Teacher ratio – 13:1

11. Lee College

Lee College, located in Baytown, Texas, is a public community college. It is one of the best technical colleges in Texas. Lee provides students with both online and on-campus training. If you want to transfer to a four-year program, you can enroll in an AA degree program for students or a dual-credit program for high school students. In addition to the school program, the school provides financial aid to students to help them pay for their Lee College expenses and other living expenses as much as possible.

Tuition – $4,179

No. of Programs – 27 

Student-Teacher Ratio – 13:1 

12. Ogle School of Hair, Skin, and Nails – Arlington

This is one of the best trade schools that offer vocational school programs in Texas. Ogle School has been accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), which is recognized by the US Department of Education. The school has 8 campuses throughout the state and offers both part-time and full-time schedules in Cosmetology and Esthetics programs. To be admitted to Ogle, you must be fluent in English and have a high school diploma from an accredited school or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED).

Tuition – $16,950

Number of Programs – 2 

Student-Teacher ratio – 20:1

13. Lincoln Tech 

This is one of the best trade schools in texas that offers trade school programs in demand. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. Consider Lincoln Tech if you are looking for the top trade school to help you reach your full potential. It is one of the Texas technical colleges that operate remotely. The school offers a variety of programs that will assist you in establishing a successful career. A school representative at Lincoln Tech can provide you with additional assistance.

Tuition – $27,401

No. of Programs – 4

Student-Teacher ratio – 33:1

14. Universal Technical Institute

Because of its uniqueness and high-quality service to students, Universal Technical Institute is among the top trade schools in Texas. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. The school collaborates with leading manufacturers to ensure that students are trained on cutting-edge vehicles that use industry-standard technology. You can earn factory technician certification points, putting you at the forefront of your field’s knowledge and preparing you for ASE certification. UTC employment services are built on extensive industry relationships to make the transition into the professional world as smooth as possible. 

Additionally, the school offers several financial aids and scholarships to students to make schooling affordable.

Tuition – $46,250

Number of Programs – 4 

Student-Teacher Ratio – 32:1

15. Remington College

This is one of the best trade schools in texas that offers trade school programs in demand. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. Remington College is a non-profit educational institution that focuses on career-oriented technical education. The school offers high-quality programs that are designed to allow you to earn a diploma or degree in a short time. Externships are available in some programs, allowing you to learn what it’s like to work in your field of study while making connections with people who can help you throughout your career. To get started, choose one of the programs listed below;

• Beauty
• Business
• Creative Arts
• Culinary Arts
• Electronics
• Health Care
• Information Technology
• Legal & Criminal Justice
• Skilled Trades

Tuition – $16,056

No. of Programs – 9 

Student-Teacher Ratio – 23:1

16. Odessa College

Odessa College provides training programs ranging from one day to one year. These courses result in continuing education credits, which are awarded upon successful completion. Cosmetology, electronics, computer and information science, PC support, and criminal justice leadership are among the programs available.

Tuition – $3,384.

Enrollment – 6,828 students

17. Vernon College 

This is one of the top trade schools in texas that offers trade school programs in demand. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. Vernon College provides career and technical education programs that range in length from one (1) semester to two (2) years. Completing these programs may result in immediate employment as well as various licensures and certifications. Programs offered include Automotive, Welding, Automation/Electrical, HVAC, Computers, Business, Cosmetology, Farm/Ranch, Barber, Police and Fire academies, Court Reporting, Culinary, Massage Therapy, as well as many Allied Health programs such as LVN, RN, EMS, Surgical Technology, Health Information, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assisting, Phlebotomy, Medical Assisting, Certified Nurse Aide, and Medication Aide.

Tuition – $4,240.

Enrollment – 2,930 

18. Dallas College

For those looking to start a career, Dallas College offers continuing education certifications as well as trade options. Certifications are available in phlebotomy, personal training, Microsoft Office, food safety management, and other fields.

Tuition – $3,330.

Enrollment – 12,947 students 

19. South Texas College

South Texas College provides students with career and technical programs that include didactic, hands-on instruction, and field training. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. Commercial and residential electrician training, construction technology, auto body repair, and heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration training are just a few of the options.

Tuition –  $3,748.

Enrollment – 8,628 students

20. San Jacinto Community College

This is one of the top trade schools in texas that offers trade school programs in demand. It’s among the technical schools in texas with housing. San Jacinto Community College provides applied technology and trades programs to help students advance quickly in their chosen careers. Vocational school programs like welding, pipefitting, truck driving, and other trade courses provide hands-on experience and training.

Tuition –  $3,240.

Enrollment – 32,452 students 

Conclusion

Acquiring certification or a degree in Texas schools can lead to a rewarding career. Everything you need to get a good education can be found at one of these Texas colleges or universities. Browse the list above to find the information you need to compare each college in Texas to find the program that is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Admissions Requirements for Top Trade Schools in Texas?

Enrolling in the best trade school programs in Texas is a very honorable decision. You will learn a new skill or get a refresher on the ones you already have. However, there are numerous school settings where you can obtain vocational certification or a degree. While some people prefer to attend accredited universities, others look into online options, and a few opt for community trade schools. 

Depending on your field of interest, obtaining a trade school certification is a smarter, more cost-effective way to quickly learn new skills and gain entry into a rewarding career. To gain admission into any trade school, you must demonstrate English proficiency, obtain a high school diploma and, pass the interview.

What to Consider When Choosing Texas Trade Schools

When deciding on a trade school, look for one with smaller class sizes and a lower tuition rate. Find one that specializes in the field in which you want to work. Some programs, for example, will specialize in paralegal, paramedic, or radiology training. You should also look for accredited and licensed programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges grants regional accreditation in Texas. Specific programs may also be accredited by other accrediting commissions. 

The Distance Education Accrediting Commission, for example, grants accreditation to online schools. 

What Does It Cost to Attend the Best Texas Trade School?

The cost of certification is determined by the type of program you wish to pursue; while some courses are inexpensive, the majority are not. A typical trade school diploma costs $33,000. However, there may be additional fees for textbooks and course materials. Before you rush to pay, let’s take a quick look at the certification programs that are best for you.

What Is The Duration Of Texas Trade Schools?

Program lengths vary depending on the school, but they can typically range from eight months to two years. A trade school, unlike a four-year college, does not award a bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of the program, you will typically be awarded a diploma or trade certificate.

Can I Attend a Trade School While I’m Still Working?

Yes, you can choose a schedule that fits your job.

Can I Get A Good Job With A Trade School Certification?

With a trade school diploma, you can pursue a variety of career options.

What are some Other Trade Schools In Texas?

Who are some Texas Trade School And Technical Colleges Notable Alumni

Celebrities, politicians, business owners, CEOs, and others have all graduated from Texas trade schools. These individuals have gone on to make significant contributions to politics and business. The following is a list of some notable alumni, in no particular order;

• Andy LaRoche, a third baseman at the Sugar Land Skeeters.
• John Lackey, former pitcher for the Chicago Cubs.
• Steven Okert, baseball pitcher
• John Fincher, Artist
• Ruth Hurmence Green, Author
• Grace Halsell, Writer
• Holly Hunt, Designer 
• Ken Little, Sculptor