Mesa, Arizona, a vibrant city within the expansive Phoenix metropolitan area, offers a compelling environment for individuals seeking rewarding careers in healthcare, business and the skilled trades.
The region’s robust population growth, aging demographic, and continuous urban development are fueling a sustained demand for professionals in these critical sectors. This creates a stable and promising job market for those looking for secure and impactful work.
Top Trade Schools in Mesa by Specialty
Healthcare Training Excellence
Arizona College of Nursing leads healthcare education with BSN programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The school operates across 20 campuses in 12 states and offers bachelor’s programs ranging from $16,000-$19,000 annually for in-state students.
Carrington College provides comprehensive healthcare training in medical assisting, dental assisting, pharmacy technology, and surgical technology. With 100% acceptance rates and programs costing $11,000-$20,000 annually, Carrington offers accessible healthcare education with strong industry connections.
East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) delivers tuition-free healthcare programs for high school students and affordable postsecondary training ($2,000-$5,000 annually) in Emergency Medical Technology, Nursing, and Surgical Technology.
Skilled Trades and Technical Training
Mesa Community College offers comprehensive skilled trades programs including automotive service, construction trades, HVAC, manufacturing, and welding. With average annual costs around $13,438 and 100% acceptance rates, MCC provides accessible technical education.
EVIT excels in industrial trades with programs in collision repair, HVACR, plumbing, and welding, offering both high school and adult training options with state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard equipment.
Business and Technology Programs
Thunderbird School of Global Management, partnered with Arizona State University, ranks #1 globally for international trade education. Full-time tuition costs approximately $40,000, with master’s programs ranging $60,000-$67,000 for complete programs.
Upper Iowa University provides business programs in accounting, finance, marketing, and criminal justice with annual tuition around $18,000 and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio.
Beauty and Wellness Specialization
Avalon Institute has provided beauty education since 1967, offering cosmetology, esthetics, and massage therapy programs with hands-on training in student salons. The school maintains NACCAS accreditation and operates with open admissions.
Arizona School of Integrative Studies specializes in massage therapy with 800-hour certificate programs costing $14,500, featuring multiple modalities including Swedish massage, Shiatsu, and lymph drainage massage.
Average Tuition Costs by School Type
Most Affordable Options:
- East Valley Institute of Technology: $2,000-$5,000 per year
- Mesa Community College: $13,438 average annual cost
- American Leadership Academy: Tuition-free for most programs
Mid-Range Pricing:
- Arizona School of Integrative Studies: $14,500 for massage therapy
- Carrington College: $11,000-$20,000 per year
Higher-End Programs:
- Arizona College of Nursing: $16,000-$19,000 for bachelor’s programs
- Upper Iowa University: $18,000 annually
Cheapest Trade Schools in Mesa
- American Leadership Academy – FREE tuition for charter school programs
- East Valley Institute of Technology – FREE for high school students, $2,000-$5,000 for adults
- Mesa Community College – $48.50-$579.50 per credit hour based on residency
Program Costs and Duration Analysis
Most Affordable Options
- EVIT: $2,000-$5,000 annually (postsecondary), free for high school students
- Mesa Community College: $13,438 average annual cost
- Arizona School of Integrative Studies: $14,500 for complete massage therapy program
- American Institute of Dental Assisting: $7,500 for 13-week program
Shortest Programs
- American Institute of Dental Assisting: 13 weeks
- Mesa Barber School Stylist Program: 200 hours
- Mesa Barber School International Program: 350 hours
- UEI College diplomas: 9 months
Average Program Duration
Most certificate programs range from 6-18 months, while associate degree programs typically require 18-24 months. Healthcare programs generally require longer training periods due to clinical requirements and state licensing standards.
List of Best Trade Schools in Mesa
Here is an alphabetical list of all the schools in the city so that you can review all of your options.
American Institute of Dental Assisting
The American Institute of Dental Assisting specializes in practical, patient-focused training, created by dentist Dr. Eldon Hastings to address the lack of hands-on experience in the field. Its flagship 13-week certificate course covers essential skills and prepares students for the Radiology Health and Safety and Infection Control exams, while an additional 7-week Extended Duties program offers further specialization. Tuition is $7,500 and includes all training, testing, and licensing fees, with payment plans available. Classes are built for flexibility, requiring only one day per week on campus with evening, weekend, and fully online study options available. Licensed by the Arizona Board of Private Post Secondary Education, the school has graduated over 1,100 students into dental careers statewide.
- 2500 S. Power Rd. Suite 127 Mesa, AZ 85209
American Leadership Academy
American Leadership Academy combines core high school courses with ten career-focused programs—Automotive, Aviation, Construction, Cosmetology, First Responder, Health Services, Hospitality, Business & Finance, Education, and Technology—on the same campus.
Classes run onsite Monday through Friday in two compressed morning sessions (8–11 AM or 9–12 PM), letting students finish career training efficiently. Adult learners can choose evening, weekend, or summer classes for added flexibility. The academy operates tuition-free for traditional students and offers low-cost adult education options. Accredited by Cognia with a 100% acceptance rate, it now spans over 30 schools in AZ, NC, and SC.
- 7729 E Pecos Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212
Arizona College of Nursing
Located conveniently close to Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert, the Arizona College-Mesa campus offers accelerated allied healthcare programs designed for quick entry into the workforce. With all programs completed in under 9 months and hybrid learning options, students enjoy flexible schedules tailored to their needs.
Notably, a high school diploma or GED isn’t required for most diploma programs, and new class sessions start approximately every 5 weeks, ensuring no waitlist for enrollment. Small class sizes foster personalized attention, while expert instruction and industry-standard facilities provide hands-on technical training with actual medical equipment.
The Mesa campus hosts four comprehensive programs: medical assistant with phlebotomy, medical billing and coding, dental assistant, and healthcare administration. Students benefit from dedicated career services, employment assistance, and the option to receive a preloaded Windows tablet for academic use, a valuable resource throughout their studies and beyond.
With fast-track admissions and continuous enrollment opportunities, Arizona College-Mesa paves a streamlined path to a rewarding healthcare career.
- 163 N Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201
Arizona School of Integrative Studies
The Arizona School of Integrative Studies in Mesa offers a COMTA-accredited massage therapy certificate program designed for flexible learning. Students receive training in various techniques including Swedish massage, Shiatsu, Reflexology, and Connective Tissue Massage. The part-time schedule allows completion in just over 12 months, with evening classes available for added convenience. Tuition is $14,500, and financial aid estimates can be accessed via the school’s net price calculator. With a 100% acceptance rate and small class sizes, the Mesa campus supports a welcoming and accessible path into massage therapy.
- 209 W. Main St. Mesa, AZ 85201
ASIS School of Massage
The Arizona School of Integrative Studies (ASIS) provides hands-on massage therapy and bodywork training through an 800-hour certificate program designed to meet Arizona licensing requirements and prepare graduates for the state board exam. With campuses in Verde Valley, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Mesa, the school offers both full-time (29 weeks) and part-time (12 months) schedules, including day and evening options. Students gain practical experience working with real clients in the supervised student clinic, benefiting from small class sizes of just 17 students per instructor. Tuition is $14,500 and covers all training, licensing fees, and exam preparation. ASIS is licensed by the Arizona State Board for Private Post-Secondary Education, accredited by COMTA, and has a 100% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.
- 209 W. Main Street Mesa, AZ 85201
Avalon Institute
Avalon Institute provides career-focused education in cosmetology, esthetics, massage therapy, makeup artistry, and related fields. Students train in on-site salons, gaining hands-on experience with real clients before graduation. The institute offers flexible day and evening classes across multiple campuses and operates with an open admissions policy.
Costs vary by program and location, but financial aid, scholarships, and a Net Price Calculator are available to help students estimate expenses. Avalon is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), ensuring quality and legitimacy in its beauty education programs.
- 2111 S Alma School Rd Mesa, AZ 85210
Carrington College
Carrington College’s Mesa campus, located at 1001 W. Southern Ave., Suite 130, Mesa, AZ 85210, provides a convenient and vibrant learning environment to its student body. With two buildings within walking distance from Fiesta Mall, and easy access to the Superstition Freeway, the campus caters to busy students’ needs with accessible amenities available in the nearby vicinity. Spanning over 58,000 square feet, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a simulation theater with advanced Human Patient Simulators and a modern dental hygiene clinic open to the public. The small college setting ensures personalized attention, fostering a close-knit community where instructors bring real-world experience into the classroom.
- 1001 W Southern Ave., Ste 130 Mesa, AZ 85210
East Valley Institute of Technology
The East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) is a leading career and technical education district in Phoenix, offering hands-on training to over 5,000 students each year. With programs for both high school students and adult learners, EVIT covers fields such as health sciences, industrial trades, and STEM. Students can attend classes during morning, afternoon, or evening sessions, with flexible scheduling options available. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and Cognia, EVIT ensures high-quality education aligned with industry standards. Tuition is free for high school students, while postsecondary programs range from $2,000 to $5,000 annually.
- 1601 W Main Street Mesa, AZ 85201
Mesa Barber School
Mesa Barber School in Arizona offers three certificate programs: the 1,200-hour Barber Program, the 200-hour Barber Stylist Program, and the 350-hour International Barber Program. Founded by experienced barbers Manuel and Blanca Ramirez, the school emphasizes hands-on training with real customers from day one, supported by licensed instructors. Students can choose from morning, afternoon, or evening classes, combining group lessons with one-on-one skill development. Tuition is $12,300 for the full Barber Program, $3,300 for the Barber Stylist Program, and $4,450 for the International Barber Program, all of which include necessary tools and materials. Accredited by the Arizona State Board of Barbers Examiners, graduates qualify to sit for state licensing exams and enter the workforce with practical, industry-ready skills.
Ask ChatGPT
- 9333 E. Main St. #110 Mesa, AZ 85207
- 67 N. Dobson Rd. #102 Mesa, AZ 85201
Mesa Community College
Mesa Community College has grown from 330 inaugural students in 1963 to more than 25,500 learners across two campuses today. It offers certificate and associate degree programs in fields such as Accounting, Creative Writing (AA in English), CNC Machining, Journalism, and Nursing with hands-on clinical externships. Classes run in traditional classrooms, fully online, live online, or hybrid models, with many programs available evenings to suit working students.
Tuition averages $13,438 per year—billed by credit hour at $48.50 to $579.50 depending on residency, veteran status, and delivery method—and a net price calculator helps estimate individual costs and aid options. Fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and operating with a 100% acceptance rate, MCC makes higher education accessible to all qualified applicants.
- 1833 West Southern Ave Mesa, AZ 85202
- 7110 East McKellips Road Mesa, AZ 85207
- 145 North Centennial Way Mesa, AZ 85201
- 1833 West Southern Ave Mesa, AZ 85202
Thunderbird School of Global Management
Located in downtown Phoenix, AZ, Thunderbird School of Global Management is part of Arizona State University. The institution awards a range of degrees related to the international management field. In addition, students can earn certificates in business analytics, global finance, and similar disciplines.
- QUAD 4, 7107 E Tiburon, Bldg 4 Mesa, AZ 85212
UEI College
Teaching skills for automotive, criminal justice, computer, HVAC, business, and healthcare vocations, UEI College has sites in Georgia, Arizona, and California. Courses at the trade school prepare students for technical careers in fields like cyber security, machine repair, or medical billing. Schedules are flexible, and campuses offer day and night classes.
- 1420 W Southern Ave Mesa, AZ 85202
Upper Iowa University
UIU’s online Bachelor of Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Public Administration degrees are designed to give you the flexibility you need to balance classwork with your career.
- 1601 W. Main St. Building 15 Mesa, AZ 85201
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Ultra-Fast Career Training
American Institute of Dental Assisting offers the fastest career entry with a 13-week certificate program costing $7,500. Students attend only one day per week with evening and weekend options, plus a 7-week Extended Duties program for additional specialization.
Mesa Barber School provides multiple pathways:
- Barber Stylist Program: 200 hours ($3,300)
- International Barber Program: 350 hours ($4,450)
- Full Barber Program: 1,200 hours ($12,300)
Rapid Healthcare Certification
EVIT’s Emergency Medical Technician program offers quick entry into healthcare, while UEI College provides 9-month diploma programs in medical assisting and dental assisting for $19,900-$21,500.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Evening and Weekend Programs
American Leadership Academy offers flexible scheduling with programs running 8 AM-11 AM or 9 AM-12 PM, plus evening, weekend, and summer options for adult education students.
The American Institute of Dental Assisting accommodates working professionals with once-weekly attendance requirements and offers a 100% online program for self-paced learning.
Hybrid and Online Learning
Mesa Community College provides multiple learning formats including in-person, online, live online, and hybrid classes to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences.
ASIS School of Massage offers part-time programs completing in 12 months for working adults, with classes Tuesday-Thursday evenings (6 PM-9:30 PM) plus online components.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Mesa trade schools maintain various accreditations ensuring educational quality:
- EVIT: Council on Occupational Education (COE) and Cognia accreditation
- Arizona College of Nursing: CCNE accreditation for nursing programs
- Carrington College: ACCJC/WASC accreditation
- Avalon Institute: NACCAS accreditation
- Arizona School of Integrative Studies: COMTA accreditation
Financial Aid and Support Services
Most schools offer comprehensive financial aid including federal grants, loans, scholarships, and military benefits. Mesa Community College provides a net price calculator, while schools like Carrington College offer fixed tuition rates to avoid sudden cost increases.
Veterans receive special support through VA benefits acceptance and dedicated veteran services at institutions like UEI College and Carrington College.
Career Services and Job Placement
Leading Mesa trade schools provide robust career support including:
- Job placement assistance and career fairs
- Resume building and interview preparation
- Industry partnerships for externships and employment
- Alumni networks and ongoing career support
- Hands-on training with real clients and equipment
Mesa’s trade school landscape offers comprehensive career training opportunities with flexible scheduling, affordable costs, and strong industry connections, making it an excellent choice for both traditional students and working adults seeking career advancement or transition.