Anaheim Trade Schools

Anaheim’s strategic location in Orange County creates a thriving environment for skilled professionals across healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. The city’s trade schools capitalize on this demand by offering specialized programs that prepare students for immediate employment in high-growth industries. From medical assisting to automotive technology, Anaheim’s educational institutions provide diverse pathways to stable careers.

Best Schools by Specialty

Healthcare Education Leaders

American Career College leads healthcare education with comprehensive programs in surgical technology, pharmacy technician, vocational nursing, medical billing and coding, radiology, and medical/dental assisting. The school emphasizes hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment in classrooms and labs.

Concorde Career College brings nearly 60 years of experience (since 1966) in shaping healthcare professionals. Located in Garden Grove near Long Beach, Santa Ana, and Anaheim, Concorde offers diploma and associate degree programs in Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Medical Assisting with flexible schedules and programs completing in as little as 8 months.

West Coast University operates the most extensive healthcare program, serving over 3,000 bachelor’s students across 12 different degree programs including Nursing (BSN), Dental Hygiene, Health Administration, Healthcare Management, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Respiratory Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Radiologic Technology, and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Graduates achieve impressive average annual salaries exceeding $100,000.

Martinson College of Southern California provides highly specialized training in Sterile Processing Technology, addressing critical needs in healthcare facilities. Their graduates work at prestigious institutions including Providence Hospitals, UCLA Medical Center, HOAG Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC).

Technology and Engineering Programs

Southern California Institute of Technology specializes in technical education with certificates and degrees in electrical technology and engineering, biomedical technology and engineering, information technology, and industrial automation technology. The school offers both on-campus classes with well-equipped labs and online course options.

California Coast University has pioneered accessible education since 1973, offering cutting-edge distance learning programs. Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), CCU provides undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration and psychology with 100% online options tailored for working professionals.

Skilled Trades Excellence

Universal Technical Institute operates a premier Long Beach campus offering six core programs: airframe and powerplant engineering, automotive mechanic training, collision repair, diesel mechanic training, HVAC/R, and welding. Programs range from 9-18 months with intensive training covering topics from aircraft troubleshooting to battery electric vehicle technology.

UEI College provides swift pathways to career readiness with programs completing in as few as 10 months. Their diverse offerings include Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, HVAC Technician, Automotive Technician, and Electrician Technician training.

Summit College has provided technical and skilled trades training since 1991, offering certificates and degree programs with comprehensive accreditation and strong job placement support.

Specialized and Unique Programs

InterCoast Colleges founded in 1982, offers distinctive programs including Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, and Solar Installation alongside traditional healthcare and business training. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning with industry-experienced instructors.

National Holistic Institute focuses on massage therapy with an emphasis on overall wellness, operating ten campuses throughout California with a location in Santa Ana.

Platt College operates from a 40,000-square-foot Anaheim campus offering programs in occupational therapy, diagnostic medical sonography, business management, medical and nursing assisting, veterinary technology, health and fitness, and criminal justice.

Cost Analysis and Program Duration

Most Affordable Options

California Coast University stands out for affordability, offering interest-free payment plans and tuition credit programs that can save students up to $5,100. The institution’s commitment to accessible education makes it particularly attractive for working professionals.

Quick Entry Programs (Under 12 Months)

  • Concorde Career College: Programs completing in as little as 8 months
  • UEI College: Most programs complete in 10 months
  • Various certificate programs at multiple institutions

Standard Program Length (12-24 Months)

  • Universal Technical Institute: 9-18 month programs
  • Most associate degree and diploma programs
  • Specialized healthcare certifications

Extended Programs (2-4 Years)

  • West Coast University: Bachelor’s degree programs
  • California Coast University: Undergraduate and graduate degrees
  • Comprehensive professional preparation programs

American Career College

Rating: 3.2 of 5

Students can enroll in healthcare education programs at American Career College’s Orange County campus in Anaheim. Thanks to state-of-the-art equipment in the classrooms and labs, students can pursue promising surgical and pharmacy tech, vocational nursing, medical billing and coding, radiology, medical or dental assistant, and occupational, respiratory, and physical therapist careers.

  • 1200 North Magnolia Ave. Anaheim, CA 92801

California Coast University

Rating: 4.7 of 5

California Coast University’s Santa Ana campus has been known for offering accessible education since its inception in 1973. Founded with a noble objective of catering to students constrained by time limitations, CCU has been a trailblazer in facilitating education beyond the confines of traditional classrooms. Located in Santa Ana, California, the institution’s main campus embraces a culture of inclusivity while extending its reach through remote learning options, which is ideal for individuals seeking self-paced degree programs.

Distinguished for its commitment to innovation, CCU’s programs are crafted based on cutting-edge research in distance learning education. CCU stands tall among educational institutions, accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and holding institutional approval from the Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Recognized by the Council for Higher Education (CHEA), CCU offers various undergraduate and graduate programs ranging from business administration to psychology.

CCU prides itself on its affordability, offering interest-free payment plans and tuition credit programs to save students up to $5,100. The institution’s commitment to student satisfaction is evident in the 2022 student survey results, with 99% expressing satisfaction with their studies and achievement of their educational goals. Additionally, 92% of respondents credited their CCU degree for enhancing their careers, solidifying CCU’s reputation as a catalyst for professional advancement. With 100% online options tailored for working professionals, CCU continues to empower individuals to fulfill their educational aspirations while navigating demanding

  • 925 N Spurgeon St. Santa Ana, CA 92701

CNI

Rating: 3.6 of 5

Offerings include BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, AOS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, AOS in Surgical Technology, and Vocational Nursing, with program lengths varying by track. Coursework is scheduled across days, evenings, and some weekends; many programs use hybrid delivery, and MRI includes a 1,000-hour externship in clinical sites. Tuition ranges from about $11,275 for the RN-to-BSN to $155,450 for the BSN, with additional costs for books, supplies, and fees; a net price calculator is available. The college is institutionally accredited by ABHES and approved by California’s BPPE. Admissions are open with a stated 100% acceptance rate.

  • 1610 E Saint Andrew Place, Ste 200 Santa Ana, CA 92705

Concorde Career College

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Close to Long Beach, Santa Ana, and Anaheim, the Garden Grove campus of Concorde Career College will help you unlock your potential.  A renowned institution shaping future healthcare professionals since 1966, Concorde specializes in hands-on training.  Concorde offers a diverse range of diploma and associate degree programs in Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, and more. With flexible schedules, including evening classes, and the option to graduate in as little as 8 months, Concorde empowers students for success. Benefit from dedicated career services and accreditation by the ACCSC, ensuring a quality education tailored to your career goals.

  • 12951 S Euclid Street, Suite 101 Garden Grove, CA 92840

Hellen School

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The school delivers two short-format programs—CNA and Home Health Aide—completed in four weeks under RN instructors, totaling 160 hours (60 theory + 100 clinical).

Weekday CNA classes meet Mon–Fri for 2 hours (10 a.m.–12 p.m. or 4–6 p.m.), with 12-hour clinical shifts on weekends (Sat–Sun, 6:30 a.m.–7 p.m.); CHHA meets Mon–Tue, 12–8 p.m., with clinicals scheduled individually.

Tuition is $2,000 for CNA (plus $120 state exam fee) and $500 for HHA, and includes uniforms, CPR-BLS, Live Scan, books, and study materials.

Programs are approved by the California Department of Public Health and the BPPE (not formally accredited due to the short 200-hour length). Outcomes are strong—100% pass internal assessments and 98% pass the State Exam—though acceptance rates and current enrollment are not published.

  • 2047 Orange Ave Long Beach, CA 90806

InterCoast Colleges

Rating: 3.4 of 5

Founded in 1982, InterCoast Colleges is a network of private vocational schools. They provide hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for careers in industries such as healthcare, business, and skilled trades. Programs unique to InterCoast include Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counseling, Mental health Counseling and Solar Installation. The institution is known for its flexible class schedules, industry-experienced instructors, online programs and career services to assist students in job placement.

Career training and financial aid is also available for veterans of all branches of the military.

Furthermore, InterCoast Colleges’ commitment to providing comprehensive career services, including job placement assistance and ongoing support for alumni, sets it apart as an institution dedicated to helping students succeed beyond graduation. For example, many special events such as career fairs are hosted on campus.

InterCoast Colleges is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring quality education and training standards.

  • 388 W Cerritos Ave. Bld 7 Anaheim, CA 92805

Long Beach City College

Rating: 4.5 of 5

LBCC is one of California’s largest community colleges, enrolling 24,425 students (2023) and offering programs spanning Computer Science, Nursing, Horticulture, Architecture, Social Work, Welding, and more. Classes are available in person, online, and hybrid, with day and evening options that vary by term. Healthcare tracks include clinicals/externships—for example, nursing hospital rotations—so students gain practical experience. Annual tuition is about $1,560 for California residents and $13,336 for non-residents, with additional costs for books, transportation, and supplies and financial aid available. LBCC operates under an open-admissions (100%) policy and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC).

  • 4901 East Carson Street Long Beach, CA 90808
  • 1305 East Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, CA 90806

Martinson College of Southern California

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Martinson College focuses on advancing the standards of Central Services and Sterile Processing Departments (CS/SPD) within healthcare facilities worldwide. Their mission revolves around educating communities about the crucial importance of proper sterilization, decontamination, and reprocessing of reusable medical devices.

Since the inception of their Sterile Processing Technician programs, Martinson College has witnessed a notable increase in demand for their graduates, who consistently meet and exceed international certification standards. Graduates of Martinson College’s programs can be found working in prestigious healthcare institutions such as Providence Hospitals, UCLA Medical Center, HOAG Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), and various other healthcare facilities throughout the US.

The successful SPD education program offered by Martinson College has significantly contributed to the elevated standards achieved by CS/SPD departments in numerous renowned hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Martinson College of Southern California offers various courses for aspiring sterile processing technicians in Anaheim:

Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) Program
SPD Management/Supervisor Certification
Endoscopy/GI Scope Technician Certification
CBSPD Certification Program
CRCST Certification Program

Students at this campus can also enroll in the school’s sterile processing management and endoscopy programs or take additional classes to obtain an official certification. Martinson College offers hybrid in-person and online courses to fit any student’s schedule.

  • 3855 E. La Palma Avenue, Suite 234 Anaheim, CA 92807

Master Barbering Academy

Rating: 4.8 of 5

The academy offers three programs—the 1,500-hour Barbering course, 1,000-hour Barbering course, and a Barber Crossover—all taught in person with demos, videos, guest artists, and supervised work on real clients. Classes run 10 a.m.–9 p.m. with morning, afternoon, and evening options, and programs typically take 12–25 months depending on weekly hours. Tuition is $15,000 (1,500-hour), $10,000 (1,000-hour), and $3,000 (Crossover), with additional costs for tools and licensing; ask about payment plans since there’s no net price calculator. The school is BPPE-approved, confirming it meets California’s standards for barber education. Enrollment numbers and acceptance rates aren’t published—contact the academy for current cohort sizes and admissions requirements.

  • 406 E 3rd St. Long Beach, CA 90802

National Holistic Institute

Rating: 4.6 of 5

Based in Emeryville, CA, the National Holistic Institute has ten campuses located throughout the state. The school offers programs in massage therapy with a focus on overall wellness.

  • 201 E Sandpointe Avenue, Suite 100 Santa Ana, CA 92707

North-West College

Rating: 4.4 of 5

North-West College, founded in 1966, operates multiple campuses across California and Nevada offering healthcare and technical career programs. With over 45,000 graduates, the college provides certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees in fields like nursing, dental assisting, pharmacy technology, and surgical technology. The institution holds regional accreditation through ACCSC and ABHES depending on campus location.

  • 511 N. Brookhurst St. Anaheim, CA 92801
  • 3799 E Burnett St. Long Beach, CA 90815

Platt College

Rating: 3.0 of 5

Platt College Anaheim’s 40,000-sq-ft campus offers classrooms, administrative spaces, and computer and design labs to provide a supportive, well-rounded educational experience for students. Programs at this location include occupational therapy, diagnostic medical sonography, business management, medical and nursing assisting, veterinary technology, health and fitness, criminal justice, and more.

  • 1551 S. Douglass Rd. Anaheim, CA 92806

Southern California Institute of Technology

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Students at the Southern California Institute of Technology in Anaheim can pursue certificates and degrees in electrical technology and engineering, biomedical technology and engineering, information technology, and industrial automation technology. Attend classes at the Anaheim campus to take advantage of the school’s well-equipped classrooms and labs, or complete your courses online.

  • 525 North Muller Street Anaheim, CA 92801

Summit College

Rating: 3.6 of 5

Founded in 1991 Summit College provides training for technical and skilled trades and healthcare through certificates and degree programs.  The school has many accreditations and helps students navigate the financial aid and job placement process.

  • 1639 East Edinger (Santa Ana) Anaheim, CA 92705

UEI College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

At UEI College Anaheim, students thrive in an environment of smaller class sizes, fostering a personalized approach to learning. Instructors are deeply committed to guiding each student, ensuring they acquire the essential skills and knowledge vital for success both in and out of the classroom. Embracing a hybrid teaching model, classes at UEI College blend online education with on-site practical sessions in labs and workshops, enabling students to apply their acquired skills hands-on.

Dedicated to preparing students for in-demand careers, UEI College in Anaheim offers a diverse array of programs. From Medical Assistant and Dental Assistant to Pharmacy Technician and HVAC Technician, students can choose from a variety of fields poised for growth. With programs like Automotive Technician, Electrician Technician, and Business Office Administration, UEI equips students with the expertise needed to thrive in today’s job market. Most career training programs can be completed in as few as 10 months, providing a swift pathway to career readiness.

Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), UEI College ensures that students receive an education of high value and relevance. Throughout their training, students benefit from access to modern labs and classrooms, where they engage in real-life simulations, honing their practical skills for professional success.

UEI understands the financial challenges students may face and offers support through various federal and state financial aid programs. Eligible students can access Cal Grants from the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), easing the financial burden of education.

With strong connections to local employers, UEI College actively collaborates with industry partners to facilitate career placement for its graduates, ensuring students can confidently pursue their career goals upon completing their education.

  • 401 W. Carl Karcher Way Anaheim, CA 92801

Universal Technical Institute

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The Universal Technical Institute’s Long Beach, California campus is a premier institution for students seeking rewarding careers in transportation and the skilled trades. As the third-largest city in Southern California, Long Beach boasts a rich automotive culture, with numerous companies and dealerships calling it home. From the adrenaline-fueled Prix of Long Beach to the prestigious Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame, students here have unparalleled access to premier experiences in the automotive industry.

The campus offers six core programs, each designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen field. From airframe and powerplant engineering to automotive mechanic training, collision repair, diesel mechanic training, HVAC/R, and welding, there’s a pathway for every aspiring technician.

With programs ranging from 9 months to 18 months, students undergo intensive training covering various topics, from aircraft troubleshooting to battery electric vehicle technology. Graduates emerge prepared to earn industry-recognized certifications, such as ASE Certifications and I-CAR certifications, setting them apart in the competitive job market.

The campus goes above and beyond to support its students, offering assistance with housing through Collegiate Housing Services, career adviceadvisement, and financial aid to alleviate the burden of living expenses. With a focus on hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and comprehensive support services, the Universal Technical Institute’s Long Beach campus is where aspiring technicians transform their passion into a fulfilling career.

  • 4175 East Conant St. Long Beach, CA 90808

West Coast University

Rating: 3.7 of 5

West Coast University stands out with its expansive nursing program, hosting more than 3000 bachelor’s students and offering a diverse selection of Bachelor of Science degrees spanning Nursing (BSN), Dental Hygiene (BSDH), Health Administration (BSHA), Healthcare Management (BSHM), Nursing (RN to BSN), Diagnostic Medical Sonography (BSDMS), Respiratory Therapy (BSRT), Nursing (LVN to BSN), Nursing (LVN to RN), Occupational Therapy (BSOT), Radiologic Technology (BSRT), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS), catering to the varied interests and career aspirations of its students.

At their Anaheim campus, students experience cutting-edge learning environments equipped with advanced amenities like informal study areas, collaborative spaces, and simulation centers, complemented by interactive tools such as augmented reality anatomy courses, all meticulously designed to cultivate a hands-on, experiential learning atmosphere conducive to student achievement.

Through their dedicated Career Services team, which fosters connections among students, alumni (spanning over 50,000 worldwide), and potential employers, graduates consistently achieve impressive average annual salaries exceeding $100,000, underscoring the institution’s commitment to facilitating lucrative career pathways. Furthermore, West Coast University’s accreditation by esteemed bodies such as the WASC Senior College of University Commission (WSCUC), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and the Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) reflects its unwavering dedication to maintaining high academic standards and promoting professional growth within the healthcare sector.

  • 1477 S Manchester Ave. Anaheim, CA 92802

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Several Anaheim schools excel at rapid workforce preparation:

Healthcare Fast-Track:

  • Concorde Career College’s 8-month programs provide the fastest entry into healthcare careers
  • American Career College’s hands-on training with immediate practical application
  • Martinson College’s specialized Sterile Processing programs meeting immediate industry demand

Technical Skills Acceleration:

  • UEI College’s 10-month programs across multiple technical fields
  • Southern California Institute of Technology’s certificate programs
  • Summit College’s focused technical training

Skilled Trades Rapid Deployment:

  • Universal Technical Institute’s intensive 9-18 month programs
  • InterCoast Colleges’ flexible scheduling for working adults
  • Multiple institutions offering HVAC, automotive, and electrical training

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Hybrid and Online Learning

California Coast University leads in flexibility with 100% online options specifically designed for working professionals, supported by cutting-edge research in distance learning education.

Southern California Institute of Technology offers both on-campus classes with well-equipped labs and complete online course options, allowing students to choose their preferred learning format.

UEI College employs a hybrid teaching model blending online education with on-site practical sessions in labs and workshops, enabling hands-on skill application while maintaining scheduling flexibility.

Evening and Weekend Options

Concorde Career College provides evening classes to accommodate working schedules while maintaining the same quality of hands-on training and career services support.

InterCoast Colleges emphasizes flexible class schedules with industry-experienced instructors, making education accessible for adults balancing work and family commitments.

Industry Partnerships and Career Services

Strong Employment Connections

West Coast University maintains exceptional industry connections through their Career Services team, facilitating relationships among students, over 50,000 alumni worldwide, and potential employers. This network contributes to graduates achieving average annual salaries exceeding $100,000.

Universal Technical Institute goes beyond education by offering comprehensive support including housing assistance through Collegiate Housing Services, career advisement, and financial aid to alleviate living expenses.

UEI College maintains strong connections with local employers and actively collaborates with industry partners to facilitate career placement for graduates.

Specialized Industry Integration

Martinson College has established relationships with prestigious healthcare institutions, placing graduates in facilities like UCLA Medical Center, Providence Hospitals, and major Orange County healthcare systems.

InterCoast Colleges provides comprehensive career services including job placement assistance, ongoing alumni support, and special events such as career fairs hosted on campus.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

The Anaheim area schools maintain strong accreditation standards:

  • West Coast University: Accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • California Coast University: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE)
  • Concorde Career College: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
  • InterCoast Colleges: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
  • UEI College: Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET)

Financial Aid and Student Support

Most institutions offer comprehensive financial assistance:

  • California Coast University: Interest-free payment plans and significant tuition credits
  • UEI College: Federal and state financial aid programs, including Cal Grants from California Student Aid Commission
  • InterCoast Colleges: Career training and financial aid available for military veterans
  • Universal Technical Institute: Housing assistance and comprehensive financial aid programs

Student Success and Satisfaction

California Coast University reports exceptional student satisfaction with 99% of students in 2022 expressing satisfaction with their studies and achievement of educational goals. Additionally, 92% credited their CCU degree for enhancing their careers.

UEI College emphasizes smaller class sizes fostering personalized learning approaches, with instructors deeply committed to guiding each student’s success both in and out of the classroom.

Anaheim’s trade school landscape provides comprehensive pathways to rewarding careers across multiple high-demand industries. The combination of established healthcare institutions, technical colleges, and specialized training centers creates a robust educational ecosystem serving Orange County’s diverse economy. Whether seeking rapid workforce entry through accelerated programs or comprehensive professional preparation, Anaheim’s institutions offer options matching various career goals, learning styles, and financial circumstances.