Los Angeles offers an extensive network of career-focused schools serving over 50,000 students annually across healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and creative industries. The region’s 20+ trade schools provide pathways to high-demand careers with completion times ranging from 8 months to 2 years, positioning graduates for immediate employment in Southern California’s diverse economy.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- List of Top Trade Schools
- Cost Analysis and Program Options
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
- Specialized Training Opportunities
- Financial Aid and Support Services
- Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
American Career College leads healthcare education with 12 specialized programs across multiple Southern California campuses. Their programs boast 100% acceptance rates and accelerated completion in as little as 9 months, with strong externship programs.
West Coast University provides comprehensive healthcare training with over 1,000 clinical partners across California, Texas, and Florida. Their simulation labs and hands-on experience prepare students for nursing, physical therapy, and pharmacy careers.
Concorde Career College specializes in healthcare career programs with 17 campuses nationwide, offering accelerated programs completable in 8 months with blended online and hands-on training.
Technology and IT
ABCO Technology offers comprehensive technology training in computer programming, cybersecurity, networking, and web development with mandatory assessment exams requiring 70% passing scores.
DeVry University provides extensive technology programs including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development with flexible scheduling options and new classes starting every 8 weeks.
Creative Arts and Media
Gnomon School of Visual Effects leads digital arts education with over 25 years of experience training students for entertainment industry careers in film, gaming, and advertising.
Recording Radio Film Connection (RRFC) offers unique mentor-extern programs where students learn directly from industry professionals in recording, film, radio, and culinary arts.
Skilled Trades and Aviation
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology provides specialized aviation training with over 94 years of experience, having trained more than 140,000 pilots and technicians worldwide.
NTMA Training Centers offers machining and tooling training through unique classroom, shop, and computer lab combinations in Santa Fe Springs.
List of Top Trade Schools
ABCO Technology
Within as short as two months, graduates from ABCO can launch careers in Information Technology. The college equips aspiring tech professionals with the necessary skills, training, and tech certifications that modern employers require.
ABCO Technology provides diploma and associates degree and programs in areas like Cybersecurity, Web Design and Development, and Python and Android Apps Programming. As an approved Cisco Net Academy and EC Council Certified Academic Partner, ABCO provides courses like Certified Ethical Hacker. These programs are available both on-campus and online via live instructor-led classes.
ABCO is over 20 years old and is accredited by The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges — an agency sanctioned by the US Department of Education.
- 11222 South La Cienega Boulevard, Suite 588 (Inglewood) Los Angeles, CA 90304
American Career College
American Career College’s Los Angeles location is a 50,000-square-foot facility with medical simulation labs featuring up-to-date technology and equipment. Take classes at this campus to obtain a diploma or associate’s degree in the healthcare field. Programs include vocational nursing, medical, dental, physical and occupational therapy assistant, medical billing and coding, and pharmacy and surgical tech courses.
- 4021 Rosewood Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90004
CBD College
CBD College in Los Angeles, CA, offers certificate and degree programs in Healthcare, Business, and Technology. CBD College prides itself on providing hands-on, career-focused education to its students and works with employers to ensure that its programs meet the needs of the job market.
- 3699 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90010
Concorde Career College
Discover the path to a rewarding healthcare career at the Hollywood campus of Concorde Career College, a pioneer in hands-on education since 1966. With a reputation for excellence, Concorde offers a diverse array of diploma and associate degree programs in Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, and more. Enjoy the flexibility of evening classes and fast-track graduation options in as little as 8 months, designed to accommodate busy schedules. Benefit from personalized career services and the assurance of accreditation by the ACCSC, ensuring a top-notch education tailored to your professional aspirations.
- 12412 Victory Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91606
DeVry University
DeVry University, a for-profit institution dedicated to technology and innovation, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in Technology, Healthcare, Business, and Accounting. The Encino campus, located in the San Fernando Valley with convenient freeway access, provides degree programs in some of today’s fastest-growing fields, including Big Data and Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Information Security. Its proximity to Los Angeles’s key industries—entertainment, hospitality, retail, international trade, and business—opens up numerous career opportunities for students. DeVry’s flexible learning options include hybrid and fully online formats, catering to diverse student needs. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, DeVry ensures a quality education with new classes starting every 8 weeks.
- 15531 Ventura Blvd, Suite 100., Encino, CA 91436
Glendale Career College
GCC focuses exclusively on nursing and allied health, awarding diplomas and associate degrees (including on-campus and distance Healthcare Administration). Many programs finish in ~9 months, while others (e.g., Nursing) are longer; all include clinical internships for real-world experience.
Flexible schedules include day and evening cohorts, and select courses are available online across seven Southern California locations. Tuition (including books/supplies) ranges roughly from $15,100 for RN-to-BSN up to $79,958 for the Associate of Arts in Nursing, with a net price calculator for personalized estimates.
The college has open admissions (100% acceptance) and is part of the Success Education Colleges network.
- 240 N. Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
- 2029 W. Garvey Ave. North, West Covina, CA 91790
Gnomon School of Visual Effects
The Gnomon School of Visual Effects is a renowned educational institution located in Los Angeles, California. It specializes in providing training and education in the fields of visual effects, animation, and game development.
Gnomon offers a variety of programs, including full-time and part-time courses, workshops, and online classes. Its curriculum covers a wide range of topics related to digital art and design, including 3D modeling, animation, texturing, lighting, compositing, and more.
The school is well-known for its industry-focused approach, with instructors who are industry professionals themselves, bringing real-world experience and expertise to the classroom. Additionally, Gnomon has strong connections within the entertainment and gaming industries, often hosting industry events, guest lectures, and career fairs to help students network and find job opportunities after graduation.
The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
- 1015 N Cahuenga Blvd Hollywood, CA 90038
InterCoast Colleges
InterCoast Colleges has been a beacon of vocational education excellence in West Covina, CA, since 1982. Offering specialized programs like Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counseling and Solar Installation, InterCoast equips students for diverse careers in healthcare, business, and skilled trades. With flexible class schedules, online programs, and veteran-friendly financial aid options, InterCoast ensures accessibility and support for all learners. Accredited by the ACCSC, the institution upholds stringent standards, while its comprehensive career services, including job fairs and alumni support, underscore its commitment to student success beyond graduation. This campus specializes in Alcohol & Drug Counseling Studies, Electrical Training, and HVAC.
- 2235 E Garvey Ave. N West Covina, CA 91791
North-West College
North-West College was established in 1966 and has grown into a multi-campus network across California and Nevada with over 45,000 graduates specializing in healthcare and technical education. The college offers certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees including Massage Therapy, Pharmacy Technician, Associate Degree in Nursing, Dental Assistant, Surgical Technology, and RN to BSN programs. Program costs range from $17,685 for Massage Therapy to $49,350 for the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Associate degree, with pricing varying by location and credential type.
Students benefit from flexible day and evening class schedules, with many programs incorporating hands-on clinical or externship experiences, plus online options for select programs like Medical Billing & Coding. The college maintains accreditation through ACCSC for most campuses and ABHES for nursing and select locations, ensuring quality educational standards across its network.Retry
- 2121 W. Garvey Ave. North West Covina, CA 91790
- 2029 West Garvey Ave. North West Covina, CA 91790
- 221 N. Brand Blvd. Lower Lvl. Glendale, CA 91203
NTMA Training Centers
Established in 1968, NTMA Machinist Career College has been an unwavering guide for over 80,000 students, setting them on their paths toward rewarding careers in the tooling, machining, and high-tech manufacturing industries. Based in Santa Fe Springs and serving Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties, the college is a prominent resource for aspiring machinists.
At the heart of NTMA lies its commitment to a high standard of instruction. This shows in the modern classrooms, cutting-edge machinery for practical training, and seasoned instructors. Students are immersed in a rich learning environment where they acquire essential knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for success in their field. The curriculum is designed with a clear focus on machining techniques and processes, and upon completion, students are certified to set up and operate conventional machining equipment.
Classes begin every seven weeks and with options including morning, afternoon, and evening sessions, fitting education into your life is simpler than ever. Whether it’s a quick, 6-month run or a 9-month deep dive, your education at NTMA Training Centers is accredited by ACCSC and approved by Los Angeles County I-Train. And don’t worry about what happens after graduation; hundreds of employers in LA and Orange Counties are looking for someone just like you.
- Programs: Machinist Training, High School / GED Completion Pathways Program, Advanced Machinist Training Skill Up Programs, Advanced Machinist Training ETP Funded Programs.
- 12131 Telegraph Road Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
SIATech High Schools
SIATech High Schools is a free, accredited charter network (founded 1998) serving youth ages 16–24 who left traditional school, with 14 year-round, no-cost campuses and a hybrid independent-study model. Students earn a high school diploma while training in career pathways through partnerships with Job Corps and WIOA agencies—an approach that has helped more than 15,000 students graduate.
- 255 S. Mednik Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
- 1610 Beverly Blvd, 2nd Floor Los Angeles, CA 90026
Southern California Health Institute
Job seekers looking to enter the health industry are great candidates for Southern California Health Institute (SOCHi). The career-focused school serves the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley areas. Known for its high-quality facilities, the environment is authentic, and the staff is committed to the ethical standards of the field.
Students can train to become massage therapists, physical therapy aides, personal trainers, or medical assistants. They could also study medical billing and coding. SOCHi is well-established in the community, leading to strong bonds with local wellness experts.
- 18040 Sherman Way Reseda, CA 91335
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
Located on Aviation Boulevard, merely a mile from LAX airport, the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology’s Inglewood/Los Angeles Campus provides specialized training in Aviation Maintenance Technology and Airframe and powerplant. Its programs hold full approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and meticulously follow the standards set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 14, Part 147. At Spartan College, students benefit from a high-quality education in aviation maintenance, preparing them for prosperous careers within the industry.
- 8911 Aviation Blvd. Inglewood, CA 90301
UEI College
At UEI College West Covina, students can enjoy smaller class sizes that foster a personalized learning environment. The instructors take pride in working closely with each student, ensuring they develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. As students embark on their vocational school journey at the Ontario campus, they’ll find a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. The faculty and instructors are dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere, greeting students by name and providing a warm touch to their educational experience.
UEI College in West Covina offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand fields. These programs include Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, HVAC Technician, Automotive Technician, Electrician Technician, Business Office Administration, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Welding Technician, Medical Billing and Insurance Coding, Medical Office Specialist, Massage Therapy, and Vocational Nursing (LVN). Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), UEI College ensures that students can take pride in their education, knowing that it holds value in the job market. Throughout their career training programs, students have access to labs and classrooms where they receive hands-on training through real-life simulations, equipping them with the practical skills needed for success in their chosen fields.
- 339 N. Azusa Ave. West Covina, CA 91791
West Coast University
With one of the largest nursing programs in the state, boasting over 3000 bachelor’s students, West Coast University offers a wide range of Bachelor of Science degrees, including 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).
The North Hollywood campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities like informal study areas, collaborative spaces, advanced science labs, simulation centers, and interactive learning tools such as augmented reality anatomy courses. These features are aimed at fostering a hands-on, experiential learning environment for student success.
The Career Services team facilitates connections between students, alumni, and prospective employers, with graduates enjoying high average annual salaries of over $100,000.
The institution is accredited by prestigious bodies such as the WASC Senior College of University Commission (WSCUC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), demonstrating their commitment to academic excellence and career advancement in healthcare fields.
Aspiring nurses can gain the knowledge and experience they need to thrive in their chosen professions at West Coast University Los Angeles. Along with spacious classrooms and ample study areas, this campus has state-of-the-art medical simulation labs with industry-approved equipment and high-fidelity medical mannequins for students to practice on.
- 12215 Victory Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91606
- 590 North Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90004
Cost Analysis and Program Options
Most Affordable Programs
- RRFC: $2,600-$13,720 depending on program
- Southern California Health Institute: $1,725 for CNA program
- CBD College: Approximately $50,000-$55,000 for full programs
- NTMA Training Centers: Tuition information varies by program
Shortest Programs for Quick Entry
- Concorde Career College: Programs completable in 8 months
- American Career College: Diploma programs in 9 months
- UEI College: 9-month diploma programs
- Recording Radio Film Connection: Varies by mentor availability
Average Program Costs by Field
- Healthcare: $13,000-$67,000 (varies by program length and specialization)
- Technology: $11,000-$25,000 for certificate programs
- Creative Arts: $11,000-$16,000 per term at Gnomon
- Aviation: $34,485-$94,101 at Spartan College
Most Popular Programs
Based on enrollment data and industry demand:
- Medical Assisting (offered at 8+ schools)
- Nursing programs (various levels)
- Dental Assisting
- Computer Programming and Cybersecurity
- Healthcare Administration
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Healthcare Fast-Track Options
Southern California Health Institute offers the fastest healthcare entry with CNA certification at $1,725, completing in weeks rather than months.
American Career College provides accelerated healthcare programs with externships leading to immediate employment opportunities. Their 9-month diploma programs include hands-on training in cutting-edge facilities.
Technology Rapid Training
UEI College offers fast-paced technology and healthcare programs with 9-month completion timelines and 100% acceptance rates. Students benefit from hands-on lab sessions and career support.
ABCO Technology provides intensive computer-based training with selective admissions requiring 70% assessment scores, ensuring students are prepared for immediate employment.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Hybrid and Online Programs
DeVry University leads in flexibility with entirely online programs, hybrid formats, and classes starting every 8 weeks. Evening and weekend options accommodate working professionals.
West Coast University offers online coursework available 24/7 with support services including librarian consultation around the clock.
InterCoast Colleges provides evening, weekend, and online classes with flexible scheduling for non-traditional students.
Work-Study Integration
Recording Radio Film Connection offers the ultimate work-study model through their mentor-extern approach, where students learn directly in professional environments rather than traditional classrooms.
CBD College operates from morning through evening with flexible scheduling options and strong industry partnerships.
Specialized Training Opportunities
Creative Industry Focus
Gnomon School of Visual Effects provides specialized digital arts training with instructors who are active industry professionals using current software and techniques for film, gaming, and advertising.
Healthcare Specializations
Multiple schools offer specialized healthcare training:
- CBD College: Surgical technology and diagnostic medical sonography
- Concorde Career College: Comprehensive healthcare programs including sonography and surgical technology
- American Career College: 12 different healthcare specializations
Aviation and Technical Trades
Spartan College offers FAA-approved aviation programs with hands-on training and industry connections. NTMA Training Centers provides machining expertise through classroom and shop combinations.
Financial Aid and Support Services
Comprehensive Financial Support
Most schools participate in federal financial aid programs:
- American Career College: Full-time financial aid staff and institutional scholarships
- West Coast University: Military discounts, academic grants, and federal aid acceptance
- Concorde Career College: Federal aid, loans, grants, and scholarship foundation support
Military and Veteran Support
Several schools provide specialized veteran support:
- Spartan College: VA-approved programs with military admissions director
- West Coast University: GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program participation
- UEI College: Military grants and VA education benefits
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
All featured schools maintain proper accreditation:
- Regional Accreditation: West Coast University (WSCUC), DeVry University (Higher Learning Commission)
- National Accreditation: Most specialized schools through ACCSC, ABHES, or ACCET
- Programmatic Accreditation: Healthcare programs through specialized bodies like CCNE, CoARC
School Hours and Accessibility
Most schools offer extended hours to accommodate working students:
- American Career College: 6 AM to 10 PM, Monday-Saturday
- UEI College: 8 AM to 8 PM across all campuses
- West Coast University: Campus-dependent, typically 7 AM to 8 PM, 7 days weekly
This comprehensive landscape of trade education in Los Angeles provides pathways for diverse career goals, from traditional healthcare and skilled trades to cutting-edge technology and creative industries, with options suitable for various schedules, budgets, and career timelines. The region’s proximity to major entertainment, technology, and healthcare industries creates exceptional opportunities for graduates across all specializations.