San Bernardino Trade Schools

San Bernardino offers diverse vocational training opportunities through established institutions serving the Inland Empire. These schools provide focused career preparation with industry-standard equipment and experienced instructors.

Best Schools by Specialty

Healthcare Programs

Top Choice: American Career College – Offers comprehensive healthcare training including medical assisting, pharmacy technician, surgical technology, and nursing programs. Features modern facilities with equipment students will use in medical settings.

Also Consider: Arizona College of Nursing – Specializes in nursing education with BSN programs and over 1,000 clinical partners.

Strong Alternative: West Coast University – Provides nursing, dental hygiene, and physical therapy programs with simulation labs and extensive clinical partnerships.

Skilled Trades & Technology

Leading Option: Universal Technical Institute – Premier choice for automotive, diesel, welding, collision repair, and CNC machining. Partners with 35+ leading manufacturers.

Specialized Training: Heavy Equipment College – Focuses on heavy equipment operation and crane certification with NCCCO testing sites.

HVAC Focus: Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology – Offers HVAC training alongside aviation programs.

Business & Information Technology

Comprehensive Programs: DeVry University – Provides business administration, accounting, cybersecurity, and IT programs with hybrid learning options.

Practical Focus: UEI College – Offers business administration and criminal justice programs designed for quick career entry.

Wellness & Alternative Health

Specialized Training: National Holistic Institute – California’s established massage therapy education provider since 1979.

American Career College

Rating: 3.2 of 5

Based in Southern California, American Career College has offered a variety of healthcare programs since 1978. Students earn diplomas or associate’s degrees and classes open up all year long. The school has training for medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, vocational nurses, surgical techs, and more. All these careers are in high demand, so applicants can prepare for the future.

  • 3130 East Sedona Ct. Ontario, CA 91764

Arizona College of Nursing

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Located in Ontario, the Arizona College of Nursing’s Canada campus offers a streamlined path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in three years or less, thanks to eligible transfer credits. Evening classes cater to diverse schedules, guaranteeing a proper education for all students.

The CCNE-accredited BSN program, institutionally accredited by ABHES, prioritizes career readiness through a comprehensive approach.

Combining classroom instruction, hands-on simulations, and real-world clinical experiences, students receive a well-rounded education. From day one, NCLEX exam preparation is integrated into the curriculum, ensuring readiness for licensure.

The curriculum, designed to prepare students for successful careers as registered nurses, encompasses various subjects, from general education classes to specialized nursing courses. Hands-on experience is emphasized through guided labs and clinical rotations, where students work alongside healthcare professionals in real-world settings.

Additionally, the program recognizes and awards credit for military education and experience, facilitating a smoother transition for military personnel into the nursing profession. With a focus on practical training and academic excellence, Arizona College’s Ontario campus equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for thriving nursing careers.

  • 3401 N Centre Lake Dr Ontario, CA 91761

Concorde Career College

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Embark on your healthcare career journey with Concorde Career College, a trusted institution committed to excellence since 1966. Experience hands-on training and personalized support in diploma and associate degree programs ranging from Nursing to Surgical Technology. With flexible scheduling, including evening classes, and accelerated graduation options in just 8 months, Concorde prioritizes student success. Plus, take advantage of comprehensive career services and accreditation by the ACCSC for a rewarding educational experience.

  • 201 E Airport Dr San Bernardino, CA 92408

DeVry University

Rating: 2.8 of 5

DeVry University, a for-profit institution known for its focus on technology and innovation, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in Technology, Healthcare, Business, and Accounting. The Ontario, CA campus, located less than 2 miles north of the Ontario International Airport and near four major interstate highways, provides a vibrant and modern learning environment with 7 video conference-ready classrooms and an EN lab. With Ontario’s population expected to double by 2035, the campus offers programs in growing fields such as an Associate Degree in Business and a Bachelor’s in Technical Management. The city’s strong job development and economic prosperity make it an ideal place for graduates to launch their careers. DeVry’s flexible learning options and collaborative Commons area further enhance the educational experience, supporting diverse student needs.

  • 2970 E. Inland Empire Blvd, Ste 100., Ontario, CA 91764

Heavy Equipment College

Rating: 4.1 of 5

The Heavy Equipment College in Oklahoma City, part of Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HECA), offers hands-on training in heavy equipment operation, crane operation, and HVAC/R technology. Programs, lasting about three weeks, focus on real-world skills and industry certifications like the NCCCO. Tuition starts at $9,880 for the Heavy Equipment Operations – Level I program, with flexible class schedules and weekend options available.

  • 1955 W. 9th Street San Bernardino, CA 92411

National Holistic Institute

Rating: 4.6 of 5

With a rich history spanning over four decades in massage therapy education, the institute offers comprehensive programs aimed at fostering successful and adaptable careers.

The Massage Therapy Training Program hones students’ proficiency in styles such as Swedish, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, and Myofascial Therapy. Practical experience is gained under the guidance of experienced instructors at our massage clinics, supplemented by business and science coursework.

The Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program specializes in Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. Tailored for individuals with prior massage therapy training or graduates of the Massage Therapy Training Program, the Advanced 450-Hour NMT Program equips students to effectively assess and address myofascial pain or dysfunction. Graduates emerge prepared to thrive as massage therapists across various professional settings.

  • 2930 E. Inland Empire Boulevard, Suite 112 Ontario, CA 91764

Platt College

Rating: 3.0 of 5

Platt College in Ontario, California, is a private for-profit school that’s been a part of Southern California since 1985. With four campuses in the area, the Ontario campus is specially designed, with about 40,000 square feet dedicated to learning and creativity. This includes classrooms, labs for computer and design work, a library, and spaces for administration. What’s more, students don’t have to worry about parking—it’s free and plentiful right at the school.

Focused on preparing students for real-world employment, Platt College offers programs in essential fields such as health, business, and IT. The school prides itself on making education accessible, boasting an acceptance rate of 58%. The small class sizes, with a student-faculty ratio of 17-to-1, mean getting help when you need it is straightforward. It’s also worth noting that the highest degree you can earn here is an associate degree.

An important part of Platt College’s mission is to make education accessible to all, including people with disabilities, by providing necessary academic adjustments and services. At an average annual cost of $22,993, the school strives to offer value by equipping students with relevant skills and assisting graduates in their job searches in the trained fields, ensuring a smooth transition from classroom to career.

  • Business Management, Criminal Justice, Information Technology, Graphic Design, Diagnostic Medical,, Sonography, Medical Assisting, Medical Administrative Specialist, Respiratory Therapy, Veterinary Technology, Healthcare Administration.
  • 3700 Inland Empire Blvd. Ontario, CA 91764

Roadmaster Drivers School

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Roadmaster sets the standard in Fontana, California! With three decades of experience and a reputation for training over 100,000 graduates, Roadmaster offers Class A CDL Training and Exam Prep with flexible scheduling options. The training facility boasts a modern fleet of over 215 tractors, each averaging just 3.4 years old. Students enjoy a comprehensive, hands-on learning environment, supported by top-of-the-line practice equipment, facilities, and instructors. Upon graduation, the Career Services team assists with job placement. Financial aid is available for eligible students.

  • 10251 Calabash Ave Fontana, CA 92335

San Bernardino Valley College

San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) is a public community college in the Inland Empire, accredited by ACCJC, known for its open admissions policy and its role as a gateway to four-year universities and regional workforce training. The college offers extensive academic choices, featuring 91 associate degrees and 124 certificate programs in areas like Psychiatric Technology, Administration of Justice, and Welding Technology.

The total estimated annual cost of attendance is approximately $31,602, though California residents benefit from substantially lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students. Students have numerous flexible class schedules, including 48 fully online degree and certificate programs, as well as traditional day, afternoon, evening (until 10:00 PM), and Weekend College sessions. Health education programs, such as Nursing, integrate required clinical rotations at partner hospitals in San Bernardino County, ensuring hands-on experience before the program duration ends.

  • 701 South Mount Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92410

San Joaquin Valley College

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Discover diverse career paths at SJVC’s Ontario campus.

In the Medical Assisting program, students learn administrative and clinical tasks, preparing them for entry-level positions in healthcare settings. Graduates can earn a Certificate of Completion in as few as nine months.

Dental Hygiene focuses on preventive and therapeutic oral health care services, equipping students with skills for comprehensive dental hygiene practice.

Pharmacy Technology trains students for entry-level positions in pharmacy settings, teaching basic skills like prescription processing and inventory management.

Medical Office Administration provides administrative and clerical skills necessary to support healthcare facilities, offering a Certificate of Completion in nine months.

Respiratory Therapist Education prepares students to assess and treat patients with lung or breathing problems, covering diverse settings and cardiopulmonary systems.

Registered Nursing equips students with the tools and skills needed for a successful career in patient care, communication, and medicine administration.

Veterinary Technology offers hands-on training for entry-level positions in animal healthcare, teaching skills like animal nursing and diagnostic imaging.

Business Office Administration provides technical skills like Microsoft Office proficiency and bookkeeping for entry-level positions in various industries.

Construction Management teaches planning, leading, and overseeing building projects, with opportunities for OSHA 10-Hour Construction Outreach Training.

Electrical Technology offers hands-on experience and basic training for the California General Electrician’s Certification Exam, preparing students for careers in electrical systems.

HVAC-R prepares students for careers in repairing, maintaining, and installing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, with an Associate of Science Degree available.

Maintenance Technician trains students in ongoing and preventive maintenance on industrial systems and equipment, preparing graduates for commercial and manufacturing settings.

  • 4580 Ontario Mills Pkwy. Ontario, CA 91764

School of Holistic Touch, Inc

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Since 2005, the School of Holistic Touch has offered a hands-on approach to education in massage therapy and holistic health. The institution has a single campus in Ontario, CA that also sells supplies.

  • 302 South Milliken Avenue, Suite B Ontario, CA 91761

UEI College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

UEI College Ontario offers a personalized learning environment with small class sizes that facilitate individualized attention. Instructors at the Ontario campus actively collaborate with students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success in and out of the classroom.

Students at UEI College Ontario experience a tailored vocational school experience designed to meet their specific needs. The faculty greets students by name, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), UEI College in Ontario ensures the quality of education provided. Throughout the career training program, students have access to state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, where hands-on learning through realistic simulations is emphasized.

  • 4730 Ontario Mills Pkwy. Ontario, CA 91764

West Coast University

Conveniently located near Interstate 10 and multiple Omnitrans bus services, the Ontario campus is easily accessible. The Ontario campus offers programs for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and LVN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

The Ontario campus is tailored to meet the needs of modern students, featuring simulation labs equipped with cutting-edge technology and high-fidelity manikins. It offers a variety of spaces for quiet study or group study sessions, including nooks, informal study areas, and the quad area.

Interactive learning, such as augmented reality (AR) anatomy courses, enhances the educational experience.

Join a vibrant community of dedicated individuals where the culture feels like family, providing a supportive environment for personal growth. Engage in study groups and peer tutoring sessions, benefit from small class sizes to connect with professors, and gain valuable insights into the healthcare industry. Find a community that nurtures your strengths and helps you achieve your academic aspirations.

West Coast University Ontario has been recognized as a favorite Career College/Trade School in the San Gabriel Valley Readers Choice Awards.

  • 2855 E Guasti Rd. Ontario, CA 91761

Cost Analysis

Average Program Costs

  • Certificate Programs: $13,000 – $21,500
  • Associate Degrees: $19,150 – $35,600
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: $40,000 – $139,000

Most Affordable Options

  1. Heavy Equipment College – $9,880 for equipment operations training
  2. American Career College – $13,000 starting cost for diploma programs
  3. UEI College – $19,900 for 9-month programs

Shortest Programs

  • Heavy Equipment College: 3-4 weeks for crane operation
  • National Holistic Institute: Massage therapy certification available
  • American Career College: 9-month diploma programs
  • UEI College: 9-month career training programs

Average Program Duration

  • Certificate Programs: 8 months to 2 years
  • Associate Degrees: 15 months to 2 years
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: 3-4 years
  1. Medical Assistant – High demand across multiple schools
  2. Nursing (LVN/BSN) – Consistent enrollment leader
  3. Automotive Technology – Strong industry partnerships
  4. HVAC Technology – Growing field demand
  5. Dental Assistant – Quick entry healthcare option

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Several schools offer accelerated pathways for rapid workforce entry:

American Career College provides externships and clinical rotations during training, allowing students to gain experience while learning. Their 9-month programs prepare graduates for immediate employment.

UEI College emphasizes hands-on training with real-world applications. Students complete externships as part of their curriculum, creating direct pathways to employment.

Heavy Equipment College delivers intensive 3-week programs focused entirely on equipment operation skills. Graduates often secure positions immediately after certification.

Universal Technical Institute connects students with industry partners before graduation through recruitment events and early access programs.

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Evening and Weekend Classes

DeVry University operates on 8-week cycles with evening options and weekend classes available.

West Coast University offers accelerated evening and weekend bachelor’s programs for working professionals.

Stanbridge University provides evening classes and weekend clinical training to accommodate work schedules.

Hybrid Learning Models

Concorde Career College combines online coursework with hands-on labs, providing flexibility without compromising education quality.

American Career College offers blended programs mixing online instruction with campus-based laboratory training.

UEI College utilizes virtual classrooms combined with twice-weekly lab sessions.

24/7 Online Access

Most schools provide online course materials and student portals accessible around the clock for maximum scheduling flexibility.

Financial Aid and Support

Federal Aid Acceptance

All listed schools accept federal financial aid including Pell Grants and student loans. Most maintain dedicated financial aid departments to guide students through the application process.

Institutional Scholarships

Universal Technical Institute offers over $15 million in scholarships and grants annually.

American Career College partners with the ACC Educational Foundation for additional scholarship opportunities.

Spartan College provides programmatic scholarships including aviation-specific funding.

Military Benefits

Nearly all schools accept VA benefits and provide specialized support for veterans and active military personnel.

Industry Partnerships and Job Placement

Strong Employer Connections

Universal Technical Institute maintains relationships with 35+ leading manufacturers and brands.

West Coast University partners with over 1,000 clinical facilities for student placement.

American Career College has established connections throughout Southern California’s healthcare industry.

Career Support Services

Most schools provide comprehensive career services including resume preparation, interview coaching, job placement assistance, and ongoing alumni support.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

All featured schools maintain proper accreditation from recognized agencies:

  • ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)
  • ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)
  • COE (Council on Occupational Education)
  • WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges)

Making Your Decision

Consider these factors when selecting a program:

  • Career Goals: Match program offerings to your target profession
  • Schedule Needs: Evaluate class timing and format options
  • Budget: Compare total program costs and available financial aid
  • Timeline: Determine how quickly you need to enter the workforce
  • Location: Consider campus proximity and transportation needs

San Bernardino’s trade schools provide proven pathways to stable, well-paying careers across growing industries. With proper research and planning, you can find the right program to launch your professional future.