San Diego Trade Schools

Alliant International University

Alliant International University formed from the merger of three institutions (including the California School of Professional Psychology) and became a public benefit corporation in 2015, aligning its private operations with a public-good mission. With ~3,871 students, it offers flexible online learning plus required field placements in areas like psychology, nursing, and education so working adults can advance without pausing their careers.

• 10455 Pomerado Rd. San Diego, CA 92131

Bellus Academy

Bellus Academy is an NACCAS-accredited beauty and wellness school led by President/Owner Lynelle Lynch, with four campuses in Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway (CA) and Manhattan (KS). Serving about 379 students (2023), it offers flexible day/evening, hybrid, and online options and partners with extern salons to deliver real-world experience.

• 970 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911

Center for Employment Training

Rating: 4.0 of 5

The Center for Employment Training (CET) in San Diego provides hands-on, career-focused training to help individuals quickly prepare for employment. Offering programs in fields like construction, medical assisting, and culinary arts, CET San Diego emphasizes practical skills and job readiness. Flexible scheduling options, including day and evening classes, make training accessible for a diverse student body. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and approved by the BPPE, CET San Diego delivers high-quality vocational education tailored to local workforce needs. Tuition ranges from $4,000 to $16,000, with financial aid available for eligible students.

• 4153 Market Street, Suite C San Diego, CA 92102

Concorde Career College

Rating: 4.7 of 5

If you live in southern California, a new career is just outside your door at Concorde Career College in San Diego, CA. This campus specializes in career-centered health programs such as dental assisting, dental hygiene, medical assisting, and nursing. With diploma and associate degree programs taught by expert faculty, students can get their training in as quickly as eight months.

• 4393 Imperial Ave San Diego, CA 92113

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 San Diego campus, situated in the Mission Valley area with easy access from Freeways 8, 805, 15, and 5, provides programs in growing fields such as Web and Mobile Application Development and Programming Essentials. Located in a city with a robust military presence and a thriving medical and high-tech industry, DeVry San Diego offers numerous career opportunities. With eight military bases nearby, the campus is an excellent option for military members and veterans, offering specific benefits and flexible learning options. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, DeVry supports diverse student needs with hybrid and online education formats.

• 2655 Camino Del Rio N., Ste 205. San Diego, CA 92108

Glendale Career College

Glendale Career College is an ABHES-accredited healthcare school (since 1946) offering short, hands-on training for roles like Medical Assistant, Surgical Technologist, CSIT, Vocational Nursing, and Healthcare Administration. Programs can be completed in as little as 9 months, with day/evening and some online options, plus required clinical internships.

• 6106 Arosa St. San Diego, CA 92115

Laurus College

At Chula Vista, Laurus College extends its commitment to providing quality education that prepares students for the demands of the job market. With an array of Associate and Bachelor of Science Degrees, learners can find diverse fields of study tailored to current industry needs.

The Web Design and Development degree is a program for creative minds looking to excel in the digital realm. Students train in front-end development, digital marketing, and content creation. Whether aiming for a two-year associate or a four-year bachelor’s degree, graduates are prepared for careers in web design, social media marketing, and e-commerce.

In contrast, the Business Systems degree emphasizes analytical and technical skills necessary for today’s business environment. The curriculum covers areas from advertising to entrepreneurship, equipping students with the knowledge for management roles across various sectors.

This degree is designed for those who seek to blend business acuity with technological prowess, ensuring graduates stand out in the business world. Laurus College Chula Vista lays the foundation for professional success with resources, top-notch education, and career-focused programs.

The latest programs include Audio Video Production, Business Systems, Digital Arts and Computer Animation, Information Technology Systems Management, Medical Billing and Coding, Web Design and Development

• 2300 Boswell Rd #255 Chula Vista, CA 91914

North-West College

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.

• 6106 Arosa St San Diego, CA 92115

Paul Mitchell Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Paul Mitchell The School San Diego offers cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and makeup programs from its downtown campus near the Gaslamp District and Little Italy. Students can enroll in Cosmetology (1000–1245 hours), Barbering (1000 hours), Esthetics (600 hours), or standalone Makeup (245 hours) programs, which combine theory with hands-on training using professional-grade tools. Classes are typically held during weekdays, providing flexibility for students commuting from areas like Chula Vista, La Jolla, and Oceanside.

The campus supports students with financial aid guidance, digital learning tools, and community engagement through philanthropic events and student-led clubs. With access to a vibrant city culture and year-round sunshine, students enjoy a dynamic learning environment both inside and outside the classroom.

• 410 A Street San Diego, CA 92101

Pima Medical Institute

Rating: 4.6 of 5

Pima Medical Institute, an employee-owned and accredited private career college, has been dedicated to medical education since 1972. Pima specializes in preparing students for the healthcare sector, encompassing medical, dental, and veterinary professions. Academic offerings range from certificate programs to associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees.

• 780 Bay Boulevard Chula Vista San Diego, CA 91910

Saint Leo University

Rating: 4.3 of 5

Saint Leo University is a liberal arts college offering many undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located north of Tampa, FL, the main campus has an enrollment of over 2,200 students. Total registration in online courses and at centers in other states is nearly 15,000. The school is the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in Florida.

• 3975 Norman Scott Rd., Navy College Office, Bldg. 3280 San Diego, CA 92136

San Diego City College

Rating: 4.1 of 5

San Diego City College, established in 1914, is a public two-year institution serving over 17,000 students each semester. The college offers 250 majors and certificates across five schools, including fields like Business Administration, Nursing, and Cyber Defense. Flexible class schedules accommodate student needs with morning, evening, online, and hybrid learning options. For healthcare students, hands-on clinical experiences are available in various settings to enhance practical skills. Accredited by the ACCJC, the college provides affordable tuition, with California residents paying around $1,104 annually and eligible students benefiting from free tuition through the San Diego Promise program.

• 1313 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92101

San Diego College of Continuing Education

Rating: 4.5 of 5

San Diego College of Continuing Education, founded in 1914, is a public noncredit institution that serves about 40,000 students annually across seven campuses. It offers over 300 tuition-free certificate programs in fields like healthcare, IT, business, and skilled trades. The college provides flexible class schedules, including in-person, online, and hybrid learning formats, catering to diverse student needs. As part of the San Diego Community College District, it has a long-standing commitment to accessible adult education. Accredited by the WASC Accrediting Commission for Schools, it plays a crucial role in equipping adults with valuable skills and knowledge to enhance their careers and lives.

• 4343 Ocean View Boulevard San Diego, CA 92113

SIATech High Schools

Rating: 3.9 of 5

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.

• 1111 Bay Blvd., Ste. A-B Chula Vista, CA 91911

Summit College

Rating: 3.6 of 5

Students at Summit College can earn certificates in Allied health or technical trades such as nursing, medical assisting, electrical welding and more. Programs take anywhere from eight hours to nine months to complete, depending on the certification. Summit was founded in 1991 and is accredited by ACCET. The school may provide financial assistance and help with job placement.

• 411 North Marshall Avenue (El Cajon) San Diego, CA 92020

The Accounting Academy

Rating: 4.4 of 5

The Accounting Academy practices hands-on, real-world education that readies students for various careers in the world of finance.

Aspiring finance professionals in Southern California can take classes to qualify for an accounting career at the Accounting Academy in San Diego. Programs at this school include small business accounting and bookkeeping, administrative assisting, tax preparation, and payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable specialist training.

• 7283 Engineer Road, Suite H San Diego, CA 92111

UEI College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

UEI College Chula Vista prides itself on providing an intimate learning environment where students thrive in smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from instructors. Committed to student success, educators at UEI are dedicated to guiding each student through their educational journey, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for success both academically and professionally. Utilizing a hybrid teaching model, UEI seamlessly integrates online learning with practical, hands-on sessions in labs and workshops, giving students valuable real-world experience.

With a focus on preparing students for high-demand careers, UEI College offers an extensive array of programs. From Medical Assistant and Dental Assistant to Pharmacy Technician and HVAC Technician, students have access to fields with promising growth opportunities. Additionally, programs like Automotive Technician, Electrician Technician, and Business Office Administration equip students with the expertise needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Most programs can be completed in just 10 months, providing a streamlined path to career readiness.

Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), UEI College ensures that students receive a high-quality education that is recognized and valued in the industry. Throughout their training, students have access to state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, engaging in hands-on activities and simulations to enhance their practical skills.

Understanding the financial challenges students may face, UEI offers support through federal and state financial aid programs, including Cal Grants from the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), to alleviate the financial burden of education.

UEI College Anaheim is proud to support military veterans in their educational pursuits, offering training through various programs such as Tuition Assistance and the GI Bill®.

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

• 1261 3rd Ave., Ste A Chula Vista, CA 91911