San Francisco’s diverse economy creates exceptional opportunities for skilled professionals across multiple industries. The city’s trade schools respond to this demand by offering specialized programs that prepare students for immediate workforce entry. From healthcare and technology to skilled trades and creative arts, San Francisco’s educational institutions provide pathways to stable, well-paying careers.
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Education Leaders
Bay Area Medical Academy stands out for focused medical training, offering Medical Assisting with Phlebotomy ($13,220) and Phlebotomy Technician programs ($3,200). The school’s hybrid model combines daily online lectures with weekly in-person lab sessions, plus externships at Bay Area medical facilities.
Unitek College provides comprehensive allied healthcare education across eight campuses in California and Nevada. With 21 years of experience, Unitek offers programs in Dental Assisting, Medical Office Administration, Medical Assisting, Vocational Nursing, and Physical Therapy, with graduates consistently passing exams on their first attempt.
City College of San Francisco offers the broadest healthcare selection, including Certified Nursing Assistant, Dental Assisting, Sonography, ECG Technician, EMT, Health Information Technology, Licensed Vocational Nursing, Medical Assisting, Paramedic, Personal Training, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, Public Health, and Registered Nursing programs.
Technology and Business Programs
DeVry University leads in technology education with programs in Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Computer Information Systems, Computer Programming, Game Programming, Software Development, and Website Development. The school offers flexible scheduling with classes starting every 8 weeks and hybrid learning options.
City College of San Francisco provides affordable technology training in Web Development, Computer Networking and Information Technology, Computer Programming, Data Analytics, Linux and Database Administration, and Computer Aided Design.
Skilled Trades Excellence
Aviation Institute of Maintenance specializes in aviation maintenance with programs ranging from $20,000-$30,000. The school offers Aviation Maintenance Technology, Avionics Technician, and Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer programs with strong industry partnerships.
City College of San Francisco provides the most comprehensive skilled trades education, including Construction Technology, Automotive Technology, HVAC, and Motorcycle Technology, all at extremely affordable rates for California residents.
Creative Arts and Design
Academy of Art University offers 129 creative programs ranging from certificates to master’s degrees. With nearly a century of experience since 1929, the university serves over 6,300 students annually in design, communication, and visual arts.
California College of the Arts provides interdisciplinary creative education through 17 undergraduate and 10 graduate programs in Architecture, Design, Fine Arts, and Humanities & Sciences. The college maintains an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized instruction.
Beauty and Wellness Training
San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology offers comprehensive beauty education with programs in Cosmetology ($18,000), Barbering ($17,000), Esthetics ($13,200), Hairstyling ($10,200), and Nail Technology ($6,400). The school maintains small class sizes with maximum enrollments of 14-20 students.
San Francisco School of Massage & Bodywork provides a 600-hour Massage Therapist Program for $10,500, combining traditional and modern bodywork approaches with hands-on practice in the student clinic.
Cost Analysis and Financial Considerations
Most Affordable Options
City College of San Francisco offers unbeatable value with free enrollment for San Francisco residents and just $46 per semester unit for California residents. This makes it the most economical choice for local students seeking career training.
Bay Area Medical Academy provides targeted healthcare training starting at just $3,200 for Phlebotomy Technician certification, making it accessible for career changers.
Average Program Costs
Mid-range programs typically cost $10,000-$20,000, including specialized training at institutions like the San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology and aviation programs at AIM.
Premium Education Investment
High-end programs like California College of the Arts ($60,864 undergraduate tuition) and Academy of Art University ($1,301 per unit) provide comprehensive university-level education with extensive industry connections.
Academy of Art University
Founded in 1929 as the Academy of Advertising Art, the Academy of Art University has grown into a large creative institution offering 129 programs from certificates to master’s degrees. Fields of study include architecture, communications, media technologies, and motion pictures, with program lengths ranging from two years for an associate degree to four years for a bachelor’s and up to three years for a master’s. Students can attend classes during the day, evenings, weekends, or fully online, with additional intersession courses available. Real-world experience comes through internships and industry projects rather than formal externships. Tuition for the 2025–26 academic year is charged per unit, starting at $1,301 for undergraduate and $1,477 for graduate domestic students, with higher rates for international enrollment.
- 79 New Montgomery St. San Francisco, CA 94105
Aveda Institutes
The Cinta Aveda Institute in San Francisco offers comprehensive beauty and wellness programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the industry while promoting environmental sustainability.
The cosmetology and esthiology programs provide hands-on training in a salon-ready environment, covering essential techniques such as hair cutting, styling, skincare, facials, and waxing. Students gain real-world experience working directly with guests, learning both technical skills and business strategies to ensure long-term success. Located in the heart of San Francisco, the campus offers access to Aveda’s globally recognized brand and its extensive network of salons and spas, supporting graduates with professional opportunities.
Fully accredited by NACCAS, the institute emphasizes artistic inspiration, environmental responsibility, and practical experience to prepare students for rewarding careers in the beauty industry.
- 305 Kearny St San Francisco, CA 94108
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Since 1969, the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) has been providing top-tier, hands-on training in aviation maintenance, starting in Norfolk, Virginia, and growing into a nationwide network of campuses. AIM is renowned for preparing students with the practical skills required for successful careers in the aviation industry and beyond. Over time, the institute expanded its offerings to meet industry demands in other technical fields, equipping graduates for roles in a range of trades. AIM maintains strong partnerships with major airlines like Southwest, United, and Delta, giving students excellent job placement opportunities after graduation. Through its commitment to hands-on education, AIM continues to produce skilled professionals ready for the fast-paced challenges of today’s workforce.
- 420 Whitney Place Fremont, CA 94539
Bay Area Medical Academy
Bay Area Medical Academy is a private, for-profit healthcare training school with campuses in San Francisco and San Jose, enrolling about 159 students annually. Programs include medical assisting with phlebotomy, pharmacy technician, phlebotomy technician, CPR, and a medical assistant refresher course, with program lengths varying by specialization. Classes follow a hybrid schedule combining online lectures with weekly in-person labs, and all include externships at Bay Area healthcare facilities for real-world experience. Tuition ranges from $3,200 for phlebotomy technician to $16,850 for medical assistant training, not including books or supplies. Accredited by the Middle States Association, BAMA operates with open admissions and a 100% acceptance rate.
- 530 Bush St. Suite 201 San Francisco, CA 94108
California College of the Arts
California College of the Arts enrolls about 1,295 students annually, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as animation, game arts, ceramics, architecture, and film. Programs take four years for a bachelor’s degree and one to three years for a master’s, with flexible scheduling that includes evening, weekend, in-person, and online options. The CCA CONNECTS program links students to externships with Bay Area galleries, design studios, and cultural organizations. Tuition for 2025–2026 is $60,864 for undergraduates and $44,346–$76,968 for graduate students, plus annual fees. Accredited by WSCUC/WASC and specialized bodies like NASAD and NAAB, CCA admits about 91% of applicants.
- 145 Hooper Street San Francisco, CA 94107
City College of San Francisco
City College of San Francisco enrolls over 60,000 students annually and offers more than 250 programs in areas like fashion, film production, food service management, philosophy, pharmacy technology, and more. Students can choose from day, evening, weekend, online, or hybrid classes to fit their schedules. Certain programs, such as pharmacy technician, include externships for real-world experience. Tuition is $46 per semester unit for California residents, free for San Francisco residents, $406 plus fees for nonresidents, and $400 plus fees for international students. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), the college maintains open enrollment with a 100% acceptance rate.
- 808 Kearny St. (@ Washington St) San Francisco, CA 94108
- 88 4th Street San Francisco, CA 94103
- 1400 Evans Avenue San Francisco, CA 94124
- 1860 Hayes Street San Francisco, CA 94117
- 1125 Valencia Street San Francisco, CA 94110
- 50 Frida Kahlo Way San Francisco, CA 94112
DeVry University
DeVry University, a for-profit institution emphasizing technology and innovation, offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in Technology, Healthcare, Business, and Accounting. The Newark campus in the San Francisco Bay Area, with convenient freeway access, provides education in today’s growing fields such as Web and Mobile Application Development, Cloud Computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Situated in a region with the highest concentration of IT and biotech companies and a vibrant professional services industry, DeVry Newark offers numerous career opportunities. Additionally, the campus, located 23 miles from Coast Guard Island, provides hybrid and online educational options for military members, with specific benefits for military and veterans. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, DeVry supports diverse student needs with flexible learning formats.
- 8000 Jarvis Ave, Ste 220., Newark, CA 94560
Paul Mitchell Schools
San Francisco Institute of Esthetics and Cosmetology, a Paul Mitchell Partner School, offers cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nail technology, and hairstyling programs ranging from 400 to 1,000 hours in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant SOMA district.
Students gain hands-on experience using professional tools while developing skills in cutting, coloring, skincare, beard grooming, manicures, and styling. The cosmetology and barbering programs are each 1,000 hours, while esthetics runs 600 hours, hairstyling 600 hours, and nail technology 400 hours.
Digital support tools ensure students stay connected to lessons and career resources, whether on campus or exploring nearby areas like Union Square and the Mission. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify, and students actively participate in charitable events and sustainability initiatives through the school’s Green Team.
- 1067 Folsom Street San Francisco, CA 94103
San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology
The San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology, established in 2002, provides professional beauty education through programs in barbering, cosmetology, hairstyling, esthetics, and nail technology. Tuition ranges from $6,400 for nail technology to $18,000 for cosmetology, and students benefit from small class sizes and personalized instruction. Programs are fully on-campus, with flexible schedules including full-time and part-time options, accommodating students with varying availability. Hands-on training is a key component, with students practicing their skills on real clients and participating in externships at local salons and spas. Accredited by NACCAS, the school maintains a 100% acceptance rate, making it an accessible choice for beauty industry aspirants.
- 1067 Folsom St. San Francisco, CA 94103
San Francisco School of Massage & Bodywork
Established in 1969, the San Francisco School of Massage & Bodywork offers a 600-hour Massage Therapist Program that blends traditional and modern bodywork techniques, including Swedish, sports, and deep tissue massage. Students can complete the program in six to eleven months, depending on whether they choose full-time day, part-time, morning, or evening schedules. All training is conducted in person, with hands-on practice in the school’s student clinic replacing formal externships. Tuition is $10,500, covering registration fees and required textbooks, with some possible additional costs. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and has a 100% acceptance rate.
- 475 Valencia Street – 3rd Floor San Francisco, CA 94103
- 2973 16th St., Ste 100 – Ground Floor San Francisco, CA 94103
Unitek College
Since 2002, Unitek College has offered a variety of medical certificate and degree programs. Unitek College provides students with hands-on training to prepare them for careers in the healthcare field. Learners can earn credentials as vocational nurses, medical office administrators and medical or dental assistants. They can also choose to enroll in a 3-year program to obtain a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing.
- 4670 Auto Mall Pkwy. Fremont, CA 94538
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Several San Francisco schools offer accelerated programs designed for rapid workforce entry:
Medical Field Fast-Track:
- Bay Area Medical Academy’s Phlebotomy Technician program provides quick entry into healthcare
- CPR certification available for just $88
- Medical Assistant programs combining online learning with practical experience
Beauty Industry Rapid Start:
- San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology’s Nail Technology program (12 weeks)
- Focused training programs with immediate hands-on client practice
Technology Acceleration:
- DeVry University’s 8-week class cycles allow for continuous enrollment
- Certificate programs providing specific technical skills
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Hybrid and Online Learning
DeVry University offers the most flexibility with entirely online programs, hybrid formats, and weekend classes. New sessions start every 8 weeks, accommodating busy schedules.
City College of San Francisco provides day, evening, and weekend classes with hybrid formats combining online and in-person instruction across 11 campus locations.
Bay Area Medical Academy uses a hybrid model with daily online lectures and weekly in-person lab sessions, perfect for working adults.
Evening and Weekend Programs
California College of the Arts serves working adults through evening and weekend classes in multi-week learning experiences, with both in-person San Francisco classes and online Zoom options.
San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology offers part-time evening schedules (Monday-Friday, 6:00pm-10:00pm) for students unable to attend daytime classes.
Program Duration and Scheduling
Shortest Programs (Under 6 Months)
- Bay Area Medical Academy CPR certification
- Various certificate programs at City College of San Francisco
- Short-term specialized training options
Standard Program Length (6 months – 2 years)
Most trade programs fall into this category, including:
- San Francisco School of Massage & Bodywork (6-11 months)
- San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology programs (12-80 weeks)
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance programs
- Most healthcare certifications
Extended Programs (2-4 years)
- Associate degrees at City College of San Francisco
- Bachelor’s programs at Academy of Art University and California College of the Arts
- Comprehensive university-level education
Most Popular Program Categories
Based on enrollment and industry demand, the most sought-after programs include:
- Healthcare and Medical Support – Consistent high demand with aging population
- Technology and Cybersecurity – Rapid growth in San Francisco’s tech sector
- Skilled Trades – Construction and automotive maintenance showing strong job growth
- Beauty and Wellness – Steady demand for personal services
- Creative Arts and Design – Supported by San Francisco’s creative economy
Industry Partnerships and Career Services
Many San Francisco trade schools maintain strong connections with local employers. Unitek College provides comprehensive career services including workshops on job-searching, interview strategies, resume development, and annual career fairs. City College of San Francisco leverages its community college status to connect with local businesses and government agencies.
Aviation Institute of Maintenance maintains partnerships with major airlines and aerospace companies, while California College of the Arts connects students with Bay Area galleries, design studios, and cultural organizations through the CCA CONNECTS program.
Financial Aid and Support Services
Most institutions accept federal financial aid, with several offering additional support:
- Unitek College provides institutional financial aid packages
- DeVry University offers military discounts and assistance programs
- City College of San Francisco provides the most affordable education with extensive transfer opportunities
- Paul Mitchell Schools and Aveda Institutes offer beauty industry-specific scholarships
San Francisco’s trade school landscape provides diverse pathways to rewarding careers across multiple industries. Whether seeking rapid workforce entry through accelerated programs or comprehensive education for career advancement, the city’s institutions offer options to match various goals, schedules, and budgets. The combination of established community colleges, specialized trade schools, and university-level programs creates a robust educational ecosystem supporting San Francisco’s dynamic economy.