Colorado’s diverse economy and growing population create strong demand for skilled professionals across healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and service industries. The state’s trade schools provide career-focused education through established institutions serving communities statewide.
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Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Top Choice: Pima Medical Institute – Multi-location healthcare specialist with partnerships involving over 15,000 employers. Offers medical assisting, nursing, radiography, surgical technology, and dental programs across Aurora, Colorado Springs, and Denver.
Budget-Friendly: Emily Griffith Technical College – Public institution offering healthcare training from $2,000-$10,000 annually. Programs include CNA, dental assisting, medical assisting, and massage therapy.
Comprehensive: Concorde Career College – Healthcare-focused with blended learning model completing programs in 8 months. Features dental assisting, medical laboratory technology, and surgical technology.
Specialized: Arizona College of Nursing – Nursing education specialist with BSN and accelerated programs. Operates across 20 campuses in 12 states including Colorado locations.
Beauty & Cosmetology
Industry Leaders: Aveda Institutes and Paul Mitchell Schools – Nationally recognized brands with extensive salon networks. Aveda offers cosmetology ($16,716), esthetics ($9,966), and massage therapy ($10,961).
Established Network: Empire Beauty Schools – America’s largest cosmetology school system with multiple Colorado locations and average tuition around $16,200.
Specialized Wellness: Cortiva Institute – Dermalogica partner school focusing on massage therapy and esthetics with annual tuition around $11,746.
Skilled Trades & Construction
Construction Focus: Build Strong Academy – 6-12 week construction bootcamps for $50 refundable deposit. Offers carpentry, concrete, electrical, and construction management pathways.
Comprehensive Training: Emily Griffith Technical College – Public institution with automotive, HVAC, welding, electrical, and construction programs since 1916.
Specialized Approach: Construction Industry Training Council of Colorado – Apprenticeship programs in carpentry, electrical, masonry, plumbing, and pipe fitting with employer-sponsored tuition.
Unique Specialty: Colorado School of Trades – 75+ years of gunsmithing training with hands-on customer projects and industry partnerships.
Technology & Business
University-Level: Colorado Technical University – Ranked 9 consecutive years for online programs. Offers business, technology, criminal justice, and nursing with 24/7 campus access.
Practical Focus: IntelliTec College – Multi-location institution with automotive, electrical, HVAC, medical, and computer programs ranging $2,000-$15,000.
Public Option: Red Rocks Community College – Affordable community college with computer technology, graphics, and multimedia programs.
Aviation & Specialized Training
Industry Leader: Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology – 94+ years of aviation training with FAA-approved programs. Total costs range $34,485-$94,101.
Culinary Arts: Escoffier Culinary Arts – Top-ranked culinary school with Boulder campus serving 7,600 students. Average net price $11,554 after aid.
Media Training: Illinois Media School – Broadcasting and media production programs with hands-on studio training. Tuition ranges $12,375-$18,875.
Wellness & Alternative Health
Quick Training: St. Moritz Massage Academy – 20-week (634-hour) therapeutic massage program with licensure exam preparation.
Comprehensive: Available through Aveda Institutes, Cortiva Institute, Emily Griffith Technical College, and Lincoln Tech
Online & Distance Learning
Fully Online: U.S. Career Institute – Self-paced programs completing in as little as 4 months. Certificate programs range $585-$1,539 total.
List of Top Trade Schools in Colorado
Arizona College of Nursing
The Arizona College of Nursing, established in 1991 by a group of pharmacists, has grown into a leading institution for vocational medical education with a mission to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. Operating across 20 campuses in 12 states, it offers a range of programs including Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Healthcare Administration, and is renowned for its dynamic, culturally enriched learning environment. The college is thoroughly accredited, including a BSN program recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and maintains affiliations with various prestigious organizations and nursing associations, enhancing its credibility and support within the nursing community. Dedicated to continuous improvement and workforce relevance, the Arizona College of Nursing offers tailored educational programs and strong career development support, making it a compelling option for those pursuing careers in health professions, evidenced by its robust placement support and state-of-the-art training facilities.- 3131 South Vaughn Way, Suite 525 Aurora, CO 80014
- Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting
Avalon Institute
Avalon Institute, established in 1967, offers hands-on training in cosmetology, esthetics, massage therapy, and more across campuses in Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, and Utah. Known for real-world salon experience, Avalon prepares students through in-person instruction and practical learning with real clients. The school is accredited by NACCAS and offers both day and evening class schedules.- 2231 S Peoria Street Aurora, CO 80014
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.- 801 Kalamath St Denver, CO 80204
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Build Strong Academy
Build Strong Academy offers hands-on construction training through three levels of courses, including a 6-week Construction Skills Bootcamp and specialized Trade Training programs. With flexible schedules and locations across the U.S., students can gain industry-recognized certificates in 12 weeks or less, often at little to no cost. The academy focuses on in-person learning with no online options.- 445 W 53rd Place Denver, CO 80216
- Construction
Colorado School of Trades
The Colorado School of Trades in Lakewood, Colorado, specializes in a Gunsmithing Training Program, offering hands-on, project-oriented learning with small class sizes. Accredited and focused exclusively on gunsmithing, the school prepares students for entry-level gunsmith careers through direct experience with real customer projects.- 1575 Hoyt Street Lakewood, CO 80215
- Skilled Trades
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University strives to help students achieve their personal and professional goals. The school, whose mascot is the golden eagle, focuses on delivering industry-relevant material through its online platform and two campus locations. Colorado Technical University offers a variety of options for students pursuing their associates, bachelors, masters, or doctorate degrees. Full-time and part-time students can attend classes on campus or take courses online. Areas of study include business, nursing, project management, and more.
- 3151 S Vaughn Way Aurora, CO 80014
- 4435 N Chestnut St Colorado Springs, CO 80907
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology
Concorde Career College
With several locations throughout the United States, Concorde prepares attendees for jobs in healthcare and dentistry. This institution prides itself on providing an educational experience that is student centered, community based, and achievement driven.
Career seekers interested in studying a trade in healthcare or dental care can go to Concorde Career College for a diploma or associate degree in an array of fields. The institution offers programs in diagnostics, including cardiovascular and medical sonography. Allied health programs include medical assisting and office administration.
Several programs also focus on patient care, such as massage therapy, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, surgical technology, and coursework for physical therapy assistants. Concorde helps interested students prepare for high-level dental care, as well, with programs and training for dental assistants and hygienists.
- 111 N Havana St Aurora, CO 80010
- Healthcare and Nursing, Massage Therapy, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Wellness
Construction Industry Training Council of Colorado
The Construction Industry of Colorado Training Council (CITC), founded in 1988, provides hands-on training and apprenticeships in trades like carpentry, electrical, and plumbing. Accredited by Emily Griffith Technical College and the U.S. Department of Labor, CITC combines classroom instruction with real-world experience, offering evening classes to accommodate work schedules. Most students’ tuition is covered by their employers, making it a cost-effective pathway into the construction industry.- 9901 W 50th Ave Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
- Skilled Trades
Cortiva Institute
With over 30 locations in 13 states, Cortiva Institute serves many people looking for careers in massage therapy or skin care. Students can complete accelerated programs in less than a year. All tracks are nationally accredited. During schooling, attendees are able to grow as professionals to prepare for their futures.- 14107 East Exposition Ave. Aurora, CO 80012
- 8991 Harlan St., Suite B Westminster, CO 80031
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy, Wellness
Denver College of Nursing
Denver College of Nursing (DCN) is a nursing-only institution founded in 2003 (renamed in 2017) that serves 1,000+ students across Denver (CO) and Houston (TX). It offers associate, BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN pathways delivered on-ground and online, pairing didactic study with labs and supervised clinical placements.- 1401 19th Street Denver, CO 80202
- Healthcare and Nursing
Emily Griffith Technical College
Emily Griffith Technical College, located in Denver, Colorado, offers affordable, hands-on career and technical education. With flexible class schedules and programs in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, and culinary arts, the college prepares students for job-ready skills in high-demand industries. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, the school serves postsecondary students and adults through its diverse programs.- 1860 Lincoln St. Denver, CO 80203
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Empire Beauty Schools
Empire Beauty Schools offers hands-on experience in cosmetology, skincare, and cosmetology education at all of their locations. Attendees receive training for in-demand beauty jobs. Full and part-time programs are available to fit each student’s lifestyle. High-quality career tracks include cosmetology and hair styling.- 16800 E Mississippi Ave. Aurora, CO 80017
- 8996 W Bowles Ave. Littleton, CO 80123
- 3811 E 120th Ave. Thornton, CO 80233
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Escoffier Culinary Arts
The Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, originally founded as the Culinary Academy of Austin in 1997, is a well-regarded private cooking school with campuses in Texas and Colorado. It offers a variety of culinary and hospitality programs, including online classes, and is nationally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) and the American Culinary Federation.- 637 South Broadway, Suite H, Boulder, CO 80305
- Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management
IBMC College
IBMC College, established in 1987, serves Northern Colorado with accredited campuses in Fort Collins, Greeley, and Longmont. Offering programs in healthcare, massage therapy, paralegal studies, cosmetology, and more, the college provides flexible class schedules with options for morning, mid-day, or evening classes, Monday through Thursday. Cosmetology students typically attend Tuesday to Friday, with hands-on learning supported by externships and on-campus clinics. With a 7-to-1 student-faculty ratio and an enrollment of around 408 students per year, IBMC focuses on individualized guidance for career success. Tuition averages $22,949 per year, covering tuition, books, and supplies.- 2863 35th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80634
- 3842 S Mason Street Fort Collins, CO 80525
- 2315 N. Main Street, Longmont, CO 80501
- Professional Services, Healthcare Administration
Illinois Media School
Be On Air Media Schools opened in 1986 and now operates seven campuses teaching entertainment, digital, and broadcast media. Class sizes cap at 18 for hands-on training with industry professionals. Tuition ranges from $12,375 to $18,875, and net price calculators help students estimate their full costs and aid options.- 4380 South Syracuse Suite 400 Denver, , CO 80237
- Professional Services
IntelliTec College
IntelliTec College aims to improve local communities through career training and certifications in various fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, cosmetology, business, and IT. IntelliTec College typically offers diploma and degree programs designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in their chosen career fields. These programs often emphasize hands-on training and practical skills that are relevant to the industry. They are accredited by the ACCSC and other institutions.- 2315 E Pikes Peak Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80909
- 772 Horizon Dr. Grand Junction, CO 81506
- 3673 Parker Blvd. Pueblo, CO 81008
- 713 E Spaulding Ave. Pueblo West, CO 81007
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Massage Therapy, Medical Billing and Coding
Lincoln Tech
Now with over 20 locations across the United States, Lincoln Tech opened its first New Jersey campus in 1946. Specializing in hands-on technical career training, degree programs include automotive, health sciences, culinary arts, cosmetology, and other skilled trades. Educators work hard to give learners the practical skills needed to succeed in new vocations.- 11194 E. 45th Ave. Denver, CO 80239
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation
National School of Dental Assisting
The National School of Dental Assisting offers hands-on clinical programs and online training for dental assisting. E-Learning courses are self-paced with guidance from an experienced instructor. The school has eight physical locations across Colorado, Nevada, and Washington, some of which are in major cities such as Denver and Reno.- 3303 W. 144th Ave. Suite 100 (Broomfield) Denver, CO 80023
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale-based Nova Southeastern University offers distance and on-campus learning programs. The school, whose mascot is the shark, has eleven campuses located in Florida and Puerto Rico. The university's core values include academic excellence, integrity, and innovation. To fulfill that mission, this private, non-profit college offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in fields like business, medicine, law, and education. Diversity and community are also central to the school's mission.
- Denver, CO
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Communications and Media, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts
Paul Mitchell Schools
There are more than 100 Paul Mitchell Schools nationwide that prepare future professionals for careers in the beauty industry. Students can learn in-demand skills to become cosmetologists, barbers, estheticians and nail designers.- 118 W Colorado Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80903
- 405 S Teller Street Lakewood, CO 80226
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Pickens Technical College
Pickens Technical College, part of the Aurora Public Schools district and Colorado Community College System, has been providing technical education since 1971. The college offers over 25 certificate programs in fields such as automotive mechanics, welding, and HVAC, with flexible class schedules. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, Pickens serves around 960 students annually, offering hands-on learning and externships in select programs.- 500 Airport Blvd, Aurora, CO 80011
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Pima Medical Institute
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.- 13750 E. Mississippi Ave Aurora Aurora, CO 80012
- 5725 Mark Dabling Boulevard, Suite 150 Colorado Springs, CO 80919
- 7475 Dakin Street Denver Denver, CO 80221
- Healthcare and Nursing, Dental, Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Veterinary Services
Red Rocks Community College
Red Rocks Community College, located in Lakewood, Colorado, offers affordable education with some of the lowest tuition rates in the state and a wide range of programs in high-demand fields like health careers, computer technology, and fire science. Known for its flexible class schedules, including online, evening, and weekend options, the college provides hands-on learning opportunities through clinical experiences and externships. With open admissions and accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission, it is a reputable choice for students pursuing certificates, degrees, or career-focused training.- 13300 W 6th Ave Lakewood, CO 80228
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology offers courses in Aviation Maintenance, Aviation Electronics, Nondestructive Testing, HVAC, and Piloting.- 10851 West 120th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80021
St. Moritz Massage Academy
Located in the Denver area, St Moritz offers a 20 week massage therapy training program with a focus on Swedish Massage. Payment plans are available. Support with finding a job.
- 6830 S. Yosemite Ct. Suite 101, Denver, CO 80112
- Massage Therapy
Technical College of the Rockies
Technical College of the Rockies (TCR) in Delta, Colorado is a small, public technical school (est. 1964) focused on hands-on career training across trades and healthcare. Independent of the state community-college system and governed by the local school board, it serves ~100 students annually with skills-first instruction and community workforce ties.- 1765 US-50 Delta, CO 81416
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Trinidad State College
Trinidad State College, founded in 1925 as Colorado’s first community college, serves about 2,000 students with a 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio. The 17-acre Trinidad Campus overlooks the historic town near the Rockies and offers in-person, online, and hybrid classes across many fields.- 1011 Main St Alamosa, CO 81101
- 600 Prospect St, Trinidad, CO 81082
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Education, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
U.S. Career Institute
The U.S. Career Institute has been providing students with a quality education for more than 35 years. The school prides itself on its career-focused approach and self-paced courses. Those enrolled can graduate with a certificate or associate degree from one of USCI's dozens of programs. Based in Colorado, U.S. Career Institute offers a variety of distance learning programs.- 2001 Lowe Street, (Fort Collins) Denver, CO 80525
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Social Services, Sports Management, Sterile Processing Technician, Wellness
Western States College of Construction
Western States College of Construction (WSCC), established in 2021, offers debt-free associate degrees in skilled trades like HVAC, plumbing, and pipefitting through a paid apprenticeship model. Accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), WSCC emphasizes hands-on learning, with 90% of training taking place in the field. Graduates benefit from an impressive 98% job placement rate, making it a top choice for aspiring tradespeople.- 3168 Pipe Ct, Grand Junction, CO 81504
- 4003 N Weber St, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
- Skilled Trades
Guides to Specific Trades in Colorado
Cost Analysis
Most Affordable Options
- Build Strong Academy – $50 refundable deposit for construction programs
- Emily Griffith Technical College – $2,000-$10,000 annually (public rates)
- U.S. Career Institute – $585-$1,539 total for certificate programs
- National School of Dental Assisting – $1,000-$5,000 per course
- IntelliTec College – $2,000 starting cost for select programs
Average Program Costs by Category
- Public Institution Programs: $2,000-$10,000 annually
- Certificate Programs: $1,000-$25,000 total
- Beauty/Cosmetology: $9,966-$16,716
- Healthcare Training: $17,305-$25,549 annually
- University Programs: $15,625-$35,880 annually
- Aviation Training: $34,485-$94,101 total
Shortest Programs
- Build Strong Academy: 6-week construction bootcamps
- National School of Dental Assisting: 8-12 weeks
- St. Moritz Massage Academy: 20 weeks
- Concorde Career College: 8-month healthcare programs
- U.S. Career Institute: 4+ months online programs
Program Duration Overview
- Quick Certificates: 6 weeks to 8 months
- Standard Programs: 6 months to 2 years
- Associate Degrees: 15 months to 2 years
- Bachelor’s Degrees: 3-4 years
Most Popular Programs Statewide
- Medical Assistant – Available across multiple healthcare institutions
- Nursing (LPN/RN/BSN) – High demand at all levels
- Cosmetology – Strong service industry demand
- HVAC Technology – Growing construction and maintenance needs
- Automotive Technology – Consistent industry demand
- Dental Assistant – Expanding healthcare sector
- Computer Systems Technology – IT sector growth
Quick Entry Programs for Career Launch
Build Strong Academy provides the fastest workforce entry with 6-week construction skills bootcamps leading directly to employment. Most programs require only a $50 refundable deposit.
National School of Dental Assisting offers 8-12 week programs in active dental facilities with real equipment and 40-hour externships.
Emily Griffith Technical College delivers accelerated certificate programs with immediate workforce entry potential and public institution affordability.
Concorde Career College emphasizes 8-month healthcare programs with blended learning and immediate career readiness.
Construction Industry Training Council provides apprenticeships combining paid work experience with evening education.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Evening Classes
Emily Griffith Technical College operates morning, afternoon, and evening sessions with hybrid formats for working professionals.
Construction Industry Training Council offers evening classes 3:00-7:00 PM for apprentices working days.
IntelliTec College provides day and evening options across all programs with industry veteran instructors.
Online and Hybrid Options
Colorado Technical University features extensive online programming with 24/7 technical support and campus access.
U.S. Career Institute operates fully online with self-paced learning available 24/7 and mobile accessibility.
Escoffier Culinary Arts combines online classes with hands-on training and six-week externships.
Self-Paced Learning
Multiple institutions offer flexible pacing allowing students to accelerate or adjust timelines based on personal circumstances and career goals.
Financial Aid and Support Services
Federal Aid Acceptance
All major institutions accept federal financial aid including Pell Grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Public institutions offer additional state-based assistance.
Institutional Support
Lincoln Tech has awarded $2 million in scholarships with extensive corporate partnership funding.
Pima Medical Institute offers nearly $1 million in institutional aid with 90-96% of students receiving assistance.
Colorado Technical University provides tuition reimbursement programs and various scholarship opportunities.
Military Benefits
All schools accept VA benefits and GI Bill funding. Many provide specialized veteran support services, military-specific scholarships, and credit for military experience.
Industry Partnerships and Career Services
Strong Employer Networks
Pima Medical Institute partners with over 15,000 healthcare employers for externships and job placement.
Paul Mitchell Schools connects students to over 100,000 affiliated salons globally.
Construction Industry Training Council works directly with construction companies for apprenticeship placements.
Specialized Training Partnerships
Lincoln Tech partners with Audi, BMW, Johnson Controls, and Haas Automation for industry-specific training.
Cortiva Institute operates as Dermalogica partner school with International Dermal Institute access.
Spartan College maintains FAA approval and aviation industry relationships spanning 94+ years.
Geographic Coverage and Accessibility
Metro Denver Area
Multiple campuses concentrated in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and Westminster providing urban accessibility and public transportation options.
Colorado Springs
Specialized institutions including Colorado Technical University, IntelliTec College, Pima Medical Institute, and Paul Mitchell Schools.
Statewide Presence
IntelliTec College operates in Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, and Pueblo. Lincoln Tech, Paul Mitchell Schools, and Empire Beauty Schools maintain multiple locations.
Rural Access
Online options through Colorado Technical University and U.S. Career Institute serve students in remote areas.
Accreditation and Quality Standards
Colorado schools maintain proper accreditation from recognized agencies:
- ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)
- COE (Council on Occupational Education)
- HLC (Higher Learning Commission)
- NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences)
- ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)
Making Your Decision
Key Decision Factors
- Career Goals: Match program offerings to target profession
- Geographic Preferences: Consider campus locations and transportation
- Budget Constraints: Compare public vs. private institution costs
- Schedule Requirements: Evaluate class timing and format flexibility
- Timeline Needs: Determine acceptable program duration
- Support Services: Consider available student and career resources
Research Steps
- Contact schools for current tuition and program information
- Visit campuses to evaluate facilities and equipment quality
- Review job placement statistics and graduate outcomes
- Investigate financial aid options and payment plans
- Speak with current students, recent graduates, and industry employers
Notable Colorado Advantages
- Mix of public and private institutions providing cost options
- Strong healthcare training presence serving aging population
- Construction and skilled trades programs supporting growth
- Aviation industry connections and specialized training
- Technology sector programs aligned with Colorado’s tech economy
- Multiple 100% acceptance rate schools ensuring accessibility
Colorado’s trade schools provide comprehensive career preparation across growing industries with options ranging from quick-entry certificates to specialized degree programs, serving diverse student needs throughout the state.