Denver Trade Schools

Arizona College of Nursing

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Located in Aurora, Colorado, the Arizona College of Nursing’s campus caters to the entire Denver metro area, including Arvada, Westminster, Lakewood, and Centennial. This accredited institution offers a 3-year nursing program, providing convenience to aspiring nurses in the region.

The campus boasts an encouraging and attentive staff, fostering academic excellence and empowering students to succeed in their nursing careers. With a transfer credit policy, students can earn their BSN in less than three years, maximizing their educational opportunities.

Evening classes are available for general education coursework and prerequisite content, accommodating students’ busy schedules. The CCNE-accredited BSN program ensures that the nursing community recognizes quality education.

Institutional accreditation by ABHES further solidifies the college’s commitment to high standards. Scholarships of up to $5,000 are available, easing financial burdens for deserving students.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills for a successful nursing career. Guided labs emphasize hands-on experience, enhancing practical knowledge. From day one, students have access to NCLEX exam preparation, ensuring they are well-prepared for licensure.

The Aurora Campus prioritizes career-focused education, preparing students to excel in the demanding nursing field.

• 3131 S Vaughn Way Aurora, CO 80014

Avalon Institute

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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

Aveda Institutes

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The Cinta Aveda Institute in Denver, CO, offers comprehensive beauty programs, including cosmetology, hairstyling, esthiology, barbering, and massage therapy. Students benefit from a curriculum that combines classroom learning with hands-on training in a professional salon and spa environment. Courses cover essential skills such as hair design, skincare, massage techniques, and barbering styles, while also focusing on client relationships and business development.

Located in a vibrant area of Denver, the campus spans 15,000 square feet and provides access to Aveda’s globally recognized, eco-conscious products. Students enjoy opportunities for networking, job placement assistance, and participation in industry events like New York Fashion Week and the North American Hairstyling Awards. Flexible day and evening schedules, as well as financial aid options, make it accessible to students at different life stages.

• 801 Kalamath St Denver, CO 80204

Build Strong Academy

Rating: 4.9 of 5

Build Strong Academy is an independent institution providing hands-on construction training in four U.S. locations, including Colorado and Houston. The academy offers a 6-week Construction Skills Bootcamp followed by specialized Trade Training courses in fields like carpentry and electrical, with most programs completed in 12 weeks or less. Students have flexible schedule options, including morning, afternoon, and evening classes, to fit different needs. In partnership with the Community College of Aurora, the academy also offers a 1-2 semester Construction Management certificate program. The majority of programs are offered at little to no cost, with a refundable $50 deposit required for participation.

• 445 W 53rd Place Denver, CO 80216

Colorado School of Trades

Rating: 4.1 of 5

The Colorado School of Trades, a private institution in Lakewood, Colorado, has a rich history of hands-on training, now focusing exclusively on its Gunsmithing Training Program. This 160-student program offers small class sizes and is designed to prepare students for entry-level gunsmith careers through practical experience. Classes run Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 3 pm, and include opportunities to learn from industry professionals like Glock and Beretta through Armorer’s Courses. Tuition for the program is approximately $32,150, covering tuition, tools, and a project rifle. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, the school maintains a 78% acceptance rate.

• 1575 Hoyt Street Lakewood, CO 80215

Colorado Technical University

Rating: 3.6 of 5

Established in 1965, Colorado Technical University (CTU) stands out as a private institution renowned for its comprehensive offerings in vocational training. Specializing in business, management, and technology fields, CTU provides flexible online programs tailored to meet students’ needs, granting them unprecedented flexibility compared to traditional classroom settings. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, CTU ensures quality education across its diverse range of programs, including engineering, business, and nursing, accredited by ABET, ACBSP, and CCNE respectively. Notably, CTU has consistently ranked among the top online bachelor’s programs for nearly a decade and is recognized for its exemplary Master’s degree programs in Criminal Justice and Computer Information Technology. Moreover, its online MBA program holds a prestigious Tier One ranking by CEO Magazine. With a strong emphasis on career planning services and professional networking opportunities, CTU is committed to fostering student success and remains a highly awarded institution dedicated to advancing students’ professional endeavors.

• 3151 S Vaughn Way Aurora, CO 80014

Community College of Aurora

Rating: 3.8 of 5

The Community College of Aurora is a two-year public institution in the Colorado Community College System, enrolling over 12,000 students and offering open-access admission. Students can choose from more than 60 degrees and certificates organized into six pathways—Communication & Languages, Creative Industries, People, Societies & Ideas, Professional Studies & Public Service, Health, and STEM—with many programs designed for seamless transfer to Colorado public universities.

Flexible scheduling includes online, hybrid, day, evening, and weekend classes, plus cohort-based options, while healthcare programs add externships and clinical experience for real-world skill building. CCA is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and maintains a 100% acceptance rate for applicants who meet basic requirements. Tuition runs about $537 for a three-credit class for Colorado residents and roughly $2,082 for non-residents, and the school does not currently offer a functional net price calculator.

• 16000 E. CentreTech Pkwy Aurora, CO 80011
• 9075 E. Lowry Blvd. Denver, CO 80230

Concorde Career College

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Concorde Career College is a for-profit institution offering career-focused education in the healthcare fields. Founded in 1966, Concorde is renowned for its hands-on training programs and preparing students for success in their chosen professions. They provide a variety of diploma and associate degree programs in fields such as Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, Respiratory Therapy, and Surgical Technology. Concorde often offers flexible schedules, including evening classes, to accommodate students with busy schedules. Students at Concorde Career College may graduate from their programs in as little as 8 months. Additionally, they typically provide career services to assist students with job placement and career advancement. Concorde Career College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring quality education and training.

• 111 N Havana St Aurora, CO 80010

Cortiva Institute

Rating: 3.1 of 5

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

Denver College of Nursing

Rating: 3.4 of 5

Denver College of Nursing’s flagship downtown Denver campus offers quick, prelicensure pathways—an ADN in as little as 18 months and a BSN in as little as 21 months (pending prerequisites)—with four annual start dates and NCLEX pass rates consistently above the national average. Classes run on weekday day schedules and pair expert-taught coursework with high-tech simulation labs and supervised clinical experiences across the metro area. For working RNs, DCN delivers 100% online RN-to-BSN (≈15 months) and MSN (≈15–18 months) options, plus optional Global Health Perspectives clinical opportunities. All programs are regionally and programmatically accredited, and the Denver prelicensure programs meet Colorado’s educational requirements for RN licensure; graduates must still qualify for and pass the NCLEX-RN. Because licensure rules vary by state, applicants should verify specific requirements with the relevant Board of Nursing or the NCSBN before enrolling.

• 1401 19th Street Denver, CO 80202

Emily Griffith Technical College

Rating: 3.5 of 5

Emily Griffith Technical College is a public institution in Denver, Colorado, offering career-focused education as part of the Denver Public Schools system. The college provides a range of programs, including Automotive Technology, Healthcare, and IT, to help students build successful careers. With flexible class schedules, students can choose morning, afternoon, or evening classes, and many programs include externships or clinical experiences for practical training. The college offers hybrid and online learning formats in addition to traditional classroom instruction. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, Emily Griffith Technical College supports a student body of around 1,178 undergraduates, offering budget-friendly education with tuition ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 annually.

• 1860 Lincoln St. Denver, CO 80203

Empire Beauty Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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

Full Circle School of Massage Therapy

Rating: 5.0 of 5

Full Circle School of Massage Therapy was founded in 1997 by Dawn Lewis and centers its training on SMRT, a proprietary technique that gently resets the neuromuscular relationship between tendons, ligaments, fascia, bones, and muscles to release trigger points without pain. The main 650-hour massage therapy program combines scientific foundations with both therapeutic and wellness-focused techniques and includes 50 hours in a supervised student clinic.

Students can choose from several yearly start options, including daytime, morning, weekend, and mixed schedules, with added flexibility through home-study and video components; there are no externships. Licensed therapists can also take SMRT continuing education through in-person workshops, online modules, or on-demand video subscriptions. Tuition for the 650-hour program is $11,000, with total costs ranging from about $11,640 to $12,812, and the school maintains a 100% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.

• 2101 South Blackhawk St. Suite 245 Aurora, CO 80014

Lincoln Tech

Rating: 3.9 of 5

For over 55 years, Lincoln Tech’s Denver, Colorado campus has been a cornerstone of technical education. Formerly Denver Auto-Diesel College, it’s now a flagship facility attracting students nationwide. Offering auto, diesel, collision repair programs, and more, it’s a hub for in-demand technical skills.

In Automotive Service Technology, students delve into rebuilding engines, diagnosing onboard computers, and mastering transmission repairs. Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology follows I-CAR standards, preparing students for a booming job market with over 3500 projected positions in Colorado by 2030. Diesel and Truck Technology equips students to diagnose and repair heavy-duty engines. At the same time, Electrical and Electronic Systems Technology boasts a 27% job growth in Colorado, teaching wiring, electrical controls, and even programming fire alarm systems.

HVAC programs prepare students for a 30% growth in technician demand, emphasizing hands-on training with industry-standard tools. Welding & Metal Fabrication, with a 17% job growth forecast, offers comprehensive training in various welding techniques, including shielded metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding. Specialized partnerships with MOPAR, Tesla START, Johnson Controls, and Hussman further enhance students’ skills and employability, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in their chosen fields. With a focus on practical skills and industry partnerships, Lincoln Tech’s Denver campus continues to shape the future of technical education.

• 11194 E. 45th Ave. Denver, CO 80239

National School of Dental Assisting

Rating: 5.0 of 5

The National School of Dental Assisting offers eight and twelve-week courses that take place in a working dental facility. Upon completion, students will be able to perform dental X-Rays and, in some cases, obtain certification in skills like CPR. The institution also provides an online course for those seeking a job in a dental front office.

• 3303 W. 144th Ave. Suite 100 (Broomfield) Denver, CO 80023

Nova Southeastern University

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Nova Southeastern University, with its heart in Fort Lauderdale-Davie, Florida, extends its academic reach to Denver, Colorado, through a modern regional campus in Centennial. As a private research university founded in 1964, NSU has grown into a research powerhouse, offering an academic home in the Denver area that’s both innovative and community-focused. Students looking for quality education in Health care, Education, Business Development, and other fields can find over 150 programs at NSU. However, the Denver, CO, campus only offers an Anesthesia (M.S.) Program.

With a 14,500-square-foot facility filled with multimedia classrooms and a computer lab, providing a conducive learning environment, NSU’s Denver, CO Campus equips students for today’s careers. The university opens doors for more than 7,000 graduates every year, joining the ranks of over 200,000 global alumni. NSU stands out as a private, non-profit educational beacon with a unique reputation endorsed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

The university is also recognized for its commitment to the community, earning Carnegie recognition for community engagement. With tuition costs averaging $56,870 before aid for the 2021-22 year, students are investing in a reputable education that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. NSU’s Denver campus promises quality education in the heart of Colorado.

• Denver, CO

Paul Mitchell Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

Paul Mitchell The School Denver, located in Lakewood’s vibrant Belmar shopping district, offers comprehensive cosmetology and esthetics programs in the heart of the Denver metro area. The Cosmetology program (1500 hours) and Esthetics program (600 hours), along with a specialized 16-hour Lash course, provide hands-on training with weekday class schedules designed for aspiring professionals. Students benefit from both classroom theory and real salon experience using professional tools and techniques.

The school supports learners with financial aid guidance, digital learning resources, and access to student-led clubs focused on sustainability and community service. With nearby attractions, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures, the Denver campus delivers an engaging and dynamic environment for beauty education.

• 405 S Teller Street Lakewood, CO 80226

Pickens Technical College

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Since 1971, Pickens Technical College has been a leader in technical education, offering over 25 certificate programs in areas like automotive mechanics, welding, and HVAC. Located in Aurora, Colorado, and part of the Colorado Community College System, the school provides flexible class schedules, with morning, afternoon, and evening options. Some programs, such as dental assisting, include hands-on externships, while others, like IT Bootcamps, can be completed online. Pickens serves around 960 students per year, with a 100% open enrollment policy, making it accessible to a wide range of learners. Tuition is $137 per credit hour for in-state students and $274 per credit hour for out-of-state students, with additional costs for supplies and registration fees.

• 500 Airport Blvd, Aurora, CO 80011

Pima Medical Institute

Rating: 4.6 of 5

The institute’s Denver, CO campus has operated since 1988 and resides in a six-story building north of the heart of Denver. Pima Medical Institute’s Denver campus primarily features dental and veterinary medicine programs, radiography, and medical assisting. This campus offers 7 certificate programs, 5 Associate’s degree programs, and the Expanded Duties Dental Assistant Course. Pima Medical Institute’s Denver campus has received national accreditation and regional approval from the Colorado Division of Private Occupational Schools, the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Colorado State Board of Nursing.

• 13750 E. Mississippi Ave Aurora Aurora, CO 80012
• 7475 Dakin Street Denver Denver, CO 80221

Red Rocks Community College

Rating: 4.0 of 5

Red Rocks Community College, founded in 1969, is a public institution in Lakewood, Colorado, known for offering affordable education and serving approximately 1,800 students annually. The college provides a variety of programs, including certificates, short courses, and degrees in high-demand fields like health careers, computer technology, and fire science. Flexible class schedules, including online, evening, and weekend options, accommodate diverse student needs, while many programs feature hands-on learning through clinical experiences and externships. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the college maintains a 100% acceptance rate and program-specific accreditations in areas like nursing and radiologic technology. In-state tuition is estimated at $4,340, making it one of the most cost-effective educational options in Colorado.

• 13300 W 6th Ave Lakewood, CO 80228

Sage Truck Driving School

Rating: 3.8 of 5

At Sage Truck Driving School in Denver, CDL students train on real trucks with individual behind-the-wheel coaching. The Denver program covers Class A and Class B skills, safety rules, trip planning, and test preparation under ELDT and PTDI guidelines. Denver learners can complete training in a few short weeks, with typical tuition between $4,000 and $7,000 and payment plans for those who qualify.

• 510 E 51st Avenue, Suite 206 Denver, CO 80216

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Located in Broomfield, just a short 30-minute drive northwest of downtown Denver, the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Denver campus offers a prime location adjacent to the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. Spanning 52,000 square feet, this campus specializes in training students in two technology-based disciplines. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, students can access various machinery and aircraft for hands-on learning experiences. From Rolls Royce turbine engines to different aircraft models like Cessna and LearJet, students receive comprehensive training to excel in the aviation industry.

• 10851 West 120th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80021

St. Moritz Massage Academy

Rating: 4.8 of 5

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

U.S. Career Institute

Rating: 3.0 of 5

Based in Fort Collins the U.S. Career Institute provides career training and certificate programs in a wide variety of fields such as healthcare, business, skilled trades, law and wellness.  Many of the courses offered allow you to study from home at your own pace.  The school is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).

• 2001 Lowe Street, (Fort Collins) Denver, CO 80525