List of Schools
Dawn Career Institute
Dawn Career Institute is a private, for-profit career school in Delaware with one campus, training practical nurses, medical assistants, HVAC technicians, estheticians and nursing assistants in programs of 6 to 48 weeks. Its Practical Nurse diploma is accredited by ACEN and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-PN, and Medical Assisting can be taken as a hybrid. Program totals in the September 2026 catalog run from $3,213 to $24,172.85.- 252 Chapman Road Newark, DE 19702
- Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, HVAC and Building Services
Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology
The Salon Professional Academy Delaware (TSPA Delaware), still listed in federal records as Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology, is a NACCAS-accredited beauty school with full-time, in-person weekday programs in cosmetology, master barbering, esthetics, manicuring and instructor training. It is an independently owned franchise in the TSPA network of 30-plus academies and takes federal aid. Federal data put 2024-25 tuition at $20,250 for the 1,500-hour cosmetology program.- 32448 Royal Blvd, Suite A Dagsboro, DE 19939
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Delaware Skills Center
Delaware Skills Center is a public adult training center run by the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District and open only to Delaware residents. Its in-person programs of 6 to 44 weeks cover nursing assistant, practical nursing (ACEN-accredited), electrical, HVAC, plumbing, welding and CDL Class A. It takes no federal student aid: 2026-27 non-funded tuition runs from $2,565 to $13,600, and WIOA funding through the state pays for eligible students.- 500 Ships Landing Way New Castle, DE 19720
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Welding
Delaware Technical Community College
Delaware Technical Community College is the State of Delaware's public, open-admission community college. It trains registered and practical nurses, dental hygienists, sonographers, radiographers, respiratory therapists, surgical technologists, aircraft mechanics in an FAA-certified program, HVAC technicians, paralegals and chefs, and most of its allied health programs share a Wilmington building that opened in late 2024. Delaware residents pay $156.75 a credit in 2026-27.- 100 Campus Drive Dover, DE 19904
- 21179 College Drive Georgetown, DE 19947
- 400 Stanton-Christiana Rd. Newark, DE 19713
- 300 N. Orange St. Wilmington, DE 19801
- Healthcare and Nursing, Dental, Radiology, Medical Assisting, Veterinary Services, Public Safety, Skilled Trades, Aviation, HVAC and Building Services, Construction, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Professional Services, Computer and Information Technology, Education
Paul Mitchell Schools
Delaware's only Paul Mitchell school is on Pulaski Highway in Newark, operated by Carme, LLC. It teaches 1,500-hour cosmetology and 600-hour esthetics, plus cosmetology instructor programs of 250 or 500 hours. It does not list barbering or nail programs; barbering is taught at all three of Paul Mitchell's Maryland schools.- 1420 Pulaski Highway Newark, DE 19702
- Cosmetology and Barbering
POLYTECH Adult Education
POLYTECH Adult Education is the adult division of a public Delaware technical school district. It teaches non-credit certificates and registered apprenticeships: ACEN-accredited practical nursing, CNA and phlebotomy, electrical, HVAC-R, plumbing, welding, automotive, diesel and aircraft maintenance apprenticeships, and hybrid IT courses. Every student pays the same price; practical nursing is $16,999 tuition plus about $2,582 in fees for 2026-27, and federal aid covers that program only.- 823 Walnut Shade Rd. Woodside, DE 19980
- Healthcare and Nursing, Phlebotomy Technician, Skilled Trades, Aviation, Automotive, Construction, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Welding, Computer and Information Technology
Strayer University
Strayer's only Delaware campus is on North King Street in Wilmington and, per its page, is open Mondays and Tuesdays. Strayer is mainly an online university, so Delaware students take its associate, bachelor's and master's programs online, at $1,555 per undergraduate course in 2026–27, and use the campus for advising and select in-person classes.- 800 North King St, Suite 101 Wilmington, DE 19801
- Business, Computer and Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing
UA Local 486 Apprenticeship
UA Local 486's only Delaware training site is in Seaford, which the union calls its Delmarva school; Sussex County joined the local's area when the Seaford local merged into Local 486 in 2012. Seaford teaches the same five-year plumbing, HVACR and gasfitting apprenticeship as the Maryland sites, with no tuition. The program does not say which Delaware licence or registration Seaford apprentices can pursue, so ask before applying.- 26705 Sussex Highway Seaford, DE 19973
- Skilled Trades, HVAC and Building Services
Trade Schools in Delaware: A Comprehensive Guide
Trade schools in Delaware provide a vital pathway for adults seeking vocational and technical training. These institutions, also known as vo-tech schools, offer specialized education that equips students with the skills needed for various industries.
Below is an overview of the average cost, accreditation, financial aid options, common programs, and additional benefits of trade schools in Delaware.
Average Cost of Trade Schools in Delaware
The cost of attending a trade school in Delaware varies depending on the program and institution. Tuition for shorter programs like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training can start as low as $2,565 at institutions like the Delaware Skills Center, making it one of the most affordable options in the state.
Longer and more specialized programs, such as Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) courses, may cost up to $13,600. Institutions like the Dawn Career Institute provide programs ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, while the Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology charges $13.50 to $16.50 per hour, depending on the program length.
Accreditation of Trade Schools in Delaware
Accreditation is crucial when selecting a vocational or technical school, ensuring that the programs meet industry and educational standards. Many trade schools in Delaware are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).
Additionally, institutions like Delaware Technical Community College hold accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which confirms their commitment to providing quality education.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Delaware trade schools offer multiple financial aid options to make education more accessible. Federal assistance through the FAFSA is available at most institutions, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Schools like Dawn Career Institute and Delaware Technical Community College also provide scholarships for high school seniors and adults looking to further their education. The Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology offers payment plans and accepts various financial aid options, ensuring students can manage their tuition costs.
Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Delaware
The most popular trade programs in Delaware focus on high-demand industries and practical skills. Based on available content, the top 10 most common programs are:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Medical Assistant
- HVAC Technician
- Electrical Trades
- Welding & Fabrication
- Cosmetology and Esthetics
- Dental Assisting
- CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) Training
- Plumbing Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
Example of Trade School Courses
Trade schools in Delaware provide courses that are tailored to meet the needs of various industries. For instance, the Delaware Skills Center offers HVAC, welding, and electrical programs, combining in-class instruction with hands-on training in a simulated work environment. The Delaware Learning Institute of Cosmetology delivers courses in cosmetology, esthetics, and barbering, integrating practical experience through externships. Medical Career Academy offers healthcare-focused training such as Phlebotomy Technician and Medical Billing & Coding, emphasizing clinical skills.
Average Duration of Trade School Programs in Delaware
The duration of trade school programs in Delaware depends on the field of study and program requirements. Shorter courses, like CPR and first-aid training, may last just a few weeks. Programs such as CNA training can be completed in as little as 2.5 weeks, while more intensive courses, like LPN programs, may take up to a year to complete. For trades like HVAC and plumbing, the timeline ranges from several months to two years, depending on whether students opt for full-time or part-time schedules.
Value for Veterans
Veterans looking to gain new skills or transition to civilian careers will find that trade schools in Delaware offer valuable resources and support. Institutions like Delaware Technical Community College and Dawn Career Institute provide military-friendly policies and accept VA benefits for veterans and National Guard members. Some schools also offer personalized assistance in navigating tuition benefits and developing a career transition plan, ensuring that veterans can maximize their educational and career opportunities.
Career Services and Student Support
The career services offered by Delaware trade schools play a crucial role in helping students transition from training to employment. Schools such as Dawn Career Institute and the Delaware Skills Center provide job placement assistance, resume reviews, and interview preparation to enhance employability.
Additionally, some schools host recruitment events, giving students the opportunity to network with local employers. Institutions like Delaware Technical Community College also offer externships and clinical rotations, providing practical, hands-on experience that often leads to immediate job opportunities upon graduation.
Conclusion
Trade schools in Delaware offer a diverse range of vocational and technical programs designed for adults looking to start or advance their careers. With various financial aid options, veteran support, and career services available, these institutions provide valuable pathways for Delaware residents seeking practical, hands-on training. From healthcare to skilled trades, Delaware’s trade schools equip students with the skills and certifications needed to succeed in today’s job market.