Fort Lauderdale Trade Schools

The Fort Lauderdale area, encompassing Miramar, Hollywood, and Davie within Broward County, offers a diverse and robust landscape of trade and vocational schools designed to equip students with the skills needed for high-demand careers. Whether you’re looking to enter the healthcare field, pursue a business career, master a skilled trade, or dive into technology, there’s a program tailored for you. The average annual cost across these schools is approximately $23,848, though this figure can vary significantly based on the specific program, degree level, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

Best Schools by Specialty

Healthcare

Arizona College of Nursing (Fort Lauderdale): Known for its comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, as well as Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Healthcare Administration. It emphasizes hands-on training and career placement support.

HCI College (Fort Lauderdale): Specializes in healthcare education, offering Diplomas and Associate Degrees in popular fields like Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing (LPN), Associate of Science in Nursing (RN), EMT, Paramedic, and Substance Abuse Counseling.

Concorde Career Institute (Miramar): Provides associate’s degrees and diplomas across a wide range of healthcare careers, including Cardiovascular Sonography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Practical Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Surgical Technology, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, Dental Hygiene, and Dental Assistant.

City College (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood): Offers degree and diploma programs with a strong focus on healthcare, including Healthcare Administration, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assisting, Nursing, Surgical Technologist, Sonography, Radiology, Veterinary Assistant, and Veterinary Technician.

Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale): While a comprehensive university, it offers numerous career-centered programs in healthcare, including Bachelor of Health Science, B.S. in Respiratory Therapy, B.S. in in Cardiovascular Sonography, B.S. in Medical Sonography, and Nursing programs.

Business

Broward College (Davie): Offers Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration, Management, and Operations.

Keiser University (Fort Lauderdale): Provides a wide array of business programs, including Accounting, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Networking, Business Administration, and Computer Information Systems.

Skilled Trades

Broward College (Davie): Features technical certificates and diplomas in Automotive Service Technician, Construction, CNC, and Culinary Arts.

Keiser University (Fort Lauderdale): Offers programs in Culinary Arts (Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts).

Technology

Broward College (Davie): Known for Information Technology, Computer Programming, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics programs.

Keiser University (Fort Lauderdale): Provides programs in Computer Systems Technician and Cyber Security.

Beauty & Wellness:

Aveda Institutes (Davie): Specializes in cosmetology, esthiology (skincare), and massage therapy.

Costs and Duration

Understanding the investment in time and money is crucial when choosing a program. Here’s a general overview based on the provided school information:

Average Annual Tuition (Estimated):

Undergraduate/Associate/Diploma Programs: Ranges widely from approximately $9,966 (Aveda Esthetics) to $35,880 (Nova Southeastern University traditional undergraduate). Many programs fall in the $13,000 – $19,000 range for in-state students at institutions like Arizona College of Nursing and Broward College.

Master’s Programs: At Arizona College of Nursing, Master’s programs average $21,000 – $24,000 per year for residents. Keiser University’s graduate programs average $27,000 annually.

PhD Programs: At Arizona College of Nursing, PhD programs average around $19,000 per year for residents.

Cheapest Program (Annual Tuition):

  • Aveda Institutes Esthetics Program: $9,966
  • Aveda Institutes Therapeutic Massage Program: $10,961

Shortest Program

Aveda Institutes programs: Many are designed for hands-on training, often completed in less than a year for certifications like Esthetics or Therapeutic Massage.

Diploma programs at institutions like Concorde Career Institute and HCI College (e.g., Phlebotomy Technician, Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing) are generally shorter, often under 12 months

Average Program Duration

  • Diplomas/Certificates: Typically 6-12 months.
  • Associate Degrees: Generally 18-24 months.
  • Bachelor’s Degrees: Ranges from 3 years (Arizona College of Nursing BSN) to 4 years (traditional programs).

List of Top Schools

Arizona College of Nursing

Rating: 4.8 of 5

Located in Fort Lauderdale, the Arizona College of Nursing’s regional campus offers students an affordable and compelling pathway to a fulfilling nursing career through its comprehensive 3-year BSN program. Classes commence on a semesterly basis, so students can embark on their journey without the hassle of waitlists.

The campus stands out with its commitment to accessibility, offering a streamlined transfer credit process and night classes for year one of general education coursework. This enables students to earn their BSN in just three years, accelerating their entry into nursing.

Backed by CCNE and ABHES accreditation, the college ensures rigorous standards and quality education. Scholarships of up to $15,000 further alleviate financial barriers for aspiring nurses.

Nursing students benefit from hands-on simulations and real-world clinical experiences, equipping them with the practical skills essential for success in the nursing field. NCLEX exam preparation is integrated into the curriculum, with dedicated classes and personalized study plans. Clinical partnerships with healthcare providers in the Fort Lauderdale area provide invaluable opportunities for practical training.

The campus’s convenient location serves students from Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Hollywood, Hialeah, and beyond. The campus focuses on student success and offers 24/7 tutoring and robust support services. The faculty, comprising experienced nursing professionals, ensures students receive top-notch education and mentorship.

  • 600 Corporate Dr Suite 200 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334

Aveda Institutes

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The Aveda Institute – South Florida in Ft. Lauderdale offers state-of-the-art training in Cosmetology, Skincare, Massage Therapy, and Advanced Education, all within a vibrant beauty and fashion hub.

Students gain hands-on experience through events like fashion shows and photoshoots, enhancing their skills in real-world settings. Programs include business development, client care, and Aveda’s signature plant-based wellness rituals.

Classes run Monday through Saturday, with schedules typically from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on weekends, offering flexibility for full-time and part-time students. Tuition includes all state testing and licensing fees, and learners benefit from a modern campus environment surrounded by South Florida’s beaches, parks, and entertainment.

  • 4186 South University Drive Davie, FL 33328

Broward College

Rating: 3.0 of 5

Founded in 1959, Broward College has grown to become a key institution within the Florida College System, boasting the second-largest enrollment in the state. It offers a diverse array of academic programs, including Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees, as well as technical certificates and diplomas, across 10 campuses and various international sites. The college is known for its mission of providing accessible, quality education and maintains an open admission policy, serving over 56,000 students. With flexible class schedules and the Internship EDGE Program, Broward College ensures students gain practical experience and fair compensation during their studies. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Broward College guarantees a legitimate and valuable educational experience.

  • 3501 Davie Rd. Davie Davie, FL 33314

City College

Rating: 3.0 of 5

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, City College’s campus stands as a beacon of educational excellence since its establishment in 1984. City College is a distinguished private institution dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals through its diverse array of diploma, associate, and bachelor degree programs, all accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. Central to its ethos is cultivating leadership skills, with City College empowering students to establish their organizations. This ethos extends to its mission of providing tailored education and training in healthcare, ensuring graduates emerge fully equipped for success in their chosen fields.

Students benefit from unparalleled instructor support, fostering a conducive learning environment where individual growth flourishes. With degree programs ranging from diagnostic medical sonography to surgical technology, students engage in hands-on training using state-of-the-art equipment in small classes, facilitating personalized attention and real-world experience.

City College goes beyond academia, offering comprehensive job placement assistance and flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, and online classes to accommodate diverse lifestyles. Moreover, financial aid is available to eligible students, further enhancing accessibility to quality education. Through its unwavering commitment to excellence and student success, City College continues to redefine the landscape of healthcare education in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.

Aspiring EMTs, medical assistants, and surgical technicians can earn their credentials at City College in Hollywood, FL. In addition to its online courses, this vocational school offers traditional classroom instruction from highly-trained and educated faculty members. On-campus labs with the latest medical equipment allow students to gain essential industry experience through hands-on training.

  • 2000 W Commercial Blvd, Ste 200 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
  • 6565 Taft St, Ste 200 Hollywood, FL 33024

Concorde Career Institute

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Concorde Career Institute’s Miramar, Florida campus offers various hands-on programs for aspiring healthcare professionals. Through courses in patient care, dental, diagnostic medicine, and allied healthcare, Concorde equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen fields. Among its specialized programs is the Physical Therapist Assistant program, where students play a pivotal role in aiding patients’ recovery from injury. The curriculum emphasizes various techniques and equipment to treat patients effectively, with graduates prepared to make a meaningful impact in rehabilitation settings.

Similarly, the Occupational Therapy Assistant program focuses on assisting patients with physical or psychosocial disabilities to regain independence in daily life. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, students learn under the guidance of experienced professionals, preparing them for rewarding careers in occupational therapy.

Concorde also offers Respiratory Therapy and Surgical Technology programs, providing comprehensive training for students to excel in these critical healthcare roles. With accelerated degree options, students can complete their education in as few as 17 to 20 months, enabling them to enter the job market swiftly.

Committed to student success, Concorde offers career search assistance, resume help, and networking events to enrolled and graduated students. With a student-centered approach and flexible scheduling options tailored to working professionals, Concorde Career Institute empowers individuals to achieve their career aspirations in the dynamic field of healthcare.

  • 0933 Marks Way Miramar, FL 33025

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a prominent public research university in Miami, Florida, established in 1965, serving a diverse student body of approximately 56,000 across its main and four satellite campuses. With a 50% overall acceptance rate and accreditation by SACSCOC, FIU offers over 190 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, including Nursing, Law, and International Business, with flexible on-campus, online, and hybrid class schedules.

  • 1930 SW 145th Avenue Miramar, FL 33027

HCI College

Rating: 3.6 of 5

HCI College, established in 1993, specializes in healthcare education, offering Diploma and Associate Degree programs such as Medical Assisting, Practical Nursing, and an Associate of Science in Nursing. The college has campuses in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, enrolling about 191 undergraduate students. With flexible schedules, nursing students attend classes once a week and do hands-on training 1-3 days a week, while EMT and paramedic students split time between classroom learning and real-world emergency work. Some programs, like Substance Abuse Counseling, are fully online. Accredited by the ACCSC and other state boards, HCI has an acceptance rate of 47%, with annual tuition averaging $30,456.

  • 1201 W. Cypress Creek Rd. Suite 101 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309

Keiser University

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Students can get a well-rounded academic experience at the Keiser University Fort Lauderdale campus. Qualified professionals deliver comprehensive instruction on technology, legal studies, nursing, and business topics, then provide hands-on training in campus workstations and medical and computer labs. Student services and career centers also help students find work in their chosen field of study.

  • 1500 NW 49th St. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
  • 1900 West Commercial Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309

McFatter Technical College

McFatter awards certificates, diplomas, and industry credentials, with program lengths ranging from a few weeks to over a year depending on the field. Schedules are flexible: daytime classes, evening sessions (typically 4/5–10 pm), plus online and hybrid formats; many tracks (e.g., EMT) include clinical externships at local hospitals and fire-rescue agencies. For Florida residents, tuition generally spans roughly $800–$5,700, while non-residents see about $3,300–$22,800; books, supplies, and fees are additional and vary by program. The college holds institutional accreditation from the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education and maintains open admissions with a 100% acceptance rate. With 40+ programs aligned to regional workforce needs, students can upskill quickly for in-demand careers.

  • 6500 Nova Drive Davie, FL 33317
  • 2600 SW 71 Terrace Davie, FL 33314

Nova Southeastern University

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Those looking to earn a certificate or degree in business, health sciences, or education can achieve their academic goals at Nova Southeastern University’s Miramar campus. Serving students in the South Broward County area, this 21,000-square-foot facility features modern computer labs, video conferencing suites, multimedia classrooms, and highly-qualified instructors to ensure student success.

  • 2050 Civic Center Pl, 3rd Floor Miramar, FL 33025

Strayer University

Rating: 3.6 of 5

Strayer University is a private college that offers online and in-person programs from associate's to master's levels. The school has locations in over 15 different states. Degree options include business and criminal justice. SU has a mission to teach students the skills they need to grow and thrive.

  • 15620 SW 29th St Miramar, FL 33027

Universal Technical Institute

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The Universal Technical Institute campus in Miramar, Florida, offers students the opportunity to develop skills and prepare for careers in the automotive, diesel, welding, and aviation industries. With technical training programs created in collaboration with industry leaders, UTI ensures that students receive cutting-edge instruction that aligns with the demands of the workforce. Students benefit from controlled classrooms and labs equipped with up-to-date equipment at the Miramar campus, providing an ideal learning environment. Additionally, students can take classes at other UTI campuses to further specialize their training, enhancing their skill set and marketability.

The Miramar campus offers four main programs designed to be completed in less than a year, catering to the diverse needs of aspiring technicians. From automotive and diesel technology to welding technology and airframe & powerplant, students receive comprehensive hands-on training that prepares them for success in their chosen field.

Notably, UTI Miramar awards students with diplomas and occupational associate degrees upon graduation, validating their expertise and readiness for the workforce. The campus also offers specialized training programs such as the BMW FastTrack training program, allowing students to gain focused skills and experience with a leading industry brand, further enhancing their career prospects.

  • 2601 SW 145th Avenue Miramar, FL 33027

Utica University

Rating: 4.0 of 5

Located in Central New York, Utica University is one of the most affordable independent, private institutions in the United States. The school has a variety of online and on-campus programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Founded in 1946, Utica University began as an opportunity for soldiers returning from the second world war to earn a higher education. Today, the institution values a high degree of personal attention for all students with innovative learning and professional development.

  • 3601 Southwest 160th Avenue, Suite 300 Miramar, FL 33027

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

For individuals looking to quickly gain skills and enter the workforce, several schools in the Fort Lauderdale area offer accelerated diploma and certificate programs:

Aveda Institutes: Programs in Esthetics and Therapeutic Massage are designed for efficient completion, with many externships leading directly to job offers.

Concorde Career Institute: Offers various diploma programs like Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy Technician, which typically have shorter durations and focus on direct career readiness.

HCI College: Provides diplomas in Medical Assisting, EMT, and Paramedic, preparing students for immediate entry into the emergency medical services and allied health fields.

Broward College: Offers technical certificates in fields like Automotive Service Technician, Construction, and CNC, providing focused training for specific trades.

City College: Diploma programs in Medical Assisting and Veterinary Assistant are designed for quick entry into healthcare and veterinary support roles.

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Many institutions in the Fort Lauderdale area recognize the needs of working adults and offer flexible scheduling and blended learning formats:

Arizona College of Nursing: While primarily on-campus, its commitment to student support and career services can aid working students.

Aveda Institutes: Offers varying class schedules, including morning, afternoon, and evening options, with some programs blending online coursework with in-person training.

Broward College: Provides day and evening classes, and utilizes the Desire2Learn (D2L) online platform for a blended learning experience, catering to students balancing work and education.

HCI College: Features day and night classes, with some programs like Substance Abuse Counseling offered fully online. Nursing students have a flexible schedule of one on-campus day and 1-3 hands-on training days.

Keiser University: Known for its flexible scheduling options, including daytime, evening, and online classes. Its unique “one course at a time for four weeks” system is particularly beneficial for working adults managing commitments.

Nova Southeastern University: Offers both online and on-campus programs, providing the flexibility needed for students to pursue an education and a career simultaneously, especially for its graduate and specialty undergraduate programs.