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
The Fort Lauderdale campus on Corporate Drive is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Its first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate dropped from 90.91% (50 of 55) in 2024 to 82.61% (76 of 92) in 2025, below the Florida average and the lowest 2025 rate we found for the college. Tuition is $926 per credit, or $111,120 for 120 credits (2026–27), the highest in Florida. The school reported 89% placement for 2024–25.
- 600 Corporate Dr, Suite 200 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institute South Florida (Ft. Lauderdale) is on South University Drive in Davie. It teaches cosmetology (1,200 or 1,500 hours), 600-hour skincare, 600-hour massage, a 900-hour skincare and massage program and short advanced courses. Be Aveda’s January 2026 catalog says barbering is not enrolling at this school.
- 4186 South University Drive Davie, FL 33328
Broward College
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
Concorde Career Institute
Concorde Career Institute’s Miramar campus teaches diagnostic and cardiovascular sonography, radiologic technology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, physical therapist assistant, dental hygiene and assisting, pharmacy technician, phlebotomy, sterile processing and medical assisting. It has no nursing program, and despite older listings it does not teach occupational therapy assistant, which Concorde offers only in Memphis.
- 10933 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
FVI School Nursing & Technology
FVI School of Nursing & Technology offers fast-track healthcare and nursing programs, allowing students to complete allied health training in under 12 months or an Associate of Science in Nursing in less than 22 months. With flexible scheduling, small class sizes, and hands-on training at clinical sites, FVI supports career-focused learning. Tuition varies by program, starting at $500 for Home Health Aide and reaching $46,125 for the Associate of Science in Nursing.
- 3520 Enterprise Way Miramar, FL 33025
Grand Canyon University
GCU’s Miami-area Accelerated BSN learning site is in Miramar. Like the Jacksonville and Lake Mary sites, it teaches only the accelerated BSN: coursework is online, skills and simulation labs are on site, and clinicals are at local healthcare facilities. GCU’s ABSN holds simulation accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare.
- 2901 SW 149th Ave, Suite 200 Miramar, FL 33027
HCI College
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
Fort Lauderdale is Keiser’s main campus and headquarters, and the only campus with a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Therapy program. Its health programs are ASN nursing, Medical Laboratory Technician, Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), Diagnostic Medical Sonography (CAAHEP), Physical Therapist Assistant and medical assisting, plus billing and coding, IT, paralegal and criminal justice. Keiser’s Online Division offices at 1900 W. Commercial Blvd nearby are not a teaching campus. Niche reviewers rate this campus 4.07 out of 5 (1,235 reviews, October 2026).
- 1500 NW 49th St 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
NSU’s main campus covers 314 acres in Fort Lauderdale/Davie and is where nearly all of its programs are taught: the business, computing, law, art, music and communication degrees, the Entry BSN, B.S. in Medical Sonography, physician assistant, anesthesiologist assistant, O.T.D. and D.P.T. programs, and the hybrid M.P.H. It is the only NSU campus with university housing, in halls including Mako Hall, The Commons and Leo Goodwin Sr. Hall. NSU’s fact book says 58% of its students studied face-to-face here in fall 2024.
NSU’s Miramar campus occupies the third floor of 2050 Civic Center Place. NSU’s campus page names education, business and health sciences programs here; none of its clinical programs, such as nursing, physician assistant or respiratory therapy, is listed for this site. Phone (954) 262-9498.
- 3300 S. University Dr Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328
- 2050 Civic Center Pl, 3rd Floor Miramar, FL 33025
Strayer University
The Miramar campus, now on Miramar Parkway after moving from SW 29th Street, is Strayer’s only South Florida site. Its page lists it as open Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Programs are taught online; the campus offers select in-person courses, Wi-Fi and a student lounge, and local advisors for admissions and financial aid.
- 14479 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, FL 33027
Universal Technical Institute
UTI’s South Florida campus in Miramar teaches Airframe & Powerplant, Automotive & EV, Diesel, HVACR and Welding. BMW FastTrack is offered here as a manufacturer add-on. In Florida, UTI’s automotive associate degree is awarded as an Occupational Associate Degree.
- 2601 SW 145th Ave 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.