Hawaii Trade Schools

List of Best Trade Schools in Hawaii

Hawaii Job Corp Center

Rating: 4.2 of 5

The Hawaii Job Corps Center, part of a nationwide program overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor, offers free education and job training to disadvantaged youth aged 16-24. Established in 1966, it provides certifications in over 100 fields, such as healthcare, automotive repair, and hospitality. With no tuition costs, the program focuses on equipping students with practical skills for career success.

  • Hawaii Job Corps Center 41-467 Hihimanu St. Waimanalo,, HI 96795
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Skilled Trades, Professional Services

Hawaii Medical College

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Hawaii Medical College, established in 2007, offers diplomas and associate degrees in healthcare fields such as Clinical Medical Assisting, Healthcare Administration Billing & Coding, and Pharmacy Technician. With flexible morning, afternoon, evening, and online classes, it also incorporates clinical externships for hands-on experience. Tuition varies by program, with costs starting at $2,500 or $320 per credit for diploma and degree options.

  • 1221 Kapiolani Blvd, Ste. 644 Honolulu, , HI 96814
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Healthcare School of Hawaii

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Founded in 2001, the Healthcare School of Hawaii delivers focused training for careers in healthcare, offering certifications such as Nursing Assistant Training, Acute Care Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, and CPR AED First Aid. The school provides flexible learning options with online and in-person courses, as well as clinical placements at the Care Center of Honolulu and Hale Nani Nursing Care Center for hands-on experience. Accredited by the State of Hawaii's MED-QUEST Division, it ensures a high standard of training for students entering the healthcare field. Tuition varies by program, with costs ranging from $125 for CNA Recertification to $1,375 for the Acute Care Nursing Assistant Course. To learn more about specific class schedules or requirements, students are encouraged to contact the school directly.

  • 98-025 Hekaha St. Suite 4, Bldg 4 Aiea,, HI 96701
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Honolulu Community College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Honolulu Community College, part of the University of Hawai'i system, offers a variety of degrees and certificates in fields like Construction & Trades, Technology & Design, Human Services, and Liberal Arts. With flexible class schedules, including online and weekend options, the college accommodates busy students. Accredited by the ACCJC and offering open admission, Honolulu CC provides accessible, quality education with tuition rates varying based on residency.

  • 874 Dillingham Blvd. Honolulu, , HI 96817
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services

IBS School of Cosmetology

Rating: 3.8 of 5

IBS School of Cosmetology, established in 2003, offers certifications in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nail technology, massage therapy, and instructor training, serving approximately 60 students at a time. Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS), the school emphasizes hands-on learning with professional-grade tools to prepare students for the Hawaii state exam and industry careers. Flexible scheduling includes full-time and part-time classes, with morning and afternoon options to suit students' needs. Tuition varies by program, ranging from $5,756.14 for Instructor Training to $25,243.05 for Cosmetology, with a net price calculator available for detailed cost estimates. The open admission policy ensures accessibility, allowing aspiring beauty professionals to start their education with minimal barriers.

  • 110 East Kaahumanu Ave, Suite 201 Kahului,, HI 96732
  • Professional Services

Attending a Trade School in Hawaii

Trade schools in Hawaii offer a practical and affordable way to gain specialized skills for in-demand careers. With diverse programs ranging from healthcare to cosmetology, these schools cater to students seeking hands-on training and flexible schedules.

Here’s a detailed look at the average costs, accreditation standards, popular programs, examples of courses, and program durations in Hawaii trade schools.


Average Cost of Trade Schools in Hawaii

The cost of trade schools in Hawaii varies significantly depending on the institution and program. For instance:

  • Hawaii Job Corps Center provides free training programs, making it the most affordable option for eligible students aged 16-24 from disadvantaged backgrounds.
  • Healthcare School of Hawaii offers affordable options like the Nursing Assistant Training Program at $990 and CNA Recertification at $125.
  • Hawaii Medical Training Center charges $1,200-$1,495 for Phlebotomy, EKG, and Pharmacy Technician certifications.
  • IBS School of Cosmetology is on the higher end, with programs ranging from $5,756.14 for Instructor Training to $25,243.05 for a Cosmetology certification.
  • Hawaii Medical College costs $320 per credit for its programs, with total costs depending on credit hours.

Financial aid, installment plans, and government funding are often available to help students manage tuition.


Accreditation of Trade Schools

Accreditation ensures that trade schools maintain quality education standards. Here are examples:

  • Honolulu Community College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC).
  • Healthcare School of Hawaii is approved by the State of Hawaii, Department of Human Services, MED-QUEST Division.
  • IBS School of Cosmetology is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS).
  • Hawaii Medical College holds accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Accreditation is a critical factor for ensuring credibility and access to federal financial aid.

Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Hawaii

Based on the provided data, the most common trade programs in Hawaii include:

  1. Nursing Assistant Training
  2. Phlebotomy Technician
  3. Construction Technology
  4. Automotive and Machinery Repair
  5. Cosmetology
  6. Barbering
  7. Culinary Arts
  8. Healthcare Administration
  9. Renewable Resources and Energy
  10. Office Administration

These programs align with Hawaii’s job market demands, emphasizing healthcare, skilled trades, and professional services.


Examples of Trade School Courses

Trade schools in Hawaii provide a range of courses tailored to industry-specific skills:

  • Healthcare Programs: CNA Recertification, CPR AED First Aid Training, Clinical Medical Assisting.
  • Construction and Skilled Trades: Maintenance and Light Repair, Exterior Landscaping.
  • Beauty and Cosmetology: Hairdressing, Nail Technology, and Esthetics.
  • Technology and Business: Office Administration, Billing and Coding, EKG Training. Hands-on learning and externships are common features to ensure real-world readiness.

Average Duration or Timeframe of Trade Schools in Hawaii

The duration of trade school programs varies widely depending on the course:

  • Short-term certifications like CPR Training can be completed in a few hours to a week.
  • Programs such as Nursing Assistant Training or Phlebotomy Technician Training typically take a few weeks to a few months.
  • Comprehensive programs like Cosmetology or Pharmacy Technician often require 1-2 years. Hawaii Job Corps Center also provides extended training for youth, blending academic and career skills over several months.

Trade schools in Hawaii offer accessible, high-quality education for those seeking to enter or advance in specialized fields. With flexible schedules, affordable options, and programs tailored to local workforce needs, these institutions are a valuable stepping stone toward a successful career.