Idaho is home to a variety of trade schools that provide adults with practical, career-focused education in vocational and technical fields. These institutions, often referred to as vo-tech schools, are designed to equip students with in-demand skills through hands-on training and flexible programs.
Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly or advance your current career, Idaho’s trade schools offer affordable, accredited, and valuable opportunities for technical education.
Search By Cities
List of Top Trade Schools in Idaho
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.- 10222 W Fairview Ave Boise, ID 83704
- 837 Pole Line Road Twin Falls, ID 83301
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Career Tech Education
Idaho Falls School District 91 (D91) Career Tech Education offers students valuable career-focused training in fields like Agricultural Science, Information Technology, and Health Services. Through partnerships like the Idaho Department of Labor's S.T.R.A.P. program, students gain hands-on experience and certifications without additional tuition costs. Flexible schedules, including morning, afternoon, and online classes, make the program accessible to busy students.- 690 John Adams Parkway Idaho Falls, ID 83401
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
College of Eastern Idaho
The College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) offers affordable, accredited education to over 3,700 credit-seeking students and 14,000 workforce trainees annually. Known for its personalized attention and 98% job placement rate, CEI provides associate degrees and certificates in fields like Business, Health Sciences, and Industry & Trades. Flexible class schedules and hands-on learning opportunities further prepare students for career success.- 1600 S 25th E Idaho Falls, ID 83404
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
College of Southern Idaho
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI), established in 1964, is a fully accredited institution offering career technical education and academic programs to over 8,000 students annually. Known for its flexibility and hands-on training opportunities, CSI provides degrees and certifications in fields like Nursing, Business, and Hospitality. With affordable tuition and an open-door admissions policy, CSI is accessible to all students.- 202 14th Ave. E. Gooding, ID 83330
- 104 West Main Street, Jerome, ID 83338
- 1600 Parke Ave, Burley, ID 83318
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
College of Western Idaho
The College of Western Idaho (CWI), located in Nampa, is a fully accredited community college offering accessible education to about 10,000 students annually. It provides academic transfer degrees, career-focused technical programs, and workforce certifications, with flexible schedules including in-person, online, and hybrid options. Tuition is affordable, especially for Idaho residents, with many specialized programs holding additional accreditations.- 5500 E. Opportunity Dr. Nampa, ID 83687
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
CSI Workforce Development
CSI Workforce Development, established in 2015 and supported by the College of Southern Idaho, offers career-focused training tailored to local job market demands. Programs include apprenticeships, workforce certifications, and custom business training in fields like plumbing, welding, and medical billing, with flexible schedules and hybrid learning options. Tuition costs vary by program, generally ranging from $200 to $2,500.- 202 14th Ave. E. Gooding, ID 83330
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Eagle Gate College
Eagle Gate College is an ABHES-accredited healthcare school with campuses in Boise and Idaho Falls (ID) and Layton and Murray (UT), each serving roughly 200–500 students. It offers hands-on training in nursing and allied health through simulation labs, clinical rotations, and select online options (including a fully online MSN).- 9300 West Overland Road Suite #200 Boise, ID 83709
- 1592 E. 17th St. Idaho Falls, ID 83404
- Healthcare and Nursing
Idaho Workers Opportunity Network
The Idaho Workers Opportunity Network, a partnership between the Idaho AFL-CIO and the Idaho Workforce Development Council, connects individuals to apprenticeship opportunities in skilled trades. Offering hands-on programs in fields like carpentry, electrical work, and masonry, it combines classroom learning, on-the-job training, and paid apprenticeships. This initiative helps workers gain real-world skills and secure high-paying careers.- 802 W Bannock St., Suite 500 Boise, ID 83702
- Skilled Trades
Medical Career Academy
Medical Career Academy in Meridian, Idaho, offers affordable healthcare training programs such as Phlebotomy Technician, Medical Assistant, and EMT, with flexible schedules and hands-on learning. Though not accredited by the State of Idaho Board of Education for credit transfer, it provides practical experience through externships and small class sizes for personalized instruction.- 2082 S. Eagle Rd. Meridian, ID 83642
- Healthcare and Nursing
Milan Institute
For over 30 years, Milan Institute has been providing career education and training in a variety of fields. Milan Institute is a family-owned institution with national accreditation. There are 11 locations throughout the western United States. The Milan Institute of Cosmetology also has six separate campuses. Programs offered include barbering, dental and medical assisting, massage therapy, and more.- 9050 West Overland Road, Suite 200 Boise, ID 83709
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Wellness
North Idaho College Workforce Training Center
North Idaho College Workforce Training Center, established in 1994, serves over 5,000 students annually with programs in apprenticeships, healthcare, trades, and professional development. Offering flexible schedules, including evening and online options, the center caters to working adults and busy learners. With its open-door policy and accreditation process through the NWCCU, the center is a trusted resource for skill development and career advancement.- 525 Clearwater Loop Post Falls,, ID 83854
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
Paul Mitchell Schools
There are more than 100 Paul Mitchell Schools nationwide that prepare future professionals for careers in the beauty industry. Students can learn in-demand skills to become cosmetologists, barbers, estheticians and nail designers.- 1270 S Vinnell Way Boise, ID 83709
- 16803 N Marketplace Boulevard Nampa, ID 83687
- 557 Mariah Avenue Rexburg, ID 83440
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Payette River Regional Technical Academy
Payette River Regional Technical Academy (PR2TA) is an independent charter school in Idaho offering career and technical education to students in grades 6-12. Known for its state-authorized CTE diploma and programs like Agricultural Science, Culinary Arts, and Medical Assisting, PR2TA provides flexible class schedules with online, in-person, and hybrid options. Accredited by Cognia, the school delivers tuition-free education supported by federal and state grants.- 1805 Highway 16, Emmett, ID 83617
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Pro Weld
Pro-Weld Welding School, established in 2005, offers hands-on welding education with courses like Welder Fabrication, Pipe Welding, and GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding). Classes are held in-person with morning and afternoon schedules, following American Welding Society (AWS) standards to ensure industry-relevant training. Tuition ranges from $2,800 to $4,700, depending on the course.- 918 South Impressions Ct Nampa, ID 83686
- Skilled Trades
Stevens-Henager College
Stevens-Henager College offers associates, bachelors, and masters degrees in Business, Healthcare, Technology, and Graphic Arts.- 1444 South Entertainment Ave. Boise, ID 83709
- 901 Pier View Dr., Ste #105 Idaho Falls, ID 83402
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Medical Assisting
Related
Overview of Trade Schools in Idaho
Average Cost of Trade Schools in Idaho
The cost of trade schools in Idaho varies depending on the program and institution. For example, the College of Southern Idaho charges $140 per credit for in-district residents and $285 per credit for out-of-state students.
Pro-Weld Welding School offers specialized courses like the Pipe Welding Course (6G) for $2,800 and the GTAW course for $3,800, making it an affordable option for those pursuing welding careers.
Many schools, like the Payette River Regional Technical Academy (PR2TA) and D91 Career Tech Education, provide free or low-cost education for high school students, significantly lowering entry barriers. Students should also budget for additional costs, such as tools, uniforms, and certification exams, depending on the program.
Accreditation of Trade Schools in Idaho
Accreditation ensures that a school meets specific standards of quality and prepares students for the workforce. Many trade schools in Idaho are accredited by organizations like the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring their programs meet rigorous academic and professional criteria.
Schools like the College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) and College of Western Idaho (CWI) are regionally accredited and offer programs with specialized credentials, enhancing their graduates’ employment prospects.
Pro-Weld Welding School adheres to American Welding Society (AWS) standards, ensuring high-quality training in welding.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Idaho trade schools offer several financial aid options, including federal grants, scholarships, and state programs. Institutions like CEI and CWI provide access to financial assistance, including merit-based and need-based scholarships.
High school students attending programs like PR2TA or D91 Career Tech Education often receive free tuition, funded through federal and state grants.
Additionally, veterans can benefit from specialized funding, such as the GI Bill, which supports vocational and technical education programs, making trade schools an excellent option for transitioning into civilian careers.
Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Idaho
Based on available programs, here are the top trade fields in Idaho:
- Welding and Fabrication (e.g., Pro-Weld Welding School)
- Healthcare Careers (e.g., Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant at CSI and CEI)
- Cybersecurity and IT (e.g., CWI and CEI programs)
- Automotive Technology (e.g., PR2TA and CWI)
- Agricultural Sciences (e.g., PR2TA and CSI)
- Construction and Carpentry (e.g., Idaho Workers Opportunity Network)
- Culinary Arts (e.g., PR2TA’s Culinary Program)
- Hospitality Management (e.g., CSI programs)
- HVAC and Plumbing Apprenticeships (e.g., CSI Workforce Development)
- Emergency Medical Services (e.g., CWI certifications)
Examples of Trade School Courses
Trade schools in Idaho provide specialized courses tailored to their fields.
At Pro-Weld Welding School, students can enroll in the Welder Fabrication Course, Pipe Welding Course, and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW).
PR2TA offers diverse programs like Agricultural Science, Culinary Arts, and Engineering.
For healthcare professionals, CEI and CSI provide hands-on courses for Certified Nursing Assistants and Medical Assistants.
Duration of Trade School Programs
The length of trade school programs in Idaho varies based on the field of study. Many certificate programs, like welding or medical billing, can be completed in as little as 6 months to 1 year.
Associate degree programs, such as those in Culinary Arts or Cybersecurity, typically take 2 years to complete.
Apprenticeship programs, such as those offered by CSI Workforce Development and the Idaho Workers Opportunity Network, combine on-the-job training and classroom study, often lasting 2-4 years depending on the trade.
Career Services and Job Placement Support
Trade schools in Idaho provide extensive career services to support graduates. Schools like CEI and CSI boast high job placement rates—CEI has an impressive 98% job placement rate, reflecting strong employer connections.
Services often include resume workshops, interview coaching, and direct connections to local employers through internships and externships.
Programs like the Idaho Workers Opportunity Network and CSI Workforce Development also offer apprenticeships, allowing students to earn while they learn and transition seamlessly into full-time roles.
Value for Adults Seeking Vocational Training
Idaho trade schools cater to adult learners looking for career advancement or a new start. Flexible class schedules, including morning, evening, and hybrid formats, allow working professionals to balance education with other commitments.
Whether you’re pursuing a technical certificate in welding or an associate degree in hospitality management, Idaho’s vo-tech programs offer affordable, accredited pathways to in-demand careers.
Trade schools in Idaho provide a practical and affordable alternative to traditional four-year colleges, offering adults and students the skills they need to thrive in technical and vocational fields. With strong industry ties, hands-on learning opportunities, and career-focused training, Idaho’s trade schools are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fast track to a rewarding career.