Louisiana’s trade school landscape reflects the state’s unique economy built around energy, petrochemicals, construction, healthcare, and maritime industries. The Louisiana Community and Technical College System provides comprehensive statewide coverage, while specialized institutions serve the distinct needs of industries like oil and gas, shipbuilding, and commercial fishing.
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List of Top Trade Schools in Louisiana
ABC Baton Rouge
ABC Pelican Baton Rouge is a construction training center that offers hands-on instruction in trades like welding, electrical, heavy equipment operation, and pipefitting. With day and evening classes, students receive industry-relevant training to prepare for construction careers. Tuition varies by membership status, with courses starting at $300 per semester for GBRIA/ICC members and up to $1,600 for non-members in specialized programs.- 19251 Highland Road Baton Rouge, LA 70809
- Skilled Trades
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.- 2834 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Suite A Baton Rouge, LA 70816
- 1355 Polders Lane Covington, LA 70433
- 104 E Thomas St Hammond, LA 70401
- 2922 Johnston Street Lafayette, LA 70503
- 3330 Veterans Memorial Blvd. Metairie, LA 70002
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Ayers Career College
Ayers Career College, founded in 1953, offers career-focused training in HVACR, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy. With small class sizes and hands-on learning, students gain practical experience to prepare for in-demand jobs. Tuition averages $14,000, with financial aid options available for eligible students.- 8820 Jewella Avenue Shreveport, LA 71108
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
Baton Rouge Community College
Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) offers over 70 programs in fields such as business, healthcare, and construction trades, serving around 7,371 students across eight locations. The college provides flexible class schedules, including morning, afternoon, evening, online, hybrid, and hyflex options. With an average annual cost of $9,646, BRCC is an affordable choice for students seeking career-focused training or university transfer opportunities.- 201 Community College Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Build Strong Academy
Build Strong Academy offers hands-on construction training through three levels of courses, including a 6-week Construction Skills Bootcamp and specialized Trade Training programs. With flexible schedules and locations across the U.S., students can gain industry-recognized certificates in 12 weeks or less, often at little to no cost. The academy focuses on in-person learning with no online options.- 2506 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA 70062
- Construction
Compass Career College
Compass Career College, founded in 1997, provides career-focused education with hands-on training in healthcare and cosmetology fields. The college offers day and evening classes and includes externships to give students real-world experience. Tuition varies by program, ranging from $1,500 for Nurse Aide Training to $33,226 for Practical Nursing, with financial aid available.- 42353 Deluxe Plaza, Suite 16 Hammond, LA 70403
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Delgado Community College
Delgado Community College, founded in 1921, offers over 100 degree and certificate programs, including Accounting, Medical Coding, and Surgical Technology. The open-admissions college provides affordable tuition at around $4,078 per year, significantly lower than four-year institutions. With flexible class formats, including online, hybrid, and in-person options, Delgado prepares students for high-demand careers with hands-on training and clinical externships in select programs.- 615 City Park Avenue New Orleans,, LA 70119
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
Delta College of Arts & Tech
Delta College of Arts & Technology offers career-focused programs in fields like Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, and Practical Nursing. With day and night classes, students can complete their training in 7.5 to 24 months, depending on the program. The tuition for the largest program is about $18,557 per year, and the school provides job placement assistance to help graduates secure employment.- 7380 Exchange Pl, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
- 200 Republic Ave. Lafayette,, LA 70508
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Diesel Driving Academy
Diesel Driving Academy, established in 1972, offers Class A CDL training programs at campuses in Little Rock, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. Students can complete training in as little as three weeks, with day and night class options available. Tuition ranges from $10,000 to $14,000 per year, and the academy provides job placement assistance to help graduates secure trucking careers.- 3523 Greenwood Rd. Shreveport, LA 71109
- 8067 Airline Hwy Baton Rouge, LA 70815
- Skilled Trades
Fletcher Technical Community College
Fletcher Technical Community College, established in 1948, offers associate degrees and technical diplomas in fields such as nursing, cybersecurity, welding, and agriculture technology. The school provides both in-person and online classes, with evening options for adult learners. Tuition is $133.92 per credit hour, and students can access clinical externships for hands-on training in select programs.- 1407 Highway 311, Schriever, LA 70395
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
FORTIS College
FORTIS provides people with a quality post-secondary education. The school has locations in 15 states that offer diploma and degree programs. These include accredited tracks in healthcare, business, technology, and other trades. Specific options vary by campus. The college also has online courses. This allows busy students the flexibility to complete their schooling at a pace that works for them. Attendees can earn associate’s degrees in business, human resources, or marketing.- 14111 Airline Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70817
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Trucking and Transportation
Goodwill Technical College
Goodwill Technical College in New Orleans offers on-campus certificate training in Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, and IT Support, plus continuing-ed and employer training. Tuition is $144 per credit hour (capped at 18 credits per term), and the school is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education. Core programs run in daytime, and the college does not list online or evening options.- 3400 Tulane Avenue, Suite 2100 New Orleans, LA 70119
- Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
Hands On HVAC Schools
Hands On HVAC Schools in Bossier City, Louisiana, offers a 12-week HVAC Technician Training program with full-time and part-time options. The school focuses on hands-on learning with small class sizes and provides job placement assistance upon graduation. Night classes meet twice a week from 7 PM to 11 PM, making it accessible for working students.- 3907 Shed Rd, Bossier City, LA 71111
- Skilled Trades
ITI Tech
ITI Technical College provides hands-on training in technical and industrial fields, offering programs in Electrical Technology, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, and Process Technology. With small class sizes and structured four-day-a-week schedules, students benefit from personalized instruction and practical lab work. Tuition averages $29,181, and the college is ACCSC accredited, ensuring high-quality career education.- 13944 Airline Highway Baton Rouge, LA 70817
- Business, Skilled Trades, Technology
Louisiana Plumbing Institute
Louisiana Plumbing Institute provides apprenticeship and continuing education for working plumbers who want structured training outside the union system. It offers in-person and online Friday classes led by licensed plumbers, with options for Tradesman through Master-level continuing education. Tuition is charged per semester and continuing education courses cost extra.- 4310 Ryan Street Ste. 115 Lake Charles, LA 70605
- Skilled Trades
McCann School of Business & Technology
At McCann School of Business & Technology, attendees can learn skilled trades and take classes in healthcare, technology, law, or business. There are campuses in Monroe, LA; Allentown, PA; and Lewisburg, PA. Depending on the program, students may complete their education online or in person. The McCann School of Business & Technology offers flexible program options in Medical Billing & Coding, Surgical Technology, Medical Assisting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and more.- 2319 Louisville Ave. Monroe, LA 71201
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, HVAC and Building Services, Trucking and Transportation, Wellness
Medical Training College
Medical Training College, founded in 1992, offers healthcare-focused programs, including Practical Nursing, Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy, and Health Information Technician. The school provides flexible class schedules, including night and hybrid options, with some programs featuring hands-on externships. Tuition ranges from $13,930 to $30,900, and the school is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE) with 100% acceptance for qualified applicants.- 10525 Plaza Americana Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70816
- Healthcare and Nursing
Moore Career College
Moore Career College, a private trade school in Louisiana, offers certificate programs in Massage Therapy and Barbering. Students benefit from small class sizes and hands-on training, with day and evening classes available. Tuition for the Barbering program is approximately $17,110 per year, and while externships are not included, the school provides a focused learning environment to help students build their skills.- 14141 Airline Hwy Bldg 1, Ste X, Baton Rouge, LA 70817
- Skilled Trades, Professional Services
New Orleans Career Center
New Orleans Career Center is a nonprofit CTE hub that trains high school and adult learners for in-demand jobs across Healthcare, Building Trades, Engineering/Manufacturing, Culinary/Hospitality, and Digital Media. Programs are employer-aligned, include built-in clinicals for healthcare, and are tuition-free. High school students attend half-day sessions for one to three years; adult programs are intensive and hands-on.- 1331 Kerlerec Street New Orleans, LA 70116
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute
The New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) is a nonprofit school founded in 2013 that opened its doors to students in 2019, focusing on hands-on culinary and hospitality training. Students can earn certificates in Culinary Arts or Baking & Pastry Arts through intensive programs covering up to 650 hours of instruction, supported by a 16:1 student-instructor ratio. Tuition is $16,000, with total program costs around $16,911–$16,951 depending on the track, plus additional paid and free industry training options.- 725 Howard Avenue New Orleans, LA 70130
- Professional Services
Northshore Technical Community College
Northshore Technical Community College offers over 20 career-focused programs across five campus locations, serving approximately 5,675 students. The school provides flexible class options, including online, hybrid, and in-person formats, with hands-on externships for certain programs. Tuition is $133.92 per credit hour, making it an affordable choice for workforce training and career advancement.- 65556 Centerpoint Blvd., Lacombe, LA 70445
- 7067 Hwy 10 (P.O. Box 1300), Greensburg, LA 70441
- 111 Pride Drive, Hammond, LA 70401
- 11640 Burgess Avenue, Walker, LA 70785
- 27268 Highway 21, Angie, LA 70426
- 1710 Sullivan Drive, Bogalusa, LA 70427
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) is a public institution in the Louisiana Community and Technical College System that provides skill-based career training across campuses in Minden, Shreveport, and Mansfield. It offers AAS degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, and short-term training in fields such as welding, IT, practical nursing, and advanced manufacturing. Tuition is $133.93 per credit hour, and students can choose day, night, online, hybrid, or hands-on formats depending on the program.- 943 Oxford Rd Mansfield, LA 71052
- 9500 Industrial Dr Minden, LA 71055
- Business, 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.- 12158 Coursey Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70816
- 3321 Hessmer Avenue Metairie, LA 70002
- Cosmetology and Barbering
PHCCLA
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Louisiana (PHCCLA) is the state chapter of PHCC National and supports plumbing and HVAC training through certificate and apprenticeship programs. Its PHCC Academy serves learners at different career stages, from workforce readiness and pre-apprenticeship to full plumbing and HVACR apprenticeships and business training. Programs reach thousands of students across 49 states and several countries.- 1741, 620 Florida St #210 Baton Rouge, LA 70801
- Skilled Trades
Precision Weld Testing & Training
Precision Weld Testing & Training (PWTT), founded in 2017, provides hands-on welding instruction in industrial, commercial, and residential welding. The 10-week program covers beginner and advanced techniques for SMAW and GTAW welding. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and tuition ranges from $1,610 to $2,645, depending on the course.- 6309 Industrial Dr, Geismar, LA 70734
- Skilled Trades
Remington College
Hands-on learning and experienced faculty members mark Remington College’s dedication to students. Since 1985, the school has grown to nearly 20 locations across the U.S. With offerings from vocational training to master’s degrees, there are options for everybody. Several programs are fully online, too. Training is available in Healthcare, Technology, Culinary Arts, Health & Beauty, and Skilled Trades, among others.- 4520 S Sherwood Forest Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70816
- 303 Rue Louis XIV Lafayette, LA 70508
- 2106 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop Shreveport, LA 71118
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Construction, Cosmetology and Barbering, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services, Phlebotomy Technician
South Louisiana Community College
South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, and certificates in over 40 fields of study, including business, healthcare, IT, and trades. Students can choose from online, day, evening, and weekend classes, with hands-on learning opportunities available through internships and externships. With open admissions and affordable tuition ranging from $1,054 to $4,210 per year, SLCC provides an accessible and flexible education for students in southern Louisiana.- 1101 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA 70506
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Southern University at New Orleans
Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) was founded in 1959 after years of advocacy by Black community leaders who sought a public college for African American students in New Orleans. Today SUNO enrolls over 2,000 students each semester and offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees across several colleges, including Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Social Work, and Graduate Studies. Students can study online, in hybrid formats, or on campus, with many programs incorporating hands-on clinical or internship experiences.- 6400 SUNO Knights Drive New Orleans, LA 70126
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
SOWELA Technical Community College
SOWELA Technical Community College is a career-focused public college in Southwest Louisiana with more than 4,200 students and roots dating back to 1938. It offers associate degrees, technical diplomas, and short-term certificates in fields tied to regional workforce needs, with flexible online, on-campus, and hybrid scheduling. Tuition averages $138.96 per credit hour, and many technical and healthcare programs include externships or clinical experiences.- 3820 Senator J. Bennett Johnston Avenue Lake Charles, LA 70615
- Criminal Justice and Law
St. Agatha Career Schools
St. Agatha Career School in New Orleans East specializes in short, healthcare-focused certificate programs designed to get students job-ready in as little as 4 to 15 weeks. Programs include CNA/Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Technician, Medical Administrative Assistant, EKG Tech, Phlebotomy Tech, and Medical Billing and Coding, plus weekly CPR courses and monthly workshops. Tuition ranges from about $670 to $1,500 depending on the program, with flexible morning, evening, and weekend schedules for adult learners.- 10001 Lake Forest Blvd., Suite 502 New Orleans, LA 70127
- Healthcare and Nursing
Stevenson Academy
Stevenson Academy of Hair Design in New Orleans trains students for careers in cosmetology, barber-styling, manicuring, and instructor roles, with roots dating back to 1973. The school now serves over 100 students each semester and has graduated more than 10,000 learners. Programs range from short 40-hour shampoo assistant training to longer 1,500-hour cosmetology tracks, with tuition from about $800 to $14,000.- 401 Opelousas Street New Orleans, LA 70114
- Professional Services
Unitech Training Academy
Unitech Training Academy offers career-focused programs in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades, with completion times as short as 9 months. The school provides flexible class schedules, including online, hybrid, and evening courses, and some programs include clinical externships. Tuition ranges from $1,800 to $15,495, with financial aid available for qualifying students.- 2800 S. MacArthur Dr Suite C, Alexandria, LA 71301
- 4354 S Sherwood Forest Blvd Suite D295, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
- 6007 West Park Avenue Houma, LA 70364
- 3253 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy Lafayette, LA 70506
- 5401 Jefferson Highway Suite D, New Orleans, LA 70123
- 111 Crosley St West Monroe, LA 71291
- Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
Upper Iowa University
UIU’s online Bachelor of Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Public Administration degrees are designed to give you the flexibility you need to balance classwork with your career.- 1410 Neel Kearby Blvd. Suite 115 Alexandria, LA 71303
- 2431 So. Acadian Thruway, St. 287 Baton Rouge, LA 70808
- 401 W. 1st Street DeRidder, LA 70634
- 7460 Colorado Ave. Bldg. 660, Rm. 104 Fort Polk, LA 71459
- 2033 6400 St. Claude Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Communications and Media, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Social Services
In Depth Guides to Specific Trades
- Top Louisiana Plumbing Schools
- How to Become a Surgical Tech in Louisiana
- How to Become a Travel Agent in Louisiana
Best Schools by Specialty
Community College Excellence
Delgado Community College leads Louisiana’s public education system with 100+ degree programs serving 12,000 students annually across seven New Orleans-area locations, offering comprehensive training from Advanced Manufacturing to Surgical Technology with annual tuition around $4,078.
Baton Rouge Community College serves 7,371 students across eight locations with over 70 programs spanning Healthcare, Construction Trades, and Aviation Maintenance, maintaining SACSCOC accreditation with average annual costs of $9,646.
South Louisiana Community College operates multiple campuses serving 4,481 students (4.8% increase in 2024) across eight Acadiana parishes, providing 40+ programs in Business, Healthcare, and Technical Trades with tuition ranging $1,054-$4,210.
Specialized Industry Training
ITI Technical College provides focused industrial training serving 500 students since 1973, offering specialized programs in Electrical Technology, Process Technology, and Industrial Instrumentation with ACCSC accreditation and average costs around $29,181.
ABC Baton Rouge trains 2,000+ students annually across construction trades including Millwright, Instrumentation, and Welding, offering NCCER-accredited programs with member rates starting at $300 per semester.
Fletcher Technical Community College serves 2,047 students with specialized programs in Marine Diesel Technology, Cybersecurity, and Respiratory Therapy at $133.92 per credit hour for all students.
Healthcare Program Leadership
Medical Training College provides specialized medical education serving 150 students annually with COE accreditation, offering LPN, Medical Assistant, and Dental Assistant programs with costs ranging $13,930-$30,900.
Compass Career College offers comprehensive healthcare training serving 140 students per semester, providing programs from Nurse Aide ($1,500) to Practical Nurse ($33,226) with COE accreditation.
Remington College operates as a not-for-profit institution with Louisiana campuses in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and Shreveport, offering Healthcare, Skilled Trades, and Business programs with ACCSC accreditation.
Beauty and Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell Schools operates two Louisiana locations providing comprehensive beauty education with access to over 50,000 Paul Mitchell salons worldwide, offering programs averaging $14,200 plus supplies.
Aveda Institutes maintains five Louisiana campuses offering Cosmetology ($16,716), Esthetics ($9,966), and Massage Therapy ($10,961) with NACCAS accreditation and 80% externship-to-job conversion rate.
Skilled Trades Excellence
FORTIS College Baton Rouge campus provides comprehensive vocational training with small class sizes and personal attention, offering programs in Healthcare, HVAC, Welding, and CDL training with ABHES or ACCSC accreditation.
Diesel Driving Academy operates campuses in Baton Rouge and Shreveport, training tens of thousands of students since 1972 with ELDT-compliant CDL programs completing in as little as three weeks.
Specialized Technical Training
Unitech Training Academy operates six campuses across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, offering 10+ programs completing in as little as 9 months with costs ranging $1,800-$15,495.
Precision Weld Testing & Training provides specialized welding certification founded in 2017 by quality control specialists, offering AWS-accredited programs from $1,610-$2,645 per 10-week session.
Cost of Trade Schools in Louisiana
Tuition Range Overview
Louisiana trade schools demonstrate significant cost variation based on program type and institutional level:
Most Affordable Options:
- Community colleges: $133.92 per credit hour (statewide standard)
- Specialized certificates: $1,500-$4,210 for complete programs
- Industry training: $300-$1,600 per semester (ABC programs)
Mid-Range Investment:
- Healthcare programs: $11,600-$33,226 for complete programs
- Beauty schools: $9,966-$21,673 for comprehensive programs
- Technical training: $13,930-$29,181 for specialized programs
Premium Programs:
- Not-for-profit institutions: $6,800-$34,500 annually (Remington College)
- University programs: $18,000+ annually (Upper Iowa University Louisiana campuses)
- Specialized industrial training: Custom pricing based on industry partnerships
Average Cost Estimate
Based on comprehensive data, Louisiana trade schools average $12,000-$18,000 for complete certification programs, with community colleges offering the most affordable pathway at approximately $4,000-$6,000 for associate degrees.
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Ultra-Fast Certifications
Healthcare Quick Start: Multiple institutions offer accelerated programs including CNA training for $1,500 and specialized medical assistant programs completing in 9 months.
Skilled Trades Fast Track: Diesel Driving Academy offers CDL programs completing in three weeks, while welding programs provide 10-week intensive training.
Industry-Specific Training: ABC construction programs and maritime training provide rapid entry into Louisiana’s dominant industries.
Energy Sector Specialization
Louisiana’s unique position in petrochemicals and energy creates specialized training opportunities in Process Technology, Industrial Instrumentation, and Marine Diesel Technology not widely available elsewhere.