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List of Top Trade Schools in Maine
Academy of Medical Professions
The Academy of Medical Professions offers fast-track, career-focused training in healthcare, with programs that can be completed in 16 to 20 weeks. Students can choose from online courses in medical assisting, dental assisting, phlebotomy, and medical coding, with flexible scheduling and instructor support. Tuition ranges from $2,850 for Pharmacy Technician to $6,750 for the Medical Professional CMAA/Billing/Coding course, with payment plans available.- 18 Pleasant Street Suite 210 Brunswick, ME 04011
- Healthcare and Nursing
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.- 43 Bridge Street Augusta, ME 04330
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Central Maine Community College
Central Maine Community College (CMCC) offers over 40 degree and certificate programs, including options in business, healthcare, and skilled trades. With 100% acceptance, affordable tuition ($96 per credit for Maine residents), and flexible scheduling through online, evening, and hybrid courses, CMCC makes higher education accessible. Many students also receive grants and scholarships averaging $5,400, further reducing costs.- 1250 Turner St, Auburn, ME 04210
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Eastern Maine Community College
Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC) offers over 30 associate degree, certificate, and diploma programs with flexible scheduling, including evening, weekend, online, and hybrid courses. Tuition is $96 per credit hour for Maine residents, with higher rates for non-residents and NERSP students. EMCC has a 100% acceptance rate and provides career-focused training in fields such as automotive technology, criminal justice, and surgical technology.- 354 Hogan Road Bangor, ME 04401
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Empire Beauty Schools
Empire Beauty Schools offers hands-on experience in cosmetology, skincare, and cosmetology education at all of their locations. Attendees receive training for in-demand beauty jobs. Full and part-time programs are available to fit each student’s lifestyle. High-quality career tracks include cosmetology and hair styling.- 639 Broadway Bangor, ME 04401
- 319 Marginal Way Portland, ME 04101
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Kennebec Valley Community College
Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) offers over 30 programs with flexible class schedules, including online and hybrid options. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, students receive personalized instruction in fields such as business, electrical technology, and medical coding. Tuition is affordable, with Maine residents paying $96 per credit hour and out-of-state students paying $192 per credit hour.- 92 Western Avenue Fairfield, ME 04937
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Lewiston Regional Technical Center
Lewiston Regional Technical Center (LRTC) is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) school that provides high school students with hands-on training in 25 career-focused programs. Students gain real-world experience, earn college credits, and attend classes in a flexible schedule that allows them to remain enrolled in their regular high schools. Tuition is free for students since the programs are part of their public education.- 156 East Ave Lewiston, ME 04240
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Maine College of Health Professions
The Maine College of Health Professions (MCHP) in Lewiston, Maine, specializes in healthcare education, offering bachelor's and associate degrees, as well as certificates in fields like nursing and medical imaging. The college provides flexible scheduling, including day, evening, and weekend classes, with one fully online nursing degree option. Tuition varies by program, ranging from $6,575 for Computed Tomography to $39,520 for the Associate of Science in Nursing.- 70 Middle Street Lewiston, ME 04240
- Healthcare and Nursing
Maine Electrical Institute
Maine Electrical Institute (MEI) offers flexible, career-focused training for aspiring electricians in Maine and New Hampshire. The school provides in-person and self-paced programs, with tuition starting at $2,250 for limited programs and $6,600 for the full Journeyman program. Students can work during the day and attend evening or weekend classes, allowing them to gain real-world experience while completing their training.- 320 Presumpscot Street, Unit 1, Portland, ME 04103
- Skilled Trades
MEMA Technical Education Center
MEMA Technical Education Center (MTEC) provides hands-on HVAC-R training, with up to 50% of learning done in a state-of-the-art lab. The school partners with over 300 companies in Maine and New England, helping 95% of graduates secure HVAC-R jobs. Tuition for the HVAC Professional Training program is $13,270, with certification courses ranging from $1,870 to $3,525, and financial aid available to 30-50% of students.- 25 Greenwood Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011
- Skilled Trades
Northeast Technical Institute
Northeast Technical Institute (NTI) offers career-focused training in CDL trucking, HVAC/R, healthcare, and technology with programs that can be completed in as little as six months. With a 95% graduation rate, NTI provides hybrid and online learning options, as well as hands-on externships for healthcare students. Tuition varies by program, with costs ranging from $3,445 for Phlebotomy to $17,312 for HVAC/R training.- 1435 Broadway, Bangor, ME 04401
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
All About Trade Schools in Maine
What Value Do These Schools Provide?
Trade schools in Maine offer career-focused education and training, helping students enter skilled professions quickly. These vocational programs provide hands-on learning, real-world experience, and industry-recognized certifications.
Many schools have flexible schedules, including online and hybrid learning options, allowing adults to balance work and education. Technical schools also collaborate with local businesses, increasing job placement opportunities for graduates. Students can gain valuable certifications in fields like healthcare, cosmetology, skilled trades, and business management, preparing them for stable and well-paying careers.
Average Cost of Trade Schools in Maine
The cost of trade schools in Maine varies by institution and program. Tuition at community colleges, such as Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC) and Central Maine Community College (CMCC), is among the most affordable, costing $96 per credit hour for Maine residents.
Private trade schools have higher tuition, such as Empire Beauty School ($16,200 for cosmetology) and Northeast Technical Institute (NTI) ($17,312 for HVAC/R training). Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to help students manage costs.
Accreditation of Trade Schools
Accreditation ensures that trade schools meet industry and educational standards. Many Maine technical schools are accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), including Central Maine Community College (CMCC), Eastern Maine Community College (EMCC), and Maine College of Health Professions (MCHP).
Schools specializing in vocational fields, such as Empire Beauty School and Aveda Institutes, are accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS). Northeast Technical Institute (NTI) holds accreditation from the Council on Occupational Education (COE), ensuring its programs meet high-quality training standards.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Many vocational and technical schools in Maine provide financial assistance to students. Trade schools like CMCC, EMCC, and MCHP offer grants and scholarships that can significantly reduce tuition. The Academy of Medical Professions provides flexible payment plans, while Northeast Technical Institute allows financial aid for eligible students. Additionally, students pursuing healthcare careers may qualify for state or federal grants, including Pell Grants and workforce training scholarships.
Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Maine
Healthcare (Nursing, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, Medical Coding)
Cosmetology & Esthetics
HVAC/R & Heating Technology
Plumbing & Electrical Technology
Automotive & Diesel Technology
Welding Technology
Carpentry & Building Construction
Business & Office Administration
Culinary Arts & Restaurant Management
Computer & Information Technology
Examples of Trade School Courses
Trade schools offer industry-specific courses designed to provide hands-on training.
Examples include Medical Assisting and Phlebotomy at Academy of Medical Professions, Plumbing and Welding at CMCC and KVCC, Cosmetology at Empire Beauty School, and HVAC/R training at MEMA Technical Education Center.
Average Duration of Trade School Programs
Trade school programs in Maine range from a few weeks to two years, depending on the field. Fast-track programs, like those at Academy of Medical Professions, can be completed in 16 to 20 weeks.
Certificate programs, such as Medical Coding or Phlebotomy, take around 6 months. Associate degree programs, like those at CMCC and EMCC, typically take two years to complete.
Do Trade Schools Offer Discounts or Special Considerations for Veterans?
Yes, many trade schools in Maine offer financial aid and benefits for veterans. Schools like Northeast Technical Institute, CMCC, and EMCC accept GI Bill® benefits to help veterans and active-duty military members pay for tuition. Some institutions also offer tuition discounts or priority enrollment for veterans pursuing vocational careers.
Career Services at Maine Trade Schools
Many vocational schools in Maine provide career services to help students transition into the workforce. Services include resume assistance, job placement programs, externships, and employer partnerships.
Schools like Aveda Institutes and Empire Beauty School report high job placement rates, with 80% of externships leading to job offers. Similarly, MEMA Technical Education Center has a 95% job placement rate for HVAC graduates, demonstrating the strong employment outcomes of trade school programs.
Online Trade Programs for Rural Students
For students living in rural areas of Maine, online trade programs offer an excellent opportunity to gain vocational education and training without the need to relocate.
Many trade schools, such as Academy of Medical Professions and Northeast Technical Institute, offer fully online or hybrid programs in fields like medical coding, business administration, and IT. These programs provide the same high-quality education and certification opportunities as in-person training while allowing students to study at their own pace.
Additionally, online learning eliminates long commutes and provides flexibility for adults who may be balancing work and family responsibilities.