Portland Trade Schools

Empire Beauty Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The Empire Beauty School branch in Portland, ME provides students with the opportunity to study cosmetology and cosmetology education. Taught by expert instructors, these programs help students learn how to become successful hair stylists and teachers in the industry. A supportive staff will help you prepare for the Maine licensing exam as you near graduation.

  • 319 Marginal Way Portland, ME 04101

Maine Electrical Institute

Rating: 5.0 of 5

Founded in 2021, Maine Electrical Institute (MEI) provides streamlined electrical training for students in Maine and New Hampshire. Programs include an in-person Journeyman program ($6,600) and self-paced options, such as the two-year electrician program ($4,400) and one-year limited programs ($2,250). Classes are held once a week, with schedules designed to let students work during the day and attend training in the evenings or weekends. While MEI is not institutionally accredited, it is a State Approved Course Provider in Maine (Provider #137). The school does not offer externships but encourages students to seek hands-on experience through employment while training.

  • 320 Presumpscot Street, Unit 1, Portland, ME 04103

Lewiston Regional Technical Center

Rating: 4.0 of 5

Lewiston Regional Technical Center (LRTC) offers high school students hands-on training in 25 career-focused programs, including culinary arts, emergency medical tech, and information technology. Students learn from industry professionals, earn college credits, and build strong industry connections while still in high school. The school provides a flexible schedule with morning and afternoon sessions, allowing students to continue their regular high school coursework and extracurricular activities. Seniors can also gain hands-on experience through The Green Ladle, an internship program connecting students with the community. As part of Maine’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) network, LRTC provides tuition-free training as part of public education, making it an excellent choice for students preparing for college or careers.

  • 156 East Ave Lewiston, ME 04240

Maine College of Health Professions

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The Maine College of Health Professions (MCHP), originally founded in 1891, offers specialized healthcare programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as certificates in nursing, medical imaging, and other healthcare fields. With an estimated annual enrollment of 120 students, MCHP provides a small, focused learning environment with hands-on clinical training integrated into its programs. Students can choose from flexible class schedules, including day, evening, and weekend options, with one fully online RN-BSN program available. Tuition varies, with program costs ranging from $6,575 for Computed Tomography to $39,520 for the Associate of Science in Nursing. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), MCHP maintains high academic standards and has a 56% acceptance rate, making admissions moderately competitive.

  • 70 Middle Street Lewiston, ME 04240