Massachusetts offers a robust selection of trade schools and vocational institutes designed to prepare students for in-demand careers across multiple industries. From healthcare and skilled trades to technology and transportation, these institutions provide practical, hands-on training that leads directly to employment opportunities.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- Cost Analysis and Program Investment
- List of Best Trade Schools in Mass
- Massachusetts Career Guides
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
- Accreditation and Quality Assurance
- Career Services and Industry Connections
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Boston Career Institute leads healthcare education with over 20 years of experience, offering five certification programs including Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, Clinical Assisting, and Phlebotomy. The school maintains partnerships with major healthcare employers including Harvard, Mass General, Tufts, and the VA, with 18 local businesses employing their graduates.
MTTI provides Medical Assistant and Medical Billing & Coding programs as part of their eight specialized career tracks, while Porter and Chester Institute offers comprehensive healthcare training including Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, and Practical Nursing programs.
Southeastern Technical Institute stands out with an impressive 98% graduate success rate in securing licensure or certification, offering programs in Cosmetology, Dental Assisting, and various healthcare specialties.
Skilled Trades Excellence
Martin Electrical School, established in 1993, specializes exclusively in electrical training with programs from Journeyman (300 hours) to Master Electrician certification. The school is licensed by the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure and offers flexible scheduling with both weekday and evening options.
The Peterson School has been training skilled tradespeople since 1946 across four locations, offering comprehensive programs in HVAC, Electricity, Plumbing, and Facilities Maintenance. Their instructors are industry professionals from New England’s largest commercial facilities.
For HVAC-specific training, New England Institute of HVAC offers an intensive 13-week program covering Gas Heat, Oil Heat, and Basic Electricity, founded by industry veterans with 45 years of combined experience.
Transportation and Logistics
NETTTS has been the leader in commercial driving education since 1965, offering both CDL Class A and Class B training along with HVAC programs. The family-run business provides hands-on training with modern equipment and strong job placement assistance.
Technology and Engineering
Wentworth Institute of Technology represents the premium end of technical education, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees through five specialized schools including Computing & Data Science, Engineering, and Management. With a 92% acceptance rate and extensive co-op programs, Wentworth bridges the gap between trade training and four-year education.
Beauty and Cosmetology
Empire Beauty Schools operates multiple Massachusetts locations as part of their 76-campus national network, offering programs in Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology with flexible scheduling options and 100% acceptance rates.
Cost Analysis and Program Investment
Tuition Range Overview
Massachusetts trade school costs vary significantly by program complexity and duration:
Most Affordable Programs:
- Phlebotomy at Boston Career Institute: $1,730
- Basic electrical courses at The Peterson School: Starting at $60
- Plumbing Academy tier programs: $1,400-$1,500
Mid-Range Investment:
- Martin Electrical School programs: $2,500-$5,000
- Southeastern Technical Institute: $5,000-$14,000
- New England Institute of HVAC: $5,975-$6,975
Comprehensive Programs:
- MTTI Automotive Technology: $17,691 (includes books and supplies)
- Porter and Chester Institute: $15,640-$30,265 depending on specialization
- Empire Beauty Schools: Average $16,200
Shortest Programs for Quick Entry
Several institutions offer accelerated pathways to employment:
13-Week Programs: New England Institute of HVAC provides the fastest route to HVAC certification, with classes held Tuesday-Thursday and morning or evening options.
300-Hour Specialization: Martin Electrical School’s Journeyman Electrician Program demonstrates focused, intensive training for specific skill advancement.
7-Month Full Programs: MTTI offers comprehensive career training across eight fields in approximately seven months of full-time study.
List of Best Trade Schools in Mass
Boston Career Institute
For over 20 years, BCI has been offering specialized programs in healthcare. Five certification programs provide the clinical skills needed to begin a career in the medical field. Prospective students can observe classes before enrolling. Flexible scheduling and custom payment plans make BCI an attractive option for residents of Brookline, Malden and Lowell areas. Day and night classes available.- 320 Washington St. (Brookline) Boston, MA 02445
- 422 Main St. Malden, MA 02148
- 77 E Merrimack St. #19 Lowell, MA 01852
- Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy Technician
Bristol Community College
Bristol Community College is a NECHE-accredited public college founded in 1965 that serves 6,000+ students each year. It offers 119 degree and certificate options across fields like Business, STEM, Health, and Media, with small classes (15:1) and flexible online, hybrid, and in-person formats.- 11 Field Road Attleboro, MA 02703
- 777 Elsbree Street Fall River, MA 02720
- 800 Purchase Street New Bedford, MA 02740
- 2 Hamilton Street Taunton, MA 02780
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology, Professional Services
Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School
Bristol-Plymouth Regional Technical School is a NEASC-accredited public vocational high school serving eight Massachusetts communities with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. Students earn a high school diploma plus technical certifications across 19 programs, using an alternating weekly “A/B” schedule that splits time between shop and academics. In-district high school tuition is free; adult education carries separate fees.- 207 Hart Street Taunton, MA 02780
- 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.- 30 West St. Boston, MA 02111
- 624 Worcester Rd. Framingham, MA 01702
- 347 Pleasant St. Malden, MA 02148
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Martin Electrical School
Martin Electrical & Technical School, founded in 1993, provides specialized training for aspiring and current electricians, offering programs such as Journeyman and Master Electrician courses. With flexible class schedules and hands-on training, the school prepares students for industry certifications. The school is licensed by the Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure and offers tuition ranging from $2,500 to $5,000.- 130 Kerry Pl Norwood, MA 02062
- Electrical
Mildred Elley
Mildred Elley is a career college founded in 1917 with campuses in Albany, NYC, and Pittsfield, offering certificate and associate programs in business, IT, health, and liberal arts. The school is ABHES-accredited, follows open admission (100% acceptance), and offers evening, online, and clinical externship options. Tuition is typically $553/credit (most programs), $452/credit (Practical Nursing), $295/credit (Massage Therapy), and $950 (Nurse Aide).- 100 West St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
MTTI
MotoRing Technical Training Institute (MTTI) in Seekonk, MA, is a private technical school offering short-term career training programs since 1985. With eight specialized programs, including Automotive, HVAC, and Medical Assisting, MTTI provides flexible day and evening schedules for students seeking certification in as little as seven months.- 1241 Fall River Ave Seekonk, MA 02771
- Skilled Trades
National Aviation Academy
At the National Aviation Academy, students receive the education and experience needed to become certified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) technicians.- 130 Baker Ave. Ext. (Concord) Boston, MA 01740
NETTTS
Students can undergo CDL or HVAC training at one of the four New England Tractor Trailer Training School campuses. The New England Tractor Trailer Training School, commonly known as NETTS specializes in commercial truck driving and transportation-related training programs including Class A and Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training. These programs cover essential skills such as vehicle operation, safety procedures, and regulations. A significant aspect of NETTS' approach to education is hands-on training from experienced instructors. Students often have the opportunity to practice their driving skills with modern trucks and equipment, preparing them for real-world situations on the road. NETTS often offers job placement assistance to graduates. The school is accredited ACCSC.- 1600 Osgood St. #1570 North Andover, MA 01845
- Trucking and Transportation
New England Institute of HVAC
The New England Institute of HVAC, founded in 2009, offers a focused 13-week training program in Lowell, MA, designed to quickly prepare students for careers in the HVAC industry. The school provides hands-on training in gas and oil heating, electricity, and other essential HVAC skills with flexible class schedules.- 240 Smith Street Lowell, MA 01851
- HVAC and Building Services
Porter and Chester Institute
Porter and Chester Institute (PCI) is a well-established technical and career institution that was founded in 1946. They are accredited by ACCSC. A hallmark of PCI's approach to education is hands-on learning through labs and workshops that simulate industry environments. Some programs at PCI may include externship opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience in real workplaces. The institution often offers flexible scheduling options, including day and evening classes, to accommodate various lifestyles. PCI provides career services to help graduates with job placement, resume building, and interview prep.- 609 Belmont Street (Brockton) Boston, MA 02301
- 134 Dulong Cir. Chicopee, MA 01022
- 220 Brooks St. Worcester, MA 01606
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services
Southeastern Technical Institute
Founded in 1967, Southeastern Technical Institute is a non-profit school that provides career-oriented education in fields such as Cosmetology, Dental Assisting, and HVAC. The school offers flexible scheduling options with classes starting as early as 7:00 AM and ending around 9:30 PM, catering to both full-time and part-time students. Hands-on learning is a key focus, with many programs including clinical or externship experiences to prepare students for real-world success. The institute has a strong track record, with 98% of graduates securing licensure or certification in their fields. Tuition ranges from $5,000 to $14,000 depending on the program, with additional fees for books and materials.- 250 Foundry Street South Easton, MA 02375
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
The Peterson School
The Peterson School has been providing skilled trades education in Massachusetts since 1946, with courses in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and more. With four locations and flexible schedules, including online, daytime, and weekend classes, students receive hands-on training from industry professionals. The school offers a wide range of programs to prepare students for state license exams and successful careers.- 25 Montvale Avenue Woburn, MA 01801
- 705 Plantation Street Worcester, MA 01605
- Electrical
The Plumbing Academy
The Plumbing Academy, founded in 2016, offers specialized plumbing training through live online eLearning sessions. Students can take courses such as Plumbing Fundamentals and Gas-Fitting Training, with flexible evening schedules and self-paced assignments. Tuition varies, with Tier courses costing $1,500 each, and a $250 discount available for military personnel and veterans.- The Plumbing Academy Inc. Middleton , MA 01949
- Skilled Trades
The Plumbing Academy
The Plumbing Academy, Inc., founded in 2016, offers flexible, self-paced online courses for aspiring plumbers and gasfitters under the leadership of Norman St. Hilaire, Jr. The academy provides tier classes, refresher courses, and continuing education, all recognized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with evening classes held from 6 pm to 9 pm.- 18 Lonergan Rd Middleton, MA 01949
- Skilled Trades
TLC Trade School
TLC Trade School, located in Oxford, MA, has been offering hands-on technical education since 2001. With small class sizes and flexible schedules, TLC provides training in fields such as HVACR, steam engineering, welding, and facilities maintenance, both online and in-person.- 11 Buffum Dam Rd, Oxford, MA 01540
- Skilled Trades
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) is known for its hands-on education in fields like engineering, design, and technology, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, WIT provides flexible class schedules with a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid formats. The institution is fully accredited and emphasizes experiential learning through co-ops and internships.- 550 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
- Skilled Trades, Technology
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Massachusetts Career Guides
- How to Become an Electrician in Massachusetts
- Train to Become an HVAC Tech in Massachusetts
- Classes to Become a Plumber in Massachusetts
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Healthcare Fast Track
Boston Career Institute’s Phlebotomy program at $1,730 represents the quickest entry into healthcare, while their Clinical Assistant program provides broader medical office skills in a condensed timeframe.
Skilled Trades Acceleration
The Peterson School offers modular training allowing students to build certifications progressively, while The Plumbing Academy’s self-paced online format lets motivated students advance quickly through Commonwealth of Massachusetts-approved curriculum.
Transportation Career Launch
NETTTS provides intensive CDL training that can prepare students for commercial driving careers in matter of weeks, addressing the critical shortage of qualified drivers in the region.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Evening and Weekend Schedules
Most Massachusetts trade schools accommodate working professionals:
- Southeastern Technical Institute: Classes from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- MTTI: Evening programs (5:30-9:30 PM) extending to 17 months for part-time students
- The Peterson School: Online, daytime, and weekend options across four locations
Online and Hybrid Learning
The Plumbing Academy pioneered online trade education with live eLearning sessions from 6-9 PM, allowing students to progress through Massachusetts-approved plumbing and gas-fitting curriculum while maintaining work schedules.
TLC Trade School offers both online and in-person options for their HVACR, Steam Engineering, and Facilities Maintenance programs, with classes running 10:00 AM-3:00 PM and 4:00 PM-9:00 PM.
Payment Flexibility
Financial accessibility remains a priority across institutions:
- Boston Career Institute offers interest-free payment plans
- Multiple schools accept federal financial aid and VA benefits
- The Plumbing Academy provides $250 military discounts per course
- Empire Beauty Schools offers scholarships for students maintaining 90% attendance
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Massachusetts trade schools maintain strong accreditation standards:
- ACCSC Accredited: Porter and Chester Institute, MTTI, NETTTS, TLC Trade School
- State Licensed: Martin Electrical School, The Peterson School, The Plumbing Academy (all licensed by Massachusetts Division of Occupational Licensure)
- Specialized Accreditation: Empire Beauty Schools (NACCAS), Wentworth Institute of Technology (NECHE)
Career Services and Industry Connections
Successful Massachusetts trade schools emphasize job placement support:
- Boston Career Institute demonstrates strong employer relationships with 18 partner businesses
- Porter and Chester Institute has graduated over 27,000 students since 1946
- NETTTS provides ongoing job placement assistance and hosts regular recruitment events
- Many schools maintain relationships with major regional employers in healthcare, construction, and transportation sectors
The combination of practical training, industry connections, and flexible scheduling makes Massachusetts trade schools an attractive option for career changers and new workforce entrants seeking stable, well-paying careers without traditional four-year degree requirements.