Michigan’s diverse economy, spanning automotive manufacturing, healthcare, and construction, creates abundant opportunities for skilled trades professionals. From Detroit’s urban centers to Grand Rapids’ growing tech sector, Michigan’s trade schools offer specialized training programs designed to meet regional workforce demands and get you career-ready quickly.
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List of Top Trade Schools in Michigan
Arizona College of Nursing
Michigan's campus is on Lahser Road in Southfield, with full approval from the Michigan Board of Nursing. It teaches the same three-year, 120-credit BSN as the other campuses at $930 per credit, or $111,600 in tuition (2026–27), plus a $700 resource fee each semester. The school reported 74% placement for its 2024–25 graduates; we found no published Michigan NCLEX-RN rate for the campus.- 26400 Lahser Rd, Suite 400 Southfield, MI 48033
- Healthcare and Nursing
Careerline Technical Center
Careerline Technical Center (CTC), part of the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, provides career and technical education to high school students in Holland, Michigan. Serving over 1,000 students annually, CTC offers programs in areas such as cybersecurity, healthcare, welding, and environmental studies, along with certifications and dual-enrollment opportunities. The school operates flexible schedules, offering morning and afternoon sessions to align with high school timetables. Known for its strong partnerships with local employers, CTC emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world training. While tuition costs vary, financial aid and scholarships are available to support students in pursuing career-ready education.- 13663 Port Sheldon Street Holland,, MI 49424
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Carnegie Institute
Carnegie Institute, founded in 1947 in Detroit, trains allied health professionals with a long-running focus on Medical Assistant education. The school now serves 100+ students through certificate and diploma programs that blend online study with hands-on clinical experience.- 550 Stephenson Highway Suites 100 - 110 Troy, MI 48083
- Healthcare and Nursing
Detroit Training Center
Detroit Training Center (DTC), founded in 2012, provides hands-on vocational training in high-demand industries like construction, heavy equipment operation, and CDL training. Focused on workforce development, DTC incorporates flexible class schedules and practical training to prepare Detroit residents for skilled labor roles. With tuition ranging from $100 to $6,000, the center is approved by the Michigan State Approving Agency for VA benefits and ensures accessible, high-quality education.- 5151 Loraine Street, Detroit, MI 48208
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
Detroit Training Institute of Technology
The Detroit Training Institute of Technology (DTIT), established in 2006, specializes in training for construction and green building trades, with programs like Building Construction with Green Technology and Heating & Cooling (HVAC). Known for hands-on instruction and classroom education, DTIT offers flexible schedules and affordable tuition ranging from $150 to $180 per course. Certified by Michigan’s Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth, DTIT ensures high standards for workforce training.- 14701 Harper Ave Detroit, MI 48224
- Skilled Trades
Dorsey College
Dorsey Schools is Michigan’s oldest career center. The school provides quality instruction for some of today’s most in-demand jobs. There are courses in healthcare, skilled trades, culinary arts, cosmetology, and emergency medical services. Students get individualized attention through small class sizes. The main campus is in Madison Heights, but there are other branches throughout Michigan. Graduates often accept job offers to local, fast-growing fields.- 31739 John R Rd. Madison Heights, MI 48071
- 31540 Gratiot Ave. Roseville, MI 48066
- 4390 Bay Rd. Saginaw, MI 48603
- 15755 Northline Rd. Southgate, MI 48195
- 23125 Ecorse Rd. Taylor, MI 48180
- 440 N Telegraph Rd. Pontiac, MI 48341
- 35005 W Michigan Ave. Wayne, MI 48184
- Healthcare and Nursing, Cosmetology and Barbering, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Wellness
Elevate Salon Institute
Elevate Salon Institute, established in 2017 with campuses in Utica and Royal Oak, Michigan, offers beauty and wellness programs such as Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy. Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences, the institute combines classroom instruction with hands-on salon training. Tuition averages $12,997 after financial aid, but exact costs vary by program.- 4050 Crooks Rd. Royal Oak, MI 48073
- 45320 Utica Park Place Blvd. Utica, MI 48315
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Empire Beauty Schools
Empire has three Michigan campuses: two in Grand Rapids (Northwest on Alpine Avenue, and Standale) and one in Portage, near Kalamazoo. All teach 1,500-hour cosmetology at $22,300 (September 2026); Northwest and Portage add a 1,000-hour educator program ($11,125). The Grand Rapids federal aid group's 2024 NACCAS rates were 59.11% graduation, 73.84% placement and 84.43% licensure.- 3583 Alpine Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49544
- 455 Standale Plaza Grand Rapids, MI 49534
- 6091 Constitution Blvd Portage, MI 49024
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Hondros College of Nursing
Hondros College of Nursing, originally established in 1981 as a real estate preparatory school, transitioned to a prominent nursing education provider by 2006, now offering diplomas and degrees in nursing. The institution, acquired by American Public Education, Inc. in 2013, has expanded its footprint with new campuses in Maumee, Indianapolis, and Akron, reflecting its dedication to providing accessible, high-quality nursing education. The college supports flexible class schedules and online or hybrid learning options, integrated with essential hands-on training through externships and clinical experiences to prepare students for real-world nursing roles. Hondros College of Nursing is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, ensuring it meets rigorous educational standards. With an 82% acceptance rate and no SAT/ACT requirement, the college emphasizes accessibility and offers various financial aid options to assist students with tuition costs.- 30700 Telegraph Road, Suite 4400 Bingham Farms, Detroit, MI 48025
- Healthcare and Nursing
HVAC U
HVAC U, founded in 2016 by industry expert Brynn Cooksey Sr., offers specialized training and certifications in HVACR, building science, and licensing preparation. With both in-person and online options, HVAC U provides flexible, high-quality education to prepare students for successful careers in the HVAC industry.- 18311 W 10 Mile Rd. Ste 103 Southfield,, MI 48075
- Skilled Trades
Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College is a public community college in southwest Michigan, founded in 1946, with about 50 associate degrees and nearly 30 certificates, from ACEN-accredited RN nursing and JRCERT-accredited radiologic technology to welding, machining, Class A CDL and marine technician training. Many business and computer programs run online. For 2026-27 every US student pays the same $192.50 per contact hour, and students aged 60 and over pay no tuition.- 2755 E. Napier Avenue Benton Harbor, MI 49022
- 1905 Foundation Drive Niles, MI 49120
- 125 Veterans Blvd. South Haven, MI 49090
- 2891 116th Ave. Allegan, MI 49010
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Education, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services, Computer and Information Technology, Trucking and Transportation, Welding, Machine Operation, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Public Safety
Merrill Institute
Merrill Institute, located in Alma, Michigan, specializes in hands-on welding training, offering a 12-week program that leads to AWS SENSE Level I certification. The program emphasizes practical skills, with 85% of instruction taking place in welding labs. Tuition for the 12-week course is $11,500, and shorter programs are also available for $5,750.- 520 Republic Ave, Alma, MI 48801
- Skilled Trades
Northwestern Technological Institute
Northwestern Technological Institute, founded in 1979, specializes in HVAC training through its 10½-month Heating and Cooling Program. The program offers hands-on experience in system servicing, installation, and troubleshooting, with flexible class schedules and real-world externships. Accredited by ACCSC, the school prepares students for residential and light commercial HVAC careers with tuition averaging $2,167.- 24567 Northwestern Hwy. Southfield, MI 48075
- HVAC and Building Services
Paul Mitchell Schools
Michigan has four Paul Mitchell schools: Farmington Hills, Grand Rapids (in Kentwood), Great Lakes (in Port Huron) and Sterling Heights. All teach 1,500-hour cosmetology and instructor training; Port Huron and Sterling Heights add 750-hour esthetics, and Port Huron a nail program. Instructor applicants need a current Michigan cosmetology licence. Sterling Heights offered nine $1,500 tuition scholarships in 2025.- 27590 Orchard Lake Rd Farmington Hills, MI 48334
- 2855 29th Street, Suite B Kentwood, MI 49512
- 2950 Lapeer Road Port Huron, MI 48060
- 40688 Van Dyke Avenue Sterling Heights, MI 48313
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Plumbing Industry Training Center
The Plumbers 98 & MCA Detroit Training Center, established through a partnership between Plumbers Local 98 and MCA Detroit, offers a tuition-free, five-year apprenticeship program combining classroom learning and hands-on experience. Apprentices earn Michigan State Journey Plumbing Licenses and other certifications while gaining paid work experience. This program equips students with practical skills for long-term careers in the plumbing and mechanical trades.- 1911 Ring Dr, Troy, MI 48083
- Skilled Trades
Ross Medical Education Center
Michigan has 19 of Ross's 43 campuses, and Ross Education is based in Clinton Township. Every campus teaches medical assisting and most also teach dental assisting. Canton, New Baltimore, Portage (Kalamazoo) and Warren add veterinary assisting, and Brighton, Grand Rapids, Midland and Portage run two- to four-week nursing assistant courses for Michigan's nurse aide exam. ABHES accredited; federal aid accepted; approved as a nonprofit for federal aid in July 2026.- 4687 Washtenaw Ave Ann Arbor, MI 48108
- 3600 Capital Ave SW, Ste 104 Battle Creek, MI 49015
- 1972 Pipestone Rd Benton Harbor, MI 49022
- 8110 Murphy Dr Brighton, MI 48116
- 44958 Ford Rd Canton, MI 48187
- 815 S State St Davison, MI 48423
- G3630 Miller Rd, Ste D Flint, MI 48507
- 3488 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525
- 113 W Michigan Ave, 2nd Floor Jackson, MI 49201
- 6235 S Westnedge Ave Portage, MI 49002
- 4528 Breton Rd SE Kentwood, MI 49508
- 4106 W Saginaw Hwy Lansing, MI 48917
- 2600 N Saginaw Rd, Ste B Midland, MI 48640
- 950 W Norton Ave, Ste D Roosevelt Park, MI 49441
- 51133 Birch St, Ste 100 New Baltimore, MI 48047
- 2887 Krafft Rd, Ste 700 Port Huron, MI 48060
- 4300 Fashion Square Blvd, Ste 202 Saginaw, MI 48603
- 22311 Eureka Rd Taylor, MI 48180
- 4237 E 12 Mile Rd Warren, MI 48092
- Dental, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Veterinary Services
South East Michigan Construction Academy
The Southeast Michigan Construction Academy (SEMCA) offers an "earn-while-you-learn" model, combining daytime work with evening classes in trades like electrical, carpentry, and welding. Accredited by NCCER, SEMCA focuses on hands-on, shop-based training to prepare students for careers in the construction industry. Tuition ranges from $1,900 to $2,500 per semester, with scholarships and financial aid available.- 31800 Sherman Ave. Madison Heights, MI 48071
- Skilled Trades
Universal Technical Institute
Universal Technical Institute (UTI) trains automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle, marine, aviation, welding, HVACR and industrial technicians at 17 campuses in 10 states. Most core programs take 9 to 12 months and mix online theory with lab work, with optional manufacturer training from brands such as BMW, Ford and Cummins. ACCSC accredited; federal aid and VA benefits accepted.- 2955 S Haggerty Rd Canton, MI 48188
- Automotive, Aviation, HVAC and Building Services, Skilled Trades, Trucking and Transportation, Welding
West Michigan Construction Institute
The West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI), founded in 2021, provides hands-on training in skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, and HVAC to meet Michigan’s growing demand for construction workers. WMCI offers high school programs, craft training, and professional development courses, with tuition averaging $2,000 per semester. Accredited by the NCCER, the institute equips students with industry-recognized credentials and career coaching to secure jobs in the construction field.- 801 Century Ave SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
- Skilled Trades
In Depth Guides to Specific Trades in MI
- How to become a Travel Agent in Michigan
- Michigan Electrician Schools
- HVAC Schools in Michigan
- Michigan Plumbing Schools
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Arizona College of Nursing (Southfield) – BSN programs with CCNE accreditation and 3-year accelerated options, featuring hands-on labs and clinical experiences
Hondros College of Nursing (Bingham Farms/Detroit) – Nursing diplomas and degrees with flexible scheduling including morning, evening, and weekend options
Ross Medical Education Center (15 Michigan locations including Ann Arbor, Flint, Grand Rapids) – Over 40 healthcare programs from Medical Assistant to Veterinary Technology with ABHES accreditation
Lake Michigan College (Benton Harbor) – Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Radiologic Technology, and Nursing programs with clinical experience opportunities
Skilled Trades and Construction
Universal Technical Institute (Canton) – Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, and Welding with industry partnerships and state-of-the-art equipment
South East Michigan Construction Academy (Madison Heights) – “Earn-while-you-learn” model with Electrical, Carpentry, and Welding programs taught by master craftsmen
West Michigan Construction Institute (Grand Rapids) – Construction, Carpentry, and Plumbing programs with NCCER accreditation and portable credentials
Plumbing Industry Training Center (Troy) – Tuition-free 5-year apprenticeship program leading to Michigan State Journey Plumbing License
HVAC and Building Services
Northwestern Technological Institute (Southfield) – Specialized 10½-month Heating and Cooling Program with externships and flexible scheduling
HVAC U (Southfield) – Comprehensive HVACR certifications including EPA Section 608 and Low GWP Refrigerant training
Dorsey College (7 Michigan campuses including Madison Heights, Detroit area) – HVAC and Electrical programs with hands-on training approach
Beauty and Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell Schools (Farmington Hills, Kentwood, Port Huron, Sterling Heights) – Cosmetology, Barbering, and Esthetics with connections to 100,000+ salons worldwide
Empire Beauty Schools (Grand Rapids, Portage) – Cosmetology and Esthetics programs with 80+ years of experience and NACCAS accreditation
Elevate Salon Institute (Royal Oak, Utica) – L’Oréal partnership programs in Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy
Aveda Institutes (Ann Arbor, East Lansing, Royal Oak) – Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy with 80% externship-to-job conversion rate
Comprehensive Career Training
Careerline Technical Center (Holland) – Over 1,000 students annually in programs spanning healthcare, cybersecurity, welding, and culinary arts
Detroit Training Center (Detroit) – Workforce development focusing on Heavy Equipment Operation, CDL training, and construction trades
Specialized Training
Merrill Institute (Alma) – Intensive 12-week welding program leading to AWS SENSE Level I certification with 85% hands-on lab time
Cost Analysis
Trade programs that are serious career investments will cost between $20,000 and $50,000.
Most Affordable Programs
- Plumbing Industry Training Center – Tuition-free apprenticeship with paid wages during training
- Detroit Training Institute of Technology – $150-$180 per course with group discounts available
- SEMCA Construction Programs – $1,900-$2,500 per semester with $1,000 scholarships available
Mid-Range Options
- Merrill Institute Welding – $11,500 for 12-week program (484 hours) or $5,750 for specialized 244-hour programs
- Northwestern Tech HVAC – $2,167 per program including EPA testing fees
- Elevate Salon Institute – $12,997 average after financial aid
Premium Investment Programs
- Universal Technical Institute – $22,900-$51,800 annually with over $15 million in available scholarships
- Arizona College of Nursing – $16,000-$19,000 (in-state) to $40,000-$45,000 (out-of-state) annually for BSN programs
- Ross Medical Education Center – $23,021 average annual tuition before financial aid
Quick Entry Programs
Ultra-Fast Programs (Under 6 Months)
- Detroit Training Center – Heavy Equipment Operator and Blight Removal training programs
- HVAC U – EPA Section 608 and specialized refrigerant certifications
- Various Schools – CDL training programs at Lake Michigan College and Detroit Training Center
6-12 Month Programs
- Northwestern Tech – 10½-month comprehensive HVAC program (Southfield)
- Merrill Institute – 12-week intensive welding certification (Alma)
- Universal Technical Institute – Accelerated automotive and diesel programs (Canton)
- Various Beauty Schools – Cosmetology programs at Paul Mitchell, Empire, and Aveda locations
1-2 Year Programs
- SEMCA – 1-year Carpentry program and 4-year Electrical apprenticeship (Madison Heights)
- Ross Medical Education Center – Most healthcare programs complete in 36 weeks or less
- Lake Michigan College – Associate degrees and certificate programs with hybrid options
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Evening and Night Classes
- South East Michigan Construction Academy – Evening classes accommodate day workers in their “earn-while-you-learn” model
- Northwestern Technological Institute (Southfield) – Morning, afternoon, and evening HVAC classes
- Empire Beauty Schools – Part-time day and evening cosmetology options
Hybrid and Online Components
- Lake Michigan College (Benton Harbor) – Hybrid classes, remote streaming, and fully online programs
- Paul Mitchell Schools – Online portal integration with hands-on clinical training
- Arizona College of Nursing – Online components combined with lab work and clinical rotations
Weekend Options
- Hondros College of Nursing – Weekend class availability alongside morning and evening sessions
- Various Beauty Schools – Saturday classes available at multiple locations
Specialized Adult-Friendly Programs
- Detroit Training Center – Workforce development programs specifically designed for Detroit residents seeking career changes
- West Michigan Construction Institute – Professional development courses for working construction professionals
Most Popular Programs Statewide
Based on enrollment numbers and campus availability:
- Medical Assistant – Available at Ross Medical (15 locations), Dorsey College (7 campuses), and other healthcare schools
- Automotive Technology – Strong presence given Michigan’s automotive heritage, led by Universal Technical Institute
- Cosmetology – Widely available across Paul Mitchell, Empire, Aveda, and other beauty school networks
- HVAC Training – High demand programs at Northwestern Tech, HVAC U, and multiple trade schools
- Welding – Offered at Universal Technical Institute, SEMCA, Merrill Institute, and construction academies
- Nursing Programs – Available at multiple levels from practical nursing to BSN programs
- Construction Trades – Growing field with programs at SEMCA, WMCI, and Detroit Training Center