Nevada’s dynamic economy, driven by tourism, entertainment, technology, and renewable energy, creates exceptional opportunities for skilled professionals across diverse industries. From Las Vegas’s hospitality and entertainment sectors to Reno’s growing tech corridor and the state’s expanding renewable energy projects, Nevada’s trade schools provide specialized training that aligns with regional workforce demands and offers fast-track pathways to stable, well-paying careers.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- Cost Analysis
- List of Top Trade Schools in Nevada
- Travel Agent: A Great Work from Home Option
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
- Most Popular Programs Statewide
- Regional Specializations
- Financial Aid and Support Services
- Military-Friendly Institutions
- Career Services and Job Placement
- Accreditation and Quality Assurance
- State-Specific Advantages
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Arizona College of Nursing (Las Vegas) – BSN programs with CCNE accreditation, operating across 20 campuses in 12 states with comprehensive healthcare training
Pima Medical Institute (Las Vegas) – Comprehensive healthcare programs from certificates to Master’s degrees with clinical externships and 15,000+ employer partnerships
Northwest Career College (Las Vegas, Henderson) – Nevada-resident focused healthcare training including Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Radiography
Carrington College (Las Vegas) – Medical Administration, Dental Assisting, Surgical Technology, and Veterinary programs with hands-on training
Aviation and Transportation
Aviation Institute of Maintenance (Las Vegas) – FAA-licensed aviation maintenance training with specialized programs in Aviation Technology and Avionics
Roadmaster Drivers School (North Las Vegas) – CDL training with 30+ years experience and connections to major trucking companies
Skilled Trades and Technology
Lincoln Tech (Las Vegas) – Automotive Technology, HVAC, Electrical, and Computer Systems with industry partnerships
UEI College (Las Vegas) – Automotive Technology, HVAC, Medical Assistant, and Business Administration with 9-month diploma programs
National Technical Institute (Henderson) – HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Technician programs with 2-4 month completion times
Beauty and Wellness
Paul Mitchell Schools (Las Vegas, Reno) – Cosmetology, Barbering, and Esthetics with global network connections to 100,000+ salons
Aveda Institutes (Las Vegas) – Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy with 80% externship-to-job conversion rate
Cortiva Institute (Las Vegas) – Massage Therapy, Skin Care, and Makeup Arts with Dermalogica partnership
Milan Institute (Las Vegas, Sparks, Reno) – Family-owned institution offering Cosmetology, Medical Assistant, and Massage Therapy programs
Specialized Healthcare Training
National School of Dental Assisting (Carson City) – Fast-track dental assistant training with 8-12 week programs in active dental facilities
Laurus College (Las Vegas) – Digital Arts, Web Development, and Medical Billing programs with online and campus options
Cost Analysis
Expect to pay between $15,000 and $30,000 for a major trade program (serious career investment).
Most Affordable Programs
- National School of Dental Assisting – $1,000 to $5,000 total program cost for dental assistant training
- National Technical Institute – $3,495 to $9,995 for specialized trade programs (2-4 months)
- Northwest Career College – ~$4,000 for certificate programs, competitive pricing for Nevada residents
Budget-Friendly Options
- Roadmaster Drivers School – ~$7,000 for CDL training with potential employer reimbursement
- Aveda Institutes – $9,966 (Esthetics) to $16,716 (Cosmetology)
- Cortiva Institute – ~$11,746 annually for massage therapy and wellness programs
Mid-Range Investment
- Paul Mitchell Schools – ~$14,200 base tuition plus $3,165 for supplies and materials
- Milan Institute – ~$15,500 annually with zero percent financing options available
- Northwest Career College – ~$16,000 for diploma programs, ~$27,000 for associate degrees
Premium Programs
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance – $20,000 to $30,000 for comprehensive aviation maintenance programs
- Lincoln Tech – $20,000 to $35,000 for complete technical programs with industry partnerships
- UEI College – $19,900 to $21,500 for 9-month intensive programs
- Pima Medical Institute – $17,305 to $25,549 annually with comprehensive healthcare training
Search By Cities
List of Top Trade Schools in Nevada
Advanced Career Institute
Advanced Career Institute (ACI) is a hands-on career school best known for professional truck-driver training and welding, now serving 700+ students annually across multiple California and Nevada campuses. Born from an in-house driver program in the 1980s, ACI offers short, skills-focused certificate programs with flexible morning, afternoon, and evening schedules.- 4020 E Lone Mountain Rd Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV 89081
- Skilled Trades
Advanced Training Institute
Advanced Training Institute (ATI) is a nationally accredited trade school (ACCET) preparing more than 500 students annually for careers as HVAC/R technicians, electricians, automotive technicians, and personal fitness trainers. Founded in 2002 and now operated by Mikhail Education Corporation, ATI delivers hands-on, skills-focused training with day and evening schedules and some hybrid online options.- 5150 S Decatur Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89118
- Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Arizona College of Nursing
The Arizona College of Nursing, established in 1991 by a group of pharmacists, has grown into a leading institution for vocational medical education with a mission to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. Operating across 20 campuses in 12 states, it offers a range of programs including Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Healthcare Administration, and is renowned for its dynamic, culturally enriched learning environment. The college is thoroughly accredited, including a BSN program recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and maintains affiliations with various prestigious organizations and nursing associations, enhancing its credibility and support within the nursing community. Dedicated to continuous improvement and workforce relevance, the Arizona College of Nursing offers tailored educational programs and strong career development support, making it a compelling option for those pursuing careers in health professions, evidenced by its robust placement support and state-of-the-art training facilities.- 8363 West Sunset Road, Suite 200 Las Vegas, NV 89113
- Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting
Asher College
Asher College is a private, ACCET-accredited vocational school founded in 1998 that trains students for careers in IT, Medical, and Business fields across campuses in CA, NV, and TX. With rolling start dates every 2–4 weeks and hybrid day/evening/weekend schedules, it serves ~700 students a year and emphasizes job-ready skills, often including externships.- 6029 W. Charleston Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89146
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
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.- 4856 S. Eastern Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89119
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is known for its specialized training in aviation maintenance, offering programs in fields such as Aviation Maintenance Technology and Avionics. With campuses across the U.S., AIM provides flexible schedules and hands-on training to prepare students for careers in aviation and trades. The institution is accredited by the ACCSC and licensed by the FAA.- 5870 South Eastern Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89119
- Skilled Trades, Aviation
Carrington College
At Carrington College, students receive training to prepare for careers in the medical, veterinary, dental, or criminal justice fields. The school offers associate’s degree programs and certificates, and specializes in hands-on healthcare education. Students who live a distance from the school have the option to take online courses.- 5740 S Eastern Ave., Ste 140 Las Vegas, NV 89119
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, HVAC and Building Services, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Veterinary Services, Wellness
Cortiva Institute
With over 30 locations in 13 states, Cortiva Institute serves many people looking for careers in massage therapy or skin care. Students can complete accelerated programs in less than a year. All tracks are nationally accredited. During schooling, attendees are able to grow as professionals to prepare for their futures.- 2381 E. Windmill Ln., Suite 14 Las Vegas, NV 89123
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy, Wellness
Euphoria Institute
Euphoria Institute (founded 2002; acquired by IntelliTec in 2025) is a hands-on beauty school with campuses in Las Vegas and Henderson known for one-on-one instruction and real-world salon-clinic experience. It offers in-person certificates in Aesthetics and Nail Technology (each 7.5 months) and Cosmetology (15 months), with day/evening schedules, multiple annual start dates, ACCSC accreditation, and open admissions (100% acceptance).- 9340 W. Sahara Avenue Suite 205 Las Vegas, NV 89117
- Professional Services
Las Vegas College
Las Vegas College (accredited by ACCSC) is a career-focused school in Nevada offering healthcare and business programs with small-cohort, student-centered instruction. Flexible day/evening and hybrid options, plus required externships in many healthcare tracks, help students gain real-world experience and employer connections.- 8410 N. Rafael Rivera Way, Las Vegas, NV 89113
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing
Laurus College
Laurus College offers traditional and online courses in digital arts & computer animation, medical billing & coding, web design & development, and information technology & network systems.- 8965 S Eastern Ave, Suite 280 Las Vegas, NV 89123
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology
Lincoln Tech
Now with over 20 locations across the United States, Lincoln Tech opened its first New Jersey campus in 1946. Specializing in hands-on technical career training, degree programs include automotive, health sciences, culinary arts, cosmetology, and other skilled trades. Educators work hard to give learners the practical skills needed to succeed in new vocations.- 9340 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 205 Las Vegas, NV 89117
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation
Milan Institute
For over 30 years, Milan Institute has been providing career education and training in a variety of fields. Milan Institute is a family-owned institution with national accreditation. There are 11 locations throughout the western United States. The Milan Institute of Cosmetology also has six separate campuses. Programs offered include barbering, dental and medical assisting, massage therapy, and more.- 710 South Tonopah Drive Las Vegas, NV 89106
- 950 Industrial Way Sparks, NV 89431
- 4020 Kietzke Lane Reno, NV 89502
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Wellness
National School of Dental Assisting
The National School of Dental Assisting offers hands-on clinical programs and online training for dental assisting. E-Learning courses are self-paced with guidance from an experienced instructor. The school has eight physical locations across Colorado, Nevada, and Washington, some of which are in major cities such as Denver and Reno.- 461 Hot Springs Road Carson City, NV 89703
National Technical Institute
The National Technical Institute puts students at the forefront of the HVAC job market with accelerated programs that prepare future professionals for a career in under four months. The technical school offers a hybrid learning setup using online and on-campus classes to teach students essential skills and provide hands-on training.
At NTI, qualified and experienced instructors train individuals in the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical fields. HVAC and Refrigeration students can take the course in-person and online and attend labs where they can apply their skills every week. Advanced courses are available for current HVAC/R professionals, as well.
The electrical technician program at NTI features a comprehensive hands-on training program with access to industry-standard labs. Plus, students learn how to market themselves as qualified electricians. Those interested in a career in plumbing can learn about the fundamentals of different plumbing systems, and NTI offers assistance with job placement.
- 1870 Whitney Mesa Dr. Henderson, NV 89014
- Skilled Trades
Nevada Career Institute
Nevada Career Institute (accredited by ABHES) is a career-focused school in Las Vegas offering accelerated healthcare programs that can be finished in as little as nine months. With day/evening schedules, some online options, and built-in clinical internships, students gain practical skills for immediate entry into medical roles.- 3231 North Decatur Blvd. #201 Las Vegas, NV 89130
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing
Northwest Career College
Northwest Career College has been helping Nevada residents map practical career paths in healthcare, legal and IT since 1997. Programs are designed to help those no experience in the respective fields. Certificate, diploma and associate degrees are available for various roles such as dental assisting, phlebotomy tech, medical billing and coding etc. A Career Services Department helps students prepare for interviews and create resumes after graduation.- 7398 Smoke Ranch Road Las Vegas, NV 89128
- 1776 Warm Springs Road Henderson, NV 89119
- Criminal Justice and Law, Computer and Information Technology, Healthcare Administration, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician
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.- 9490 S Eastern Avenue #100 Las Vegas, NV 89123
- 1600 Holcomb Avenue Reno, NV 89502
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute, an employee-owned and accredited private career college, has been dedicated to medical education since 1972. Pima specializes in preparing students for the healthcare sector, encompassing medical, dental, and veterinary professions. Academic offerings range from certificate programs to associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees.- 3333 E. Flamingo Road Las Vegas, NV 89121
- Healthcare and Nursing, Dental, Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Veterinary Services
Roadmaster Drivers School
Roadmasters Drivers School provides students with the skills and hands-on training they need to obtain a Class A commercial driver's license. The school partners with a variety of industries hiring new drivers with Class A licenses. Classroom locations are nationwide and the curriculum is between three and four weeks long. A truck driving education is both affordable and accessible to anyone looking for long time work that pays well.
- 4020 E Lone Mountain Rd North Las Vegas, NV 89081
- Trucking and Transportation
UEI College
Teaching skills for automotive, criminal justice, computer, HVAC, business, and healthcare vocations, UEI College has sites in Georgia, Arizona, and California. Courses at the trade school prepare students for technical careers in fields like cyber security, machine repair, or medical billing. Schedules are flexible, and campuses offer day and night classes.- 3450 S Maryland Pkwy Las Vegas, NV 89109
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, HVAC and Building Services
Travel Agent: A Great Work from Home Option
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Ultra-Fast Programs (Under 6 Months)
- Roadmaster Drivers School – 4-5 weeks CDL training (North Las Vegas)
- National Technical Institute – 2-4 month HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical programs (Henderson)
- National School of Dental Assisting – 8-12 week dental assistant programs (Carson City)
6-12 Month Programs
- UEI College – 9-month diploma programs in multiple fields (Las Vegas)
- Carrington College – 7-15 month certificate programs with fast-track learning
- Milan Institute – Various programs with flexible scheduling options
- Lincoln Tech – Accelerated programs in automotive and technical trades
1-2 Year Programs
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Comprehensive aviation maintenance training
- Pima Medical Institute – Associate degrees and specialized healthcare programs
- Northwest Career College – Associate degree programs for Nevada residents
- Arizona College of Nursing – 3-year BSN and specialized nursing programs
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Evening and Weekend Classes
- National School of Dental Assisting – Night and weekend classes available
- Lincoln Tech – Multiple scheduling options including evening programs
- Milan Institute – Flexible schedules accommodating working professionals
Hybrid and Online Learning
- Laurus College – Online and campus options for digital arts and technology programs
- Northwest Career College – Blended learning with online lectures and hands-on practice
- Carrington College – Onsite, online, and blended formats across programs
- Pima Medical Institute – Distance education with 24/7 online access
Accelerated and Intensive Programs
- UEI College – Hybrid learning with on-campus labs and virtual classrooms
- National Technical Institute – Intensive 2-4 month programs with practical focus
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Morning, afternoon, and evening class options
Work-Integrated Learning
- Multiple Schools – Externship programs providing real-world experience
- Pima Medical Institute – Clinical externships with 15,000+ employer partners
- Northwest Career College – Externships at medical practices and billing facilities
Most Popular Programs Statewide
Based on Nevada’s economic drivers and program availability:
- Healthcare Programs – Medical Assistant, Nursing, and allied health driven by tourism industry needs
- Hospitality-Related Training – Supporting Nevada’s massive tourism and entertainment industry
- HVAC Technology – Essential for Nevada’s desert climate and construction boom
- Automotive Technology – Supporting transportation needs and growing population
- Cosmetology/Beauty Services – High demand in entertainment and hospitality sectors
- Aviation Maintenance – Supporting McCarran Airport and regional aviation needs
- CDL/Transportation – Critical for logistics and tourism industry support
Regional Specializations
Las Vegas Metro Area
- Entertainment Industry Support – Beauty schools and hospitality-related training
- Healthcare Hub – Multiple medical training institutions serving the region’s largest city
- Aviation Center – Aviation Institute of Maintenance leveraging proximity to McCarran Airport
- Technology Growth – Programs supporting Las Vegas’s diversification into tech sectors
Northern Nevada (Reno/Carson City Area)
- Technology Corridor – Supporting Reno’s growing tech industry presence
- Healthcare Services – Training programs serving northern Nevada’s medical needs
- Specialized Training – National School of Dental Assisting providing unique regional service
Statewide Coverage
- Paul Mitchell Schools – 2 locations ensuring beauty education accessibility
- Milan Institute – 3 locations (Las Vegas, Sparks, Reno) providing comprehensive coverage
- Multi-campus Networks – Several schools maintaining presence in both major metropolitan areas
Financial Aid and Support Services
Comprehensive Financial Aid
Nevada schools widely accept federal financial aid including:
- Federal Pell Grants and SEOG grants
- Stafford Loans and federal work-study programs
- State of Nevada aid programs
- Military benefits and VA funding
Unique Nevada Advantages
- Northwest Career College – Nevada-resident focused with extensive proprietary scholarships
- Milan Institute – Zero percent financing options for qualifying students
- UEI College – Cal Grants and foster youth support for eligible students
- Aviation Programs – Industry partnerships providing employer tuition assistance
Industry-Specific Benefits
- Tourism Sector – High demand creating excellent job placement opportunities
- Healthcare Growth – Aging population driving increased healthcare employment
- Entertainment Industry – Premium wages for skilled beauty and technical professionals
Military-Friendly Institutions
Nevada’s significant military presence creates excellent veteran support:
- Lincoln Tech – American Hero Scholarship and comprehensive veteran services
- Paul Mitchell Schools – MyCAA support for military spouses
- UEI College – Veterans Administration Benefits acceptance
- Milan Institute – Military grants and specialized veteran support services
Career Services and Job Placement
Top Schools for Employment Assistance
- Pima Medical Institute – 15,000+ employer partnerships and comprehensive career services
- Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Industry connections and job placement assistance
- Northwest Career College – Proactive career placement assistance for graduates
- Lincoln Tech – Extensive corporate partnerships and networking opportunities
Industry Connections
- Tourism and Hospitality – Direct connections to Las Vegas’s massive entertainment industry
- Healthcare Network – Partnerships with regional medical centers and healthcare systems
- Aviation Industry – Strong ties to McCarran Airport and regional aviation employers
- Technology Sector – Growing connections with Reno’s emerging tech companies
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
Nevada trade schools maintain accreditation from recognized bodies including:
- ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)
- ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training)
- NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences)
- ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)
- FAA Licensing for aviation programs
State-Specific Advantages
Tourism and Entertainment Economy
- High Demand Employment – Skilled professionals commanding premium wages in entertainment sector
- Service Industry Growth – Beauty, healthcare, and technical services supporting tourism
- Entertainment Infrastructure – Opportunities in venue management, technical services, and hospitality
Economic Diversification
- Technology Growth – Reno’s emergence as a tech hub creating new opportunities
- Renewable Energy – Nevada’s solar and wind projects requiring skilled technicians
- Healthcare Expansion – Population growth driving increased healthcare workforce needs
Geographic Advantages
- No State Income Tax – Maximizing take-home pay for skilled professionals
- Western Location – Access to California job markets with Nevada cost advantages
- Climate Benefits – Year-round construction and outdoor work opportunities
Regulatory Environment
- Business-Friendly Policies – Supportive environment for career advancement and entrepreneurship
- Professional Licensing – Clear pathways for professional credentialing and career growth
- Interstate Mobility – Strategic location facilitating work opportunities across western states
Nevada’s trade school landscape reflects the state’s unique position as an entertainment capital and growing technology hub, offering pathways from traditional service industry careers to emerging technology and healthcare fields. With options ranging from ultra-fast certification programs to comprehensive degree pathways, Nevada provides accessible career training that supports both established industries and rapidly growing sectors throughout the Silver State.