New York’s trade school landscape is among the most diverse and comprehensive in the nation, with institutions ranging from specialized technical schools in New York City to regional BOCES centers serving rural communities. The state’s economic diversity creates strong demand for skilled workers across healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and creative industries.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- Cost Analysis and Program Investment
- List of Top Trade Schools in New York
- In Depth Guides to Specific Trades in NY
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
- Financial Accessibility and Support
- Most Popular Program Categories
- Accreditation and Quality Standards
- Regional Industry Connections
- Career Services and Employment Support
- Unique New York Advantages
Search By Cities
Best Schools by Specialty
Skilled Trades Leadership
Apex Technical School leads New York’s skilled trades education with over 60 years of experience in Long Island City. Owned by the Fedcap Group, it offers focused programs in Automotive Technology, Construction, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and Welding with hands-on training and 100% acceptance rate.
Lincoln Tech operates three New York locations (Whitestone, Brooklyn) providing comprehensive vocational training across Healthcare, Automotive, Skilled Trades, and Cosmetology with strong corporate partnerships including BMW and Audi specialized training programs.
The School for Cooperative Technical Education serves 1,500 students across NYC’s five boroughs with tuition-free half-day programs in Automotive Services, Electrical, Construction, Health Services, and Culinary Arts since 1942.
Healthcare Programs
St. Paul’s School of Nursing provides specialized nursing education with 130 years of history across Queens and Staten Island locations, offering Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and ADN programs with ABHES accreditation.
Berkeley College operates four New York locations offering comprehensive healthcare programs including Medical Assistant, Nursing, and Surgical Technologist alongside business and technology programs.
Hunter Business School serves Long Island with healthcare programs in Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, Nursing, and Radiology alongside technology and business training.
Creative Media and Arts
SAE Institute provides globally-recognized creative media education in New York City with programs in Audio, Digital Film, Game Design, and Entertainment Business, offering diplomas in 12 months and associate degrees in 16 months.
Beauty and Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell Schools operates two New York locations (Schenectady, Staten Island) providing comprehensive beauty education with access to over 50,000 Paul Mitchell salons worldwide for job placement opportunities.
Empire Beauty Schools maintains six New York locations offering Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology programs with flexible scheduling and hands-on salon experience.
Regional Career Centers (BOCES)
Champlain Valley BOCES serves northern New York with programs in Programming, Practical Nursing, Welding, Construction Trades, and Environmental Conservation, featuring competitive nursing program admission (27% acceptance rate).
University-Level Programs
New York City College of Technology (CUNY system) enrolls 14,588 students with 58 degree options including Architecture, Cybersecurity, Nursing, and Mechanical Engineering Technology with an 81.8% acceptance rate.
Utica University offers specialized programs in cybersecurity, economic crime, and health studies with 100% acceptance rate and comprehensive financial aid covering 95% of students.
Cost Analysis and Program Investment
Tuition Range Overview
New York trade schools demonstrate wide cost variation based on location and program complexity:
Most Affordable Options:
- BOCES programs: ~$10,000 out-of-pocket after aid
- Free programs: The School for Cooperative Technical Education (tuition-free)
- CUNY system: $5,601 average annual cost (NYC College of Technology)
Mid-Range Investment:
- Beauty programs: $9,966-$16,716 (Aveda Institutes)
- Skilled trades: $18,100 average (Apex Technical School)
- Specialized training: $15,000-$30,000 (various institutions)
Premium Programs:
- University programs: $23,500-$42,500 annually (Utica University)
- Creative media: $20,000-$25,000 annually (SAE Institute)
- Comprehensive healthcare: $26,900 annually (Berkeley College)
Average Cost Estimate
Based on available data, New York trade schools average $16,000-$22,000 for complete certification programs, with significant variation based on location (NYC premium) and program scope.
List of Top Trade Schools in New York
Apex Technical School
Apex Technical School, founded in 1961 in New York City, specializes in hands-on training in the skilled trades, preparing students for entry-level positions in various industries. Apex is fully accredited and licensed, providing a focused curriculum in trades such as automotive repair, plumbing, and electrical work, which is enhanced by real-world shop environments. This specialized approach, combined with comprehensive support services including job placement assistance, positions Apex as a valuable alternative to community colleges for those seeking to quickly start careers in the trades.- 11-05 44th Drive Long Island City, NY 11101
- Automotive, Construction, HVAC and Building Services, Welding
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.- 233 Spring Street New York, NY 10013
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Berkeley College
Berkeley College offers programs in a variety of fields both online and at several campus locations in New York and New Jersey. Through their flexible scheduling options, the institution empowers students to achieve lifelong success. Berkeley College offers certificates, bachelor's and graduate degrees in business, healthcare, and other popular fields.
- 3 East 43rd Street New York, NY 10017
- 255 Duffield Street Brooklyn, NY 11201
- 99 Church Street White Plains, NY 10601
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Communications and Media, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Sports Management
Champlain Valley BOCES
Champlain Valley BOCES (CVES) has been providing career and technical education since 1949, offering certificate programs in welding, nursing, construction, security, and more. The school serves 16 component districts and provides special education, adult literacy, and professional development for educators. Class schedules include morning, afternoon, and evening options, with online courses available for added flexibility.- 3092 Plank Road Mineville, NY 12956
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Electrical and HVAC/R Training Center
The Electrical and HVAC/R Training Center (founded 1998) is a leading Long Island trade school focused on hands-on electrical, HVAC, and green tech training. Students learn on real equipment—covering lighting/power, alarms, PV, burner wiring, motor controls, low voltage, and safety—with 236 learners enrolled in 2023.- 65 Elm Street Copiague, NY 11726
- Skilled Trades
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.- 2384 86th St. Bensonhurst, NY 11214
- 2190 Walden Ave. Cheektowaga, NY 14225
- 22 W 34th St. New York, NY 10001
- 19 Bank St. Peekskill, NY 10566
- 38 15 Broadway Astoria, NY 11103
- 340 Elmridge Center Dr. Rochester, NY 14626
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Hunter Business School
Hunter Business School offers Medical and Computer Technology vocational programs.- 3601 Hempstead Tpk., Unit 19 Levittown, NY 11756
- 3247 Route 112, Buidling 3, Suite 2 Medford, NY 11763
- Healthcare and Nursing, Communications and Media
Island Drafting and Technical Institute
Located on Long Island, NY, Island Drafting and Technical Institute offers degrees in AutoCAD, Computer-Aided Drafting & Architectural Design, and Electronics & Information Technology.- 128 Broadway Amityville, NY 11701
- 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.- 15-30 Petracca Pl. Whitestone, NY 11357
- 1 Pierrepont Plz., 12th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation
Long Island Welding School
Long Island Welding School, established in 1976, offers hands-on welding education in small classes of 6-7 students, ensuring individualized attention. With courses ranging from basic to advanced welding, students train in a real welding facility under the guidance of an AWS Certified Welding Educator. Tuition is $2,750 per course, with additional costs for personal equipment and testing fees.- 59 Urban Avenue Westbury, NY 11590
- Skilled Trades
Michael Daniel Metal Design, Inc.
Michael Daniel Metal Design offers a five-week Introduction to Welding and Metal Sculpting Class for beginners, combining hands-on instruction with a flexible approach to project creation. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students learn essential welding techniques and create custom pieces like tables, lamps, or sculptures. Tuition is $675, including materials, and classes are held in-person at a well-equipped studio.- 22-14 40th Avenue, 3rd Floor Long Island City, NY 11101
- Skilled Trades
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).- 855 Central Ave Albany, NY 12206
- 25 Broadway, Floor 16, New York, NY 10004
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
New York City College of Technology
New York City College of Technology (City Tech) is a four-year institution in the CUNY system offering 58 degree programs, including baccalaureate and associate degrees in fields like nursing, cybersecurity, and mechanical engineering. With flexible class schedules, including online, evening, and weekend options, City Tech provides accessible education to its diverse urban student body. Accredited by the Middle States Commission, the college boasts an 81.8% acceptance rate and an average annual cost of $5,601.- 300 Jay St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
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.- 411 State Street Schenectady, NY 12305
- 187 New Dorp Lane Staten Island, NY 10306
- Cosmetology and Barbering
SAE Institute
SAE Institute offers hands-on training opportunities to give students real world experience in the entertainment industry. The institution offers programs in entertainment media fields like animation, game development, digital film, graphic design and more. SAE grants bachelor's and associate's degrees, and other certificates for in-demand tech skills.
- 218 West 18th Street, 4th Floor New York, NY 10011
- Business, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services
St. Paul’s School of Nursing
St. Paul's School of Nursing, originally St. Vincent's Hospital School of Nursing, was founded over 130 years ago and underwent significant changes in 2009 when Educational Affiliates, Inc. acquired it. Now operating in Queens and Staten Island, this for-profit vocational school excels in nursing education, blending traditional excellence with modern teaching to prepare students for the healthcare field. St. Paul's is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and approved by the New York State Education Department, ensuring that its programs meet high standards. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN.- 97-77 Queens Blvd. Queens, NY 11374
- Healthcare and Nursing
St. Paul’s School of Nursing
St. Paul's School of Nursing, founded in 1889 by the Diocese of Brooklyn and acquired by Education Affiliates, Inc. in 2009, operates two New York campuses in Staten Island (658 students in 2022) and Queens (945 students in 2023). The school offers Associate Degree in Nursing and Medical Assisting programs through in-person classes with required externships in healthcare settings, with evening options available at the Queens campus for Medical Assistant students. Both campuses hold institutional accreditation from ABHES and nursing program accreditation from the New York State Board of Regents, maintaining a 100% acceptance rate with open admissions.- 97-77 Queens Blvd. Queens, NY 11374
- Corporate Commons 2 Staten Island, NY 10311
- Healthcare and Nursing
The School for Cooperative Technical Education
The School for Cooperative Technical Education (Coop Tech), founded in 1942, offers free, hands-on vocational training for students in New York City. With 17 certification programs and campuses across multiple boroughs, Coop Tech serves around 1,500 students annually through a flexible half-day model that integrates technical training with traditional education.- 965 Longwood Ave. Bronx,, NY 10459
- 321 East 96 St. New York , NY 10128
- 1600 Rockaway Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11236
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
The Welding Expert Inc
The Welding Expert Inc., established in 2012, specializes in welding education and certification in New York, offering personalized instruction tailored to industry needs. Approved by the NYC Department of Buildings, the school provides comprehensive training and certification for various welding techniques, including piping and structural steel. Flexible schedules accommodate students at all skill levels, with classes available six days a week.- The Welding Expert 101 Rome Street Farmingdale, NY 11735
- Skilled Trades
Utica University
Located in Central New York, Utica University is one of the most affordable independent, private institutions in the United States. The school has a variety of online and on-campus programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Founded in 1946, Utica University began as an opportunity for soldiers returning from the second world war to earn a higher education. Today, the institution values a high degree of personal attention for all students with innovative learning and professional development.- 290 Elwood Davis Road, Suite 200 Liverpool, NY 13088
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Communications and Media, Graphics, Design, and Arts, Wellness
In Depth Guides to Specific Trades in NY
- How to Become a Dental Assistant in NY
- How to Become an Electrician in NY
- How to Become an EKG Tech in NY
- How to Become a Floral Designer in NY
- How to Become an HVAC Tech in NY
- How to Become an Interior Designer in NY
- How to Become a Medical Assistant in NY
- How to Become a Medical Billing & Coder Specialist in NY
- How to Become a Patient Care Technician in NY
- How to Become a Personal Trainer in NY
- How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in NY
- How to Become a Phlebotomist in NY
- How to Become a Plumber in NY
- How to Become an Optician in NY
- How to Become a Medical Transcriptionist in New York
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Ultra-Fast Certifications
Creative Media Fast Track: SAE Institute offers diplomas in 12 months and associate degrees in 16 months with industry-standard facilities and global recognition.
Welding Specialization: Multiple specialized welding schools offer focused training, including The Welding Expert Inc. with NYC Department of Buildings approval for municipal welding certifications.
Beauty Industry Entry: Empire Beauty Schools and Paul Mitchell Schools provide comprehensive cosmetology training with extensive externship opportunities (80% job offer conversion rate at some locations).
Accelerated Programs
Lincoln Tech offers credit hour-based programs ranging from 40-65 credit hours with accelerated completion options, while Apex Technical School provides hands-on skilled trades training designed for rapid workforce entry.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Multiple Delivery Formats
New York institutions accommodate working professionals through:
- Evening Programs: Available at most major institutions including Apex Technical School
- Half-Day Schedules: BOCES and cooperative education programs
- Online/Hybrid Options: Berkeley College, SAE Institute, and university programs
- Weekend Classes: Available at specialized training centers
NYC Advantage
New York City’s concentration of trade schools provides unparalleled flexibility with multiple locations, varied scheduling options, and proximity to major employers across all industries.
Financial Accessibility and Support
Open Admission Policies
Most New York trade schools maintain high acceptance rates:
- 100% acceptance: Apex Technical School, Lincoln Tech, Paul Mitchell Schools, Empire Beauty Schools, Utica University
- Competitive programs: BOCES Nursing (27%), NYC College of Technology (81.8%)
Comprehensive Financial Support
- Federal financial aid: Accepted at accredited institutions statewide
- State programs: New York State financial aid programs
- CUNY system benefits: Affordable public education options
- Military support: Extensive veteran benefits across most institutions
- Employer partnerships: Many programs offer tuition reimbursement opportunities
Most Popular Program Categories
Based on institutional offerings and regional demand:
- Healthcare Programs – Medical Assisting, Nursing, Dental programs leading enrollment
- Skilled Trades – Electrical, HVAC, Automotive, Construction meeting infrastructure needs
- Technology Programs – Cybersecurity, Computer Systems, Web Development
- Creative Industries – Film, Game Design, Digital Arts serving NYC’s media sector
- Beauty Services – Extensive cosmetology network serving urban markets
Accreditation and Quality Standards
New York trade schools maintain strong accreditation through recognized bodies:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education: University-level programs
- ACCSC: Career-focused institutions and specialized programs
- ABHES: Healthcare-specific programs
- NACCAS: Beauty and cosmetology schools
- CUNY System: Public higher education quality assurance
Regional Industry Connections
New York’s trade schools benefit from the state’s diverse economy:
- NYC Media/Entertainment: Strong connections to film, television, advertising industries
- Financial Services: Business and technology programs serving Wall Street
- Healthcare Networks: Partnerships with major medical systems statewide
- Manufacturing: Upstate programs supporting advanced manufacturing
- Construction/Infrastructure: Programs addressing NYC’s massive construction needs
Career Services and Employment Support
New York institutions emphasize strong job placement through:
- Industry-specific career services departments
- Employer partnerships with major corporations
- NYC job market access providing extensive opportunities
- Alumni networks in key industries
- Regional economic development partnerships
Unique New York Advantages
New York’s trade school system offers distinctive benefits:
- Geographic Diversity: Urban NYC schools and rural BOCES centers
- Industry Access: Proximity to major employers across all sectors
- CUNY System: Affordable public higher education options
- Specialized Programs: Unique offerings like economic crime investigation
- Cultural Diversity: International student populations and global perspectives
The combination of educational variety, geographic diversity, strong industry connections, and proximity to major employment centers makes New York an exceptional state for trade school education, offering pathways to careers across virtually every industry sector.