North Carolina’s trade school system offers extensive opportunities across healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and beauty industries. The state’s diverse economy, from Research Triangle tech companies to Charlotte’s financial sector and the state’s manufacturing base, creates strong demand for skilled workers across multiple sectors.
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List of Top Trade Schools in North Carolina
Aveda Institutes
North Carolina has three Aveda Institutes: Aveda Arts Charlotte and Nurtur's schools in Chapel Hill and Wilmington. All teach 1,500-hour cosmetology, 600-hour esthetics and instructor training. Wilmington adds 740-hour massage therapy, the only Aveda massage program in the state, and is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE). Chapel Hill offers separate cosmetology and esthetics instructor programs.- 201 S Estes Dr, University Place 200-B Chapel Hill, NC 27514
- 1520 South Blvd, Suite 150 Charlotte, NC 28203
- 3500 Oleander Dr, Ste 1111 Wilmington, NC 28403
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
AIM's Charlotte campus, on East Independence Boulevard, teaches the 21-month Aviation Maintenance Technician (A&P) certificate, a short A&P exam-prep course for experienced mechanics, and AIM's only Industrial Manufacturing Technician diploma (15 months). The 51,000-square-foot campus includes a 25,000-square-foot hangar, and ACCSC named it a Campus of Excellence in 2023. ACCSC accredited; federal aid and GI Bill accepted.- 7421 E Independence Blvd Charlotte, NC 28227
- Aviation, Electrical, Skilled Trades, Welding
Capacitate HVAC & Electrical
Capacitate HVAC is a Greensboro-based training center specializing in HVAC and electrical education, with a focus on small-group, hands-on instruction. The school currently offers Spanish-language courses and plans to introduce English-language training soon. Tuition is typically around $450 per course, with flexible payment options available through PayPal's "Pay in 4" program.- 618 Guilford College Rd Suite G Greensboro, NC 27409
- Skilled Trades
Career Academy & Technical School
Career Academy & Technical School (CATS) in Troutman, NC, offers hands-on training for students in grades 6-12 in fields like masonry, firefighting, and pharmacy technology. The school follows a block schedule with morning and afternoon classes and provides flexible learning options through its iAcademy program. As part of the Iredell-Statesville Schools district, CATS meets state educational standards, but tuition details must be obtained directly from the school.- 350 Old Murdock Road, Troutman, NC 28166
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Professional Services
Carolinas Electrical Training Institute
Carolinas Electrical Training Institute (CETI) is the Charlotte Electrical JATC, a registered union apprenticeship run by IBEW Local 379 and NECA's Atlantic Coast Chapter, not a school. Its four-year inside wireman apprenticeship combines 8,000 hours of paid work for union electrical contractors with 900 classroom hours, mostly one afternoon a week. Contractors fund the training; apprentices buy their own books, tools and work clothes.- 13530 S Ridge Dr Charlotte, NC 28273
- Electrical, Skilled Trades
ECPI University
ECPI University has three North Carolina campuses: Charlotte, Raleigh and the Greensboro campus, which is now in High Point. All three teach cybersecurity, cloud, electronics engineering technology, mechatronics, practical nursing and medical assisting. Charlotte and Raleigh also teach the ADN, and Raleigh adds software, data and web degrees plus criminal justice and homeland security. Greensboro has no RN program. SACSCOC accredited; federal aid accepted.- 4800 Airport Center Pkwy, Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28208
- 3975 Premier Dr High Point, NC 27265
- 4101 Doie Cope Rd Raleigh, NC 27613
- Business, Computer and Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Law, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Dental, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Radiology, Technology
Empire Beauty Schools
Empire has five North Carolina campuses: two in Charlotte (North Tryon Street and Pineville-Matthews Road), Concord, West Greensboro and Winston-Salem. All teach 1,500-hour cosmetology, $22,321 to $23,161 in total (September 2026). Concord, Pineville and West Greensboro add an 800-hour educator program. Graduation rates in Empire's 2024 NACCAS disclosures were low across the state, from 36.21% at Charlotte to 51.79% at Pineville.- 4901-B N Tryon St Charlotte, NC 28213
- 10075 Weddington Rd Ext Concord, NC 28027
- 8700 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Ste 700 Charlotte, NC 28226
- 1312 Bridford Pkwy, Ste 105 Greensboro, NC 27407
- 7740 North Point Blvd Winston-Salem, NC 27106
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Forsyth Technical Community College
Forsyth Technical Community College (Forsyth Tech) is a public two-year college in the North Carolina Community College System, teaching nursing and accredited allied health programs, FAA-approved aviation maintenance, automotive and diesel technology, welding, and fire and police academies around Winston-Salem. NC residents pay $76 a credit hour in 2026-27. In 2026 it became the first NC college approved for Workforce Pell and a top-10 finalist for the 2027 Aspen Prize.- 2100 Silas Creek Parkway Winston-Salem, NC 27103
- 1300 Bolton St. Winston-Salem, NC 27103
- 4255 N. Patterson Ave. Winston-Salem, NC 27105
- 4905 Lansing Dr. Winston-Salem, NC 27105
- 2739 Aviation Dr. Winston-Salem, NC 27105
- 1108 Swisher Center Rd. Kernersville, NC 27284
- 3111 Big Oaks Dr. King, NC 27021
- 1165 Dodgetown Rd. Walnut Cove, NC 27052
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Business, Computer and Information Technology, Automotive, Aviation, Criminal Justice and Law, Public Safety, Dental, Radiology, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Healthcare Administration, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Sterile Processing Technician, Massage Therapy, Welding, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Construction, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation, Graphics, Design, and Arts
Gaston College
Gaston College is a public two-year college in the North Carolina Community College System serving Gaston and Lincoln counties. It trains nurses, veterinary technicians, respiratory therapists, cosmetologists, welders, HVAC and electrical technicians, gunsmiths and truck drivers, and runs the state's only community-college Textile Technology Center. NC residents pay $76 a credit hour in 2026-27. Fall 2025 enrollment, 6,925 curriculum students, was a college record.- 201 Highway U.S. 321 S Dallas, NC 28034
- 511 S. Aspen Street Lincolnton, NC 28092
- 7220 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012
- Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Professional Services, Computer and Information Technology, Automotive, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Welding, Cosmetology, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Healthcare Administration, Phlebotomy Technician, Sterile Processing Technician, Veterinary Services, Public Safety, Trucking and Transportation, Education
Gwinnet College
Gwinnett College is a private, career-focused institution offering diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees in healthcare, business, legal, and wellness fields. With programs lasting 9 to 24 months and flexible day, evening, and online class options, it provides accessible pathways to professional careers. Tuition typically ranges from $13,000 to $25,125 depending on the program and campus.- 3200 Spring Forest Road, Suite 214 Raleigh, NC 27616
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing
Isothermal Community College
Established in 1964, Isothermal Community College offers a comprehensive array of academic programs including over 100 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. With campuses in North Carolina, the college provides flexible learning options with classes available in accelerated formats of 8 weeks or traditional 16-week semesters, accommodating both day and night schedules alongside online courses.- 286 ICC Loop Road PO Box 804, Spindale, NC 28160
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
McDowell Technical Community College
McDowell Technical Community College (MTCC) offers a diverse range of programs including associate degrees in healthcare, business administration, and engineering technology, along with diplomas in welding and automotive systems technology, and certificates in fields like computer programming and cosmetology. With flexible class schedules, including online and hybrid options, MTCC ensures accessibility and practical learning experiences through externships and clinical placements.- 54 College Drive Marion Marion, NC 28752
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology
Millennium Trade Academy
Millennium Trade Academy in Greensboro, NC, offers training in cosmetology, esthetics, natural hair care, manicuring, and instructor education. Programs last 12 to 18 weeks and prepare students for the NC State Board of Cosmetic Arts exam. Tuition varies by program, with cosmetology costing $9,250 and esthetics priced at $5,999.- 1912 Coliseum Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403
- Professional Services
Miller-Motte College
Miller-Motte's three North Carolina campuses, in Fayetteville, Jacksonville and Raleigh, are licensed by the UNC System and focus on trades: electrical, HVAC and plumbing at all three (plumbing is taught only in this state), CDL Class A at Fayetteville and Jacksonville, and welding at Fayetteville and Raleigh. All three teach medical clinical assisting; Raleigh adds an 18-month dental assisting degree. College Navigator listed $5,000 for CDL at Fayetteville (2024-25).- 3725 Ramsey St Fayetteville, NC 28311
- 105 New Frontier Way Jacksonville, NC 28546
- 3901 Capital Blvd, Ste 151 Raleigh, NC 27604
- Trucking and Transportation, Skilled Trades, Welding, Electrical, HVAC and Building Services, Construction, Medical Assisting, Dental, Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Billing and Coding, Healthcare Administration, Pharmacy Tech, Business, Computer and Information Technology, Education
Montgomery Community College
Montgomery Community College in North Carolina serves 1,000+ students on a 64,000-square-foot campus and offers 130+ programs leading to certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees. Options span trades, healthcare, and niche fields like Taxidermy and Hunting and Shooting Sports Management. In-state tuition is $76 per credit (max $1,216 per semester); out-of-state is $268 per credit (max $4,288 per semester).- 1011 Page Street Troy, NC 27371
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Education, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
MyComputerCareer
MyComputerCareer (formerly TechSkills) provides career training courses in in the fields of healthcare, business, and information technology. Students can attend classes at one of the schools' locations in Ohio, Indiana, Texas or North Carolina.
- 3701 Arco Corporate Dr, Suite 500 Charlotte, NC 28273
- 5511 Capital Center Dr, Suite 500 Raleigh, NC 27606
- Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology
NCIA
The NCIA Vocational Training Center, a nonprofit established in 1977, provides free or low-cost vocational training to diverse groups, including veterans, returning citizens, and high school graduates in Baltimore, MD, and Charlotte, NC. With programs in automotive maintenance, HVAC/R, and CDL training, NCIA focuses on hands-on learning and boasts an 84% graduation rate. Its emphasis on job readiness has led to 75% of graduates securing employment within a year.- 517 Blairhill Rd. Charlotte, NC 28217
- Skilled Trades
Omitt Trade School
OMITT Trade School in Charlotte, NC, offers hands-on vocational training in HVAC, welding, electrical work, forklift operation, carpentry, and facilities maintenance. Tuition for most programs is under $5,000, with financial aid available through its nonprofit arm, OMITT Innovative Solutions. The school partners with organizations like NCCER and NATE to ensure high-quality training.- 101 W Sugar Creek Rd Charlotte, NC 28213
- Skilled Trades, Welding
Paul Mitchell Schools
North Carolina has three Paul Mitchell schools: Charlotte, Fayetteville (Cross Creek Mall) and Raleigh. All teach 1,500-hour cosmetology and an 800-hour instructor program; Fayetteville and Raleigh add 600-hour esthetics, and Raleigh a 300-hour nail program. None teaches barbering. The Gastonia school, shown on older pages, no longer appears; its web address now opens the Charlotte page.- 1516 Elizabeth Avenue Charlotte, NC 28204
- 505A Cross Creek Mall Fayetteville, NC 28303
- 8551 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27612
- Cosmetology and Barbering
RightTek HVAC Training
RightTek HVAC Training LLC provides hands-on HVAC education across the U.S., offering specialized training for both beginners and experienced professionals. Known for its partnerships with industry leaders like ACCA and Trane Technologies, the school offers flexible training programs, including an eight-week HVAC Bootcamp. Tuition for Active-Duty personnel and Veterans may be covered through the Trade Warriors program, while other students can contact the school for pricing details.- 5448 Apex Peakway Suite 108, Apex, NC 27502
- Skilled Trades
Roadmaster Drivers School
Roadmaster's only North Carolina location is in Dunn, on South Clinton Avenue. Roadmaster acquired it from Interstate Driving Academy in 2007. Its location page says it is licensed through the NC Department of Transportation and has three third-party CDL examiners on staff for on-site skills testing. Under the school's January 2025 catalog, Dunn's course ran 200 hours; check the current North Carolina hours.- 1100 S Clinton Ave Dunn, NC 28335
- Trucking and Transportation
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College serves over 22,000 students annually, offering associate degrees and certificates across 37 fields, including nursing, business, and information technology. The college provides flexible class schedules, with online, day, and evening options, as well as hands-on clinical training in health science programs. Tuition is affordable, with in-state students paying $76 per credit hour and a maximum of $1,216 per semester.- 1333 Jake Alexander Blvd., S. Salisbury, NC 28146
- 1531 Trinity Church Rd. Concord, NC 28027
- 660 Concord Parkway, N. Concord, NC 28027
- 399 Biotechnology Ln. Kannapolis, NC 28081
- 489 N. Cannon Blvd. Kannapolis, NC 28083
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Sage Truck Driving School
Founded in 1989, Sage Truck Driving School offers personalized, hands-on CDL training with a one-on-one approach that prepares students for success in the trucking industry. With a national presence, Sage provides Class A and B CDL training, refresher courses, and specialized programs for veterans, along with flexible scheduling and financial aid options.- CDL Training, 522 N Old Carriage Rd Rocky Mount, NC 27804
- 3000 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 102 Durham, NC 27705
- Skilled Trades
School of Skilled Trades
The School of Skilled Trades in Durham, NC, offers a six-month plumbing program designed for students seeking hands-on career training. Tuition is $10,000, covering coursework, supplies, and uniforms, with small class sizes ensuring personalized instruction. The school is licensed by the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges.- 2800 Meridian Parkway #125 Durham, NC 27713
- Business, Skilled Trades
South College
South College's Asheville campus is its only North Carolina site. It teaches practical nursing, the ASN (an ACEN candidate), medical assisting, surgical technology, radiography, sonography, physical therapist assistant and a provisionally accredited physician assistant master's, plus occupational therapy assistant and respiratory therapy. Degrees are licensed by the UNC Board of Governors and certificates by the NC Community College System. Hurricane Helene closed the campus until 21 October 2024.- 140 Sweeten Creek Rd Asheville, NC 28803
- Healthcare and Nursing, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Sterile Processing Technician, Dental, Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Computer and Information Technology
Southeastern College
Southeastern College provides career education in Medical Assisting, Occupational Therapy, Medical Billing & Coding, Phlebotomy, and Massage Therapy. The curriculum at Southeastern College targets entry-level learners who are ready to jumpstart their careers. The school originally only taught massage therapy courses, but its programs have since expanded to many jobs in the medical industry. Enrollees can earn certificates or associate's degrees.- 207 Regency Executive Park Drive Charlotte, NC 28217
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding
Strayer University
Strayer has three North Carolina campuses, in Greensboro, North Raleigh and South Charlotte; North Raleigh has moved to Capital Boulevard. Degrees are taught online. North Carolina residents pay $2,540 per MBA course over 12 courses (2026–27) rather than $3,045 over 10 courses in other states, so the total is about the same. Concord, Huntersville, Morrisville and South Raleigh are no longer in Strayer's catalog.- 4900 Koger Blvd, Suite 400 Greensboro, NC 27407
- 5221 Capital Blvd Raleigh, NC 27616
- 9101 Kings Parade Blvd, Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28273
- Business, Computer and Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare and Nursing
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.- 220 Byers Creek Rd Mooresville, NC 28117
- Automotive, Aviation, HVAC and Building Services, Skilled Trades, Trucking and Transportation, Welding
In Depth Guides to Specific Trades in NC
- How to Become an EKG Tech in North Carolina
- How to Become an Electrician in North Carolina
- How to Become a Plumber in North Carolina
- HVAC Training Classes in North Carolina
- How to Become a Travel Agent in North Carolina
- How to Become a Welder in North Carolina
Best Schools by Specialty
Community College Excellence
Forsyth Technical Community College leads North Carolina’s community college system with 11,000 students per semester and comprehensive programs spanning Healthcare, Skilled Trades, Technology, and Business. Accredited by SACSCOC with strong industry partnerships.
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College serves 22,000 students annually across 37 fields of study, offering programs in Automotive Systems Technology, Associate Degree Nursing, Cosmetology, and Information Technology with an 18:1 student-faculty ratio.
Gaston College operates as one of North Carolina’s largest community colleges with over 21,000 students (5,000 curriculum, 16,000 continuing education), featuring the state’s only Textile Technology Center and comprehensive healthcare programs.
Healthcare Programs
ECPI University operates three North Carolina locations offering accelerated healthcare programs including Nursing, Medical Assistant, Physical Therapy Assistant, and Surgical Technologist with bachelor’s degrees completing in 2.5 years.
Miller-Motte College maintains five North Carolina campuses providing healthcare education in Medical Assistant, Nursing, Dental Assisting, and Surgical Technologist with five-week program start cycles and strong employer partnerships.
South University offers comprehensive healthcare programs including advanced degrees in Pharmacy, Physician Assistant, and various nursing specializations (BSN, MSN, RN to BSN) at its High Point campus.
Skilled Trades Leadership
Universal Technical Institute provides industry-leading automotive and transportation training in Mooresville with partnerships from 35+ leading brands and over 220,000 alumni network.
Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers specialized aviation training in Charlotte with FAA licensing and comprehensive programs in Aviation Maintenance Technology and Avionics.
Technology and Cybersecurity
MyComputerCareer operates two North Carolina locations (Charlotte, Raleigh) specializing in IT training with up to 14 certifications from Microsoft, Linux, Cisco, CompTIA, and EC-Council, completing programs in 6-10 months.
Beauty and Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell Schools operates three North Carolina locations providing comprehensive beauty education with access to over 50,000 Paul Mitchell salons worldwide for job placement.
Empire Beauty Schools maintains seven North Carolina locations offering Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology with hands-on salon experience and industry partnerships.
Specialized Training
School of Skilled Trades in Durham offers focused six-month plumbing programs for $10,000, founded by experienced plumbers emphasizing hands-on learning for students with mechanical aptitude.
RightTek HVAC Training provides specialized HVAC education including an eight-week bootcamp program, with partnerships with ACCA, Trane Technologies, and Trade Warriors program.
Cost Analysis and Program Investment
Tuition Range Overview
North Carolina trade schools demonstrate significant cost variation based on program type and institutional level:
Most Affordable Options:
- Community colleges: $76 per credit hour in-state, $268 out-of-state
- Specialized programs: $450-$5,000 (various focused training centers)
- HVAC training: Free for military/veterans (RightTek), $450 standard courses
Mid-Range Investment:
- Beauty programs: $9,966-$16,716 (Aveda Institutes)
- Healthcare programs: $4,896-$10,912 per semester (ECPI University)
- Technology training: $19,000 for 6-10 month programs (MyComputerCareer)
Premium Programs:
- University programs: $15,400-$23,200 annually (South University)
- Comprehensive automotive: $22,900-$51,800 (Universal Technical Institute)
- Multi-campus networks: $21,520-$24,208 annually (Miller-Motte, Southeastern College)
Average Cost Estimate
Based on comprehensive data, North Carolina trade schools average $12,000-$18,000 for complete certification programs, with community colleges offering the most affordable pathway at approximately $4,000-$6,000 for associate degrees.
Quick Entry Programs in North Carolina
Ultra-Fast Certifications
HVAC Specialization: RightTek offers eight-week bootcamps free for military/veterans, while Capacitate HVAC provides focused courses for $450 with bilingual instruction.
Commercial Driving: Roadmaster Drivers School provides 4-5 week CDL programs for approximately $7,000 with strong job placement assistance and employer partnerships offering tuition reimbursement.
Technology Fast Track: MyComputerCareer offers accelerated IT certification programs completing in 6-10 months with industry-recognized certifications available within months of starting.
Accelerated Healthcare
ECPI University’s accelerated format allows associate degrees in 18 months and bachelor’s degrees in 2.5 years, while Miller-Motte College offers five-week program start cycles for maximum flexibility.