Ohio Trade Schools

Best Schools by Specialty

Healthcare Programs

Ross Medical Education Center (7 Ohio locations: Canton, Sylvania, Dayton, Elyria, Niles, Ontario, Cincinnati) – Over 40 healthcare programs from Medical Assistant to Veterinary Technology with ABHES accreditation

Hondros College of Nursing (Akron, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, Cleveland) – Nursing diplomas and degrees with 82% acceptance rate and flexible scheduling options

Stautzenberger College (Maumee, Brecksville) – Comprehensive healthcare programs including Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Practical Nursing, and Veterinary Technology

Academia Medical Institute (Columbus) – Accelerated 12-month nursing programs with hybrid learning and 41% competitive acceptance rate

Skilled Trades and Manufacturing

FORTIS College (5 Ohio campuses: Centerville, Cincinnati, Cuyahoga Falls, Ravenna, Westerville) – Welding, HVAC, Electrical, and Construction Management with hands-on training approach

New Castle School of Trades (East Liverpool) – Comprehensive trade training since 1945 including Automotive Technology, Diesel Repair, and Heavy Equipment Operations

The Electrical Trades Center (Columbus/Grandview Heights) – IBEW apprenticeship programs with earn-while-you-learn model since 1962

Elite Welding Academy (Cincinnati) – Specialized welding training with industry partnerships and hands-on job site experience

Technology and IT

MyComputerCareer (Columbus) – IT Security, Cybersecurity, and Network Administration with up to 14 industry certifications

DeVry University (Columbus) – Technology, Business, and Healthcare programs with hybrid and online options

Advanced Technology Education (Columbus) – Nonprofit serving underserved communities with Cybersecurity, Network Administration, and IT programs

Beauty and Cosmetology

Paul Mitchell Schools (Sharonville, Twinsburg, Columbus, Sylvania) – Cosmetology, Barbering, and Esthetics with global network connections

Aveda Institutes (5 Ohio locations: Cincinnati, Strongsville, Columbus, Mentor, Niles) – Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy with 80% externship-to-job conversion rate

Empire Beauty Schools (Cincinnati) – Cosmetology and Esthetics programs with 80+ years of experience

Specialized Training

Akron CNC Training Center (Akron, Cleveland) – 272-hour CNC machining certificate program with industry-leading placement rates

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (Vienna/Youngstown area) – Aviation Maintenance Technology programs with hands-on learning

Dayton School of Medical Massage (4 Ohio locations: Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland) – Medical massage therapy training since 1995

Business and General Education

Ohio Business College (Columbus, Sheffield Village, Lorain, Dayton) – HVAC/R, Electrical Applications, and Practical Nursing with externship programs

Professional Skills Institute (Maumee/Toledo) – Healthcare-focused programs with industry-experienced instructors since 1984

Cost Analysis

Expect to pay between $15,000 to $25,000 for a significant trade program, though many cheaper options exist.

Most Affordable Programs

  • The Electrical Trades Center – Earn-while-you-learn apprenticeships with paid wages during training
  • Advanced Technology Education – $600 (Computer Essentials) to $14,500 (Java Developer) with nonprofit pricing
  • Roadmaster Drivers School – ~$7,000 for CDL training with potential employer reimbursement

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Larock Healthcare Academy – $1,265 to $3,665 for healthcare certificate programs (2 weeks to 5 months)
  • New Castle School of Trades – $5,970 (Commercial Truck Driving) to $24,390 (Diesel Technology)
  • Ohio Business College – $235-$260 per credit hour depending on program area

Mid-Range Investment

  • Stautzenberger College – $12,080 to $31,547 with $5,330 average aid award annually
  • Paul Mitchell Schools – ~$14,200 base tuition plus $3,165 for supplies and materials
  • Dayton School of Medical Massage – $18,423 for comprehensive massage therapy training

Premium Programs

  • The Modern College of Design – $52,679 (Bachelor’s) to $62,256 (Associate degrees) for specialized design programs
  • Professional Skills Institute – $20,250 to $30,492 for healthcare degrees and specialized programs
  • Hondros College of Nursing – $22,000 to $40,000 for nursing programs with financial aid available

Search By Cities

List of Best Trade Schools in Ohio

Academia Medical Institute

Academia Medical Institute (AMI) in Columbus offers accelerated nursing programs with a focus on hands-on training and personalized instruction. With small class sizes and hybrid learning formats, students receive one-on-one support and real-world clinical experience. AMI is accredited by ABHES and maintains strong local healthcare partnerships to support job placement.

  • 3445 South Blvd. Columbus, OH 43204
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Advanced Technology Education

Advanced Technology Education Center (ATE) in Columbus, Ohio, offers short-term online certificate programs in tech and healthcare fields, including Cybersecurity, Network Administration, and Medical Coding. The nonprofit school focuses on underserved communities and boasts an 85% success rate. Programs are flexible, affordable, and designed to help students enter the workforce quickly.

  • 2945 Donnylane Blvd, Columbus, OH 43235
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology

Akron CNC Training Center

Akron CNC Training Center is a state registered training program. They offer a 272 hour certificate program called CNC Programming and Operation of Machine Tools. The goal of the program is to learn related classroom subjects and Hands on CNC equipment to place students in the high demand field of CNC Machining.

  • 1169 Brittain Road Akron, OH 44305
  • 1311 Brookpark Road Cleveland, OH 44109
  • Machine Operation

American National University

Rating: 3.7 of 5

American National University offers Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees in fields ranging from health to business. American National University offers credited programs to help attendees find jobs. There are courses in medical billing, pharmacy tech, accounting, network administration, and more. Students develop the skills and attitudes they need to succeed in their careers. Distance learning and online classes are an option.

  • 1837 Woodman Center Dr. Kettering, OH 45420
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy Technician

Arizona College of Nursing

Rating: 4.8 of 5

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.

  • 11500 Northlake Drive Suite 105 Cincinnati, OH 45249
  • 3401 Enterprise Parkway Suite 100 Cleveland, OH 44122
  • Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting

ATA College

Rating: 4.3 of 5

ATA College is a private, for-profit institution specializing in healthcare education with programs in fields like nursing, dental assisting, and veterinary assisting. Students can earn diplomas, certificates, or associate degrees in as little as 10 to 24 months. The school offers flexible scheduling with on-campus and online options, along with externships for hands-on experience.

  • 225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 200 Cincinnati, OH 45246
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades

Aveda Institutes

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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.

  • 7664 Voice of America Centre Dr Cincinnati, OH 45069
  • 17901 Southpark Center Strongsville, OH 44136
  • 889 Bethel Rd Columbus, OH 43214
  • 8816 Mentor Avenue Mentor, OH 44060
  • 5555 Youngstown-Warren Road Niles, OH 44446
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services

Cleveland Institute of Electronics

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Cleveland Institute of Electronics provides distance education in the fields of computer technology and electronics engineering. Based in Ohio, the school's one-on-one instruction allows students to learn new skills and advance their careers.

  • 1776 East 17th Cleveland, OH 44114
  • Computer and Information Technology, HVAC and Building Services

Dayton School of Medical Massage

Rating: 3.9 of 5

Ralph J. Elfers and William B. Tahy opened their Dayton massage therapy school in 1995 and have since expanded to Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Lima. The accredited program trains students through theory classes, hands-on labs, and externships, with flexible day or evening schedules and an accelerated 11-month track. The school holds a 100% acceptance rate, enrolls over 400 full-time students, and sets tuition at $18,423.

  • 11250 Cornell Park Drive, Suite 203 Cincinnati, OH 45242
  • 18334-D East Bagley Road Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
  • 4457 Far Hills Avenue Dayton, OH 45429
  • 4936 Blazer Pkwy, Dublin, OH 43017
  • 3325 Shawnee Rd. Lima, OH 45806
  • Healthcare and Nursing

DeVry University

Rating: 2.8 of 5

DeVry University, founded in 1931, is renowned for its emphasis on technology and innovation, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as Technology, Healthcare, Business, and Accounting. With campuses in over 25 states and options for online and hybrid learning, DeVry provides flexible education opportunities aligned with modern academic needs.

  • 2 Easton Oval, Ste 210, Columbus, OH 43219
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

East Ohio College

Rating: 4.6 of 5

East Ohio College, founded in 1886 and rebranded in 2022, serves 149 undergraduate and graduate students with small-class, career-focused training. It offers 18–21-month associate degrees and shorter diploma programs in fields like nursing, dental assisting, cybersecurity, medical office administration, and business. Classes run weekdays from 8 am–6 pm or evenings from 4 pm–10 pm, with some online options and flexible externship schedules, and tuition starts at $14,798 for most programs.

  • 15258 State Route 170 East Liverpool, OH 43920
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

Elite Welding Academy

Rating: 4.7 of 5

Elite Welding Academy, established in 2006, provides hands-on training in various welding techniques aimed at immediate employment in the field. The academy offers certifications such as Combination Structural & Pipe Welding Diploma and Structural Welding Certification, with flexible class schedules. Accredited by multiple bodies, including ACCET and Texas Workforce Commission, the academy maintains an open admission policy and offers tuition ranging from $16,000 to $24,000.

  • 4670 Dues Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45246 Cincinnati, OH 45246
  • Skilled Trades, Welding

Empire Beauty Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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.

  • 8419 Colerain Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45239
  • Cosmetology and Barbering

FORTIS College

Rating: 4.3 of 5

FORTIS provides people with a quality post-secondary education. The school has locations in 15 states that offer diploma and degree programs. These include accredited tracks in healthcare, business, technology, and other trades. Specific options vary by campus. The college also has online courses. This allows busy students the flexibility to complete their schooling at a pace that works for them. Attendees can earn associate’s degrees in business, human resources, or marketing.

  • 555 E. Alex Bell Rd. Centerville, OH 45459
  • 11499 Chester Rd., Suite 200 Cincinnati, OH 45246
  • 2545 Bailey Rd. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
  • 653 Enterprise Pkwy. Ravenna, OH 44266
  • 4151 Executive Pkwy., Suite 120 Westerville, OH 43081
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Trucking and Transportation

Hondros College of Nursing

Rating: 2.5 of 5

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.

  • 755 White Pond Dr. Akron, OH 44320
  • 4140 Executive Parkway (Westerville) Columbus, OH 43081
  • 7600 Tylers Pl Blvd, (West Chester) Cincinnati, OH 45069
  • 6520 Poe Ave. Dayton, OH 45414
  • 1684 Woodlands Dr. (Maumee) Toledo, OH 43537
  • 5005 Rockside Rd., Suite 130 (Independence), Cleveland, OH 44131
  • Healthcare and Nursing

IEC Central Ohio

Rating: 4.9 of 5

IEC Central Ohio is a leading non-profit training center offering electrical apprenticeship programs for independent contractors across Central Ohio. Established in 1948, the organization trains over 650 apprentices annually through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning. The program is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and often covered by employer sponsorship or state funding.

  • 3128 E 17th Ave Columbus, OH 43219
  • Skilled Trades

Jefferson County Joint Vocational School

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The goal of the JVS is to provide high school graduates with appropriate job placement and a readiness to advance in the workforce.

  • 1509 County Highway 22A Bloomingdale, OH 43910
  • Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering

Larock Healthcare Academy

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Larock Healthcare Academy offers hands-on healthcare training across four locations in Ohio and northern Kentucky, with certificate programs lasting 2 weeks to 5 months. The school focuses on small class sizes, in-person instruction, and real clinical experience both on campus and at local healthcare facilities. Programs include Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, and Medical Billing and Coding.

  • 2780 Airport Drive Suite 150 Columbus, OH 43219
  • 4960 Higbee Ave, N.W. Suite 200 Canton, OH 44718
  • 7261 Engle Road, Floor 4 Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Midwestern Career College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Midwestern Career College provides career-focused education with flexible class schedules, offering programs in health sciences, business, IT, and ESL. Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, MCC partners with numerous externship sites to provide hands-on training.

  • 7261 Engle Rd Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Technology

MyComputerCareer

Rating: 4.4 of 5

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.

  • 2400 Corporate Exchange Dr, Suite 300 Columbus, OH 43231
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology

New Castle School of Trades

Rating: 4.1 of 5

Founded in 1945, the New Castle School of Trades offers hands-on, in-person training in fields like Commercial Truck Driving, Welding, Electrical Technology, and Heavy Equipment Repair across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. Accredited by the ACCSC with a 100% acceptance rate, it provides flexible day and evening programs without externships. Tuition ranges from $5,970 for driving courses to $24,390 for diesel and heavy equipment repair, and a net price calculator helps estimate total costs and financial aid.

  • 29 East 5th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920
  • Skilled Trades

Ohio Business College

Rating: 3.7 of 5

Ohio Business College, established in 1903, offers hands-on training in fields such as HVAC/R, electrical applications, truck driving, and healthcare. The school operates three campuses in Lorain County, Dayton, and Columbus, providing small class sizes, externships, and flexible scheduling. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, the college maintains a 100% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.

  • 1590 Alum Creek Drive Columbus, OH 43209
  • 5095 Waterford Drive Sheffield Village, OH 44035
  • 5075 Pearl Avenue Lorain, OH 44055
  • 5450 Salem Avenue Dayton, OH 45426
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades

Paul Mitchell Schools

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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.

  • 11956 Lebanon Road Sharonville, OH 45241
  • 10735 Ravenna Road Twinsburg, OH 44087
  • 3000 Morse Road Columbus, OH 43231
  • 5549 Monroe Street Sylvania, OH 43560
  • Cosmetology and Barbering

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics

Rating: 4.5 of 5

The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) offers specialized aviation maintenance and avionics training, emphasizing hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in the aviation industry. Accredited by the ACCSC, PIA provides associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates across multiple campuses, with tuition ranging from $20,000 to $45,000.

  • 1501 Youngstown-Kingsville Rd NE H3 Vienna, OH 44473
  • Skilled Trades

Professional Skills Institute

Rating: 2.9 of 5

Professional Skills Institute, founded in 1984, offers hands-on healthcare programs taught by industry practitioners at its modern campus. Students enroll in flexible online, evening, or hybrid schedules and complete clinical rotations or externships in real medical settings. Tuition ranges from $20,250 for BS in Health Science and RN-to-BSN tracks to $30,492.92 for the Physical Therapist Assistant program.

  • 1505 Holland Road Maumee, OH 43537
  • Healthcare and Nursing

Remington College

Rating: 3.1 of 5

Hands-on learning and experienced faculty members mark Remington College’s dedication to students. Since 1985, the school has grown to nearly 20 locations across the U.S. With offerings from vocational training to master’s degrees, there are options for everybody. Several programs are fully online, too. Training is available in Healthcare, Technology, Culinary Arts, Health & Beauty, and Skilled Trades, among others.

  • 14445 Broadway Ave. Cleveland, OH 44125
  • Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Construction, Cosmetology and Barbering, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services, Phlebotomy Technician

Roadmaster Drivers School

Rating: 4.5 of 5

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.

  • 4060 Perimeter Dr Columbus, OH 43228
  • Trucking and Transportation

Ross Medical Education Center

Rating: 4.2 of 5

The Ross Medical Education Center offers training in a variety of disciplines, including Nursing, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting. In addition to the 40 campuses across the U.S., online associate’s degrees are available. Scheduling is flexible so that enrollees can balance personal responsibilities.

  • 4300 Munson St. NW Canton, OH 44718
  • 5834 Monroe St., Ste F-J Sylvania, OH 43560
  • 4490 Brandt Pike Dayton, OH 45424
  • 120 Market Dr. Elyria, OH 44035
  • 5555 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Unit 909 Niles, OH 44446
  • 2150 W 4th St. Ontario, OH 44906
  • 11590 Century Blvd., Ste 210 Cincinnati, OH 45246
  • Healthcare and Nursing, Veterinary Services

Stautzenberger College

Rating: 2.9 of 5

Stautzenberger College, established in 1926, is renowned for its vocational training across numerous fields like Animal Sciences, Business, and Skilled Trades. Offering flexible learning options through its campuses in Maumee, Brecksville, and Toledo, as well as online, the college caters to a diverse student body with its variety of program schedules, including morning, afternoon, evening, and hybrid classes. Fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), with additional programmatic accreditations, Stautzenberger ensures a comprehensive educational experience by incorporating real-world applications through externships. With an acceptance rate of 100%, the college is committed to making career-focused education accessible and affordable, providing significant support and value to its students.

  • 1796 Indian Wood Circle Maumee, OH 43537
  • 8001 Katherine Blvd. Brecksville, OH 44141
  • Business, Healthcare and Nursing, HVAC and Building Services, Veterinary Services

The Electrical Trades Center

Rating: 3.2 of 5

The Electrical Trades Center in Grandview Heights, Ohio, offers paid apprenticeship programs for aspiring electricians and installer-technicians. Students earn wages and benefits while receiving hands-on training through a program jointly operated by IBEW and NECA. This approach provides real-world experience without traditional tuition costs.

  • 947 Goodale Boulevard Columbus, OH 43212
  • Skilled Trades

The Modern College of Design

Rating: 4.3 of 5

The Modern College of Design, founded in 1983, specializes in graphic and web design education through small, hands-on classes and close faculty mentorship. It offers two-year associate degrees in Graphic Design, UX Design, and Motion Graphics & Video Design, plus a four-semester Bachelor’s Completion in Design Leadership.

  • 1725 East David Road Kettering, OH 45440
  • Technology, Professional Services

In Depth Guides to Specific Trades

The Skilled Trades in Ohio

Ohio offers a robust landscape of trade schools that provide practical, career-focused education designed to prepare students for high-demand jobs in various industries. These institutions bridge the gap between traditional education and workforce readiness, offering hands-on training that directly translates to employment opportunities.

Investment in Ohio’s Skilled Trades

Several significant investments demonstrate Ohio’s commitment to strengthening its skilled workforce.

Value of Ohio Trade Schools

Trade schools in Ohio deliver exceptional value through several key advantages:

Industry-Relevant Training: Schools like Akron CNC Training Center maintain industry-leading placement rates by providing real-world training at actual manufacturing facilities. Students frequently receive job offers before graduation, demonstrating the immediate market value of their skills.

Hands-On Learning: Institutions such as New Castle School of Trades emphasize practical training over theoretical learning. With nearly eight decades of experience, they’ve perfected programs that give students complete training without requiring external externships.

Expert Instruction: Schools employ instructors with real-world experience. Professional Skills Institute distinguishes itself by hiring healthcare professionals who bring current industry knowledge directly to students.

High Employment Rates: Aveda Institutes reports that 80% of externships lead to job offers, while Elite Welding Academy partners with top industry companies to provide advanced work opportunities.

Trade school graduates enter a seller’s market where employers offer signing bonuses, comprehensive benefits, and clear paths to supervisory and management roles.

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

Ultra-Fast Programs (Under 6 Months)

  • Roadmaster Drivers School – 4-5 weeks CDL training (Columbus)
  • Larock Healthcare Academy – 2-week programs available in EKG/Cardiac Monitor Technician
  • Advanced Technology Education – Short-term IT certification programs (Columbus)

6-12 Month Programs

  • Academia Medical Institute – 12-month accelerated nursing programs (Columbus)
  • Dayton School of Medical Massage – 11-month accelerated massage therapy track
  • Akron CNC Training Center – 272-hour CNC machining certification
  • Various Beauty Schools – Cosmetology programs at Paul Mitchell, Aveda, and Empire locations

1-2 Year Programs

  • Ross Medical Education Center – Most healthcare programs complete in 36 weeks or less
  • Stautzenberger College – Associate degrees and certificate programs with flexible scheduling
  • FORTIS College – Fast-paced certificates and associate degrees across multiple campuses

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Evening and Night Classes

  • Ohio Business College – Day and evening class options across four campus locations
  • Professional Skills Institute – Evening and hybrid programs for working professionals
  • Stautzenberger College – Morning, afternoon, and evening classes with online options

Hybrid and Online Components

  • DeVry University – On-campus, online, and hybrid formats with 8-week course cycles
  • Academia Medical Institute – Hybrid learning combining classroom, lab, and online components
  • Advanced Technology Education – Online courses with flexible pacing for working adults

Weekend and Flexible Scheduling

  • Hondros College of Nursing – Morning, evening, afternoon, and weekend options
  • Larock Healthcare Academy – Weekend classes available for healthcare programs
  • Various Schools – Part-time and accelerated options to accommodate work schedules

Apprenticeship Programs

Jefferson County Joint Vocational School – Tuition-free vocational education

The Electrical Trades Center – IBEW apprenticeships with paid work experience

IEC Central Ohio – Electrical apprentice training with employer partnerships

Based on program availability and regional demand:

  1. Medical Assistant – Available at Ross Medical (7 locations), Stautzenberger, FORTIS, and other healthcare schools
  2. HVAC/R – Strong presence at FORTIS College, Ohio Business College, and trade centers
  3. Welding – Offered at FORTIS, New Castle School of Trades, Elite Welding Academy
  4. Cosmetology – Widely available through Paul Mitchell (4 locations), Aveda (5 locations), and Empire
  5. Nursing Programs – Multiple levels from practical nursing to BSN completion programs
  6. Electrical Technology – Apprenticeships and formal programs throughout the state
  7. Cybersecurity/IT – Growing field with programs at MyComputerCareer, DeVry, and Advanced Technology Education

Regional Specializations

Greater Cleveland Area Strengths

  • Healthcare Hub – Multiple Ross Medical, Hondros, and Aveda locations serving the medical corridor
  • Manufacturing Support – CNC training and skilled trades programs aligned with industrial base
  • Aviation Training – Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics serving regional aerospace needs

Columbus Metro Excellence

  • Technology Focus – MyComputerCareer, DeVry, and Advanced Technology Education supporting growing tech sector
  • Healthcare Education – Academia Medical Institute and multiple other healthcare training options
  • Electrical Trades – The Electrical Trades Center providing IBEW apprenticeships

Cincinnati/Southwest Ohio

  • Manufacturing Trades – Elite Welding Academy and FORTIS College supporting industrial needs
  • Beauty Industry – Strong Paul Mitchell, Aveda, and Empire Beauty School presence
  • Healthcare Training – Multiple Ross Medical and other healthcare education options

Statewide Coverage

  • Ross Medical Education Center – 7 Ohio locations providing comprehensive healthcare training
  • FORTIS College – 5 campuses offering consistent skilled trades and healthcare programs
  • Paul Mitchell Schools – 4 locations ensuring beauty education accessibility

Financial Aid and Support Services

Comprehensive Financial Aid

Ohio schools widely accept federal financial aid including:

  • Federal Pell Grants and SEOG grants
  • Stafford Loans and federal work-study programs
  • State of Ohio aid programs
  • Military benefits and VA funding

Unique Financing Options

  • Stautzenberger College – Average aid award of $5,330 annually with comprehensive financial support
  • Electrical Apprenticeships – Completely employer-funded training with paid wages
  • Advanced Technology Education – Nonprofit pricing structure for underserved communities
  • Industry Partnerships – Many schools offer employer tuition reimbursement connections

Military-Friendly Institutions

Ohio’s strong military presence creates excellent veteran support:

  • MyComputerCareer – Gold Military Friendly recognition and Bronze Military Friendly Employer designation
  • DeVry University – Military-friendly policies and specialized veteran services
  • New Castle School of Trades – Veteran-focused programs and military benefit acceptance
  • Paul Mitchell Schools – MyCAA support for military spouses

Career Services and Job Placement

Top Schools for Employment Assistance

  • Akron CNC Training Center – Industry-leading placement rates with students receiving job offers before graduation
  • The Electrical Trades Center – Direct placement into IBEW positions with paid apprenticeships
  • Elite Welding Academy – Industry partnerships providing job site experience and employment connections
  • Ross Medical Education Center – Active employer network development across 7 Ohio locations

Industry Connections

  • Manufacturing Sector – CNC, welding, and electrical programs maintain strong ties to Ohio’s industrial base
  • Healthcare Network – Multiple schools serve Ohio’s extensive healthcare systems
  • Technology Partnerships – IT schools connect with Columbus’s growing tech corridor
  • Skilled Trades – Apprenticeship programs provide direct pathways to union employment

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

Ohio trade schools maintain accreditation from recognized bodies including:

  • ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges)
  • ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)
  • NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences)
  • Council on Occupational Education for community colleges
  • Industry-Specific Boards for healthcare, aviation, and skilled trades

Ohio’s trade school landscape provides accessible, practical education that directly addresses workforce needs across multiple industries, making it an excellent choice for career-focused students seeking immediate employment opportunities.