Cleveland Trade Schools

Trade schools in Cleveland deliver targeted vocational training designed to meet the region’s pressing workforce needs and accelerate students into in-demand careers. Learners work with industry-standard tools and technology under the guidance of instructors with real-world experience. Programs blend hands-on labs, project-based learning, and extensive externships at local clinics and facilities, ensuring practical exposure that mirrors actual job sites.

Akron CNC Training Center

Do you live in Northeast Ohio and want to get a rewarding education in a fulfilling career? Then consider enrolling at the Akron CNC Training Center. Students can receive training to become qualified machinists and develop skills in areas like Math & Blueprint Reading, CAD, G&M Code Programming, and more. Expert faculty are ready to give hands-on instruction to eager students.

  • 1311 Brookpark Road Cleveland, OH 44109

Arizona College of Nursing

Rating: 4.8 of 5

The Cleveland campus of Arizona College offers aspiring nurses flexible and rigorous training opportunities and generous scholarships of up to $5,000 available, making pursuing a career in nursing accessible to all.

The campus offers a CCNE-accredited BSN program and holds institutional accreditation by ABHES, ensuring a high-quality education. Students benefit from no waitlist for admission and evening classes tailored for general education coursework, catering to diverse schedules.

The comprehensive curriculum equips students with the skills and knowledge crucial for real-world nursing practice. From personalized NCLEX exam preparation from day one to ample opportunities for clinical rotations in collaboration with healthcare providers in Cleveland, students gain hands-on experience to thrive in their careers.

Conveniently located in Beachwood, the campus features high-tech simulation labs, a dedicated learning center, and a student lounge, providing all necessary resources for success. Joining the close-knit community at Arizona College of Nursing, students take the first step towards a rewarding nursing career with confidence.

  • 3401 Enterprise Parkway Suite 100 Cleveland, OH 44122

Cleveland Institute of Electronics

Rating: 3.7 of 5

The Cleveland Institute of Electronics, nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, has been a leader in technical education since its establishment in 1934. As a private distance learning institution, it catered to domestic and international students until its closure in 2022. Renowned for its comprehensive programs, CIE offered various educational pathways, including license prep programs, diploma programs, certificates, and associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. Accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), CIE allowed students to earn their degrees in less than two years, emphasizing efficiency and flexibility. The institution valued practical experience, allowing students to earn credit hours based on their previous work and life experiences.

From broadcast engineering to industrial electronics, CIE’s diverse range of programs catered to the evolving demands of the technical landscape. With asynchronous class schedules and individualized lesson lengths, students enjoyed the freedom to learn at their own pace.
Moreover, CIE was committed to supporting its students every step of the way, offering financial aid, military benefits, and a dedicated support staff to assist with enrollment, financial aid, and job placement. With resume support and personalized recommendations from the president of the Cleveland Institute of Electronics, students were well-equipped for success in their chosen fields. Though its doors may be closed, the Cleveland Institute of Electronics’s legacy lives on through its countless professionals equipped for success in technical industries.

  • 1776 East 17th Cleveland, OH 44114

Hondros College of Nursing

Rating: 2.5 of 5

Located in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, Hondros College of Nursing brings a distinctive approach to nursing education. This school distinguishes itself by offering spacious learning environments, including eight classrooms, three nursing labs, and a state-of-the-art science lab, standing out in the area for its focus on practical, hands-on learning.

Unique to this campus, there are no waitlists, and programs commence in January, April, July, and October, making it easier for students to begin their nursing education without delay. Such scheduling flexibility is a considerable advantage for prospective students eager to start their nursing careers.

Graduates from an Associate Degree in Nursing can expect to work as professional nurses shortly after completing the program, applying their knowledge across various health settings. The Practical Nursing Diploma promotes not just the science of nursing but also the art of health promotion, chronic condition management, and compassionate end-of-life care.

Both programs lay a foundation for careers that will respond to life’s many health challenges, demonstrating the clear, practical value of a Hondros education.

  • 5005 Rockside Rd., Suite 130 (Independence), Cleveland, OH 44131

Remington College

Rating: 3.1 of 5

At Remington College’s Cleveland, OH, campus, students can earn certificates to qualify for dental or medical assisting, phlebotomy, medical administration, and construction and building maintenance careers. The school’s 14 classrooms facilitate traditional textbook learning, while five on-campus labs allow students to practice the skills they learn in class.

  • 14445 Broadway Ave. Cleveland, OH 44125


Stautzenberger College

Rating: 2.9 of 5

Since its founding in 1926, Stautzenberger College has equipped students for successful careers through a specialized curriculum with dedicated staff support from enrollment to graduation.

Stautzenberger College provides flexible class schedules, including day, evening, and online options, alongside structured programs that offer incremental credentials leading to degrees and employment.

The college assists students in finding financial solutions to cover their education costs, including grants, loans, and scholarships, ensuring opportunities for all to advance their careers.

The Career Services team actively supports students and graduates with career management and job search strategies, while continuously updating its curriculum to ensure graduates are immediately competitive in the workforce.

  • 8001 Katherine Blvd. Brecksville, OH 44141


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.

  • 18334-D East Bagley Road Middleburg Heights, OH 44130

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.

  • 7261 Engle Road, Floor 4 Middleburg Heights, OH 44130

Midwestern Career College

Rating: 4.2 of 5

Midwestern Career College, a private institution founded in 2004, offers associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates in health sciences, business, IT, and English as a Second Language. The college, which serves a diverse student body from Chicago and beyond, has expanded its reach to Cleveland, Ohio, with a new campus located at 7261 Engle Road in Middleburg Heights. This modern facility is designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce, offering flexible day, evening, online, and hybrid classes, as well as hands-on training through partnerships with nearly 150 externship sites. Accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, MCC’s Cleveland campus focuses on career readiness and professional development, with programs including AAS in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology, Clinical Medical Assisting, Cybersecurity, and Data Science.

  • 7261 Engle Rd Middleburg Heights, OH 44130

Average Cost of Trade Schools in Cleveland

Based on available data, trade school costs in Cleveland vary significantly by program specialization and duration:

Cost Breakdown:

The average cost across all programs is approximately $18,700, with certificate and diploma programs offering the most budget-friendly entry points into professional careers.

Average Duration of Trade School Programs in Cleveland

Cleveland trade schools prioritize rapid career preparation with flexible completion timelines:

The average program duration ranges from 10 months to 2 years, significantly shorter than traditional four-year degrees while providing direct pathways to employment in high-demand fields.

Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Cleveland

Based on the schools surveyed, the most frequently offered programs include:

  1. Healthcare & Medical Programs (Medical Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding, Nursing)
  2. Electronics & Computer Technology
  3. Business Administration & Accounting
  4. Massage Therapy & Wellness Services
  5. Veterinary Technology & Animal Sciences
  6. Dental Assisting & Healthcare Administration
  7. HVAC & Building Maintenance
  8. Paralegal & Legal Studies
  9. Culinary Arts & Restaurant Management
  10. Cosmetology & Beauty Services

Examples of Trade School Courses

Healthcare Courses:

Technology & Electronics Courses:

Skilled Trades Courses:

Business & Professional Services:

Specialized Programs:

Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training in Cleveland

Trade Programs Offering Apprenticeships

Several Cleveland trade schools integrate extensive real-world experience:

Benefits of Combining School with On-the-Job Training

The combination provides immediate application of classroom knowledge while building professional networks and industry connections. Students gain confidence through real workplace problem-solving and often secure employment before graduation. The practical experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in actual professional settings, making them job-ready upon completion.

Employers benefit by evaluating potential hires and training workers to their specific standards, creating qualified candidate pipelines. Students develop both technical skills and crucial soft skills required in professional healthcare, technology, and trade environments, significantly improving their marketability.

Online and Hybrid Trade School Programs in Cleveland

Availability of Online Learning

Cleveland trade schools offer various flexible learning formats to accommodate different student needs:

Efficiency for Rural/Remote Residents

Online options eliminate commuting time and transportation costs for students in rural Ohio areas and surrounding states. The distance learning approach offers flexibility and convenience for working professionals and those with family obligations. Self-paced programs allow students to maintain current employment while pursuing certification.

However, programs requiring hands-on training (healthcare, skilled trades, massage therapy) still require in-person lab components and clinical experiences for proper skill development and professional certification requirements. The hybrid approach maximizes convenience while ensuring students receive essential practical training.

Accreditation of Trade Schools in Cleveland

Cleveland trade schools maintain strong accreditation standards ensuring quality education and employer recognition:

Regional and National Accreditors:

Specialized Programmatic Accreditations:

All schools are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring students can access federal financial aid and that employers recognize the quality of education provided.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Trade School Students

Cleveland trade schools offer comprehensive financial assistance programs:

Federal Aid Options:

  • FAFSA-based grants and loans available at all institutions
  • Federal Pell Grants and SEOG grants for qualifying students
  • Federal Work-Study programs at select schools

School-Specific Aid:

  • Arizona College of Nursing: Generous financial aid policies, federal student loans, state-based grant programs, and on-campus employment opportunities
  • Remington College: Academic Achievement Scholarship, New Career Success Scholarship, Career Ready Scholarship, plus accepts external scholarships and employer reimbursement
  • Stautzenberger College: Average aid award of $5,330 annually with exam preparatory services and externship placement included in tuition
  • Cleveland Institute of Electronics: Monthly payment plans and textbook buyback program for tuition credit

Payment Flexibility:

  • Monthly payment plans available at multiple institutions
  • Net price calculators provided by most schools for cost estimation
  • Institutional scholarships based on merit and need
  • Financing options to fit most budgets

Veterans Discounts and Special Considerations

Cleveland trade schools demonstrate strong military support:

Remington College:

  • Accepts Active Duty Tuition Assistance and GI Bill benefits
  • Military aid acceptance with dedicated support for service members
  • Employer reimbursement programs

Arizona College of Nursing:

  • Accepts military benefits for accessible education
  • Private loans and military benefits integration

Cleveland Institute of Electronics:

  • Distance learning approach offers flexibility for active duty personnel
  • Monthly payment plans accommodate military budgets

Additional Military Support:

  • Flexible online learning accommodates military schedules and deployments
  • Recognition that veterans’ disciplined backgrounds make them excellent students
  • Specialized financial aid counseling for military families and transition assistance

Career Services Provided by Schools

Cleveland trade schools offer comprehensive career support ensuring successful job placement:

Job Placement Services:

  • Arizona College of Nursing: Robust career placement support including interview advice, career fairs, and job opening sharing with partner organizations
  • Remington College: Application, resume, and interview help with staff guidance through entire job search process, plus regular pre-employment screenings and company campus visits
  • Cleveland Institute of Electronics: Expertly prepared resumes and letters of recommendation from the president
  • Stautzenberger College: Career-focused education with industry partnerships and employer connections

Professional Development:

  • Resume writing and interview preparation coaching
  • Career development workshops and industry networking opportunities
  • Industry-specific job placement assistance with partner organizations
  • Interview tips, resume reviews, and various career placement opportunities

Ongoing Support:

  • Remington College: Alumni can schedule appointments with career specialists anytime, access to large network of businesses, and curriculum tailored to local employer needs
  • Cleveland Institute of Electronics: Alumni Spotlight featuring notable former students and success stories
  • Alumni networking events and professional community building

Industry Connections:

  • Midwestern Career College: Partnerships with nearly 150 externship sites providing direct employer connections
  • Regular employer visits and recruitment events at campus locations
  • Strong industry partnerships across healthcare, technology, and skilled trades sectors