Portland’s vocational education landscape offers diverse training opportunities across healthcare, skilled trades, beauty services, and technology sectors. With options ranging from free union apprenticeships to specialized career colleges, students can find affordable pathways to high-demand careers throughout the metro area.
Best Oregon Trade Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Top Healthcare Training:
Lane Community College leads with comprehensive programs including nursing (RN, LPN, RN to BSN), dental assisting, dental hygiene, physical therapist assistant, and allied health specialties
Portland Community College offers dental assisting, dental hygiene, medical assisting, radiography, medical laboratory technology, nursing, and veterinary technology
Clackamas Community College provides CNA, dental assistant, emergency medical technician, medical assistant, medical billing and coding, and RN programs
Concorde Career College specializes in accelerated healthcare training with programs in dental assisting, medical assisting, medical laboratory technician, nursing, pharmacy technician, radiology, sonography, and surgical technology
Massage Therapy & Wellness:
- Aveda Institutes – Therapeutic Massage Program: $10,961
- Institute of Technology – Massage Therapy: $16,000-$36,000 range
- Lane Community College – Massage Therapy included in health sciences offerings
Skilled Trades
Construction & Manufacturing:
Northwest College of Construction offers free apprenticeships in multiple construction trades with tuition and books covered by industry training trusts
Blue Mountain Community College provides diesel tech, industrial systems, precision agriculture, professional truck driver, and welding programs
Portland Community College features construction trades, electrician apprenticeship, auto collision repair, automotive service, aviation maintenance, diesel service, HVAC/R installation, CNC milling, machine manufacturing, mechatronics, and welding
Specialized Trades:
Sheet Metal Institute delivers free five-year apprenticeships in sheet metal work and service systems technology with 1,000 classroom hours plus 8,000 on-the-job training hours
Rogue Community College offers automotive specialist, CNC operator, construction trades apprenticeship, diesel, electrical apprenticeship, manual machinist, and welding programs
Technology Programs
Computer Science & IT:
Clackamas Community College leads with computer & network administration, computer science, full-stack web development, geographic information systems, and microelectronics systems
Portland Community College provides computer information systems, advanced Windows network security, cybersecurity, database design and SQL, web development and design, and computer science
Lane Community College offers computer network operations, cybersecurity, and software development
Blue Mountain Community College includes computer science and software development
Business Programs
Business Administration & Management:
Portland Community College provides accounting, business administration, management, and marketing
Clackamas Community College offers accounting, administrative assistant, business management, digital media, human resources, project management, and marketing
Rogue Community College features accounting, business administration, and management programs
Lane Community College includes accounting, business management, and project management
Cosmetology & Beauty
Beauty Industry Training:
Paul Mitchell Schools offers cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nails, makeup, and instructor programs with average yearly costs of $14,200 plus $3,165 for supplies
Aveda Institutes provides cosmetology ($16,716) and esthetics programs ($9,966) with 80% of externships leading to job offers
Institute of Technology includes barbering and cosmetology in its program offerings
Culinary Arts
Lane Community College stands out with both baking & pastry and culinary arts programs, while Institute of Technology offers baking and pastry arts alongside culinary arts training.
List of Top Trades Schools in Portland
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institute Portland offers hands-on training in cosmetology and esthiology, combining modern techniques with classic styles in a real-world salon setting. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes creativity, technical precision, and business skills, preparing them for state licensure and beauty industry careers.
The campus operates Tuesday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Friday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., allowing for flexible class and service schedules. Training includes both online coursework and in-person practice using Aveda’s botanically based products under the supervision of experienced instructors. Graduates are equipped with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in salons, spas, or as independent professionals.
- 325 NW 13th Avenue Portland, OR 97209
Clackamas Community College
Established in 1966, Clackamas Community College (CCC) is renowned for its comprehensive educational offerings and strong ties to the Oregon community. Serving approximately 20,000 students annually, CCC provides diverse programs including Associate of Arts, Science, and General Studies, along with specialized certificates in fields such as Business, Health Science, and STEM. Students benefit from flexible class schedules that include morning, afternoon, and evening options, as well as online and hybrid courses for added convenience. CCC emphasizes hands-on learning through externships and clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers. Fully accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), CCC offers inclusive education with an open admissions policy, making it accessible to all who meet basic requirements, with tuition varying by residency status and credit load.
- 19600 Molalla Avenue Oregon City, OR 97045
Concorde Career College
Conveniently located near the on-ramp for Interstate 84, Concorde Career College’s Portland, OR, campus offers a range of programs for students. The Portland location has resources such as a learning center, student and career services, and hands-on labs. With programs like nursing, dental, and patient care, students can get training in a number of growing fields for a rewarding career.
- 1425 NE Irving St Portland, OR 97232
Northwest College of Construction
Programs include apprenticeships, leadership courses, and specialized training programs, with apprenticeships running 1–6 years and culminating in a nationally recognized Journey Worker credential. Apprentices typically work paid jobs by day and attend class one evening per week or one full day per month, depending on trade; select courses (e.g., Cultural Competency in the Trades) are fully online. Apprenticeship tuition is generally covered by industry training trusts (tuition + books), though HVAC, Sheet Metal, and Protective Signaling may be exceptions; students should still budget for tools and protective gear. The apprenticeship programs are approved by the Oregon and Washington State Apprenticeship & Training Councils, underscoring program quality. Acceptance rates aren’t published and each trade sets its own application process—start on the apprenticeship page for requirements and openings.
- 8111 NE Holman St Portland, OR 97218
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.
- 234 SW Broadway Portland, OR 97205
Pioneer Pacific College
With four campuses in Oregon, Pioneer Pacific College offers courses in Healthcare, Business, Paralegal Studies, and Culinary Arts.
- 1701 SW Jefferson St. Portland, OR 97201
Portland Community College
PCC awards associate degrees, certificates, and career pathway credentials across hundreds of fields, from Dental Assisting and Auto Collision Repair to Journalism and Multimedia. Programs range from short-term certificates to two-year associate degrees, and many health programs (e.g., Medical Assisting) include clinical practicums/externships. Courses are offered mornings, afternoons, evenings, and online/hybrid, making it easier to balance school, work, and family. Tuition is $138/credit for Oregon residents and $288/credit for nonresidents (about $2,400 per term for a typical 12-credit in-state load), with additional costs for fees, books, and supplies. PCC is regionally accredited by NWCCU and follows open enrollment (100% acceptance) so qualified applicants can get started quickly.
- 705 N. Killingsworth St. Portland, OR 97217
- 17705 NW Springville Rd. Portland, OR 97229
- 2305 SE 82nd and Division, Portland, OR 97216
- 12000 SW 49th Ave. Portland, OR 97219
Sheet Metal Institute
SMI offers two state-registered apprenticeship programs—Sheet Metal Worker and Service Systems Technician—run from its Portland (1995) and Springfield (2011) campuses. Training lasts five years and combines 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job experience with 1,000 hours of classroom instruction. Apprentices work full time and attend classes 40 hours per week for five consecutive weeks each year; instruction is entirely in person due to the hands-on nature of the trade. Tuition is $0—the apprenticeship is free—so students earn wages while they learn without taking on education debt. With 300+ apprentices enrolled at any time and union affiliation through SMART Local 16, SMI connects trainees to strong career pathways and a well-established professional network.
- 2739 NE 178th Ave. Portland, OR 97230
Sumner College
Sumner College began in 1974 as The Court Reporting Institute in Portland, Oregon, and shifted its focus to healthcare education after being acquired by Cascade Education, LLC in 2007, eventually becoming Oregon’s first private proprietary school authorized to award a BSN degree in 2022.
The college offers three nursing programs—Practical Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and RN to BSN—with tuition rates of $405, $510, and $180 per credit hour respectively. Classes operate Monday through Friday with day sessions (8:00 AM to 3:00 PM) and mid-morning sessions (11:30 AM to 6:00 PM) combining classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experience, while the RN to BSN program is offered 100% online for working nurses.
With campuses in Portland and Bend serving 300-500 students annually, Sumner maintains an 87% acceptance rate and institutional accreditation through ABHES. The college launched its Practical Nursing program in 2009, added the Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) in 2012, introduced the RN to BSN program in 2020, and opened its Bend campus in 2024.Retry
- 8338 NE Alderwood Rd Suite 100 Portland, OR 97220
Cost Comparison
Completely Free Programs:
- Northwest College of Construction: FREE apprenticeship tuition (industry-funded through training trusts)
- Sheet Metal Institute: FREE five-year apprenticeship program with no tuition costs
Most Affordable Options:
- Clackamas Community College: $126 per credit for Oregon residents (approximately $302 for out-of-state)
- Portland Community College: $138 per credit for Oregon residents ($288 for non-residents)
Mid-Range Private Institutions:
- Aveda Institutes: $9,966-$16,716 depending on program
- Paul Mitchell Schools: ~$14,200 base tuition plus $3,165 for supplies and kit
Higher-Cost Career Colleges:
- Carrington College: $11,000-$20,000 per year depending on program and location
- Concorde Career College: $17,500-$67,000 full program ($550-$750 per credit)
Average Total Program Costs:
- Community college certificates: $2,000-$8,000 for Oregon residents
- Community college associate degrees: $5,000-$15,000 for in-state students
- Private beauty school programs: $10,000-$17,000
- Private healthcare career colleges: $15,000-$30,000
Program Duration
Fastest Programs (Under 1 Year):
- Concorde Career College: Programs complete in as little as 8 months
- Carrington College: Certificate programs available in 7-15 months
- Most CNA and phlebotomy programs: 4-16 weeks
- Beauty school certificates: Typically 9-12 months
Standard Duration:
- Certificate programs: 6 months to 1 year
- Associate degrees: 2 years full-time at community colleges
- Beauty programs: 9-18 months depending on specialty
- Healthcare certificates: 8-18 months on average
Longest Commitment:
- Sheet Metal Institute apprenticeship: 5 years (while earning full wages)
- Northwest College of Construction apprenticeships: 1-6 years depending on trade
- Associate degree nursing programs: 2-3 years including prerequisites
Most Popular Programs in Portland
Based on program availability and enrollment across institutions:
- Medical Assisting – Offered at Portland CC, Clackamas CC, Concorde, and Carrington
- Nursing (RN/LPN) – Available at Portland CC, Clackamas CC, and Concorde
- Cosmetology – Multiple dedicated schools plus community college options
- Dental Assisting – Portland CC, Clackamas CC, Concorde, and Carrington
- Welding – Portland CC and Clackamas CC with strong employer connections
- Computer Science/IT – Growing programs at both major community colleges
- Business Administration – Universal offering across institutions
- Automotive Technology – Portland CC and Clackamas CC with extensive lab facilities
- Construction Trades – Free apprenticeships plus community college programs
- HVAC – Available through apprenticeships, career colleges, and community colleges
Quick-Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Portland’s trade schools offer multiple fast-track pathways to employment:
Ultra-Fast Healthcare Certifications:
- Phlebotomy programs complete in 8-16 weeks at multiple institutions
- CNA training finishes in 4-6 weeks
- EMT certification available in one semester at Portland Community College
Accelerated Career College Programs:
- Concorde Career College completes healthcare programs in 8 months with blended online/in-person format
- Carrington College offers certificate completion in 7-15 months with externship opportunities
- Both schools provide dedicated career services to connect graduates with employers
Beauty Career Fast-Tracks:
- Aveda Institutes reports 80% of externship participants receive job offers before graduation
- Paul Mitchell Schools connect graduates to 100,000+ salons in 80+ countries worldwide
- Esthetics programs complete faster than full cosmetology training (typically 9-12 months vs. 12-18 months)
Earn While You Learn:
- Northwest College of Construction places apprentices in paid positions from day one
- Sheet Metal Institute apprentices earn full-time wages throughout their five-year program
- All apprenticeship programs provide income while training with zero tuition costs
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Portland’s trade schools recognize that working adults need scheduling flexibility:
Hybrid and Online Options:
- Portland Community College offers online, in-person, and hybrid courses across hundreds of programs with morning, afternoon, and evening classes
- Concorde Career College’s blended model combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinical experience, with campus hours 9 AM-7 PM Monday-Saturday
- Carrington College provides onsite, online, and blended formats with locations open 9 AM-10 PM Monday-Thursday, 8 AM-5 PM Fridays, and 9 AM-1 PM Saturdays
- Clackamas Community College offers online and hybrid learning with flexible scheduling
Multiple Campus Locations: Portland Community College operates four main campuses, ten centers, and numerous community locations throughout the Portland metro area:
- 705 N. Killingsworth St.
- 17705 NW Springville Rd.
- 2305 SE 82nd and Division
- 12000 SW 49th Ave.
This extensive network brings education directly to neighborhoods, reducing commute times for working students.
Evening and Weekend Classes:
- Paul Mitchell Schools offer morning, afternoon, and select evening sessions
- Portland Community College schedules evening classes across most programs
- Clackamas Community College provides morning, afternoon, and evening options
- Northwest College of Construction conducts classes once weekly in the evening or once monthly for full days
Part-Time Study While Working:
- Sheet Metal Institute apprentices work full-time jobs while attending 40 hours of classes for five consecutive weeks annually
- Northwest College of Construction apprentices maintain paid employment during training
- Community colleges allow students to take fewer credits per term
- Carrington College’s 24/7 online access enables self-paced learning
Unique Advantages of Portland Trade Schools
100% Acceptance Rates
Multiple Portland institutions maintain open-door admissions policies, making education accessible to all qualified applicants:
- Portland Community College: 100% acceptance with open enrollment
- Paul Mitchell Schools: 100% acceptance with open admission policy
- Clackamas Community College: Open admissions for students meeting basic requirements
- Aveda Institutes: Nearly 100% acceptance rate across most campuses
Strong Industry Partnerships
Direct Employment Pipelines:
- Northwest College of Construction was founded by four major trade organizations (Associated Builders and Contractors Pacific Northwest Chapter, Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland, Associated General Contractors, and Northwest Utility Contractors Association), ensuring direct workforce connections
- Sheet Metal Institute affiliates with Sheet Metal Workers International Association (SMART Local 16), providing union membership and professional networking
- Concorde Career College provides dedicated career services with resume preparation, interview techniques, and job placement assistance
- Carrington College employs industry professionals as instructors, bringing real-world experience into classrooms
Global Beauty Industry Connections:
- Paul Mitchell Schools connect to 50,000+ salons in 80+ countries
- Aveda Institutes graduates join the worldwide Aveda brand network
- Both beauty school networks offer career services through online portals with job search resources
Hands-On Training Facilities
Portland’s trade schools invest heavily in realistic training environments:
- Portland Community College includes clinical practicums and externships in health programs
- Concorde Career College provides in-person labs alongside online coursework
- Carrington College emphasizes hands-on training through various modalities
- Sheet Metal Institute operates state-of-the-art campuses in Portland and Springfield
- Northwest College of Construction offers quality facilities for apprenticeship training
Legitimate Accreditation
All featured schools maintain proper accreditation from respected bodies:
- Community colleges: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Beauty schools: National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS)
- Career colleges: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC/WASC), or Council on Occupational Education (COE)
- Apprenticeships: Oregon State Apprenticeship and Training Council approval
Financial Aid and Affordability
Federal Financial Aid: Nearly all institutions accept federal financial aid including Pell Grants and loans. Students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility.
Zero-Cost Training:
- Northwest College of Construction: Free tuition with industry-funded training trusts (exceptions for HVAC, Sheet Metal, and Protective Signaling)
- Sheet Metal Institute: Completely free apprenticeship eliminating all financial barriers
Scholarships and Special Programs:
- Paul Mitchell Schools offer various scholarships for careers in specific fields
- Concorde Career College maintains a scholarship foundation with awards based on academic achievement and economic hardship
- Carrington College supports fixed tuition rates for students maintaining good academic standing
Payment Plans: Most career colleges offer payment plan options for students who don’t qualify for traditional financial aid, making education more manageable for working adults.
Veteran Benefits
Strong support for military members and their families:
- Concorde Career College provides tuition assistance for all service branches, National Guard, and Reserves
- Carrington College offers Military Tuition Assistance for active duty members and Veterans Educational Benefits
- Paul Mitchell Schools accept aid from My Career Advancement Account Scholarship Program for military spouses
- VA benefits accepted at most institutions
Career Services and Job Placement
Comprehensive Support:
- Concorde Career College offers resume preparation, interview techniques, and work placement assistance
- Carrington College provides externships for real-world skill practice before graduation
- Paul Mitchell Schools give access to web portals with career advice and interview tips
- Portland Community College includes career pathway programs across hundreds of fields
High Employment Outcomes:
- Aveda Institutes: 80% of externships lead to job offers
- Concorde Career College: Programs meet state licensing requirements, facilitating easier career entry
- Career colleges emphasize immediate workforce readiness upon graduation
Specialized Program Highlights
Healthcare Administration
Beyond clinical roles, Portland offers healthcare administration training:
- Carrington College: Medical administration program
- Concorde Career College: Healthcare management
These programs prepare students for office-based healthcare careers without direct patient care requirements.
Veterinary Services
Animal care professionals can train at:
- Portland Community College: Veterinary technology program
- Carrington College: Veterinary assistant and veterinary technician programs
Portland’s strong pet-friendly culture creates consistent demand for veterinary professionals.
Advanced Manufacturing
Portland Community College and Clackamas Community College both offer pre-trades for advanced manufacturing, addressing the region’s growing technology manufacturing sector with programs in:
- CNC milling and machining
- Mechatronics
- Industrial mechanics and maintenance
- Electronics engineering technology
Location Considerations
Portland Proper
Northeast Portland:
- Concorde Career College: 1425 NE Irving St
- Sheet Metal Institute: 2739 NE 178th Ave (serves entire metro area)
Northwest Portland:
- Aveda Institutes: 325 NW 13th Avenue (Pearl District area)
- Paul Mitchell Schools: 234 SW Broadway (downtown)
Southeast Portland:
- Carrington College: 1052 96th Avenue SE
- Portland Community College Southeast Campus: 2305 SE 82nd and Division
North Portland:
- Portland Community College Cascade Campus: 705 N. Killingsworth St
- Northwest College of Construction: 8111 NE Holman St
Southwest Portland:
- Portland Community College Sylvania Campus: 12000 SW 49th Ave
Other PCC Locations:
- Rock Creek Campus: 17705 NW Springville Rd
Portland Metro Area
Oregon City (Clackamas County):
- Clackamas Community College: 19600 Molalla Avenue
- Serves southern Portland suburbs with comprehensive programs
This geographic distribution ensures Portland-area residents can find quality vocational training near their homes or workplaces, reducing commute barriers to education.
Choosing Your Portland Trade School
When selecting a Portland trade school, consider these factors:
Cost Analysis:
- Free apprenticeships eliminate debt but require multi-year commitments
- Community colleges offer lowest tuition for degree programs
- Career colleges cost more but complete programs faster
- Beauty schools provide specialized training with strong job placement
Timeline Requirements:
- Need income immediately? Choose paid apprenticeships
- Want fastest completion? Consider 8-month Concorde programs or 7-15 month Carrington certificates
- Prefer traditional education? Community college associate degrees take 2 years
- Building long-term skills? Five-year apprenticeships provide comprehensive training
Schedule Flexibility:
- Full online needed? Portland CC and Carrington offer robust online options
- Work days? Evening classes available at multiple institutions
- Work evenings? Morning and afternoon classes widely available
- Need hybrid? Multiple schools combine online and in-person instruction
Career Goals:
- Healthcare: Multiple pathways from 8-week CNA to 2-year nursing degree
- Skilled trades: Free apprenticeships vs. community college certificates
- Beauty: Brand name schools (Paul Mitchell, Aveda) vs. broader training
- Technology: Community colleges offer most affordable IT training
- Business: Available everywhere, compare costs and formats
Location Convenience: Portland Community College’s four campuses and ten centers likely place education near your home or work. Consider commute times when comparing schools, as transportation costs and time investment matter.
Accreditation Verification: Always verify current accreditation status before enrolling. Check school websites for accrediting body information and confirm recognition by the U.S. Department of Education or relevant state boards.
Taking the Next Step
Most Portland trade schools offer these resources before you apply:
Campus Tours and Information Sessions: Contact schools directly to schedule visits. Seeing facilities, meeting instructors, and observing classes helps make informed decisions.
Program Advisors: Schedule appointments with admissions advisors who can review your transcripts, discuss career goals, and explain financial aid options.
Net Price Calculators: Use school websites’ calculators to estimate your actual costs after financial aid. This provides more accurate budgeting than published tuition rates.
Application Assistance: Many schools help with application completion, FAFSA filing, and enrollment processes.
Start by identifying your top career interest, then contact 2-3 schools offering related programs. Compare costs, timelines, and formats before making your decision. Portland’s diverse vocational education landscape ensures you’ll find training that matches your goals, schedule, and budget.
Whether you choose free apprenticeship training, affordable community college programs, or specialized career college education, Portland offers clear pathways to rewarding careers in high-demand fields.