Rhode Island Trade Schools

Rhode Island offers diverse career training opportunities through specialized trade schools, technical institutes, and certification programs. Whether you’re seeking healthcare credentials, skilled trades training, or beauty industry expertise, the Ocean State provides accessible pathways to rewarding careers. This guide highlights the best programs by specialty, costs, durations, and flexible options for working adults.

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• Providence Trade Schools

Table of Contents

• Best Trade Schools by Specialty
  • Healthcare Programs
  • Skilled Trades Training
  • Transportation and Commercial Driving
  • Cosmetology and Beauty
  • Information Technology and Cybersecurity
• List of Top Trade Schools in Rhode Island
• Program Costs and Affordability
  • Free Training Options
  • Most Affordable Programs
  • Average Program Duration
• Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
  • Healthcare Fast Tracks
  • Skilled Trades Accelerated Options
  • Beauty Industry Quick Start
• Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
  • Evening and Weekend Programs
  • Part-Time and Self-Paced Options
  • Hybrid Learning Models
• Most Popular Training Programs
  • Healthcare Dominates Demand
  • Skilled Trades Experience Strong Growth
  • Commercial Driving Remains Steady
  • Beauty and Cosmetology Hold Appeal
• Specialized Career Pathways
  • Culinary and Hospitality
  • Veterinary Services
  • Graphic Design and Media Arts
• Accreditation and Quality Standards
  • National Accreditation Bodies
  • State Approvals
  • Industry-Specific Credentials
• Financial Aid and Support
  • Federal Financial Aid
  • Scholarships and Grants
  • Payment Plans
  • Employer Sponsorship
• Veterans Services
• Career Services and Job Placement
  • Employment Assistance
  • Resume and Interview Support
  • Alumni Services
• Choosing the Right Trade School
  • Career Goals Alignment
  • Cost and Time Investment
  • Schedule Flexibility
  • Accreditation Status
  • Job Placement Support
  • Location and Facilities
• Conclusion

Best Trade Schools by Specialty

Healthcare Programs

Rhode Island excels in healthcare training with multiple options for aspiring medical professionals:

911Programs leads emergency medical services training, offering EMT certification alongside allied health programs including Certified Phlebotomy Technician, Certified EKG Technician, and Certified Medical Assistant. With roots dating back to 1991, this institution provides both day and evening classes with online-hybrid formats and hands-on externships in real healthcare settings.

HITEP Inc specializes in Certified Nursing Assistant training through an intensive 7-week program costing $2,000. Students complete clinical practicum hours at Skilled Nursing Facilities and receive a 120-day temporary Nursing Assistant license while preparing for the National Nursing Assistant Assessment Program exam. The program holds approval from both the Rhode Island Department of Health and American Red Cross.

Lincoln Tech at Lincoln Mall offers comprehensive healthcare pathways including Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, and Nursing programs with 100% acceptance rate and partnerships with major healthcare corporations.

New England Institute of Technology provides extensive healthcare options including EMT, Medical Assistant, Medical Laboratory Technician, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, and Surgical Technologist programs with experienced faculty balancing classroom instruction and hands-on training.

Skilled Trades Training

For construction and technical trades, Rhode Island offers several excellent options:

Building Futures operates a nationally recognized pre-apprenticeship program preparing low-income individuals for registered apprenticeships in building trades. This non-profit charges no tuition and maintains an 11% acceptance rate, ensuring committed candidates receive quality training. The program partners with Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, offering direct entry into paid union apprenticeships upon graduation.

Rhode Island Construction Training Academy (RICTA) has trained apprentices since 1992 through state-approved programs in Carpentry, HVAC, Electrical, Sheet Metal, and Pipefitting. Programs require 144 hours of annual instruction over 2-4 years, with evening classes twice weekly (6:00-9:00 PM) allowing full-time employment. Tuition ranges from $1,050 for ABC RI members to $1,550 for non-members.

Davies Career & Technical High School serves grades 9-12 statewide, offering Advanced Manufacturing, Automotive Careers, Electrical, and Pre-Engineering Technology with over 90% of graduates earning industry certification. The school charges no tuition and is accredited by New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Warwick Area Career & Technical Center provides tuition-free training in Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, Aviation, and Construction Trades for grades 10-12, with a 23.8:1 student-teacher ratio and Career Learning Experience externships.

Transportation and Commercial Driving

New England Tractor Trailer Training School (NETTTS) specializes in commercial truck operation since 1965, enrolling 250-700 students per campus. Programs include CDL Class A ($12,445), CDL Class B ($3,695), and HVACR Technology ($23,595). The school operates with 100% acceptance rate and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration approval for Entry-Level Driver Training.

Cosmetology and Beauty

Rhode Island offers multiple beauty education pathways:

Empire Beauty School operates at 151 Broadway in Providence as part of the nation’s largest cosmetology school system with 76 locations. Average tuition is $16,200 with 100% acceptance rate, offering Cosmetology, Esthetics/Aesthetics, Educator Training, and Nail Technology with NACCAS accreditation.

Paul Mitchell Schools in Cranston provides Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics, Nails, Makeup, and Instructor programs. Annual costs average $14,200 for tuition plus $3,165 for books and supplies, with 100% acceptance rate and NACCAS accreditation.

Providence Career and Technical Academy includes Cosmetology among its 11 specialized career pathways for approximately 700 high school students with a 10:1 student-teacher ratio.

Information Technology and Cybersecurity

New England Institute of Technology leads tech training with programs in Computer Programming, Computer Systems Technician, Cybersecurity, Networking, Software Engineering, and Web Development, plus specialized offerings in Game Design, Game Programming, and Graphic Design.

Lincoln Tech offers Computer Systems Technician training through hands-on instruction with specialized equipment and corporate partnerships.

List of Top Trade Schools in Rhode Island

Program Costs and Affordability

Free Training Options

Several Rhode Island institutions offer completely tuition-free programs:

• Building Futures: Construction pre-apprenticeship (no tuition)
• Davies Career & Technical High School: All career programs (grades 9-12)
• Warwick Area Career & Technical Center: All career programs (grades 10-12)

Most Affordable Programs

Budget-Friendly Options Under $5,000:

• HITEP Certified Nursing Assistant: $2,000 (7 weeks)
• RICTA Construction Training (ABC members): $1,050 annually
• NETTTS CDL Class B: $3,695

Mid-Range Programs ($5,000-$15,000):

• 911Programs: $1,200-$15,000 depending on certification
• NETTTS CDL Class A (160-hour prep): $6,595
• NETTTS CDL Class A (540-hour full): $12,445
• Empire Beauty School: Average $16,200
• Paul Mitchell Schools: $14,200 tuition + $3,165 supplies

Higher Investment Programs ($20,000+):

• Lincoln Tech: $20,000-$35,000 for most programs
• NETTTS HVACR Technology: $23,595

Average Program Duration

Quick Entry Programs (Under 3 Months):

• HITEP Certified Nursing Assistant: 7 weeks
• Various 911Programs certifications: Several months maximum

Short-Term Programs (3-6 Months):

• Building Futures Construction Pre-Apprenticeship: Several weeks intensive
• 911Programs EMT Training: Several months
• Various short certifications (Phlebotomy, EKG Technician)

Medium-Length Programs (6-12 Months):

• Empire Beauty School Cosmetology: Varies by format
• Paul Mitchell Schools programs: Varies by specialty
• Various Lincoln Tech certificates: 700-1,600 clock hours

Extended Programs (1-4 Years):

• RICTA Construction apprenticeships: 2-4 years (144 hours annually)
• Davies Career & Technical High School: 4 years (grades 9-12)
• Warwick Area Career & Technical Center: 3 years (grades 10-12)
• New England Institute of Technology degrees: Varies by program

Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch

For those seeking rapid workforce entry, Rhode Island offers several accelerated pathways:

Healthcare Fast Tracks

HITEP’s 7-Week CNA Program represents the quickest healthcare entry point at just $2,000. Graduates receive temporary licensure within weeks, allowing immediate employment under supervision while preparing for national certification. The program includes clinical practicum hours ensuring hands-on readiness.

911Programs provides multiple quick certifications in Phlebotomy, EKG Technology, and Medical Assisting, with day and evening schedules accommodating urgent career transitions. Programs include externships providing real healthcare setting experience before graduation.

Skilled Trades Accelerated Options

Building Futures offers intensive full-time construction pre-apprenticeship requiring just several weeks, after which graduates move directly into paid union apprenticeships. This earn-while-you-learn model means students begin receiving wages immediately after the brief training period—completely tuition-free.

NETTTS CDL Class B program costs just $3,695 and prepares students for immediate commercial driving careers in approximately 80 hours of training, perfect for those needing rapid income generation.

Beauty Industry Quick Start

Short-format Paul Mitchell Schools programs in specialized areas like nails or makeup allow faster completion than full cosmetology licenses, with morning, afternoon, and some evening sessions accommodating tight timelines.

Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults

Rhode Island recognizes that many career-seekers balance employment, family obligations, and education. Multiple institutions provide flexible scheduling:

Evening and Weekend Programs

RICTA Construction Training specifically serves working adults with evening classes twice weekly (6:00-9:00 PM) from September through April, allowing full-time daytime employment while gaining credentials. This 144-hour annual requirement spreads over manageable evening sessions for 2-4 years depending on trade.

911Programs runs both day and evening classes with some online-hybrid formats, providing maximum flexibility for various schedules. Externships and clinical experiences are arranged around work commitments.

NETTTS offers morning, afternoon, and evening class options for CDL training, plus innovative at-home 3D HVAC simulation training for HVACR students.

HITEP accommodates varied schedules with day and evening Certified Nursing Assistant classes running back-to-back seven-week sessions throughout the year, providing multiple annual start dates.

Part-Time and Self-Paced Options

Paul Mitchell Schools blend classroom instruction with online learning through portals and virtual classes, allowing students to balance salon practice with flexible theory completion.

Empire Beauty School offers part-time day or evening options alongside full-time schedules, with some online coursework available for beauty theory.

Hybrid Learning Models

911Programs pioneered online-hybrid formats combining virtual instruction with hands-on lab and clinical requirements, reducing time away from work for classroom sessions.

Providence Career and Technical Academy incorporates digital learning platforms including Zoom sessions, Google Classroom modules, and Mindtap resources supporting traditional instruction—though programs primarily require in-person attendance for hands-on skill development.

Most Popular Training Programs

Based on enrollment capacity and institutional focus, Rhode Island’s most sought-after programs include:

Healthcare Dominates Demand

Healthcare certifications lead Rhode Island career training, with Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, EMT, and Phlebotomy Technician programs consistently filling cohorts. The state’s robust healthcare sector in Providence and surrounding communities drives continuous demand for credentialed professionals.

Skilled Trades Experience Strong Growth

Construction trades—particularly HVAC, Electrical, and Carpentry—show robust enrollment as Rhode Island addresses workforce shortages in building services. RICTA serves over 200 students annually, while Building Futures enrolls approximately 50 per cohort in highly competitive pre-apprenticeship training.

Commercial Driving Remains Steady

CDL training maintains consistent popularity with NETTTS enrolling 250-700 students per campus location, reflecting nationwide commercial driver demand and competitive wages for qualified operators.

Beauty and Cosmetology Hold Appeal

Cosmetology programs at Empire Beauty School and Paul Mitchell Schools attract students seeking creative careers with flexible self-employment opportunities. Nearly 10,000 students graduate annually from Paul Mitchell’s 90+ national locations, with Rhode Island campuses contributing to this total.

Specialized Career Pathways

Culinary and Hospitality

Davies Career & Technical High School and Providence Career and Technical Academy both offer Culinary Arts and Hospitality Careers training for high school students. Warwick Area Career & Technical Center provides Culinary and Pastry Arts with real-world application through student-run operations.

Lincoln Tech includes Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts in its comprehensive vocational offerings.

Veterinary Services

New England Institute of Technology offers both Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician programs preparing students for animal healthcare careers.

Lincoln Tech similarly provides veterinary pathways for those passionate about animal welfare.

Graphic Design and Media Arts

Davies Career & Technical High School and Providence Career and Technical Academy both include Graphics & Interactive Media programs exposing high school students to digital design careers.

Warwick Area Career & Technical Center offers Graphic Design alongside Computer Aided Design & Drafting for technical drawing applications.

New England Institute of Technology provides extensive design education including Game Design, Game Programming, Graphic Design, and Interior Design programs.

Accreditation and Quality Standards

Rhode Island trade schools maintain strong accreditation ensuring education quality:

National Accreditation Bodies

• NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences): Empire Beauty School, Paul Mitchell Schools
• ACCSC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges): Lincoln Tech, NETTTS
• NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges): Davies Career & Technical High School, Warwick Area Career & Technical Center

State Approvals

• Rhode Island Department of Health: 911Programs, HITEP
• Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training: Building Futures partnership, RICTA approval
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: NETTTS Entry-Level Driver Training approval
• American Red Cross: HITEP nursing assistant training provider

Industry-Specific Credentials

• National Center for Construction Education and Research: RICTA curriculum accreditation
• American Medical Informatics Association: Various healthcare program alignments

Financial Aid and Support

Most Rhode Island trade schools offer financial assistance options:

Federal Financial Aid

Institutions including Lincoln Tech, Empire Beauty School, Paul Mitchell Schools, NETTTS, and HITEP accept federal Pell Grants and Direct Loans. Students complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility.

Scholarships and Grants

Lincoln Tech has granted students $2 million in scholarships, including military scholarships and program-based awards. Empire Beauty School offers a $1,000 scholarship to first-time attendees maintaining 90% attendance.

Paul Mitchell Schools provide various scholarships for beauty career pursuers, while industry partners offer awards for qualifying criteria.

Payment Plans

NETTTS provides payment plan options alongside federal aid. 911Programs and other institutions work with students to develop affordable payment arrangements.

Employer Sponsorship

Some students receive tuition coverage from employers, particularly in healthcare and skilled trades where workforce shortages drive recruitment investments.

Veterans Services

Rhode Island trade schools strongly support military-connected students:

Lincoln Tech offers American Hero Scholarships and dedicated financial aid experts assisting veterans in applying military benefits including the GI Bill. The school designates itself Military Friendly.

NETTTS earned Military Friendly School status with specialized tuition support for veterans and active duty service members.

Paul Mitchell Schools accept VA tuition assistance and My Career Advancement Account Scholarship Program support for military spouses.

New England Institute of Technology participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program with on-campus VA representatives assisting with questions and benefits applications.

Career Services and Job Placement

Strong career support distinguishes quality trade schools:

Employment Assistance

Lincoln Tech maintains partnerships with major corporations including Audi, BMW, Johnson Controls, Haas Automation, and CIMA, with approximately 90% of students receiving financial aid. Alumni are hired by the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Wells Fargo, and University of Pennsylvania Hospital.

911Programs provides externships in real healthcare settings where students practice skills, building professional networks before graduation.

NETTTS advisors match graduates with local employers through recruitment events hosted year-round. Staff strengthen job-seeking skills with guidelines for position selection, interview attire, and application strategies.

Building Futures guarantees direct entry into paid union apprenticeships upon pre-apprenticeship completion, eliminating traditional job search altogether.

Resume and Interview Support

Most institutions offer resume reviews, practice interviews, cover letter assistance, and professional networking development. New England Institute of Technology hosts workshops and one-on-one appointments for undergraduates and graduates.

Empire Beauty School graduates access BeautyCareer.com for resume drafting, portfolio creation, and job browsing, plus opportunities through Regis Salons affiliation.

Alumni Services

Career support continues after graduation at most Rhode Island trade schools, with NETTTS providing lifetime placement assistance and Lincoln Tech maintaining alumni employment programs.

Choosing the Right Trade School

Consider these factors when selecting Rhode Island career training:

Career Goals Alignment

Match programs to your target occupation. Healthcare seekers should explore 911Programs, HITEP, and New England Institute of Technology. Skilled trades aspirants benefit from Building Futures, RICTA, or Davies Career & Technical. Beauty professionals thrive at Empire Beauty School or Paul Mitchell Schools.

Cost and Time Investment

Balance program cost against earning potential and completion timeline. Free options like Building Futures or affordable programs like HITEP’s $2,000 CNA minimize financial risk. Higher-investment programs at Lincoln Tech ($20,000-$35,000) provide comprehensive training with strong corporate partnerships.

Schedule Flexibility

Working adults should prioritize evening options (RICTA, 911Programs, NETTTS) or hybrid formats. Traditional students may prefer full-time immersive programs (Building Futures, Davies Career & Technical).

Accreditation Status

Verify national or state accreditation ensuring credential recognition by employers and licensing boards. Check specific program approvals (NACCAS for cosmetology, FMCSA for commercial driving, state nursing boards for healthcare).

Job Placement Support

Institutions with strong employer partnerships (Lincoln Tech, Building Futures) and robust career services departments offer significant employment advantages.

Location and Facilities

Consider campus proximity, parking availability, and facility quality. Schools like New England Institute of Technology in East Greenwich and Lincoln Tech in Lincoln offer modern equipment. Urban locations like Providence Career and Technical Academy provide city accessibility.

Conclusion

Rhode Island’s trade school landscape offers accessible, affordable pathways to rewarding careers across healthcare, skilled trades, transportation, beauty, and technology sectors. From completely free options like Building Futures to quick-entry programs like HITEP’s 7-week CNA certification, the Ocean State accommodates diverse needs and budgets.

Working adults benefit from evening programs at RICTA and 911Programs, while traditional students thrive in comprehensive high school career tracks at Davies and Warwick Area Career & Technical Center. Accelerated timelines at NETTTS and HITEP enable rapid workforce entry, while thorough programs at Lincoln Tech and New England Institute of Technology provide extensive preparation.

With 100% acceptance rates at many institutions, strong accreditation standards, robust financial aid availability, and dedicated career services, Rhode Island trade schools remove barriers to career advancement. Whether seeking healthcare credentials, skilled trades mastery, commercial driving licenses, or beauty industry expertise, Rhode Island provides quality training leading to stable, well-compensated employment in high-demand fields.