Centura College
Since its establishment in 2002, Centura College’s Columbia, South Carolina campus has been a leader in vocational education in the region. Specializing in skilled trades and health sciences, Centura College offers a diverse array of certificate and diploma programs tailored to meet the demands of today’s job market.
Centura College’s programs are meticulously crafted in collaboration with industry leaders to ensure relevance and effectiveness, from carpentry and HVAC to professional esthetics and medical assistance. The institution’s accelerated approach enables students to achieve their professional goals efficiently and affordably, with financial aid options available to make education accessible to all.
Centura College’s commitment to student success extends beyond the classroom, with a dedicated career services department providing job placement assistance to current students and alums. Graduates of Centura College have gone on to secure positions at prestigious organizations such as Anthem/BlueCross health insurance, Geico, SkillForce, and DukeHealth, among others. With a legacy of excellence and a focus on practical training, Centura College remains a trusted partner for individuals seeking to launch successful careers in the skilled trades and health sciences.
- 131 Berkshire Dr. Columbia, SC 29223
ECPI University
Enroll in ECPI Columbia’s medical assistant, healthcare administration, or nursing programs to earn your healthcare degree and qualify for a promising career. Or, consider one of the school’s information technology, cyber security, mechatronics, software development, or cloud computing certificates.
- 250 Berryhill Rd. 300 Columbia, SC 29210
FORTIS College
The Columbia, South Carolina branch of Fortis College was founded to provide comprehensive career education and training across various fields in South Carolina. Whether students are looking to kickstart their careers or advance their current ones, Fortis College Columbia offers a range of certificate and degree programs tailored to meet the needs of both traditional and nontraditional learners.
At Fortis College Columbia, the Associate Nursing Degree program prepares students for entry-level positions as registered nurses through classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences. Graduates emerge ready to tackle the licensure exam, equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in their nursing careers.
Meanwhile, the HVAC Training Program caters to the high demand for skilled technicians in Columbia’s climate, known for its extreme temperatures. Students learn everything from installation to computerized diagnostics, ensuring they can meet the needs of both residential and commercial settings, including major employers like the University of South Carolina and the state government. In the medical assisting and dental assisting programs, students gain hands-on training in both administrative and clinical responsibilities, preparing them for fast-paced environments in various healthcare settings. With Columbia boasting a wealth of employment opportunities in the healthcare sector, graduates find themselves well-positioned for success at esteemed institutions like Prisma Health and BlueCross BlueShield. Fortis College Columbia equips its graduates with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to thrive in their chosen fields, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
- 246 Stoneridge Dr., Suite 101 Columbia, SC 29210
Paul Mitchell Schools
Located just over the Congaree river in West Columbia, SC, Paul Mitchell School provides textbook education and hands-on experience for beauty school students. Programs include cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and nail technology, plus a student instructor course for experienced stylists who want to become beauty school teachers.
- 700 Gervais St D Columbia, SC 29201
Remington College
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.
- 607 Bush River Rd. Columbia, SC 29210
Roadmaster Drivers School
The Roadmasters Driving School in Columbia, South Carolina, provides students with a top-tier Commercial Truck Driver Training Program to equip future truckers with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the trucking industry. With industry-standard equipment and hands-on training provided by qualified instructors, students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for success.
The campus boasts spacious classrooms and labs with up-to-date industry-standard equipment, providing students with the resources to practice and hone their skills. Instructors offer unwavering support every step of the way, ensuring that students feel confident and prepared as they progress through the program. The Columbia campus additionally features a dedicated career services department. With opportunities for tuition reimbursement from trucking companies, students can offset the cost of their education while gaining valuable real-world experience.
The Commercial Drivers License (CDL) training program offered at Roadmasters’ Columbia campus focuses specifically on Class A CDL training and license test preparation, ensuring that students graduate with general truck driving skills and the specific knowledge needed to ace the test. Additionally, the campus offers on-site testing to streamline the job-seeking process for students.
Overall, the Roadmasters Driving School in Columbia, SC, provides a comprehensive and supportive learning environment where students can acquire the technical skills and knowledge necessary to drive trucks professionally and safely. With a focus on hands-on training and career support, the campus sets students ahead and apart in the industry.
- 1602 Andrews Rd. Columbia, SC 29201
Southeastern College
Southeastern College’s Columbia campus has several certificate and degree programs for students pursuing healthcare careers. Enroll at this school to qualify for medical sonographer, occupational therapist assistant, massage therapist, medical assistant, surgical tech, or nursing jobs. You can also earn a business administration degree or cosmetology certificate at this campus.
- 581 Columbia Mall Boulevard Columbia, SC Columbia, SC 29223
Strayer University
In-person courses at Strayer University’s Columbia location mainly cover degrees and certificates for those hoping to work in the business field. At the Columbia campus, students can take classes to earn a certificate or an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in economics, business administration, accounting, management information systems, or international business.
- 200 Center Point Circle, Suite 300 Columbia, SC 29210
Columbia, South Carolina, offers a diverse selection of trade schools that provide career-focused education in healthcare, skilled trades, business, technology, beauty, and culinary arts.
Institutions such as Centura College, ECPI University, Fortis College, Remington College, Southeastern College, South University, and Paul Mitchell Schools emphasize hands-on training, flexible class schedules, and industry partnerships to help students transition into the workforce. Below are key conclusions based on the offerings of these institutions.
Career-Focused and Hands-On Learning
Most trade schools in Columbia focus on practical, hands-on training that prepares students for immediate employment.
Schools like Fortis College and Centura College emphasize real-world experience through labs, externships, and job-site training, particularly in fields like medical assisting, welding, HVAC, and electrical work. ECPI University and South University provide hands-on training in technology and healthcare, ensuring students gain applied skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
Fast-Track Education and Accelerated Learning
Many schools offer short-term programs that allow students to enter the workforce quickly. ECPI University stands out with its accelerated degree programs, offering associate degrees in 18 months and bachelor’s degrees in as little as 2.5 years. Fortis College and Centura College also offer fast-paced certification programs in healthcare and the skilled trades, enabling students to complete their education efficiently.
Flexibility for Working Adults
Several institutions cater to students with busy schedules by offering day, evening, weekend, and online courses. Southeastern College, Remington College, and ECPI University provide flexible learning formats, including hybrid and online classes.
Southeastern College also offers personalized, small-class instruction, making it a great choice for students who prefer individualized attention.
Strong Healthcare and Skilled Trades Programs
Columbia’s trade schools have a significant focus on healthcare and skilled trades, two of the most in-demand career fields. Fortis College, ECPI University, Remington College, and South University offer a variety of healthcare programs, including nursing, medical assisting, physical therapy assisting, and surgical technology.
Centura College and Fortis College also provide skilled trades programs, such as HVAC, electrical, welding, and construction management, making them ideal choices for students seeking technical careers.
Beauty and Cosmetology Training Opportunities
For students interested in the beauty industry, Paul Mitchell Schools offers top-tier cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and makeup artistry programs. These programs provide hands-on training with live models and prepare students for state board exams, ensuring they meet professional licensing requirements.
Affordability and Financial Aid Support
Most trade schools in Columbia offer financial aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs to help students manage costs. Remington College, Southeastern College, and ECPI University have dedicated financial aid advisors who assist students in finding funding options, including federal grants, scholarships, and military benefits.
Tuition varies by school, with programs ranging from $6,800 to $34,800 per year, depending on the field of study and degree level.
Career Support and Job Placement Assistance
Columbia’s trade schools prioritize career readiness and job placement. Schools like Fortis College, ECPI University, and Remington College have employer advisory boards that align programs with industry needs. Additionally, Paul Mitchell Schools and Southeastern College provide networking opportunities, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation to help students secure employment after graduation.