Houston stands as Texas’s largest metropolitan area and a powerhouse for career-focused education, boasting over 25 specialized trade schools and vocational institutes throughout the greater Houston area. From accelerated 2-month certification programs to comprehensive associate degrees, Houston trade schools deliver industry-aligned training designed to connect students with high-demand careers in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and specialized industries.
Table of Contents
- Best Schools by Specialty
- Cost Analysis and Program Duration
- List of All Schools in the Area
- Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
- Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Best Schools by Specialty
Healthcare Programs
Houston leads Texas in healthcare education with exceptional institutions:
The College of Health Care Professions dominates healthcare training with specialized programs in diagnostic medical sonography, medical assisting, and surgical technology. Founded in 1988 by physicians, the college offers both on-campus and distance learning with mandatory externships.
Pima Medical Institute provides comprehensive healthcare education from certificates to master’s degrees, featuring hands-on training with over 15,000 employer partnerships for clinical externships and job placement.
Remington College offers accelerated healthcare programs including pharmacy technician training accredited by ASHP and ACPE, plus physical therapy and medical assisting programs.
Skilled Trades
Tulsa Welding School leads welding education with over 70 years of experience, VR training components, and graduates earning an average starting salary of $21.40/hour. Programs include welding, HVAC/R, and electrical training.
Universal Technical Institute provides comprehensive automotive, diesel, and welding programs with partnerships across 35 leading brands and state-of-the-art equipment matching industry standards.
Elite Welding Academy specializes in structural and pipe welding with hands-on training and direct industry partnerships for job site practicals.
Construction and Trades
Build Strong Academy offers unique construction training with 6-week foundational programs and specialized trade training in concrete, carpentry, and electrical work. Most programs are offered at little to no cost.
National Technical Institute provides accelerated 2-4 month programs in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and commercial refrigeration with flexible scheduling options.
Technology and IT
MyComputerCareer delivers comprehensive IT training with up to 14 industry certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA, and EC-Council. Programs range from 6-10 months with lifetime career assistance.
Interactive College of Technology offers specialized technical training in computer systems, HVAC, and medical office administration with externship components and lifetime career placement.
Beauty and Wellness
Paul Mitchell Schools provides comprehensive cosmetology and barbering programs with access to over 100,000 affiliated salons worldwide for job placement.
Aveda Institutes offers NACCAS-accredited programs in cosmetology, massage therapy, and esthetics with 80% externship-to-job-offer conversion rates.
Cortiva Institute specializes in massage therapy and skincare education with Dermalogica partnership training and on-campus spa facilities for real-world experience.
Business and Administration
Strayer University offers flexible business programs with innovative “binge-worthy” coursework designed for working professionals, featuring 13 ACBSP-accredited business degree programs.
Community College Excellence
Houston Community College provides over 100 programs with strong industry partnerships, particularly in energy, healthcare, and technology sectors. Offers evening, weekend, and online classes with comprehensive support services.
Lone Star College serves over 80,000 students with modern training centers and programs in healthcare, technology, and construction across eight colleges and twelve centers.
Cost Analysis and Program Duration
Average Costs
Trade school tuition in Houston varies significantly by program type:
- Certificate Programs: $1,250 – $28,000
- Associate Degrees: $11,000 – $42,900
- Specialized Training: $3,495 – $25,549
Cheapest Options
Build Strong Academy offers the most affordable training with most programs available at little to no cost, requiring only a $50 refundable deposit.
National Technical Institute provides programs ranging from $3,495 to $9,995, including entry-level commercial refrigeration at $3,495.
Houston Community College offers district residents approximately $1,632 for 12 credit hours per semester.
Shortest Programs
Several schools offer rapid career entry:
- National Technical Institute: 2-4 month accelerated programs
- Build Strong Academy: 6-week foundational programs
- Roadmaster Drivers School: 4-5 week CDL training
List of All Schools in the Area
Aveda Institutes
The Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute in Houston, located in Shenandoah, provides a high-quality beauty education with programs in cosmetology and esthiology. The cosmetology program combines theory with hands-on training in hair cutting, coloring, styling, nail care, and makeup application, alongside business and client retention skills. The esthiology program focuses on skincare, facials, waxing, and AVEDA’s signature wellness rituals, preparing students for successful careers as skincare specialists.
Both programs include all state testing and licensing fees in the tuition, along with an iPad to enhance the digital curriculum. With a modern campus, extensive hands-on training, and access to Aveda’s global network of 7,000+ salons and spas, the Houston campus equips students with the skills and confidence to excel in the beauty and wellness industry.
- 19241 David Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77385
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) focuses on equipping adult students with the skills and attitudes necessary for entry-level careers in aviation and related trades. Started in 1969, AIM has expanded into a nationwide network of campuses, maintaining a reputation for high academic standards and hands-on training. Originally specializing in aviation maintenance, AIM has grown to offer programs in other technical fields to meet industry demands. The institute’s strong relationships with major airlines like Southwest, United, and Delta, along with local maintenance facilities and manufacturers, provide students with excellent job placement opportunities. AIM is dedicated to ensuring students gain practical experience using industry-standard tools to thrive in fast-paced aviation and technical careers.
- 7651 Airport Blvd Houston, TX 77061
Build Strong Academy
The Home Builders Institute’s (HBI) BuildStrong Academy provides tuition-free, hands-on construction training through its Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate Training (PACT) curriculum. Students learn fundamental construction skills, job readiness, and gain real-life experience while receiving mentorship from skilled instructors. Since opening in July 2022, the Houston BuildStrong Academy has enrolled 275 students, graduated 232, and facilitated job placements for 208 graduates, with an average starting wage of $19.21. The academy also offers job placement assistance upon graduation and partners with various organizations to support student success.
- 10631 Harwin Drive, Suite 606, Houston, TX 77036
Cortiva Institute
Want to become a licensed esthetician, makeup artist, or massage therapist? Consider attending classes at the Cortiva Institute in Houston. As the largest skincare and massage therapy school in the United States, this institution offers nationally-accredited programs and accelerated courses that students can complete in less than a year.
- 13163 Northwest FWY., Suite A Houston, TX, 77040
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Wellness
- 13163 Northwest Fwy., Suite A Houston, TX 77040
Culinary Institute LeNotre
CIL offers diplomas and associate degrees in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, and Hospitality/Restaurant Management, plus related electives, culminating in a 10-week practicum with optional domestic or international study tours. Classes meet Monday–Thursday for 4 hours 45 minutes per session, with morning, afternoon, or evening tracks in hybrid or in-person formats. Program lengths vary by credential, but all emphasize hands-on skills and externships at renowned culinary establishments (clinical externships don’t apply to culinary training). Published tuition is by credit: BS programs $357/credit, AAS in Baking & Pastry or Culinary $393/credit, AAS in Hospitality & Restaurant Management $212/credit, and Diplomas $357/credit; a net price calculator provides personalized estimates. CIL is accredited by ACCSC for its Baking & Pastry, Culinary Arts, and Hotel/Restaurant Management degrees, validating educational quality and outcomes.
- 7070 Allensby St. Houston, TX 77022
Denver College of Nursing
DCN’s programs include an ADN (18 months), BSN (21 months; Houston offers BSN only), RN-to-BSN (online, ~15 months), and MSN (online, ~15–18 months) designed to prepare graduates for national licensure and advanced roles. On-campus courses run Mon–Fri, daytime only with required labs and clinical/externship hours; there are no evening or weekend classes. The college is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, with nursing program accreditation from CCNE and ACEN. Published tuition (excluding fees) is $38,872 (ADN), $52,863 (BSN), $14,466.60 (RN-BSN), $17,797.92 (MSN), and $200 per quarter credit for general-ed prerequisites. Applicants can use DCN’s net price calculator for personalized cost estimates; acceptance rates are not published and admission includes program-specific requirements.
- 1155 Dairy Ashford Houston, TX 77079
Elite Welding Academy
Elite Welding Academy focuses on providing practical, hands-on welding training to prepare students for immediate employment in the welding industry. The academy offers certifications including Combination Structural & Pipe Welding Diploma and Structural Welding Certification, supported by flexible class schedules. With a strong emphasis on practical-based learning, students gain real-world experience through partnerships with top industry companies. Accredited by organizations such as ACCET and the Texas Workforce Commission, the academy maintains an open admission policy.
- 7119 Village Way Houston, TX 77087
FORTIS College
FORTIS College offers diploma and degree programs in multiple fields, including healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades like HVAC and refrigeration. Each course at Fortis is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, so students in Northern and Southern Houston can earn the proper certification and licensure to qualify for some of the fastest-growing jobs in Texas.
- 11201 West Oaks Mall Houston, TX 77082
- 450 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. E., Suite 200 Houston, TX 77060
Houston Community College
Texas-based Houston Community College prides itself on its commitment to open enrollment, diversity, and innovation. Thanks to the school’s open admission practices and almost 20 campus locations, students throughout Houston can pursue a career in communication and media, criminal justice, healthcare and nursing, graphic design, and a wide range of other professions.
- 630 W Little York Houston, TX 77091
- 13803 Bissonnet St Houston, TX 77083
- 2811 Hayes Rd Houston, TX 77082
- 4638 Airline Houston, TX 77022
- 8855 West Bellfort Houston, TX 77031
- 1300 Holman Houston, TX 77004
- 1900 Pressler St Houston, TX 77030
- 3100 Main St Houston, TX 77002
- 6815 Rustic St Houston, TX 77087
- 301 N Drennan St Houston, TX 77003
- 5407 Gulfton Rd Houston, TX 77081
- 1550 Foxlake Dr Houston, TX 77084
- 6010 Little York Rd Houston, TX 77016
- 555 Community College Dr Houston, TX 77013
- 8001 Fulton Houston, TX 77022
- 1990 Airport Blvd Houston, TX 77051
- 1010 W Sam Houston Pkwy Houston, TX 77043
- 5601 West Loop South Houston, TX 77081
Interactive College of Technology
At the Interactive College of Technology, students can access programs offering associate of science degrees and diplomas in different disciplines like business and accounting. Small class sizes, personalized instruction, flexible schedules, and hands-on training allow students to earn their education on their own schedules.
Houston has two campuses, one on the northern side of the city and the other in the southwest. Programs available at either campus include medical office administration, business management, accounting, information technology, and vocational English as a second language.
- 16801 Greenspoint Park Dr, Ste 150 Houston, TX 77060
- 2950 S Gessner, Ste 100 Houston, TX 77063
Lone Star College
Lone Star College, established in 1972, serves over 80,000 students each semester, providing affordable and quality education through its eight colleges, twelve centers, and over 30 online programs. Known for its comprehensive offerings, it prepares students for university transfer or direct entry into the workforce with modern training centers in fields like healthcare, technology, skilled trades, business, education and construction.
The college offers various formats for class schedules, including online, hybrid, and in-person options, with flexible timings to accommodate different needs. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), it maintains a 100% acceptance rate due to its open admission policy. Tuition ranges from $3,330 to $9,390 depending on residency status.
- 20515 SH 249 Houston, TX 77070
MyComputerCareer
TechSkills merged with MyComputerCareer to create one trade school for Houston students who want to train for jobs in the information technology, business and healthcare fields. Those who obtain certification from this school can qualify for cyber security, software engineering, and computer system technician jobs in Houston’s growing manufacturing, aeronautics and transportation industries.
- 7908 N Sam Houston Parkway W, Suite 300 Houston, TX 77064
National Technical Institute
- 9001 Jameel Rd Houston, TX 77040
Northwest Educational Center
Students in Southeastern Texas can learn various trades at Northwest Educational Center in Houston. Those hoping to work in the personal care profession can enroll in the barber and cosmetology programs at this campus. Students who wish to become medical assistants and construction or pharmacy techs can earn diplomas and certificates from NWEC Houston as well.
- 2910 Antoine Drive, Suite B-100 Houston, TX 77092
- 6521 Highway 6 N Houston, TX 77084
Ocean Corporation
Ocean Corporation began training commercial divers in Houston, Texas in 1969 to meet Gulf of Mexico oil and gas industry workforce demands and became the first U.S. diving school offering international certifications just two years later in 1971. The school has graduated over 10,000 students and enrolls approximately 195 students annually in two specialized 30-week certificate programs: NDT Non-Destructive Testing and Inspection Training ($23,800) and Ultimate Diver Training ($25,500), with additional costs for classroom supplies and program-specific gear.
Training emphasizes hands-on learning during regular daytime hours, though the school recently introduced hybrid options including OSHA Recognized First Aid, CPR, and AED Training (with classes running weekdays 9:00 am to 9:00 pm) and a New Hybrid NDT Training Option currently being finalized. Ocean Corporation maintains ACCSC accreditation along with approvals and affiliations from industry-leading organizations, ensuring employers in diving and nondestructive testing fields recognize the quality of its career-focused training.
The school operates with a 100% acceptance rate for qualified students and does not include externships in its curriculum, focusing instead on practical skills needed for immediate employment after graduation.Retry
- 10840 Rockley Road Houston, TX 77099
Ogle School
The Ogle School North Houston-Willowbrook campus provides accredited Cosmetology and Esthetics programs with flexible scheduling to accommodate all students.
The Cosmetology Program can be completed in 7 months full-time or 13 months part-time, while the Esthetics Program takes 5 months full-time or 10 months part-time. Both programs offer classes in morning, afternoon, and evening options during the week, ensuring that weekends are free.
The school is located near the Willowbrook Mall, offering convenient access to shopping and dining options, and provides students with salon-modeled, hands-on training.
- 12974-A Willow Chase Dr. Houston, TX 77070
Paul Mitchell Schools
Paul Mitchell School Houston partners with the International Dermal Institute to create a comprehensive training program for beauty school students in the Houston area. Certificate and diploma programs at the Houston campus include cosmetology, barbering, and esthetics courses.
- 10516 Katy Freeway A Houston, TX 77043
Pima Medical Institute
Founded in 2009 and relocated in 2019, the Pima Medical Institute’s Houston, TX, campus has contributed to the local community and offered students top-notch career training since its founding. The campus offers 6 certificate programs and 7 Associate’s degree programs and boasts modern labs that mirror real-world medical settings. Pima Medical Institute’s Houston Campus is nationally accredited and authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to award Associate’s degrees.
- 11125 Equity Drive, Suite 100 Houston, TX 77041
Remington College
Students who enroll at Remington School-Greenspoint in North Houston can study several disciplines, including healthcare, technology, skilled trades, technology, health and beauty, and more. With a range of diplomas, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees available, Remington is an excellent trade school for people of all ages and educational levels.
- 11310 Greens Crossing Blvd. Suite 300 Houston, TX 77067
Roadmaster Drivers School
Roadmaster’s Houston, TX, campus offers a comprehensive CDL training program approved and regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission. In about a month, students have the skills and knowledge to drive a truck safely and professionally.
With dedicated instructors supporting them every step of the way, students receive both classroom and hands-on training to prepare them for successful careers in the freight industry. The program focuses on preparing students to pass the Class A CDL Licensing exam with flying colors, ensuring they are well-prepared for the road ahead.
Students learn critical trucking skills on the on-campus training grounds and the road, using modern, state-of-the-art trucking equipment and labs. They are taught compliance with Department of Transportation laws, preventative safety skills, and emergency actions. As part of the Commercial Vehicle Training Association and the Amazon Career Choice program, students may be eligible for tuition reimbursement, making the program accessible to many aspiring truck drivers. With its fast-paced curriculum, Roadmaster’s Houston campus helps students get on their feet quickly and optimize their career searches in the trucking industry.
- 1224 Normandy Street Houston, TX 77015
Strayer University
At Strayer University, Houston students can pursue associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in various business, information technology, health services, and law professions. Enroll in the school’s in-person or online programs to study entrepreneurship, criminal justice, marketing, and healthcare management.
Strayer University’s Houston, Texas Campus is essential to the city’s educational ecosystem. Offering a diverse array of academic programs, the campus is a gateway for students seeking to advance their careers. Positioned within Houston, the campus draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural tapestry and thriving economy.
Renowned for its commitment to accessibility and innovation, Strayer University in Houston provides a flexible learning environment tailored to meet the needs of a diverse student body. By blending traditional classroom instruction and online coursework, the campus accommodates students’ busy schedules and varied learning preferences.
Beyond academics, the Houston campus fosters a supportive community where students can engage with dedicated faculty and fellow learners. Through mentorship and personalized guidance, students receive the support they need to succeed academically and professionally.
As a catalyst for educational excellence in Houston, Strayer University’s campus empowers students to achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Focusing on practical skills and career readiness, the campus equips students with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
- 10343 Sam Houston Park Dr, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77064
Texas State Technical College
Join TSTC at the Fort Bend County campus, located in one of Texas’s fastest-growing and most diverse regions. Supported by local community leaders, the campus focuses on filling skill gaps and training local workers in the Greater Houston area. The campus offers state-of-the-art training labs and equipment for programs in Industrial Systems Technology, Cyber Security, and Welding Technology. As a commuter campus, it provides resources to ensure a comfortable day for students.
- 26706 Southwest Freeway Rosenberg, TX 77471
The Art Institutes
If you’re looking for a school that lets you sharpen your creative skills, consider attending classes at the Art Institute of Houston. Whether you have a knack for graphic design, fashion, digital arts and video game design, or culinary and baking and pastry arts, the Art Institute offers associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs to help you make a career out of your favorite hobby.
- 4140 Southwest Fwy. Houston, TX 77027
The College of Health Care Professions
As the name suggests, the College of Health Care Professionals in Houston, TX, offers certificates and degrees in various medical professions. Students hoping to work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research facilities throughout Texas can take CHCP classes in medical billing and coding, dental assisting, nursing, physical therapy, radiology, and more.
As the name suggests, the College of Health Care Professionals in Houston, TX, offers certificates and degrees in various medical professions. Students hoping to work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and medical research facilities throughout Texas can take CHCP classes in medical billing and coding, dental assisting, nursing, physical therapy, radiology, and more.
- 12230 Northwest Freeway Houston, TX 77092
- One Arena Place, 7322 Southwest Freeway, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77074
Tulsa Welding School
The Houston Campus is also a branch campus of the Tulsa Campus. It is located at 243A Greens Rd., which is situated just East of I-45 and just North of Beltway 8/Sam Houston Parkway in the Greenspoint area approximately 14 miles north of the Houston city center. This campus, which was completed in February 2014, contains a training facility of approximately 66,000 square feet and parking for over 250 vehicles. The facility includes welding lab booths and equipment, a pipefitting lab, seven classrooms, student commons, and offices for Admissions, Training, Financial Aid, Career Services, Accounting, Registrar, Student Services, Business Office, Maintenance, Learning Resource Center, and Administration.
Within the welding lab, there are 262 welding booths complete with welding equipment, 8 bench grinders and 6 metal grinding preparation booths. Within the pipefitting lab there are 6 pipe threaders, 2 chain bevellers, 5 grinders, 10 welders , and a variety of other necessary tools required for the program.
- 243A Greens Rd. Houston, TX 77060
Universal Technical Institute
The Universal Technical Institute’s Houston, Texas, campus boasts a rich 38-year history of nurturing skilled technicians for the automotive, diesel, collision repair, and welding industries. With many programs, including Automotive Mechanic Training, Diesel Mechanic Training, Auto Body Repair Training, and Welding Technology Training, students receive hands-on instruction through a curriculum tailored to each industry, promoting vocational success for the institution’s graduates.
The Automotive Mechanic Training program spans 51 weeks, guiding students from the fundamentals of automotive systems to advanced diagnostics and repair techniques. Similarly, the Diesel Mechanic Training program, spanning 45 weeks, equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the diesel-powered vehicles and machinery industry. For those interested in auto body repair, the Auto Body Repair Training program or the Collision Repair and Refinish Technology (CRRT) program equips students with vital metal shaping, welding, auto body preparation, and painting skills. The program, which lasts 51-54 weeks, provides comprehensive instruction in collision repair techniques and industry-standard practices, equipping graduates with diplomas, I-CAR certifications, skills needed for additional auto body certification exams, and technical knowledge vital for career advancement further down the line.
Meanwhile, the Welding Technology Training program, spanning 36 weeks, offers students the opportunity to master various welding processes essential for careers in aerospace, construction, and manufacturing industries. Additionally, the campus provides specialized technical training programs focused on Ford, BMW, and Cummins diesel engines, providing students with in-depth knowledge and expertise in these specific areas. With a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, graduates of UTI Houston are well-prepared to meet the demands of their chosen industries.
The Universal Technical Institute’s Houston, Texas campus, merging with UTI Houston, offers a comprehensive portfolio of programs designed to propel students into lucrative careers in various technical fields. With programs in Airframe and Powerplant Technician Training, Wind Power Technician Training, Industrial Maintenance Technician Training, Robotics and Automation Training, HVACR Technician Training, and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Training, students receive specialized instruction tailored to meet industry demands.
The Airframe and Powerplant Technician Training, spanning 20 months, equips students with the skills necessary to obtain FAA certification and delve into topics such as aircraft troubleshooting and powerplant lubrication. Graduates are primed for entry-level positions and possess the expertise to tackle real-world challenges in the industry. Similarly, the Wind Power Technician Training, lasting 30 weeks, immerses students in the intricacies of wind turbine technology. At the same time, the Industrial Maintenance Technician Training, completed in less than a year, covers a wide array of topics, from electrical fundamentals to boiler operations.
Furthermore, the Robotics and Automation Training, a 12-month program, provides students with a deep understanding of applied physics and programming, preparing them for roles in automation engineering. The HVACR Technician Training, also completed in less than a year, focuses on refrigeration system fundamentals and electrical control systems. Lastly, the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Training, spanning 9 months, equips students with the skills to evaluate product quality without altering their properties, ensuring safety and compliance in various industries.
- 721 Lockhaven Dr. Houston, TX 77073
- 533 Northpark Central Drive Houston, TX 77073
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
Houston trade schools excel at providing rapid workforce entry. National Technical Institute leads with 2-4 month programs that prepare students for immediate employment in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades.
Build Strong Academy offers unique 6-week construction bootcamps that include tool handling, safety, and specialized trade training with immediate job placement assistance.
Roadmaster Drivers School provides comprehensive CDL training in just 4-5 weeks, with many students securing employment before graduation through on-campus recruiter visits.
Elite Welding Academy offers intensive welding programs with direct job site partnerships, enabling students to gain practical experience while training.
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
Houston’s trade schools recognize the need for flexible education that accommodates work and family responsibilities.
Houston Community College provides the most comprehensive flexibility with extensive evening, weekend, and online class options across multiple campuses throughout the Houston area.
The College of Health Care Professions offers both on-campus and distance learning programs, with 24/7 online access and evening classes to accommodate full-time workers.
Strayer University caters specifically to working professionals with new classes starting every 8 weeks, hybrid learning options, and 24/7 technical support.
Interactive College of Technology provides both day and evening program options with hands-on training and externship opportunities that can fit around work schedules.
Lone Star College offers classes in various formats including online, hybrid, and traditional settings with daytime and evening sessions extending until 10:00 PM, plus weekend classes.
These institutions demonstrate Houston’s commitment to making quality vocational education accessible to working adults throughout the greater metropolitan area, ensuring career advancement doesn’t require sacrificing current employment.