San Antonio’s trade schools offer exceptional value and career outcomes in one of Texas’s most vibrant economic regions. Whether you choose quick certification programs, comprehensive degree programs, or specialized industry training, San Antonio provides quality career education to match every budget, timeline, and career aspiration.
Average Tuition Costs by Institution
Most Affordable Options:
- Champions School of Real Estate: $120-$2,000 per course
- Southern Careers Institute: $1,200-$22,100 total program cost
- Strayer University: $6,100 for Associate’s degree (minimum)
Mid-Range Pricing:
- Roadmaster Drivers School: $7,000 for CDL training
- Aveda Institutes: $9,966-$16,716 depending on program
- Paul Mitchell Schools: $14,200 plus $3,165 for supplies
- Milan Institute: $15,500 average annual cost
Higher-End Programs:
- Concorde Career College: $17,500-$67,000 full program
- South Texas Vocational Technical Institute: $18,976 average annual cost
- Pima Medical Institute: $17,305-$25,549 annual tuition
Cheapest Trade Schools in San Antonio
- Champions School of Real Estate – $120-$2,000 per course
- Southern Careers Institute – Certificate programs starting at $1,200
- Strayer University – $6,100 total for Associate’s degree with potential savings
- Roadmaster Drivers School – $7,000 for complete CDL training
Top Trade Schools in San Antonio by Specialty
Healthcare Training
- Concorde Career College – ACCSC accredited with programs completing in as little as 8 months
- Pima Medical Institute – ABHES accredited with externship opportunities and expedited degree pathways
- The College of Health Care Professions – Specialized healthcare focus with partnerships for on-site learning
- Milan Institute – COE and NACCAS accredited with career advising support
Beauty and Personal Care
- Aveda Institutes – NACCAS accredited with 80% externship-to-job conversion rate
- Paul Mitchell Schools – Access to 100,000+ salons worldwide with comprehensive career support
- Milan Institute – Family-owned institution with personalized career guidance
Skilled Trades and Technical Programs
- Southern Careers Institute – COE accredited with welding, HVAC, automotive, and CDL programs
- South Texas Vocational Technical Institute – ACCSC accredited with comprehensive skilled trades offerings
- Roadmaster Drivers School – Specialized CDL training with job placement services
Business and Technology
- Strayer University – MSCHE accredited with cybersecurity, business administration, and computer programming
- ECPI University – SACSCOC accredited with accelerated programs and hands-on learning
Real Estate and Professional Services
- Champions School of Real Estate – BBB accredited with National Association of REALTORS® credentials
Average Program Duration and Costs
Shortest Programs (4 weeks – 8 months):
- CDL Training: 4-5 weeks
- Real Estate Licensing: 4-8 weeks
- Medical Assistant: 8 months
- Dental Assistant: 8-12 months
Medium-Length Programs (8-18 months):
- Cosmetology: 9-15 months
- Welding: 12-18 months
- HVAC Technology: 12-18 months
- LVN/Practical Nursing: 12-18 months
Longer Programs (18-24+ months):
- Associate Degree Nursing: 24 months
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography: 24 months
- Surgical Technology: 18-24 months
Quick Entry Programs for Immediate Career Launch
San Antonio trade schools offer several fast-track programs for students seeking immediate career entry:
Ultra-Fast Programs (4-8 weeks):
- Roadmaster Drivers School CDL Training: 4-5 weeks, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-5:30 PM
- Champions School of Real Estate Real Estate Agent License: 4-8 weeks with flexible delivery options
Quick-Start Healthcare Programs (8-12 months):
- Concorde Career College Medical Assistant: As little as 8 months with blended learning
- Pima Medical Institute Various healthcare certificates: 8-12 months with expedited pathways
- Milan Institute Medical and Dental Assistant programs: 8-12 months
Beauty and Wellness Fast Track:
- Aveda Institutes Esthetics Program: Shortest beauty program at 9-12 months
- Paul Mitchell Schools Nail Care programs: Quick entry into beauty industry
Flexible Learning Options for Working Adults
San Antonio trade schools recognize the needs of working adults and offer extensive flexibility:
Multiple Schedule Options:
- Champions School of Real Estate – Day, night, weekend, virtual classroom, correspondence, and online interactive formats
- Southern Careers Institute – Day and evening classes, plus 24/7 online options
- South Texas Vocational Technical Institute – New classes each month with day and evening options
Hybrid and Online Learning:
- Strayer University – Complete online programs with campus access available, 24/7 technical support
- ECPI University – Day, evening, weekend, and online classes with accelerated 5-week courses
- Concorde Career College – Blended education combining online coursework with in-person labs
Extended Campus Hours:
- Southern Careers Institute – 8 AM-8 PM Monday-Thursday, 8 AM-5 PM Friday, 9 AM-1 PM Saturday
- ECPI University – 8:30 AM-10:30 PM Monday-Thursday, accommodating various work schedules
- The College of Health Care Professions – 9 AM-7 PM Monday-Thursday with evening classes available
List of All Trade Schools in the City
Aveda Institutes
The Aveda Institute in San Antonio offers professional training programs in cosmetology and esthiology, combining technical education with hands-on experience to prepare students for state licensure and successful careers. The cosmetology program focuses on hair cutting, coloring, styling, nail care, and makeup application, alongside essential business development skills, while the esthiology program emphasizes skincare, facials, and waxing using Aveda’s plant-based products.
Students benefit from hands-on training in a clinic salon environment, preparing them for real-world scenarios and aligning with Aveda’s commitment to sustainable practices and wellness. Graduates gain access to Aveda’s global network of over 7,000 salons and spas, with job placement assistance offered, though employment is not guaranteed. Accredited by NACCAS and designed to foster personal and professional growth, the San Antonio campus supports students in achieving their goals and excelling in the beauty and wellness industry.
- 21003 Encino Commons San Antonio, TX 78259
Champions School of Real Estate
The Champions School of Real Estate® San Antonio Campus, established in December 2006, has been a dedicated hub for aspiring and established real estate professionals in the region. Whether you’re advancing or starting a career in real estate sales/brokerage, mortgage loan origination, home inspection, or appraisal, this campus provides a wide range of Qualifying Education (QE) and Continuing Education (CE) classes tailored to support your career aspirations.
- 3010 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 202 San Antonio, TX 78231
Concorde Career College
Located just off the Northwest Loop in San Antonio, Texas, Concorde College’s campus encourages students to reach for excellence in healthcare education. With state-of-the-art classrooms and training labs, including an on-site dental treatment center, students have the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen fields.
Concorde College offers accelerated program tracks, enabling students to jumpstart their healthcare careers in months rather than years. With a student-centered approach, the institution prioritizes individualized learning experiences tailored to each student’s needs. Dedicated to student success, Concorde College provides comprehensive career services and opportunities for job placement, including resume advising and networking events. With a focus on preparing students for the job market, graduates emerge ready to make a difference in patients’ lives.
Conveniently near University Hospital and Methodist Hospital, Concorde College’s programs cover various healthcare fields, including patient care, dental, diagnostic medicine, and allied health. From physical therapist assistant to diagnostic medical sonography, students have the opportunity to pursue fulfilling and life-changing careers in healthcare.
- 4803 NW Loop 410, Suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78229
ECPI University
ECPI University’s San Antonio campus, offers programs in technology and nursing. Students at this vibrant campus experience an energized atmosphere thriving with knowledge and activity. The dedicated faculty and staff, who are respected industry experts, are committed to helping students achieve their professional goals. ECPI’s San Antonio campus emphasizes incorporating practical learning activities, interactive labs, and weekend workshops into its curriculum to provide a hands-on educational experience for students.
- 4715 Fredericksburg Road San Antonio, TX 78229
Lamson Institute
Lamson Institute offers career-focused certificates and an AAS in fields like Electrician Training, Medical Assistant, Vocational Nursing, HVAC/R, Cloud Computing & Cybersecurity, and more. Classes run Monday–Thursday in five-hour blocks, with evening sessions ending by 10:45 pm, plus hybrid modules that can include up to eight weeks of externship.
Tuition spans about $13,300 for Personal Fitness Trainer to $24,650 for Vocational Nursing, with additional fees possible. The school holds ACCSC accreditation and uses open admission with a 100% acceptance rate. Enrollment was 443 students in 2023, and small class sizes support personalized instruction.
- 5819 NW Loop 410, Suite 160, San Antonio, TX 78238
Milan Institute
Students in Texas have the option of attending one of two Milan Institute locations in San Antonio, TX. The Texas branches offer programs in cosmetology, esthetician, manicurist, advanced cosmetology, and massage therapy. Individuals can also take advantage of the school’s helpful Career and Student Services, which assist current students with everything from financial aid to career advice.
Milan Institute in San Antonio, established in 1996, is a family-owned education hub built on a sprawling 22,500 sq. ft. The campus includes separate classrooms, versatile clinic floors, a dispensary, and a locker area, along with a friendly break room and proper administrative offices. It’s a comprehensive home for learners, accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, ensuring a quality learning environment for all its students.
The Institute offers a selection of courses. Highlighted among these are Advanced Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetician, Eyelash Extension, Manicurist-Nail Technology, and Massage Therapy. Each course requires students to meet specific hours of technical instruction/theory and practical work, ensuring readiness for state board exams and job entry-level skills.
The educational journey here follows a methodical step-by-step process, preparing them for state board exams and equipping them with vital skills for their job entries.
Prospective students should note that the total cost, including tuition, lab fees, books, and materials, could range between $5,000 and $18,700, depending on the chosen course. Milan Institute also houses a Council on Occupational Education-accredited cosmetology division in southern San Antonio.
Always remember, you’re encouraged to confirm all costs and course particulars from their student catalog before enrolling. The Milan Institute in San Antonio opens its doors to all who are dedicated to carving out a successful career for themselves.
- 6804 Ingram Road San Antonio, TX 78238
- 605 Southwest Military Drive San Antonio, TX 78221
Paul Mitchell Schools
Texas residents hoping to become skilled, qualified stylists should consider enrolling at the Paul Mitchell School in San Antonio. Students in the school’s cosmetology program receive industry-approved education from qualified instructors. Thanks to this comprehensive curriculum, students can feel confident in their abilities and take the Texas State Board of Cosmetology exam to receive their license.
- 18402 US-281 San Antonio, TX 78259
Pima Medical Institute
Since 1972, Pima Medical Institute has set the standard in healthcare education. With a long list of successful graduates totaling more than 150,000, it’s clear why so many choose PMI for studies in fields like respiratory therapy, nursing, and radiography. The San Antonio campus, the newest member of the PMI family, sits in Northwest San Antonio, perfectly positioned in the medical center district, surrounded by top-notch medical facilities.
This campus isn’t short on options. It offers six certificate programs and two associate degree programs designed to get students into the medical field quickly, some in as little as 9 months. Whether you’re stepping foot on campus, joining a hybrid class, or diving into an online-only program, PMI San Antonio delivers flexible learning to meet different needs.
Beyond the classroom, Pima Medical Institute in San Antonio benefits from its proximity to the South Texas Medical Center and San Antonio Military Medical Center – hubs of medical innovation and care. This ensures that students have a wealth of resources and networking opportunities at their fingertips.
Recognized for its high standards, the institute is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), highlighting its commitment to excellence in healthcare education. Pima Medical Institute not only equips its graduates with the knowledge needed for success but also connects them with significant employment opportunities across the healthcare sector.
Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, Veterinary Assistant, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Radiography, Veterinary Technician.
- 6550 First Park Ten Blvd San Antonio, TX 78213
Roadmaster Drivers School
Students at Roadmaster Drivers School in San Antonio receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for promising trucking and transportation careers. A combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training from some of the top instructors in the industry equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to obtain their Class A CDL licenses.
Roadmaster training features one of the newest fleets in the industry. Students receive comprehensive, hands-on instruction in a supportive learning environment, equipped with top-quality practice equipment, facilities, and instructors. Upon graduation, a Career Services team provides job placement assistance. Financial aid is available.
- 927 Eddie Rd San Antonio, TX 78219
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (STVT) provides adaptable technical education with classes starting monthly, available in day, evening, and hybrid formats. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), STVT boasts an open admission policy with guaranteed acceptance. The San Antonio campus features state-of-the-art classrooms and technical labs, offering hands-on learning experiences. Programs offered in San Antonio include Class A Tractor Trailer, Automotive Service Technician, Combination Welding, Diesel Heavy Truck Technician, and HVAC.
- 734 SE Military Dr. San Antonio, TX 78214
Southern Careers Institute
The Southern Careers Institute, or SCI, is a trade and vocational school in San Antonio, Texas. The school’s South campus branches off from its Austin location and offers technical programs in business, medical, and trade skills. Students interested in a healthcare career can take courses to become medical assistants, billing and coding specialists, nurse aides, and pharmacy technicians.
SCI’s South campus business programs include business administration, accounting, and administrative assisting. Individuals can join the automotive service technician apprenticeship program and earn paid on-the-job training. The trade school also has a cosmetology program geared toward students interested in multiple disciplines within the trade.
- 6963 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78238
- 238 SW Military Dr Ste 101 San Antonio, TX 78221
Strayer University
Located in the Mercantile Building off Loop 410. Strayer University’s San Antonio location provides a well-rounded educational experience. Students who want to qualify for a career in information technology, health services and administration, business, or criminal justice can complete the necessary degree or certificate program at the San Antonio branch.
- 40 NE Loop 410, Suite 500 San Antonio, TX 78216
Texas State Technical College
Nestled in the scenic Hill Country, TSTC’s New Braunfels campus offers specialized programs in Welding, Industrial Systems Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) training. The AMT program, sponsored by local companies, allows students to graduate debt-free. This campus provides a dynamic learning environment with state-of-the-art lab and classroom spaces to meet the manufacturing needs of the growing Texas workforce. TSTC in New Braunfels partners with TXFAME to equip students with the skills required for high-demand, high-tech careers in one of Texas’s fastest-growing cities.
- 2189 FM 758, New Braunfels New Braunfels, TX 78130
The Art Institutes
Students hoping to break into the fashion, culinary, filmmaking, music, or video game design industry can qualify for their chosen career path with a certificate or degree from the Art Institute of San Antonio. Along with preparing you for entry-level roles in these industries, the San Antonio campus offers classes for those who want marketing and management positions in the arts.
- 10000 IH-10 West, Suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78256
The College of Health Care Professions
The College of Healthcare Professions operates two campuses in San Antonio.
Courses at the South San Antonio campus include:
- Dental Assistant – Certificate
- Health & Medical Administrative Services – Associate
- Medical Assistant – Certificate
- Medical Billing & Coding – Certificate
- Pharmacy Technician – Certificate
- Phlebotomy Technician – Certificate
Students at the San Antonio North campus can take similar classes in the following:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Associate
- Health & Medical Administrative Services – Associate
- Limited Medical Radiologic Technologist w/ MA Skills – Certificate
- Medical Assistant – Certificate
- Medical Coding & Billing – Certificate
- Phlebotomy Technician – Certificate
- Physical Therapy Technician – Certificate
- Surgical Technology – Associate
Campuses are located in the following areas:
- North San Antonio: 4738 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78229
- South San Antonio: 1964 SW Military Dr San Antonio, TX 78221
Admission Requirements and Acceptance Rates
Most San Antonio trade schools maintain 100% acceptance rates, ensuring accessible career training for qualified students:
- Aveda Institutes: 100% acceptance rate
- Southern Careers Institute: 100% acceptance rate
- Strayer University: 100% acceptance rate
- ECPI University: 100% acceptance rate
- Milan Institute: 100% acceptance rate
Basic Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completed application
- Some healthcare programs require background checks
- CDL programs may require DOT physical examination
- Age requirements vary by program (typically 18+)
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Federal Financial Aid is available at accredited institutions including Strayer University, Concorde Career College, and Pima Medical Institute.
Unique Savings Opportunities:
- Strayer University – 1 free course for every 3 completed, up to 25% tuition reduction
- Milan Institute – Zero percent financing options for qualified students
- The College of Health Care Professions – Institutional grants and scholarships up to 30% of tuition
Military Benefits are accepted at most schools, with dedicated veteran services available at Strayer University, Concorde Career College, and The College of Health Care Professions.
Career Placement and Job Outlook
San Antonio trade schools emphasize strong employment outcomes:
- Aveda Institutes – 80% of externships lead to job offers
- Paul Mitchell Schools – Access to 100,000+ Paul Mitchell salons worldwide
- Roadmaster Drivers School – Job placement services with trucking company partnerships offering up to 100% tuition reimbursement
- Southern Careers Institute – SCI Connect portal directly linking students with employer partners
San Antonio’s diverse economy supports excellent employment opportunities across healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, hospitality, and service industries.
Choosing the Right San Antonio Trade School
Consider these factors when selecting your trade school:
- Program Duration vs. Career Goals – Match timeline to your urgency and career objectives
- Total Cost Analysis – Compare tuition, fees, supplies, and potential earnings
- Industry Demand – Research San Antonio job market for your chosen field
- Accreditation and Licensing – Ensure programs meet state and industry requirements
- Schedule Flexibility – Balance education with current work/family obligations
- Job Placement Support – Evaluate career services and employer partnerships
- Location and Transportation – Consider commute and campus accessibility
Program-Specific Recommendations
For Quickest Career Entry: Roadmaster Drivers School (4-5 weeks) or Champions School of Real Estate (4-8 weeks)
For Maximum Affordability: Champions School of Real Estate or Southern Careers Institute certificate programs
For Healthcare Careers: Concorde Career College or Pima Medical Institute with strong job placement rates
For Beauty Industry Careers: Aveda Institutes or Paul Mitchell Schools with excellent industry connections
For Working Adults: Strayer University or ECPI University with comprehensive online and flexible scheduling options