Trade schools in Washington offer adults accessible, flexible, and accredited vocational and technical training in high-demand fields. Whether you’re seeking short-term certification, hands-on apprenticeships, or career-focused diplomas, Washington’s trade schools provide pathways to employment and career advancement. With strong financial aid options, veteran support, and career services, these institutions deliver significant value for students pursuing a skilled trade or technical career.
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List of Best Trade Schools in Washington
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.- 1514 10th Avenue Seattle, WA 98122
- 6615 NE Fourth Plain Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Carrington College
At Carrington College, students receive training to prepare for careers in the medical, veterinary, dental, or criminal justice fields. The school offers associate’s degree programs and certificates, and specializes in hands-on healthcare education. Students who live a distance from the school have the option to take online courses.- 10102 E Knox Ave., Ste 200 Spokane, WA 99206
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, HVAC and Building Services, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Veterinary Services, Wellness
Charter College
Charter College provides training in business, information technology, healthcare, veterinary, and other trade fields. They offer certificate and degree programs. The blended learning environment combines in-class and online instruction.- 595 Grant Rd #5 East Wenatchee, WA 98802
- 4520 Lacey Blvd SE #40 Lacey, WA 98503
- 5278 Outlet Dr Pasco, WA 99301
- 17200 SE Mill Plain Blvd #100 Vancouver, WA 98683
- 2706 West Nob Hill Blvd #106 Yakima, WA 98902
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, HVAC and Building Services, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Veterinary Services
Construction Industry Training Council of Washington
The Construction Industry Training Council of Washington (CITC) is a state-licensed, nationally accredited vocational school offering comprehensive construction training programs. With seven locations across Washington, CITC provides apprenticeship programs, continuing education, and specialized courses in fields like HVAC, plumbing, and heavy equipment operation. Flexible class schedules and hands-on apprenticeships make it a top choice for both aspiring and experienced construction professionals.- 1930 116th Ave NE UNIT 201 Bellevue, WA 98004
- Skilled Trades
Cortiva Institute
With over 30 locations in 13 states, Cortiva Institute serves many people looking for careers in massage therapy or skin care. Students can complete accelerated programs in less than a year. All tracks are nationally accredited. During schooling, attendees are able to grow as professionals to prepare for their futures.- 2030 S. 314th St. Federal Way, WA 98003
- 425 Pontius Ave. N. #100 Seattle, WA 98109
- Cosmetology and Barbering, Massage Therapy, Wellness
Divers Institute of Technology
The Dive Institute of Technology in Seattle, Washington prepares students for work in the commercial diving field. The trade school offers two-week programs for learners who are scuba certified and want to earn extra credentials to become dive site medics.- 1341 N. Northlake Way, Suite 150 Seattle, WA 98103
- Diving
Health Professionals Institute
Health Professionals Institute, founded in 2003, is a state-approved private vocational school known for being the first in Washington to offer medication assistant endorsement certification. The school provides healthcare certifications like Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, and Phlebotomy Technician, with flexible online and on-campus schedules. Tuition ranges from $85 for specialty courses to $17,000 for full programs, and students benefit from job placement assistance through a staffing agency partnership.- 33305 1st Way South B-100 Federal Way, WA 98003
- Healthcare and Nursing
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) offers over 100 professional and technical degree and certificate programs, including nursing, engineering, and culinary arts. Located in Kirkland, WA, near Seattle, the school provides flexible schedules with in-person, online, and hybrid options, making it accessible to a wide range of students.- 11605 132nd Avenue NE Kirkland, WA 98034
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Computer and Information Technology
National School of Dental Assisting
The National School of Dental Assisting offers hands-on clinical programs and online training for dental assisting. E-Learning courses are self-paced with guidance from an experienced instructor. The school has eight physical locations across Colorado, Nevada, and Washington, some of which are in major cities such as Denver and Reno.- 10317 122nd Street East, Suite D (Pullyap) Seattle, WA 98374
Northwest Career & Technical Academy
Northwest Career & Technical Academy provides free, hands-on technical and professional training for high school students, offering programs like Core Plus Aerospace, Veterinary Assisting, and Video Game Development. Students split their day between the academy and their regular high school, gaining practical skills through experiential learning and optional internships. As a Washington State Skills Center, NCTA is a legitimate institution with industry and educational oversight, making it an excellent option for career-focused students.- 2205 West Campus Place Mount Vernon, WA 98273
- 194 West Laurel Road Bellingham, WA 98226
- 1606 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98223
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Northwest HVAC School
The Northwest HVAC/R Association and Training Center, established in 1991, is a private vocational college specializing in HVAC/R training. Known for its 100% job placement rate, the center offers certifications in topics like gas codes, refrigeration, and troubleshooting. Accredited by the Council of Occupational Education (COE), the school provides hands-on internships and a focused learning environment for its 35-student enrollment.- 204 E Nora Ave Spokane, WA 99207
- Skilled Trades
Northwest Phlebotomy School
Northwest Phlebotomy School provides 3 day certification programs that are designed to ready participants for roles in the phlebotomy field. Classes emphasize safety practices, introduces students to diverse patient demographics, and provides tailored coaching in an intimate group environment.- 1800 Yale Ave Seattle, WA 98101
- Phlebotomy Technician
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.- 71 Gage Boulevard Richland, WA 99352
- 15303 E Sprague Avenue Spokane Valley, WA 99037
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Perry Technical Institute
Perry Technical Institute, a private, non-profit school in Yakima, WA, has provided hands-on technical training since 1939. With over 700 students enrolled annually, Perry Tech offers 14 in-demand programs, including Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, and HVAC/R, emphasizing practical skills and real-world experience through externships. The school is nationally accredited and has an open-admission policy, making technical education accessible.- 2011 W Washington Ave Yakima, WA 98903
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology
Pima Medical Institute
Pima Medical Institute, an employee-owned and accredited private career college, has been dedicated to medical education since 1972. Pima specializes in preparing students for the healthcare sector, encompassing medical, dental, and veterinary professions. Academic offerings range from certificate programs to associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees.- 9709 Third Avenue N.E. Suite 400 Seattle, WA 98115
- 555 S. Renton Village Place Renton, WA 98057
- Healthcare and Nursing, Dental, Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Veterinary Services
Puget Sound Electrical
Puget Sound Electrical, established in the 1940s, is a non-profit organization that trains future electricians through hands-on learning at its training centers in Renton, Sequim, and Bremerton. Offering three career paths—Inside Wire, Limited Energy, and Residential Wire—the program provides night classes to accommodate apprentices working during the day. Tuition is free for IBEW Local 46 members, with other costs varying based on books and materials.- 1606 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98223
- Skilled Trades, Electrical
Renton Tech
Renton Technical College, located in Renton, Washington, has been providing workforce training and educational opportunities since 1941. Accredited by the NWCCU, the college offers programs in seven main areas, including Health and Human Services, Information Technology, and Culinary Arts, with flexible schedules that include daytime, evening, and online options. Tuition varies by residency and program level, with affordable rates for Washington residents.- 3000 NE 4th St. Renton, WA 98056
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Seattle Pipe Trades
Seattle Pipe Trades, established in 1968 in Renton, WA, specializes in apprenticeship-based training for careers like HVAC mechanics, plumbing, and steamfitting. With no tuition costs, the program is funded through union dues, allowing students to learn hands-on skills through a "earn while you learn" model. Classes are offered during evenings and weekends, providing flexibility for working apprentices.- 595 Monster Rd. SW, Suite 100 Renton, WA 98057-2937
- Skilled Trades
Skagit Valley Technical College
Skagit Valley College (est. 1926) is Washington’s second-oldest community college, serving ~6,500 students annually across campuses in Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor, Friday Harbor, and Clinton. It offers certificates (under a year), associate degrees (~2 years), and applied bachelor’s programs (~4 years), with learning options on campus, virtual, and hybrid.- 2405 East College Way Mount Vernon, WA 98273
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
The HVAC School
The HVAC School in Brier, WA, has been training students in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning since 1988, offering intensive programs lasting one to eight weeks. With small class sizes of up to 24 students, the school focuses on hands-on learning to prepare students for entry-level HVAC roles. Courses cover topics like air conditioning, gas furnace troubleshooting, and commercial refrigeration, with tuition ranging from $195 to $3,650.- 23024 Brier Road Brier, WA 98036
- Skilled Trades
UEI College
Teaching skills for automotive, criminal justice, computer, HVAC, business, and healthcare vocations, UEI College has sites in Georgia, Arizona, and California. Courses at the trade school prepare students for technical careers in fields like cyber security, machine repair, or medical billing. Schedules are flexible, and campuses offer day and night classes.- 1415 E. 72nd St. Tacoma, WA 98404
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, HVAC and Building Services
West Sound Tech
West Sound Technical Skills Center in Bremerton offers free career and technical education for students aged 16-21 from eight school districts. Programs like 3D Animation, Automotive Technology, and Professional Medical Careers provide hands-on learning with flexible schedules. Supported by the state education system, the center charges no tuition and even offers free lunches.- 101 National Avenue North Bremerton, WA 98312
- Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
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Average Cost of Trade Schools
The cost of attending a trade school in Washington varies depending on the program and institution. For example:
- Most Affordable: Northwest Career & Technical Academy offers free tuition as part of the public education system, with optional fees for industry certifications.
- General Costs: Tuition ranges from $1,325 per quarter for apprenticeships at the Construction Industry Training Council (CITC) to approximately $20,917 annually for Perry Technical Institute’s largest programs.
- Specialized Schools: The HVAC School in Brier charges between $195 and $3,650 depending on the course, while UEI College programs range from $19,900 to $21,500.
Accreditation of Trade Schools
Trade schools in Washington are accredited by respected organizations to ensure quality education:
- CITC: Accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).
- Renton Technical College: Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
- Pima Medical Institute: Nationally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Cortiva Institute: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Accreditation is critical for students to qualify for financial aid and ensures programs meet industry standards.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many vocational schools in Washington offer financial assistance to reduce costs:
- Federal Aid: Most schools accept FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs.
- Veteran Benefits: Institutions like Perry Tech and Divers Institute of Technology (DIT) accept GI Bill benefits and offer tuition assistance for veterans.
- Institutional Aid: UEI College offers grants and scholarships for qualifying students.
- Specialized Assistance: DIT provides fee waivers and discounted refresher courses for alumni.
Top 10 Most Common Trade Programs in Washington
Based on available content, here are the most popular vocational programs in Washington:
- Healthcare: Programs like Medical Assisting, Nursing, and Phlebotomy are offered at Pima Medical Institute and Health Professionals Institute.
- Skilled Trades: Carpentry, Electrical, and Welding are featured at CITC and Renton Technical College.
- HVAC/R: Training is provided by the Northwest HVAC/R Association and Training Center.
- Automotive Technology: Available at Northwest Career & Technical Academy and Renton Technical College.
- Culinary Arts: Taught at schools like Renton Technical College.
- Information Technology: Programs include Cybersecurity and Networking at Charter College and LWTech.
- Massage Therapy: Offered by the Cortiva Institute.
- Construction: Includes Heavy Equipment Operator and Plumbing programs at CITC and Seattle Pipe Trades.
- Aesthetics: Paramedical Esthetician and Makeup Artist training at Cortiva Institute.
- Commercial Diving: Taught at the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle.
Examples of Trade School Courses
Trade school courses are designed to provide hands-on, practical training. Examples include:
- Gas Furnace Troubleshooting (The HVAC School)
- Dental X-Ray and CPR Certification (National School of Dental Assisting)
- Green Energy Technologies (Puget Sound Electrical)
- Drone and ROV Operation (Northwest Career & Technical Academy)
Average Duration of Trade School Programs
Trade school programs in Washington range from a few weeks to two years:
- Short-Term: Certifications like Northwest Phlebotomy School’s 2-3 day courses.
- Mid-Term: Most diplomas, such as HVAC and Welding, can be completed in 6-12 months.
- Long-Term: Programs like Electrical Apprenticeships can take up to 5 years, combining coursework and paid training.
Value for Veterans
Veterans find significant benefits at Washington trade schools:
- Tuition Assistance: Schools like DIT and Seattle Pipe Trades accept GI Bill funding.
- Housing Support: DIT offers housing assistance for veterans.
- Veteran-Friendly Programs: Puget Sound Electrical and Perry Tech provide veteran-specific guidance and mentorship.
Career Services
Career services play a vital role in vocational training, helping students transition into the workforce. Common offerings include:
- Job Placement Assistance: Schools like Carrington College and UEI College connect graduates with local employers.
- Externships and Internships: Renton Technical College and Pima Medical Institute offer hands-on experience with industry partners.
- Career Fairs and Networking: Hosted by Cortiva Institute and Divers Institute of Technology.