Why Choose Trade School?
Postsecondary education prepares Georgia students for exciting careers in a variety of fields, many of which do not require a four-year degree. Many career paths in Georgia feature a high growth rate, competitive wages, and at least 100 job openings per year. Such careers include computer support specialists, dental hygienists, and web devewlopers. Vocational schools in Georgia prepare students for these careers quickly with affordable programs.
Trade schools focus on career-specific skills and knowledge. Students gain expertise in their field quickly and soon find themselves in the workforce. Programs combine lectures with practical instruction and hands-on learning. Many schools work with regional industrial partners, tailoring programs to prepare students for local employment.
The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) offers more than 600 programs, 17 of which offer free tuition for in-state students. With 22 colleges, 88 campuses, and online learning, students in every part of the state enjoy access to high-quality educational opportunities. Georgia also authorizes private colleges offering certificates and diplomas in several high-demand fields.
Trade schools in Georgia focus on preparing graduates for the workforce. Schools report that 99% of their students find work in their field or transfer to a four-year program. Many programs require less than two years to graduate.
FAQ about Trade Schools
What is trade school?
A trade school offers postsecondary education and training in specific career fields, such as allied health careers, information technology, or automotive technology. The TCSG includes 22 tech schools in Georgia, and the state also authorizes numerous private schools.
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Yes, students use federal and state financial aid programs for accredited trade schools in Georgia. Also, Georgia allows qualifying students to earn a technical college diploma in one of 17 high-demand career fields from any TCSG campus through the HOPE Career Grant .
What is the difference between trade school and vocational school?
There is no difference between trade school and vocational school. Both names describe schools that offer career-focused programs that prepare graduates to work in a specific trade or vocation.
When can I apply to trade school?
Many high schools in Georgia allow students to attend trade schools. Students often earn high school and postsecondary credit for coursework. Vocational schools in Georgia also welcome high school graduates, nontraditional students, and students seeking professional development.
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Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Students invest their time and money into higher education. State authorization and accreditation ensure the quality of educational programs.
Georgia authorizes trade schools to provide educational services. The Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission reviews applications from schools that offer postsecondary education, including private schools and out-of-state institutions that serve Georgia students with online instruction. Georgia participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement and recognizes accredited, degree-granting institutions from other member states.
Many schools offer specific programs from state licensing agencies such as the Office of EMS or the Georgia Professional Standards Committee . If your chosen field requires a state license for employment, ensure that your prospective program meets your state's minimum educational standards.
Accreditation agencies review a school's curriculum, student outcomes, instructor knowledge, and ongoing commitment to improvement. TCSG schools all hold accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools . In addition, many schools seek programmatic accreditation from national accrediting agencies, such as the ASE Education Foundation , the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing , or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs .
Some schools also seek accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC evaluates all distance education activities offered from high school through professional doctoral degrees to ensure schools provide a rigorous educational experience.
Only properly accredited schools participate in federal student financial aid programs. Accreditation also ensures employers and other schools recognize the quality of your education. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintain databases of regional and national accrediting agencies, career-specific accrediting bodies, and distance education accreditation. Learn more about accredited schools here .
Vocational Trade Schools in Georgia
Below, find links to the best vocational and tech schools in Georgia as determined by our ranking methodology. Use this ranking to find the best trade school for you. Consider cost, location, and accreditation when selecting a school. If you plan to continue your education later, also consider schools with transfer and articulation agreements with four-year colleges.
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Wiregrass Georgia Technical CollegeLocation
Valdosta, GA
Tuition$1551
Graduation Rate25%
Located in Valdosta, GA, offers 177 programs. Learners can choose from programs in healthcare, computer support and cybersecurity, culinary arts, construction, and more. The school continually monitors workforce needs to expand educational offerings, with a degree in python programming being added for fall 2020.
One of the premier trade schools in Georgia, Wiregrass Tech partners with industry leaders to ensure program curriculum reflects industry needs. In addition to accreditation from the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges, many Wiregrass Tech healthcare programs hold programmatic accreditation.
Most of the school's instruction consists of hands-on learning, with lectures complementing labs. The school's apprenticeship opportunities continue to expand, allowing students to earn income while gaining new skills. Current apprenticeship opportunities include telecommunications, welding, automotive technology, and accounting.
The school serves nearly 7,000 students from its four campuses and 12 centers in the south Georgia region. Applicants with industry experience, college credits, or military training may qualify for prior learning credit.
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Georgia Northwestern Technical CollegeLocation
Rome, GA
Tuition$2587
Graduation Rate19%
Students at GNTC to more than 200 career-focused programs, with more than 70 offered at least partially online. The school boasts one of the most extensive healthcare training programs in the state, with certification, diplomas, and degrees offered in nursing, allied health, paramedicine, and medical assisting.
GNTC opened a new flooring production center this past year, aligning with regional industry leaders for targeted workforce development. It also launched new programs in automation engineering technology and diesel equipment technology. It continues to expand apprenticeship programs in areas of electrical technology and construction management. Georgia Power partnered with the school for the power apprenticeship to train the next generation of mechanics and electricians.
More than 7,750 students enrolled in the Rome, Georgia, school in 2017, while another 8,600 learners benefitted from adult education and economic development programs. GNTC offers dual enrollment for high school students and designs customized training for businesses in its nine-county region.
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Coastal Pines Technical CollegeLocation
Waycross, GA
Tuition$2933
Graduation Rate43%
Headquartered in Waycross, Georgia, CPTC graduates boast an overall rate of 99.7%, with 96.3% working in their field. Serving more than 5,000 students, the school offers many lowstudents with their educational costs.
CPTC offers 45 certificates, diplomas, and degrees programs. Learners typically complete certificates in a few months, diplomas in a year, and associate degrees in two years. Several programs offer fully online instruction. The Student Navigator Service helps CPTC students access academic assistance, financial aid, and career placement services.
Program offerings include medical programs, business technology, machine tool technology, drafting, and construction. This is the only trade school in Georgia offering the naval technical apprentice technology program. Hosted on campus at Camden, Georgia, the school works with the Trident Refit Facility at Kings Bay's naval submarine base to prepare students for work on mechanical and electrical systems in a marine environment.
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Central Georgia Technical CollegeLocation
Warner Robins, GA
Tuition$2325
Graduation Rate31%
CGTC partners with several industries and employers to offer cutting-edge training in healthcare, business, computer technology, and public safety. Its aerospace trade and industry programs utilize the expertise of nearby Robins Air Force Base, home of the Museum of Aviation.
As a member of the public Georgia technical colleges system, the school offersper credit for in-state students. Graduates enjoy success in the workforce, with 97.9% in relevant careers. The school serves 12,000 students from its three campuses and 11 conveniently located centers. The school recently completed new labs dedicated to the industrial systems program and industry partner Frito Lay.
The unique aerospace and aviation programs include diplomas and certifications in aircraft structural technology and aviation maintenance. The school partnered with Delta Air Lines' technical operations to provide instruction and hands-on learning opportunities. Other apprentice programs include electrical technology, industrial mechanics, construction, and information security programs.
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Albany Technical CollegeLocation
Albany, GA
Tuition$459
Graduation Rate41%
graduates enjoy success in their chosen fields. The school reports that 98% of graduates found employment, and 100% of nursing graduates passed their national exam.
The school works closely with area industry leaders to provide instruction in more than 70 programs. More than 3,000 students attend the school full time, while another 2,500 enroll in part-time programs, continuing education, and seminars.
Programs include diplomas, degrees, or certificates in areas of business, healthcare, manufacturing, and personal service. It offers innovative programs in e-commerce, green building technology, and cybercrime.
Albany Tech welcomes applicants who are at least 16 years old, though some programs require students to be at least 18. The school launched its Success Terms program last year, offering seven-week terms and six starting dates. The school noted this scheduling aided part-time learners.
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Southern Crescent Technical CollegeLocation
Griffin, GA
Tuition$5312
Graduation RateNA%
has invested heavily in its five campus locations to provide state-of-the-art learning labs for more than 200 programs. Based in Griffin, Georgia, the school serves almost 5,500 students.
The school offers several popular programs in topics like business, computer information systems, and allied healthcare. The degrees require about two years to graduate, while diplomas and certificates require between two months and two years. Facilities include a medical technology building, industrial training facility, and a film technology facility.
Griffin served as a filming location for several popular films and series. Southern Crescent helps meet the needs of film and production companies through its film programs. Students can study film production, scenic technology, lighting, and rigging. Other programs prepare students for film business, or for roles in hair and make-up.
Career placement data finds 99% of Southern Crescent graduates find employment after leaving the technical college. The school also maintains articulation agreements for four-year degrees. Students wishing to study online may choose from almost 40 programs.
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Savannah Technical CollegeLocation
Savannah, GA
Tuition$6539
Graduation Rate26%
Headquartered in historic Savannah, offers more than 150 programs through its five campus locations. More than 4,500 students take advantage of these career-focused studies that include industry training in business and technology, health science, public service, and industrial technology.
The school's location allows it to offer degrees, diplomas, and technical certificates in historic preservation. Its Center for Traditional Craft hosts visiting artisans, oversees traditional craft research, and holds weekend workshops. The Georgia Film Academy partners with film producers to train highly skilled production assistants.
Savannah State welcomes applicants with a high school education or equivalent, though some programs have competitive admissions processes. Savannah Tech also holds distinction as a Purple Heart Technical College for its veterans' services and outreach.
In addition to institutional accreditation, the school maintains several programmatic accreditations in the allied health, dentistry, electrical engineering, and culinary arts fields. The Federal Aviation Administration has also certified the aviation technology programs.
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Atlanta Technical CollegeLocation
Atlanta, GA
Tuition$1790
Graduation Rate24%
The 48-acre in metro Atlanta features state-of-the-art training labs, a childcare center, and industry-specific workspaces. More than 5,500 students attend the school, and pursue degrees, diplomas, or certifications in more than 150 programs. Upon graduation, 99% find employment or pursue further education.
The school partnered with the city of Atlanta and industry leaders to create the Center for Workforce Innovation. This program combines on-campus career development with work-based learning through internships and apprenticeships with some of the region's top employers.
Students can pursue training in areas of culinary arts; accounting; and hotel, restaurant, and tourism management. The healthcare and public safety division offers training for firefighters, emergency medical technicians, dental assistants, and allied health professionals. Industrial and transportation technology includes programs in aviation, diesel and auto mechanics, drafting, and electronics.
Admission requirements include a high school education or equivalent, and placement tests. Averagetraining.
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Oconee Fall Line Technical CollegeLocation
Sandersville, GA
Tuition$410
Graduation Rate37%
OFTC continues to expand its program offerings to meet workforce and student needs. The launched a new program in 2019 for construction management. It also celebrated the first class of associate nursing graduates from a new practical nursing bridge program.
The school serves more than 2,000 students from two campuses and four centers. Its 100-plus programs boast 100% placement for graduates. Students may choose from numerous online degree, diploma, and certificate options. While many programs require a high school education or equivalent, many allied health programs include competitive admissions standards.
Students can focus their education in industrial technology, business, computer technology, public service, and allied health. Allied health programs include practical nursing, pharmacy technician, and respiratory care. The school offers apprenticeships in precision machining and manufacturing, allowing students to learn while they work.
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Lanier Technical CollegeLocation
Oakwood, GA
Tuition$4287
Graduation Rate28%
In five of the past six years, LTC has achieved 100% job placement. With more than 50 programs offered, the continues to set new records for enrollment, serving more than 5,000 students enrolled at its five campuses.
The seven-county service district also recorded the lowest unemployment rate among the 22 schools in Georgia's technical schools system. Employers work with school faculty to develop relevant and rigorous curricula in areas of public service, industrial technology, personal service, computer systems, and healthcare.
In addition to its job placement rate, the school's students also excelled in licensing exams, with 85.9% of graduates earning their professional license.
In-stateeducation benefit from articulation agreements with 25 colleges and universities.
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Ogeechee Technical CollegeLocation
Statesboro, GA
Tuition$2009
Graduation Rate29%
began serving students in 1986 with a practical nursing program. Today, the Statesboro-based Georgia trade school offers technical degrees, diplomas, and certificates in more than 120 programs encompassing some of the areas fastest-growing career fields.
Technical degrees and diploma programs include studies in industrial manufacturing, accounting, funeral service, and opticianry. The Natural Resources Building provides dedicated labs and classrooms for programs in agribusiness and fish and wildlife management.
In 2018 the school launched programs in cybersecurity, diesel technology, and conservation law enforcement. It's new Industrial Technology Building offers programs in logistics, electrical, and industrial technology. The Evans County campus hosts the Regional Law Enforcement Academy, allowing officers to earn credit while completing their training.
More than 2,900 students attend Ogeechee Tech, and more than 92% of graduates report finding gainful employment in their field of study.
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South Georgia Technical CollegeLocation
Americus, GA
Tuition$3418
Graduation Rate32%
SGTC in Americus, Georgia, offers on-campus housing and intercollegiate athletics while featuring industry-recognized certificate, diploma, and technical degree programs. The in 36 areas spanning healthcare, business, aviation, and public service.
The second oldest of Georgia's trade schools, SGTC opened in 1948. The campus had served as a training facility for U.S. Army pilots as early as 1917, and the school continued that tradition by offering an aviation technology program, which is still in place to this day.
More than 2,800 students attend SGTC on campus or online. The school hosts the Law Enforcement Academy, which certifies Georgia peace officers. SGTC partners with multiple industry leaders in areas of energy and agriculture, with cooperative learning opportunities available.
As part of its industry partnerships, the school operates the Southeastern Caterpillar Dealer's College of Technology and the John Deere Southeastern Regional Training Center. It also works with Georgia Power and Metro Power to train electrical linemen.
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Southern Regional Technical CollegeLocation
Thomasville, GA
Tuition$774
Graduation Rate40%
With more than 5,000 students, among the largest trade schools in Georgia. Based in Thomasville, the school offers 155 programs. Students can choose from certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees.
SRTC offers programs under schools of business, industrial technology, health science, and professional services. The school welcomes learners in fields of veterinary science; nursing; welding; and land, forest, and wildlife management. The school recently launched programs in CNC routing and tool and die technology. Many of the business school's programs offer fully online courses, and students can complete many of their general education courses online.
The Student Success Center, available at each of SRTC's eight campuses, offers tutoring and academic advising. Students also have access to career exploration resources and counseling. SRTC graduates report a 100% career placement. SRTC also maintains articulation agreements with colleges and universities throughout Georgia.
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West Georgia Technical CollegeLocation
Carrollton, GA
Tuition$3535
Graduation Rate17%
WGTC continues to expand its career training and degree options to meet students' needs in LaGrange and surrounding communities. Learners can choose from more than in healthcare, business, manufacturing, and public service. In 2019 the school also announced a transfer partnership with the University of West Georgia that allows students to transfer their associate degree toward a four-year degree.
The school ranked third in financial aid awards among public trade schools in Georgia. It also ranked fifth for program graduates. More than 98% of graduates reported they were employed or continuing their education after leaving WGTC. Graduates in dental hygiene, health information technology, phlebotomy, and basic EMT programs posted 100% passing licensure exams.
WGTC strives to offer accessible education options. It maintains seven campus locations with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible class schedules. About half of students take at least one course online, and the school offers fully only programs in medical coding, fire science, and accounting.
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Athens Technical CollegeLocation
Athens, GA
Tuition$4365
Graduation Rate29%
Opened in 1958, its career-focused education to serve more than 10,000 students across five campus locations. Economic impact data found graduates of the school's 130 programs earned 18.7% more than area residents without training.
ATC organized its programs into five technical schools in Georgia: life science; public safety; business; education; and technology, engineering, and manufacturing. It recently completed a new agriculture science facility representing an $8.2 million investment. This state-of-the-art building hosts programs in horticulture, poultry, animal science, and conservation law.
Graduates do well in the workforce. In 2017, for the 12th consecutive year, ATC reported that 100% of radiography graduates passed their certification exams.
The school recently launched a program in emerging technologies. The curriculum prepares students for exciting new careers in fields like augmented reality or drone piloting.
As a public school,accessible to the region, with 75% of students enrolled part-time.
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Gwinnett Technical CollegeLocation
Lawrenceville, GA
Tuition$7307
Graduation Rate18%
Lawrenceville-based offers 140 programs that students can complete in less than two years. Following the completion of a 25-acre campus in North Fulton, the schools 12,000 students can now choose from two campus locations.
Graduates report 99% placement in careers or continuing education. Programs fall under six divisions within the Georgia technical school. Nursing and life science, and the health science divisions focus on careers in patient care, clinical research, and allied healthcare fields. Other divisions include business, computer science, public and professional services, and engineering, construction, manufacturing, and design.
The school launched the first Mercedes-Benz College Automotive degree in partnership with the automotive company. Students combine classroom learning with hands-on training in the Mercedes-Benz factory. The computer science division offers diplomas and certificates in game development in addition to programs in networking, computer programming, and cybersecurity.
The Center for Career Experience, called Launch Pointe, helps connect students with relevant internships or apprenticeships that complement their studies. Students gain hands-on experience while putting the theories and skills they have learned to work.
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Columbus Technical CollegeLocation
Columbus, GA
Tuition$5958
Graduation Rate16%
CTC's faculty bring their industry experience to more than 4,700 students studying at this. The school offers more than 100 certificates, diplomas, and degrees in high-growth career fields. Certificates require about three months to complete, while students typically complete a degree in two years.
The school operates from its Columbus campus, which includes a state-of-the-art health science complex. Programs fall under three divisions: business, professional and technical services, and health science and nursing.
Many of the programs utilize "live work," allowing the learners to gain hands-on experience under their instructor's supervision. These programs also allow students, staff, and the community to access discounted services in cosmetology, auto technology, culinary arts, and air conditioning.
The school also works with area hospitals and industries to provide clinical placements for nurses and health science students, or apprenticeships for other trades. Overall, CTC boasts 100% job placement for graduates, with 97.4% working in their field.
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Augusta Technical CollegeLocation
Augusta, GA
Tuition$7151
Graduation Rate20%
looks to regional industries to provide relevant instruction in high-growth fields, including energy and cybersecurity. With more than 100 programs to choose from, graduates report 97% career placement. About 6,000 students enroll at one of Augusta Techs four regional campuses each year.
Augusta Tech organizes its programs through five technical schools in Georgia. These divisions include allied health, business, industry and engineering technology, and public and professional services. Ten programs allow distance learners to earn their degree, certificate, or diploma online.
The city serves as the site of the U.S. Army Signal School, U.S. Cyber Center of Excellence, and U.S. Army Cyber Command. Augusta Tech earned distinction as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense in 2018 from the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Its nuclear engineering program works in partnership with Southern Company and Georgia Power to train a highly skilled workforce.
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Chattahoochee Technical CollegeLocation
Marietta, GA
Tuition$3112
Graduation Rate10%
CTC offers affordable education through more than 50 programs. In-stateper semester, and more than 60% of students receive financial aid. Several programs qualify for the Georgia HOPE Career Grant, which further offsets the training cost at trade schools in Georgia.
The school offers certificates that students can complete in eight weeks to one year. Diploma programs take 12-18 months, and associate degree programs typically require two years. The school maintains articulation agreements with several Georgia colleges and universities.
Academic programs include career-focused education in business, health science, personal and public service, and technical studies. Several programs offer online or hybrid classes, and students enjoy flexible class schedules. CTC transitioned to an eight-week term in recent years, though some programs still require a traditional 15-week semester.
Graduates enjoy success in the workforce. Several programs report 100% in field career placement, and students can access career services through the college.
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North Georgia Technical CollegeLocation
Clarkesville, GA
Tuition$3577
Graduation Rate30%
earned the 2020 Innovation Award from the Community Colleges of Appalachia for their Trek to Success initiative. This program highlights the school's commitment to students, with staff committing to reach out across academic areas and departments.
The Clarksville-based school offers more than 150 programs from its three campus locations, including 60 programs entirely online. Students seeking a bachelor's degree benefit from transfer agreements with the Georgia university system. It also provides on-campus housing and flexible class schedules.
The school's 17 study areas feature in-demand career training in skilled trades, accounting, computer science and information technology, culinary arts, photography, and medical fields. In addition to a robust agriculture program, the school recently launched a modern agriculture certificate, diploma, and degree program.
Graduates report 96% job placement, thanks to hands-on learning in high-tech labs and apprenticeships.programs qualify for the Georgia HOPE Career Grant.
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Georgia Piedmont Technical CollegeLocation
Clarkston, GA
Tuition$6259
Graduation Rate20%
Established in 1961, GPTC serves 4,800 students through its five Georgia technical colleges. Its metro region offer convenient part- and full-time learning options. Graduates report 99.5% career placement, and the school maintains transfer agreements with 25 Georgia universities.
GPTC divides its 100 certificate, diploma, and degree programs into arts and sciences, business and computer information systems, industrial technologies, public safety and legal studies, and health, education, and professional studies. Top programs include practical nursing, interdisciplinary studies, business management, and early childhood education.
Instructors work with industry partners to ensure students receive a cutting-edge education. The building automation program works closely with the BEST Center, sponsored by the National Science Foundation. Students gain access to the latest research in areas of sustainability, automation, and facility management. The paralegal studies program holds accreditation from the American Bar Association, one of only two programs in the state to earn this designation.
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Southeastern Technical CollegeLocation
Vidalia, GA
Tuition$4229
Graduation Rate27%
STC operates campuses in Vidalia and Swainsboro, serving more than 2,500 students. The 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures students receive personalized attention through lectures and hands-on learning. The school also facilitates. STC offers more than 100 certificates, diplomas, and degrees in 23 in-demand career fields, including healthcare, business management, and emergency services.
The school's Early College and Career Academy offers postsecondary training for high school students from four counties in the region. This unique partnership is the first trade school in Georgia to provide this opportunity to a regional community.
Graduates report success in their career endeavors, with a 99% career placement rate. Additionally the cosmetology, clinical lab technician, practical nursing, and paramedicine programs report that all graduates passed state or national licensing exams.
As part of the Georgia Technical College System, the school offers affordable
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Georgia State UniversityLocation
Atlanta, GA
Tuition$6355
Graduation RateNA%
As a branch of Georgia State University, offers associate degrees in 30 pathways that transition to four-year degree programs. Degrees in nursing, dental hygiene, and radiologic technology prepare graduates for immediate career opportunities, as well.
The two-year college serves about 18,000 students from five locations in the Atlanta metro area. It also offers online learning opportunities for flexible scheduling. Academic areas include business, education, health professions, humanities and the arts, policy and social science, and STEM. Perimeter College graduates enjoy guaranteed admission to Georgia State's four-year programs.
The school offers hands-on learning in health sciences. Students take part in clinical rotations and learning labs. The on-campus dental hygiene clinic offers low-cost services to the community and learning opportunities for second-year students. While the school serves a large student population, the average class size is about 20 students.
Applicants need a high school diploma and college entrance exams, or a minimum 3.2 GPA. Students who graduated high school more than five years ago may take the SAT, ACT, or Accuplacer exams.
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Dalton State CollegeLocation
Dalton, GA
Tuition$6484
Graduation RateNA%
joins other trade schools in Georgia with career-focused education in healthcare, criminal justice, and computer science. The school serves about 4,900 students, offering career certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees.
The school of health professions offers several career paths in allied health and nursing. Students can choose from a phlebotomy certificate or associate degrees in respiratory therapy, radiology technology, and medical laboratory technology. The nursing program offers practical nursing, associate nursing degree, and a bachelor of nursing bridge program.
The school also offers an associate degree in criminal justice and an applied science associate degree in computer networking and service technology. Dalton state maintains partnerships with multiple businesses, industries, and medical providers in the northwest Georgia region.
The school offers affordablediploma or equivalent.
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Middle Georgia State UniversityLocation
Macon, GA
Tuition$9378
Graduation RateNA%
MGA continues to expand its educational offerings with several in-demand. As a four-year university, students can also ensure their degree prepares them for continued study later. Headquartered in Macon, the school serves about 8,000 students from its five campus centers.
The school of aviation, located on a satellite campus in Eastman, recently earned accreditation for its aviation degree from the Aviation Accreditation Board International. The program trains air traffic managers, aircraft structural technicians, and aviation maintenance personnel.
The health science school offers associate degrees in nursing, occupational assistant, and health science. Nurses earning an associate degree can begin working while pursuing a bachelor's degree through the online bridge program. Other associate degrees include criminal justice and financial technology.
MGA offers rolling admissions throughout the year. It requires a high school education or equivalent. With eight-week terms, learners enjoy multiple entry points to higher education.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
A degree or certificate from trade schools in Georgia helps prepare you to enter the workforce with valuable skills. Higher education typically leads to higher income and more career opportunities. The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute shows that individuals with more education reported higher earnings.
In 2017, high school graduates earned a $29,437 median annual salary while individuals with some postsecondary education reported a median annual salary of $35,055. Graduates of certificate programs earned a median annual wage of $25,000-$40,000 in 2017 while graduates with associate degrees earned a median annual wage of $27,000-$44,000 in the same year.
Numerous factors influence career and salary outlook, including location, industry, and experience level. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers in-depth information on median salaries for thousands of career fields in the Occupational Outlook Handbook .
For example, many people find employment in the healthcare industry. Licensed practical nurses require only one year of training but reported an annual mean wage of $40,650 in Georgia for 2017. Continue reading to learn about other trades and career opportunities.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Trade schools in Georgia offer degrees, certificates, and diplomas for high-demand fields. The TCSG includes 22 public colleges and 88 campus locations. Their 600 programs include diverse fields such as healthcare, computer support, and culinary arts. Numerous private, career-focused colleges around the state also offer programs in growing industries. Learn more about popular programs below.
- 1. Beauty and Cosmetology Schools
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Cosmetology and beauty schools train students in the theory and practice of hair care, nail care, and skincare. Students choose from specific programs such as nail care, or seek a comprehensive cosmetology diploma. Nail programs require only a few months, while the cosmetology program requires one year of full-time study. Some schools offer part-time programs.
Many cosmetologists work in salons after graduation, and some go on to operate their own businesses. Cosmetology requires standing for long periods and working with various chemicals. The demand for cosmetologists continues to grow with increasing population. Georgia reports one of the nation's fastest population growth rates . Cosmetologists reported a mean annual salary of $31,530 in 2019.
The Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers licenses barbers, cosmetologists, and other beauty technicians. The process requires a written and practical exam. Applicants graduate from a cosmetology school or complete an apprenticeship program before seeking a license. Learn more about accredited beauty and cosmetology schools here .
- 2. Construction Management Schools
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Construction managers oversee residential and commercial construction projects. They plan and coordinate subcontractors, order materials, and manage project budgets. They often work on the construction site, providing day-to-day supervision and responding to questions or concerns as they arise.
Georgia's continuing population boom fuels demand for construction managers. The more than 7,800 construction managers working in the state reported a mean annual salary of $103,130 in 2019.
Construction management programs build on the skills gained in a construction job and prepare graduates for supervisory positions. Students without construction experience benefit from courses in carpentry and construction trades. Construction management includes instruction in building codes, construction drafting, cost estimating, and legal consideration.
Diplomas or associate degrees usually require 1-2 years of study. Some schools also maintain articulation agreements with four-year schools, which enable students to continue their education to earn a bachelor's or graduate degree. Construction managers often need a general contractor license from the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors. Learn more about accredited construction management schools here .
- 3. Electrician Schools
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Electricians install and maintain electrical power, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and other structures. They use blueprints and technical diagrams to properly install systems during the construction process and help ensure the system's ongoing performance and stability. Most electricians work as contractors. The work requires physical stamina to stand or kneel in cramped spaces, extreme temperatures, and inclement weather.
Students choose from technical certificates in specific areas of electrical technology, such as commercial wiring or industrial electrical controls. These programs require only one semester to complete. A diploma in electrical systems provides a general curriculum and requires two years to complete. Find information on accredited programs here .
After graduation, students apply for a license from the Georgia Board of Electrical Contractors . The process includes an application, exam, and continuing education in the electrical field. In Georgia, electricians reported a mean annual salary of $51,430 in 2019.
- 4. Pharmacy Technician Schools
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Pharmacy technicians help dispense medication through commercial pharmacies or healthcare facility dispensaries. They apply labels and measure and count medications to ensure accuracy and patient safety. They also arrange for customers to speak with pharmacists about concerns or questions, and organize pharmacy inventory. Pharmacy technicians take on clerical duties to process insurance claims and track customer information.
Students in pharmacy technology in Georgia enjoy substantial employment opportunities after graduation. The state reported a mean annual salary of $31,360 for pharmacy technicians in 2019. Programs include certificates and associate degrees, and take 1-2 years to complete. Healthcare programs involve courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and pharmaceutical calculations. Some programs offer fully online instruction.
Pharmacy technicians register with the Georgia Board of Pharmacy each year. Many graduates pursue national certification from a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board program or by passing the National Healthcareer Association Pharmacy Technician Certification exam. Learn more about accredited pharmacy technician schools here .
- 5. Physical Therapy Schools
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Physical therapy assistants and aides work under the direction of a physical therapist in an office, rehabilitation, or hospital setting. They work with patients recovering from illnesses or injuries. They provide direct care, helping patients complete the exercises in their care plan, and demonstrating stretches and mobility equipment. They also help transport patients, prepare equipment for therapy sessions, and clean up afterward.
The BLS projects 26% growth in employment nationally for the field between 2018 and 2028, due in part to an aging population. Physical therapist assistants earned a mean annual wage of $58,520 in 2019.
Physical therapy assistant programs typically require two years to complete. Coursework includes anatomy and physiology, human development, and kinesiology. Students also complete clinical rotations in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and kinesiology. Most programs lead to an associate degree.
Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education . Georgia requires physical therapy assistants to earn state licensing from the Georgia State Board of Physical Therapy .
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Students attending trade schools in Georgia often pay less in tuition costs compared to students who attend four-year schools. The National Center for Education Statistics reports tuition for in-state students totaled $2,901 at public, two-year colleges in 2018 compared to $7,206 for tuition at public four-year schools.
State and federal financial aid helps students pay for their education and career training. Grants, scholarships, and loans help make vocation education affordable. The process begins by completing the FAFSA . Be sure to complete the form by your school or state's deadline.
Federal aid includes grants such as the Pell Grant or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment. Work-study programs place students in part-time positions while enrolled in school. Many students who need additional aid consider student loans. Federal student loans offer a low interest rate, and some students qualify for subsidized interest payments while in school. Many private lenders also offer student loans.
Georgia offers numerous grants and scholarships. The HOPE Scholarship and Zell Miller Award help residents of Georgia pay undergraduate tuition costs. The state identified 17 vocational programs that qualify for free tuition for eligible students. Scholarships also help offset educational costs. Learn about scholarship opportunities below.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Community organizations, churches, employers, and schools often offer scholarships. These awards support postsecondary education by providing funds for school-related costs such as tuition, books, or equipment.
Lewis Center Scholarship Fund
Who Can Apply: Offered by the Home Builders Association of Georgia, this scholarship assists students seeking careers in the homebuilding industry. Applicants submit a statement of career goals and two letters of recommendation along with proof of financial need.
Amount: Varies
Southern Automotive Women's Forum Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship assists women at two-year technical schools who study in a STEM-related field applicable to the automotive industry. Applicants live in Georgia or other eligible states and hold a 2.5 minimum GPA.
Amount: $1,000-$5,000
James D. Eunice Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Awarded by the Community Foundation of Southern Georgia, this scholarship recognizes students with character, leadership, and integrity. Eligible students study at an accredited college or technical school. Academic performance, extracurricular activities, and financial need factor into the award decision.
Amount: Varies
Rob R. and Christel Adams Veterinary Technology Scholarship Fund
Who Can Apply : This scholarship aims to assist individuals with at least one year of work experience as a veterinary assistant. Eligible applicants seek an associate degree in veterinary technology from an accredited program.
Amount : $5,000
Zell Miller Grant
Who Can Apply : This merit-based program offers full tuition for students seeking a certificate or diploma at an eligible Georgia university or college. As a Georgia HOPE state aid program, applicants must meet residency and academic requirements for the HOPE Grant.
Amount : Varies