Vocational Trade Schools in Alabama
Why Choose Trade Schools?
Many high-paying, fast-growing career fields do not require a four-year degree. Employers often seek candidates with job-specific skills and industry certifications. Trade schools in Alabama provide rigorous and relevant training in a variety of career fields.Students often choose vocational schools in order to enter the workforce sooner. Curricula vary by program, but learners develop career-specific skills and knowledge. Many programs also lead to industry certifications. While the time necessary to graduate varies, most students complete their technical education within two years. According to 2009 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), students who earn an occupational scredential are more likely to work in a career related to their studies than learners who obtain an academic credential.
Most technical colleges in Alabama deliver programs that incorporate hands-on training. Instructors often work closely with local employers to provide internship or cooperative education opportunities. Even online vocational programs typically include the application of practical skills.
Alabama vocational schools offer training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and business. Common vocational programs include dental hygiene, pharmacy technician, hospitality management, heating and cooling, and automotive repair. Most technical schools admit both recent high school graduates and working professionals who intend to change careers.
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Trade Schools in Alabama
The rankings below offer a snapshot of the best vocational schools in Alabama. However, students should consider their individual needs when selecting a school. Learners should choose an institution and program that aligns with their educational and career goals. Other important factors include cost and degree-completion time.
Gadsden State Community College
Gadsden, AL- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,599
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Wallace State Community College
- Hanceville, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,985
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Northwest-Shoals Community College
- Muscle Shoals, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,512
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Shelton State Community College
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,201
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Northeast Alabama Community College
- Rainsville, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,981
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Bishop State Community College
- Mobile, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,870
- Out-of-state$7,740
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,846
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Jefferson State Community College
- Birmingham, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,711
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Trenholm State Community College
- Montgomery, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,042
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Lurleen B. Wallace Community College
- Andalusia, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,767
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Calhoun Community College
- Tanner, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,315
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Coastal Alabama Community College
- Bay Minette, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,535
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Lawson State Community College
- Birmingham, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,375
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College
- Huntsville, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate41%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled789
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Enterprise State Community College
- Enterprise, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,804
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Union State Community College
- Wadley, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,655
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
J. F. Ingram State Technical College
- Deatsville, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$4,716
- Out-of-state$4,716
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled485
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Bevill State Community College
- Jasper, AL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,192
- Out-of-state$8,384
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,787
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
- Phenix City, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,592
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Snead State Community College
- Boaz, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,237
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
Reid State Technical College
- Evergreen, AL
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$3,930
- Out-of-state$7,860
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled489
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
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Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Accrediting agencies provide an impartial quality check of a school’s academic and career preparation programs. Vocational schools in Alabama can receive accreditation from the Southern Association for Colleges and Schools Council on Occupational Education. Institutions can also seek accreditation from a national accrediting agency that focuses on trade and career preparation, such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Additionally, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission awards accreditation to schools that provide distance education programs. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the Department of Education maintain online databases of recognized accrediting agencies. Learners can also use this list of the best online institutions of 2020 to select a school that fits their needs.
The accreditation process includes a thorough review of the school’s curriculum standards, faculty credentials, and student success. Agencies often consider the job placements of graduates and whether the institution’s programs prepare learners to succeed in their chosen profession. Many vocational schools also work with national certification agencies to align their curricula to industry certification requirements.
In addition to institutional accreditation, learners can look for programmatic accreditation. Individual programs may receive accreditation from field-specific agencies, such as the American Council for Construction Education, the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. These organizations ensure each program’s curriculum meets industry standards for training and education.
Although accreditation is a voluntary process, all schools must obtain a state license to serve students. The Private School Licensure Division of the Alabama Community College System authorizes schools to educate Alabama students through on-campus and distance programs. The licensing process involves a review of the school’s academic requirements to ensure its educational programs meet set standards.
Programs that lead to state licensure should also hold authorization from the appropriate state agency. For example, practical nursing programs in the state should hold recognition from the Alabama Board of Nursing.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Many trade schools in Alabama offer programs that lead to positions in high-growth career fields. Graduates often earn above-average salaries and enjoy high levels of job security. The state’s economic and industrial recruitment efforts impact the availability of certain trade programs.
For example, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce, Alabama ranks among the top states for aerospace and aviation engineers. Projections Central projects employment for aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians to increase 37.9% and 35.7%, respectively, in Alabama from 2016 to 2026.
Salary potential for graduates of technical schools in Alabama depends on the individual’s industry, training, and experience. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), avionics technicians earn a median annual salary of $59,120 nationally and $54,410 in Alabama.
Prospective students can explore employment projections from the BLS to understand their career options. Recent data from the BLS projects healthcare positions to comprise a large portion of jobs created from 2018 to 2028. Users on the BLS website can also research each occupation’s median salary and top-paying industries.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Many vocational schools in Alabama work in tandem with workforce development programs to help industry partners develop their workforce. Ambulatory healthcare services is one of the state’s top industries, according to the BLS, and trade school programming in the state includes several medical training opportunities. Alabama is also home to large automotive manufacturing facilities and aerospace and aviation companies. See below for several popular vocational programs at technical colleges in Alabama.
- 1
Paramedic
Paramedics provide advanced medical care outside of hospital settings. Paramedics often provide the first level of intervention after a medical emergency or traumatic injury. Paramedics assess each patient’s condition, provide first aid or life support, and transport the patient in an ambulance to a medical facility.
Projections Central projects a 13.7% increase in employment opportunities for paramedics in Alabama from 2016 to 2026. According to BLS data, about 3,780 paramedics and EMTs currently work in the state. Paramedic positions require1-2 years of training, and students must already have a valid advanced EMT license.
To qualify for work as paramedics, graduates must obtain a paramedic license from the Alabama Department of Public Health and pass the paramedic exam from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. To ensure they are eligible to pursue licensure, students should select an accredited paramedic training program.
- 2
Dental Hygiene
Dental hygienists work primarily in the dentists’ offices, providing patient care during routine dental exams. Hygienists often conduct cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, take X-rays, and assess oral health. They discuss treatment plans and help educate patients about proper brushing and flossing.
Many dental hygienist preparation programs require two years of education and lead to an associate degree. These programs combine classroom instruction with clinical and laboratory training. The BLS reports that 3,070 dental hygienists work in Alabama and projects the occupation to increase 17.9% from 2016 to 2026. Alabama requires hygienists to hold a state license from the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama. This guide provides information about dental hygienist schools and curricula.
- 3
Paralegal Studies
Paralegals and legal assistants work with licensed attorneys to manage law offices, organize legal paperwork, and research laws and opinions. Projections Central projects employment for paralegals to increase 13.7% from 2016 to 2026. Alabama paralegals earn an average annual salary of $53,450.
Some paralegals complete only on-the-job training, while others earn a four-year degree in legal studies. Many paralegals complete certificate programs to quickly enter the workforce.Certificate programs in the field help learners develop skills including conducting online legal research and writing court documents. Some paralegal programs take only a few months to complete, while others require a year or longer.
Alabama maintains no licensing requirements for paralegals. However, industry certifications demonstrate knowledge and expertise to prospective employers. This resource provides additional information about paralegal training.
- 4
Medical Assistant Programs
Projections Central projects employment of medical assistants in Alabama to increase 24.7% from 2016 to 2026. This growth is likely due in part to the anticipated increase in patient volume. Medical assistants work primarily in physicians’ offices, where they record vital signs and take patient histories. These professionals may also handle administrative tasks, such as completing insurance forms with medical codes and managing electronic health records.
Some medical assistants specialize in optometry or podiatry. Training for this position typically takes 1-2 years and may culminate in a certificate or diploma. Medical assistants can pursue industry certifications, such as certified medical assistant or certified clinical medical assistant credential.
According to the BLS, medical assistants in Alabama earn an average salary of $34,160 per year. This guide includes information about accredited medical assistant certificate programs.
- 5
Construction Management
Construction managers oversee building projects, from the planning stage through completion. These professionals schedule workers, order supplies, and manage budgets. Projections Central projects a 7.5% employment growth for construction management occupations in Alabama. Construction managers in the state earn an average annual salary of $104,120, according to the BLS.
Several technical schools in Alabama offer building construction programs. These two-year programs lead to an associate degree and help learners develop the skills necessary to enter the construction field or advance their career. Courses typically include reading blueprints, workplace safety, contracting and construction law, and construction estimating.
Construction managers can demonstrate their expertise through industry certifications from the Construction Management Association of America and the American Institute of Contractors. Alabama requires construction managers to hold a general contractor license from the State Licensing Board for General Contractors. This page includes information about the best construction management programs.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Trade schools in Alabama offer high-quality educational programs that typically cost less than four-year degrees. According to NCES data, the average cost of tuition and fees at four-year public universities in Alabama was $9,827 for the 2017-18 academic year, while tuition and fees at two-year schools in the state averaged $3,243 for the same time period.
The Alabama Community College System includes 24 schools, with campus locations throughout the state. Learners at two-year institutions in Alabama can pursue certificates or associate degrees, and they often save on costs related to housing and transportation. Additionally, some schools offer distance education options, which can further reduce costs.
Federal and state financial aid programs can help defray the cost of career training and education. Learners should complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal funding. Trade school students can qualify for need-based aid, such as the Pell Grant, which offers up to $6,345 for the 2020-21 academic year.
The Alabama Commission on Higher Education administers several state financial aid programs, such as the Alabama Student Assistance Program, which delivers $300-$5,000 per academic year to eligible students. Unlike loans, these awards do not require repayment.
Learners can also apply for scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition, books, and equipment. Students can also consider federal student loans, some of which offer deferred interest charges.
Scholarships for Trade School Students
In addition to grants, learners can apply for scholarships to help fund their education. The scholarships below are available to students attending trade schools in Alabama. Learners can contact their school’s financial aid office for information about institutional scholarships. Students can also pursue scholarship opportunities from civic organizations, employers, and philanthropic organizations.
Alabama Home Builders Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This award supports Alabama residents pursuing a construction-related program at an accredited junior college, university, or technical school in Alabama. The scholarship committee considers financial need, and past recipients may reapply.
Amount: Varies
Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions
Who Can Apply: Students enrolled in career entry-level, degree-granting programs in any health discipline can apply for this award. Learners must be attending a participating school in Alabama. Applicants must submit a resume and one-page essay on their career goals.
Amount: $1,000
Baptist Health Care Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Baptist Health employees and their families can apply for the family scholarship program. The award supports students seeking postsecondary education in an allied health field. Based in Montgomery, Alabama, Baptist Health maintains facilities throughout Central Alabama.
Amount: $1,000
E.L. Gibson Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Administered by Enterprise State Community College, this fund supports students seeking a degree in an allied health field, such as respiratory therapy, nursing, or radiology. Applicants must live in Coffee County or the surrounding region.
Amount: Varies
Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Scholarships
Who Can Apply: These awards support Alabama high school seniors from Jefferson and Tuscaloosa Counties. Applicants must plan to continue their education in a vocational or college program. The company awards 10 scholarships each year, with five reserved for the dependents of Mercedes-Benz team members.
Amount: $2,000
Additional Education and Career Resources
FAQ About Vocational Schools in Alabama
Can I go to trade school online?
Yes, many trade and vocational programs offer online learning opportunities.These programs require excellent time-management skills and self-sufficiency. However, online programs offer greater flexibility than on-campus options, which can be ideal for working professionals.
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Federal and state financial aid is available to students attending accredited vocational schools in Alabama. However, learners at programs that do not meet minimum length requirements may not be eligible for aid.
Are scholarships available for vocational students?
Yes, many schools, civic organizations, and charitable organizations offer scholarships for students pursuing a trade or vocational education. This guide includes several examples.
Can trade school credits transfer?
Learners can often transfer credits from trade or vocational schools toward a two-year or four-year degree. Some vocational schools maintain articulation agreements with community colleges and universities.