Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
Why Choose Trade School?
Trade school students acquire career-ready technical skills by earning certificates, diplomas, and degrees. Trade schools provide a pathway to lucrative and in-demand careers in fields like plumbing, robotics, cybersecurity, and auto repair.
Career and technical education (CTE) blends experiential learning and classroom lectures. Students in New Jersey can begin exploring careers as early as middle school to see if a particular field grabs their interest.
At the secondary level, students in New Jersey can take vocational education at comprehensive high schools. New Jersey also operates a unique system of secondary county vocational-technical schools that integrate academics and vocational training focused on career clusters.
At trade schools in New Jersey, students can pursue short-term certificates, one-year diplomas, and two-year associate degrees.
Vocational education continues to grow in the Garden State. For the 2023 fiscal year, New Jersey received approximately $28,875,894 in CTE funding.
Read on to learn more about vocational schools in New Jersey.
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Best Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
Camden County College
Blackwood, NJ- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,330
- Out-of-state$3,330
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,735
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College at Burlington County
- Mount Laurel, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,806
- Out-of-state$5,548
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,439
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Raritan Valley Community College
- Branchburg, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,088
- Out-of-state$5,088
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,793
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Bergen Community College
- Paramus, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,224
- Out-of-state$7,602
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled12,968
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Passaic County Community College
- Paterson, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,260
- Out-of-state$9,300
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,497
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Mercer County Community College
- West Windsor, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,434
- Out-of-state$6,702
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,480
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
County College of Morris
- Randolph, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,220
- Out-of-state$11,790
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,488
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Sussex County Community College
- Newton, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,040
- Out-of-state$6,720
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,318
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College of South Jersey - Cumberland
- Vineland, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,960
- Out-of-state$7,920
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,989
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester Campus
- Sewell, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,080
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,953
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Union College of Union County, New Jersey
- Cranford, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,562
- Out-of-state$10,562
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,181
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Hudson County Community College
- Jersey City, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,152
- Out-of-state$10,560
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,202
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Brookdale Community College
- Lincroft, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,605
- Out-of-state$8,355
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,489
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Ocean County College
- Toms River, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,170
- Out-of-state$6,750
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Essex County College
- Newark, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,590
- Out-of-state$7,590
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,434
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Atlantic Cape Community College
- Mays Landing, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,796
- Out-of-state$7,296
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,048
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Middlesex College
- Edison, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$5,472
- Out-of-state$5,472
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,142
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Warren County Community College
- Washington, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus
- In-State$5,100
- Out-of-state$5,700
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,243
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$12,082
- Out-of-state$20,042
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$18,432
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled21,007
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Salem Community College
- Carneys Point, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,210
- Out-of-state$6,960
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled996
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment37%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
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Explore our rankings methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.
FAQ About Vocational Trade Schools in New Jersey
What do trade schools offer?
Trade schools in New Jersey provide certificates, associate degrees, and apprenticeships to more than 32,000 secondary school students and 5,000 adult students.
How much does a trade school cost?
Trade schools receive funding from local taxes and state and federal aid, which makes programming free to local residents. Learners pursuing additional training at two-year community and technical colleges pay low tuition rates that vary by program.
What is the difference between a trade school and a college?
Trade schools prepare learners for specific technical jobs after graduation. Colleges take a more comprehensive approach by incorporating general education courses.
Can trade school credits transfer?
Possibly. Some trade schools maintain articulation agreements with local two-year and four-year colleges to facilitate a seamless transition. However, credits from unaccredited schools do not transfer.
Accreditation and Licensing for Trade Schools
Students should verify that their desired school holds accreditation. To receive accreditation, institutions undergo a comprehensive third-party review process to ensure they meet rigorous standards. The review process considers factors like faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student outcomes.
Only students who attend an accredited school can apply for federal financial aid. Furthermore, accredited schools typically accept transfer credits only from other accredited institutions. Employers often vet students to ensure their degree comes from an accredited school.
Tech schools in New Jersey hold either regional or national accreditation. Degree-granting schools in the United States hold regional accreditation from one of six agencies, and each accredits schools within a designated region. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education regionally accredits schools in New Jersey.
National accreditation applies to for-profit vocational institutions and trade schools. More than 650 trade and vocational schools across the country receive national accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Some organizations award programmatic accreditation in specific fields. Automotive programs, for instance, hold accreditation from the ASE Education Foundation. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredits online programs at trade schools.
Trade schools in New Jersey need a license to operate. Licensure signifies that a school meets certain minimum requirements. The New Jersey Department of Education provides license information for vocational schools and the state’s community colleges.
Career and Salary Outlook for Trade School Graduates
Trade school graduates can expect to earn a competitive salary that varies depending on their chosen industry, experience, and where they live.
As students investigate career options, they should factor in career and salary outlook. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a great resource with current information on median annual salaries, entry-level job requirements, and job growth projections.
Trades with strong projected growth rates include electricians, nursing assistants, registered nurses, and computer support specialists. All of these jobs pay well and do not necessarily require a bachelor’s degree.
Trades feature prominently on the BLS’ list of jobs with high projected growth rates between 2023 and 2033.
What Kinds of Trade School Programs Are Available?
Vocational schools in New Jersey offer more than 450 programs for high school students and adults. These programs train learners for jobs in the state’s key industries, including advanced manufacturing; health sciences; logistics and transportation; and science, technology, engineering, and math.
The following section highlights four common trade school programs.
- 1
Dental Hygienist Schools
Working under the guidance of licensed dentists, dental hygienists perform oral healthcare by taking X-rays, cleaning teeth, screening for diseases, and educating patients about dental hygiene.
To enter this profession in New Jersey, candidates must complete at least a certificate or associate degree from an accredited dental hygiene program in the U.S. or Canada. It takes about two years to complete a dental hygiene program.
Graduates must pass an exam administered by the Commission on Dental Competency Assessments, which is required for licensure by the New Jersey Board of Dentistry. The board also requires the state Jurisprudence Exam.
According to the BLS, dental hygienists earned a median annual salary of $87,530 in 2023 with a 9% projected job growth rate between 2023 and 2033.
For more information about dental hygienist schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 2
Mechanic Schools
Automotive and engine technology programs in New Jersey lead to a one-year General Service Technician certificate or two-year associate degree. Students can begin their studies in secondary school, transferring credit to a postsecondary program.
New Jersey’s automotive programs hold certification from ASE Education Foundation. Many employers require that their technicians complete ASE certification.
According to the BLS, auto mechanics earned a median annual salary of $47,770 in 2023.
For more information about mechanic schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 3
Paralegal Schools
Paralegals support lawyers by interviewing witnesses, conducting case research, drafting legal documents, and filing court briefs. They must have at least a certificate in paralegal studies or an associate degree to enter the field.
While New Jersey does not require licensure for paralegals, some employers may want new hires to complete paralegal certification from an organization like the National Federation of Paralegal Associations.
According to the BLS, paralegals earned a median annual salary of $60,970 in 2023.
For more information about paralegal schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
- 4
Radiology Technician Schools
Radiology technologists use X-rays and CT scans to take images for diagnostic purposes. To practice in New Jersey, these professionals must complete a two-year diagnostic radiography program approved by the state’s Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners or the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology.
Learners must pass the American Registry for Radiologic Technology exam or a board-approved equivalent once they complete a program. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection awards licensure in this field.
According to the BLS, radiology technologists earned a median annual salary of $76,020 in 2023 with a 6% projected job growth between 2023 and 2033.
For more information about radiology technician schools, visit Accredited Schools Online.
Financial Aid for Trade School Students
Students can attend secondary trade schools in New Jersey for free, as these schools receive funding from local taxes and state and federal aid. Learners pursuing postsecondary education at a two-year community and technical college generally pay less tuition than they would in a four-year academic program. Students at these two-year institutions qualify for scholarships, loans, and grants.
To qualify for federal financial aid, students must complete the FAFSA. Scholarships do not require repayment, while federal loans offer low interest rates.
Prospective students with demonstrated financial need may qualify for the federal Pell Grant, which pays for undergraduate education and does not require repayment. Students can check with the school they plan to attend to find out if its students can receive federal student aid.
The following section provides more details about scholarships to pay for vocational schools in New Jersey.
Scholarship for Trade School Students
Many organizations offer scholarships for students based on financial need, academic merit, or identity. The following section lists several scholarships to help learners pay for tuition at tech schools in New Jersey.
Community College Opportunity Grant
Who Can Apply: New Jersey students enrolled at one of the state’s 18 community colleges may qualify for free tuition. Applicants must enroll in at least six credits per semester in any program, meet income requirements, and complete the FAFSA.
Amount: Varies
New Jersey Governor’s Industry Vocations Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Women and people of color planning to pursue a certificate or degree in a construction-related field can apply. Applicants must earn admission to one of the state’s vocational tech colleges and qualify for financial aid.
Amount: $2,000
SkillsUSA
Who Can Apply: An organization for CTE students, SkillsUSA and its partners offer several scholarships. These scholarships pay for college/postsecondary career training in fields such as HVACR, culinary arts, and homebuilding. Application requirements vary.
Amount: $1,000-$3,000
Associated General Contractors Scholarships
Who Can Apply: This scholarship is open to students planning to enroll in an accredited construction or engineering bachelor’s program. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or documented permanent residents.
Amount: $2,500
Education Matters Scholarship
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens qualify for this scholarship if they plan to attend an accredited postsecondary institution. Applicants must submit an essay outlining why education matters to them.
Amount: $5,000
