NY School Directory

Trade Schools in New York

Browse 48 accredited trade schools and vocational training programs in New York

48

Schools

16

Cities

15

Trade Programs

Trade Schools in New York: Programs, Costs & Outlook

New York has one of the largest concentrations of trade schools and apprenticeship programs in the country, spread across NYC, Long Island, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany. The state combines union-backed apprenticeships in construction trades with private career colleges in healthcare, IT, and beauty — giving students more pathways than almost any other state.

NY's construction pipeline (driven by NYC infrastructure, Hudson Yards-style projects, and a statewide push to repair aging utilities) has created persistent demand for electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, and welders. Outside the city, healthcare and CDL training dominate enrollment, with employers like Northwell, Mount Sinai, and major regional hospitals hiring directly out of programs.

Most In-Demand Trades in New York

Based on hiring activity, employer demand, and program enrollment in NY.

How Much Does Trade School Cost in New York?

Typical range

$6,000–$22,000

Total tuition

Listed school avg.

$12,017

Across 48 schools

Schools listed

48

In 16 cities

See our full trade school cost guide for state-by-state breakdowns and a deeper look at how to fund your training.

New York Licensing & Certification Requirements

Trade licensing in NY varies by program. Here's what you'll typically need to legally work in each field after training:

TradeNY Requirement
ElectricianLicensed at the city/county level (NYC requires Master Electrician licensure through DOB)
PlumberNYC requires Master Plumber license; upstate licensing varies by municipality
HVAC TechnicianEPA 608 federally; NYC requires DOB refrigeration certificate for larger systems
CDLClass A/B issued by NY DMV; NYC adds Hazmat fingerprinting for tanker work
Cosmetology1,000 hours minimum + NY State Board exam

Major Employers Hiring Trade Graduates in NY

Con EdisonNorthwell HealthMTANYC DOB-licensed contractorsTurner Construction

Frequently Asked Questions: Trade School in New York

How long does trade school take in New York?

Most trade school programs in New York take between 6 weeks (CDL) and 24 months (electrician, HVAC, vet tech). Healthcare programs like medical assistant typically run 9-12 months. Union apprenticeships run 4-5 years but pay you while you train.

How much does trade school cost in New York?

Trade school in New York typically costs $6,000-$22,000 depending on the program. Public community colleges (CUNY, SUNY) are at the low end; private career colleges in NYC are at the high end. Most programs accept federal financial aid (Pell Grants, federal loans) and many accept GI Bill benefits.

Do New York trade schools accept federal financial aid?

Most accredited trade schools in NY accept federal financial aid. Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov to see what you qualify for. Pell Grants can cover up to $7,395/year and do not need to be repaid.

Trade Schools in Bronx, NY

Trade Schools in Brooklyn, NY

Trade Schools in Manhattan, NY

Trade Schools in Long Island City, NY

Trade Schools in New York, NY

🏫

Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)

199 Chambers St, New York, NY 10007

MedicalCulinaryIT
Public Community College

$4,800

N/A students

🏫

Christine Valmy International School for Esthetics, Skin Care & Makeup

1501 Broadway Suite 700, New York, NY 10036

Cosmetology
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

City College of New York - CDL Training Program

160 Convent Ave, New York, NY 10031

CDL
Public Technical School

N/A

N/A students

🏫

Institute of Culinary Education (ICE)

225 Liberty St Floor 3, New York, NY 10281

Culinary
Private Career College

$42,504

N/A students

🏫

Mandl School - The College of Allied Health

254 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019

Medical
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

Medical Training Institute of New York

211 E 43rd St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017

MedicalDentalPharmacy Tech
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

Mildred Elley - New York Campus

25 Broadway Floor 16, New York, NY 10004

Medical
Private Career College

$15,381

N/A students

🏫

New Age Training

145 West 30th St 8th Floor, New York, NY 10001

MedicalDentalPharmacy Tech +1 more
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

New York Institute of Medical Careers

312 W 36th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018

MedicalPharmacy Tech
Private Career College

$849

N/A students

🏫

New York Medical Career Training Center - Manhattan

500 8th Ave Suite 5N, New York, NY 10018

MedicalPharmacy Tech
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

New York City District Council of Carpenters Training Center

395 Hudson St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014

WeldingCarpentry
Public Technical School

$0

N/A students

🏫

Pacific College of Health and Science

110 William St 19th Floor, New York, NY 10038

Massage
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

School of Cooperative Technical Education (Coop Tech)

321 E 96th St, New York, NY 10128

WeldingElectricalPlumbing +2 more
Public Technical School

$0

N/A students

🏫

Swedish Institute College of Health Sciences

226 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001

MedicalMassage
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

🏫

The Refrigeration Institute

545 8th Ave 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018

HVAC
Private Career College

N/A

N/A students

Trade Schools in Orchard Park, NY

Trade Schools in Albany, NY

Trade Schools in Staten Island, NY

Trade Schools in Rochester, NY

Trade Schools in Tonawanda, NY

Trade Schools in Queens, NY

Trade Schools in Whitestone, NY

Trade Schools in Garden City, NY

Trade Schools in Buffalo, NY

Trade Schools in Williamsville, NY

Trade Schools in Troy, NY

How to Choose a Trade School in New York

With 48 options to compare, choosing the right trade school takes some research. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating programs in NY:

  • Accreditation: Make sure the school is accredited by a recognized agency. Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards and may be required for financial aid eligibility.
  • Program length and schedule: Trade programs can range from a few weeks to two years. Consider whether full-time, part-time, or evening classes fit your situation.
  • Cost and financial aid: Compare tuition costs and ask about scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Many trade schools in New York accept federal financial aid.
  • Job placement rates: Ask schools about their graduation and job placement rates. Strong placement numbers suggest the program has good industry connections.
  • Hands-on training: The best trade schools emphasize practical, real-world experience alongside classroom instruction.