Online Trade Schools
Find an online trade school program and take the first steps toward a new career.
ONLINE TRADE SCHOOLS COULD PREPARE YOU FOR FAST GROWING CAREERS FASTER THAN A 4 YEAR DEGREE
What Is Trade School?
Trade schools and other vocational programs offer training for practical skills that are for a specific job. Examples include careers like electricians, paralegals and occupational therapy assistants.
Many schools offer short term technical programs of one year or less. These programs culminate in a certificate, diploma or non degree post secondary award. Community colleges also offer vocational programs. These programs may take about two years and culminate with an associate degree.
Can You Attend Programs Online?
Yes, online trade school and vocational training is available. Mobile friendly, many trade programs cater to the at work adult with a busy life.
Distance learning programs are often self paced, so you can set a graduation goal that is right or you. Some may even have tools that help you set a realistic pace and stay motivated to finish your program.
What Programs Are Offered?
Today’s career diplomas cater to a wide range of interests and career paths. Some programs would include residential electrician, plumbing, welding, HVAC, home health aid, carpentry and dental hygienist.
There are many more programs available, some of which may prepare you for one of the fastest growing careers in the US!
Trade School Benefits
Studying at a trade school may prep you for one of about 99 jobs that require higher education and middle skills.
A career oriented degree program may also boost your earnings. On average, people with an associate degree or some college coursework earn more than those with only a high school diploma. The difference in pay goes up to about $496 per month which adds up over a lifetime.
Today’s skilled trade programs cater to a wide range of interests and talents. Many of them offered for fast growing careers, and many available online.
Fast Growing Careers
Many trade and vocational related jobs have fast growth rates. This means there is a high demand for workers to fill positions. So, it may lead to an easier job search for you when it comes time.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $42,680, $20.52 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 63% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 6,100 from ’18 to ’28 |
How to Become A Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops or other structures.
Although most installers need a high school diploma and typically receive on the job training lasting up to 1 year, some candidates take courses at a technical school or community college.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Solar Panel System Sizing and Design
- The Components of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Calculating the Size of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Installing Solar Thermal Heating Systems
Source: BLS
Home Health Aids
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $24,060, $11.57 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 36% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 1,185,800 from ’18 to ’28 |
How To Become A Home Health Aid
Home health aides and personal care aides help people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairment by assisting in their daily living activities.
Home health aides typically need a high school diploma or GED. There are also non degree award programs at community colleges and vocational schools. Those working in certified home health or hospice agencies must complete formal training and pass a standardized test.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Introduction to the Home Health Aide Role
- Therapeutic Communication Skills
- Home Care Procedures
- Nutrition
- Meeting Clients’ Needs
- Law, Ethics, and Confidentiality
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Medical Assistant
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $33,610, $16.16 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 23% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 154,900 from ’18 to ’28 |
How to Become A Medical Assistant
Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, offices of physicians, and other healthcare facilities.
Most medical assistants have post secondary education such as a certificate. Employers today may also want Medical Assistants with a certification. The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) are two of 5 options. Look for programs that will prepare you to sit for a certification.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Law, Ethics, and Confidentiality in Allied Health
- Medical Coding
- Body Systems and Medical Terms
- Clinical Procedures Theory
- Clinical Procedures Lab
Source: BLS
Vet Techs
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $34,420, $16.55 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 19% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 21,100 from ’18 to ’28 |
How To Become A Veterinary Technician
Vet techs do medical tests that help diagnose animals’ injuries and illnesses.
Veterinary technicians must complete a post secondary program in veterinary technology. A vet tech needs a 2 year associates degree, but, a vet assistant couple complete a diploma program. Typically, they must also take an exam to become registered, licensed, or certified, depending on the criteria of the state in which they work.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Animal Anatomy
- Medical Math
- Vet Office Management
- Animal Nutrition
- Reproduction, Genetics, and Aging
Source: BLS
Plumbers
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $53,910, $25.92 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 14% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 68,200 from ’18 to ’28 |
How to Become A Plumber
Plumbers install and repair water, drainage, gas, and other piping systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Plumbers install plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs and toilets, and appliances, such as dishwashers and water heaters.
Although most plumbers learn on the job through an apprenticeship, some start out by attending a technical school. Trade schools offer courses on pipe system design, safety, and tool use. Most states and localities require plumbers to be licensed.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Intro to the Building Trades
- Plumbing and Pipefitting Tools
- Modern Plumbing
- National Standard Plumbing Code
Source: BLS
HVAC & HVACR Techs
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $47,610, $22.89 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 13% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 46,300 from ’18 to ’28 |
HVACR Technicians work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings. These systems are more commonly known as air conditioning. Some HVACR technicians specialize in one or more specific aspects of HVACR, such as radiant heating systems, solar panels, testing and balancing, or commercial refrigeration.
Employers generally prefer applicants with post secondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship. Some states may require technicians to be licensed. Trade schools or community colleges offer programs in HVAC. These programs generally last from 6 months to 2 years and lead to a certificate or an associates degree. Apprenticeship programs usually last 3 to 5 years.
- Refrigeration systems
- HVACR system design and installation
- Electrical systems
- Residential and light commercial HVACR systems
- Commercial refrigeration and HVACR maintenance
Source: BLS
Paralegals
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $50,940, $24.49 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 12% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 39,000 from ’18 to ’28 |
How to Become A Paralegal
Paralegals and legal assistants carry out tasks to support lawyers. This includes maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research, and drafting documents.
Most paralegals and legal assistants have at least an associates degree or a certificate in paralegal studies.
Courses in a Paralegal Program May Include:
- Legal Terminology
- Ethics
- Investigations and Interviews
- Criminal Litigation
- Family Law
- Wills and Estates
Source: BLS
Dental Assistant
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $38,660, $18.59 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 11% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 38,700 from ’18 to ’28 |
How To Become A Dental Assistant
Dental assistants help dental hygienists by providing patient care, take x rays, keep records, and schedule appointments. Dental hygienists are also predicted to grow by 11%!
Some states require assistants to graduate from an accredited program and pass an exam. Most programs are offered by community colleges or vocational schools. Many dental assisting programs take about 1 year to complete and lead to a certificate or diploma.
Courses in a Program May Include:
- Dental Terms
- Cavity Classification and Charting
- Preventive Dentistry and Nutrition
- Infection Control
- Intro to Dentisry
- Dental Law and Ethics
Source: BLS
Health Information Techs
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $42,680, $20.52 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 63% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 6,100 from ’18 to ’28 |
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops or other structures.
Although most installers need a high school diploma and typically receive on-the-job training lasting up to 1 year, some candidates take courses at a technical school or community college
- Solar Panel System Sizing and Design
- The Components of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Calculating the Size of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Installing Solar Thermal Heating Systems
Source: BLS
Electricians
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $24,060, $11.57 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 36% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 1,185,800 from ’18 to ’28 |
How To Become An Electrician
Nursing Assistants
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $42,680, $20.52 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 63% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 6,100 from ’18 to ’28 |
How to Become A Nursing Assistant
Solar photovoltaic (PV) installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops or other structures.
Although most installers need a high school diploma and typically receive on-the-job training lasting up to 1 year, some candidates take courses at a technical school or community college
- Solar Panel System Sizing and Design
- The Components of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Calculating the Size of Solar Thermal Heating Systems
- Installing Solar Thermal Heating Systems
Source: BLS
Pharmacy Tech
| 2018 Median Pay:: | $24,060, $11.57 /hr |
| Job Growth:: | 36% (much faster than avg) |
| New Jobs Expected:: | 1,185,800 from ’18 to ’28 |
How To Become A Pharmacy Technician
Ultimate Medical Academy
- Ultimate Medical Academy is a nonprofit healthcare career school committed to helping you succeed.
- Online programs available in Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, Health & Human Services.
- UMA programs prepare students to sit for relevant certification exams.
Types of Programs
Vocational programs vary in length, format (full time, part time) and award granted. Below is an overview of the major types of programs.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is a kind of hands on training. It partners a student with a licensed trade professional who watches over their work. For example, an electrician or an HVACR tech. Apprenticeships add formal on the job training to other academic instruction. In some cases they also pay a wage.
Many apprenticeships last between two and six years. After this period of time, a person may need to take a licensure exam to be able to work without a supervisor.
Prep for Licensure / Certification
A certification program is often a study guide for a licensure exam. The classes in the program tend to target areas you need to master to pass the exam. And passing the exam may be the way to achieve your certification.
Many certification and pre licensure programs take only a few weeks. But longer ones may take months and may include a supervised experience. One example is a physical therapist assistant (PTA) program. These two year programs often prep you to take the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and PTA licensure.
Diploma or Certificate
Many trade and vocational schools award diplomas. Also known as certificates and non degree awards.
These programs are often short (from a few weeks to a year). They cover classes that prepare you to pursue a job in a specific trade field. Examples would include medical assistant, dental assistant, paralegal, HVAC tech or Vet Assistant.
Associate Degree
Technical schools as well as community colleges also offer two year associate degrees. In general, there are two kinds of associate degree programs. Applied Science and Academic Transfer (AA or AS degrees). Both of these include general education classes and a few basic ones in your major. As a rule, the goal is to help students shave time and expense off a bachelor’s degree program.
Prospective students who want to learn a trade would pursue an Applied science (AAS) program. Like a diploma, it allows students to focus on a specific vocation. Unlike the AA or AS, these programs are often terminal. This means the goal of this program is to prep you to pursue your chosen field when you graduate. Credits are not usually intended to transfer to a bachelors degree.
HOW ARE HANDS ON TRAINING INTEGRATED INTO ONLINE PROGRAMS?
Even if your trade program courses are available online, hands on training may be needed. This training helps to develop skills you can’t pick up in front of a computer screen.The way each program weaves clinical and hands on training varies. But there are at least three common scenarios.
- Hybrid Vocational Programs: In a hybrid vocational program, you take some classes online. Then also attend campus for things like skills labs. The events are part of your syllabus, so you can plan in advance.
- Vocational School Partnerships: Schools may also partner with facilities around the United States. This allows the school to connect you with the hands-on training you need in a suitable local setting.
- Student Choice: Not all schools partner with facilities. Instead they may leave it up to you and your advisor. Your school, in this case, may give the final stamp of approval.
Is Financial Aid Available For Vocational Training?
Yes! Financial aid is available to eligible students.
Grants
While you are earning your career diploma, you may receive Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG).
The Pell Grant is a need based grant for low income students. It is free money that doesn’t need to be repaid. (Some terms may apply). Each year, the amount of a Pell Grant can vary. For the 2019 to 2020 award year, the max is $6,195.
FSEOG Grants are available at schools that take part in the programs. If you qualify, you might receive between $100 and $4,000 a year. The amounts depend on your financial need, when you apply, the amount of other aid you get, and the availability of funds at your school.
To apply for these programs, all you have to do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. In fact, you should fill out the FAFSA before doing anything else.
Scholarships & Loans
Scholarships are another form of financial aid to investigate. Like grants, the money is free and there are many providers. Some come from trade schools themselves, while others are from private sources, agencies etc. Unigo is a great place to find scholarships.
There are also loans available for some vocational programs. Sallie Mae recently rolled out a new loan aimed at helping students enrolled in less than four year degree programs.
Sallie Mae Career Training Smart Option Student Loan®
- For professional training and trade certificate courses (culinary, technical, etc.) at a non degree granting school
- Borrow from $1,000 up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance.
- Competitive interest rates
How to Identify a Good Online School – 6 Things to Look For
Accreditation
An accredited online school meets guidelines for academics and training. This is monitored by a third party agency. When a school is accredited, they are also eligible to take part in federal aid programs. Since not all vocational schools have up to date accreditation, you should check the U.S. Department of Education. They have a list of Nationally Recognized Accrediting Agencies.
Licensure
In many states technical and career colleges must have a license to operate. This license allows them to offer vocational courses and programs within the law. Licensed schools may also provide training that certification boards insist on. If unclear, check which state agency handles educational licensing.
Student Services
A good online school also has student services in place. These services include things like tech support for online students. Some also offer tutoring, financial aid, job placement and access to libraries.
Qualified Faculty
The academic and professional background of the school’s faculty is another indicator of quality. As is how they interact with students. Are the courses taught by someone who has industry knowledge related to your program? Do they have any related training or certifications? Are they accessible? How do you contact them? Do they hold online office hours? Things of this nature are vital to nail down.
Practical Curriculum
Reputable schools should set you up with the know how to help you succeed in your chosen trade. This has a few parts to it. First, all course material should be presented clearly so you are able to easily follow it. Second, the courses you take should be focused on skills that you will need from day to day in your job.
Hands On Experience
Many career schools mix classes with hands on experience. In a quality school, these should be easy enough to arrange and get help with.
51 Online Trade Schools 2020
To help you narrow school search results, we compiled a list of online trade schools based on the highest total number of students taking online programs and courses at schools that offer vocation based degrees, diplomas and certificates. Our methods used data from College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics. All average annual cost numbers includes tuition, living costs, books, and fees minus the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients.
1Cuyahoga Community College District
Cuyahoga Community College is home to 23,440 students who are pursuing Associates and other non degree awards. Of those students 50% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 19%. The average annual cost is $5,047. Medical coding and court reporting are two programs that are offered online. Other programs such as welding, allied health and nursing require on campus classes.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RN | $52,700 | $4,392 | $12,538 | $130 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $45,500 | $3,792 | $11,704 | $121 / month |
| HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT | $29,000 | $2,417 | $NA | NA |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $30,400 | $2,533 | $9,169 | $95 / month |
| LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICES | $33,300 | $2,775 | $9,500 | $99 / month |
2Rio Salado College
Rio Salado College is home to 18,304 students who are pursuing Associates and other non degree awards. Of those students 58% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 14%. The average annual cost is 7,200. Paralegal, dental programs and early childhood management that are are few of the programs offered online.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $40,100 | $3,342 | NA | NA |
| LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICES | $31,500 | $2,625 | $9,531 | $99 / month |
| MENTAL & SOCIAL HEALTH | NA | NA | $13,125 | $136 / month |
3Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is home to 72,006 students who are pursuing Associates and other non degree awards. Of those students 54% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 20%. The average annual cost is 7,025. Paralegal, human services, health information technology that are are few of the programs offered online.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RN | $51,400 | $4,283 | $13,328 | $138 / month |
| MEDICAL ADMIN SERVICES | $24,100 | $2,008 | $11,787 | $122 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $27,800 | $2,317 | $12,488 | $130 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $43,000 | $3,583 | $13,449 | $140 / month |
| ELECTRICAL & POWER TRANSMISSION INSTALLERS | $75,900 | $6,325 | $4,854 | $50 / month |
4Valencia College
Valencia College is home to 46,521 students who are pursuing AS, AA, BS and other non degree awards. Of those students 44% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 46%. The average annual cost is $6,267. MRI Imaging, leadership in healthcare that are are few of the programs offered online, with the exception of lab and clinical practicums.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $46,800 | $3,900 | $10,687 | $111 / month |
| LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICES | $34,000 | $2,833 | $19,293 | $200 / month |
| HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT | $28,800 | $2,400 | $11,000 | $114 / month |
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $28,700 | $2,392 | $14,194 | $147 / month |
| CULINARY ARTS | $26,200 | $2,183 | $14,491 | $150 / month |
5Central Texas College
Central Texas College is home to 16,073 students who are pursuing AS, AA, BS and other non degree awards. Of those students 57% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 12%. The average annual cost is $5,032. A few of the vocational online programs are medical billing and coding, paralegal and child development.
| Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVERAGE | $37,800 – $60,800 | NA | $4,781 | $50/ month |
6Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines Area Community College is home to 23,474 students. DMACC offers over 200 degrees, diplomas and certificates, they partner with online provider Ed2go to offer online certificate programs. Of those students 30% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 28%. The average annual cost is $10,489. A few of the online career training programs include HVACR tech, welder technician, medical assistant and electronic health records specialist.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRECISION METAL WORKING | $29,000 | $2,417 | $9,470 | $98 / month |
| PRACTICAL NURSING | $34,600 | $2,883 | $12,666 | $131 / month |
| VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR | $41,800 | $3,483 | $10,812 | $112 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | NA | NA | $8,850 | $92 / month |
| CULINARY ARTS | $26,500 | $2,208 | $10,156 | $105 / month |
7Central New Mexico Community College
Central New Mexico Community College is home to 23,553 students offering AA, AAS, AS and certificate programs. Of those students 42% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 16%. The average annual cost is $6,559. A few of the online certificate programs include bookkeeping, health information management systems, data center technician and immigration laws, policies and procedures.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RN | $60,300 | $5,025 | $9,567 | $99 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $46,900 | $3,908 | $7,500 | $78 / month |
| ELECTRICAL & POWER TRANSMISSION INSTALLERS | $34,700 | $2,892 | NA | NA |
| LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICE | $33,000 | $2,750 | $5,800 | $60 / month |
| HVACR | $32,400 | $2,700 | $5,833 | $61 / month |
8Metropolitan Community College Area
Metropolitan Community College Area is home to 14,913 students offering AA, AAS, AS and certificate programs. Of those students 30% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 25%. The average annual cost is $4,066. A few of the online AAS AND certificate programs include probation and supervision, health care manager, health information management technician and bookkeeping.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL & POWER TRANSMISSION INSTALLERS | $49,000 | $4,083 | $7,314 | $76 / month |
| RN | $54,100 | $4,508 | $6,334 | $66 / month |
| DESIGN AND APPLIED ARTS | $23,100 | $1,925 | $9,995 | $104 / month |
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $30,600 | $2,550 | $7,664 | $80 / month |
| HEALTH AND MEDICAL ADMIN SERVICES | $31,400 | $2,617 | $10,593 | $110 / month |
9Columbus State Community College
Columbus State Community College is home to 27,343 students offering AA, AAS, AS, ATS and certificate programs. Of those students 35% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 19%. The average annual cost is $5,384.
| Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVERAGE | $22,600 | NA | $10,750 | $112/ month |
10Amarillo College
Amarillo College is home to 9,854 students. The school offers primarily AAS and certificate programs. Of those students 50% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 27%. The average annual cost is $4,072. Some programs can be taken entirely online such as an AAS in radiation therapy. The school also works with Ed2Go, an online trade school partner, for many online course options from HVACR to Medical assisting.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR TECH | $31,300 | $2,608 | $7,000 | $73 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $41,400 | $3,450 | $16,000 | $166 / month |
| DENTAL SUPPORT SERVICES | $47,800 | $3,983 | $12,500 | $130 / month |
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $45,700 | $3,808 | NA | NA |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $42,900 | $3,575 | $10,303 | $107 / month |
11Broward College
Broward College is home to 40,784 students. The school offers primarily AAS and certificate programs. Of those students 30% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 38%. The average annual cost is $9,505.
| Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVERAGE | $24,600 – $77,400 | NA | $5,712 – $13,776 | $59 – 143/ month |
12Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College is home to 50,929 students. Of those students 24% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 27%. The average annual cost is $10,415. VCC primarily offers Associates of Applied Science programs as well as Career Studies Certificates. Online certificates include bookkeeping, early childhood development and cyber security.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DENTAL SUPPORT | $69,300 | $5,775 | $20,000 | $208 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $57,000 | $4,750 | $21,000 | $218 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $41,800 | $3,483 | $16,500 | $171 / month |
| VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR | $37,100 | $3,092 | $12,000 | $125 / month |
| COMPUTER SCIENCE | $34,500 | $2,875 | $10,750 | $112 / month |
13Austin Community College District
Austin Community College District is home to 40,799 students. Of those students 29% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 10%. The average annual cost is $8,175. ACC associate degrees, university transfer credits and career technical certificates. Online programs include criminal justice, real estate, web development and geographic information systems.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACCOUNTING SERVICES | $62,700 | $5,225 | NA | NA |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $61,400 | $5,117 | $11,875 | $123 / month |
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $51,000 | $4,250 | NA | NA |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $44,100 | $3,675 | $7,700 | $80 / month |
| DRAFTING ENGINEERING TECH | $42,100 | $3,508 | $7,257 | $75 / month |
14St Petersburg College
St Petersburg College is home to 29,183 students. Of those students 58% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 37%. The average annual cost is $7,247. This school offers more than 110 degree and certificate programs, as well as many high demand, high skill workforce certifications. Online programs include Vet Tech, medical coder, fire science and health information technology.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HEALTH AND MEDICAL ADMIN SERVICES | NA | NA | $13,750 | $143 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $39,700 | $3,308 | $14,064 | $146 / month |
| DENTAL SUPPORT | NA | NA | $14,250 | $148 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $29,600 | $2,467 | $15,511 | $161 / month |
| RN | $56,200 | $4,683 | $16,435 | $171 / month |
15Central Piedmont Community College
Central Piedmont Community College is home to 18,824 students. Of those students 57% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 23%. The average annual cost is $6,101. This school offers nearly 300 degrees, certificates, diplomas, and non credit continuing education programs. Online programs include construction management, fire protection, HIT and game design.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DENTAL SUPPORT | $47,900 | $3,993 | $6,250 | $65 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $47,200 | $3,933 | $6,250 | $65 / month |
| COMPUTER SCIENCE | $37,300 | $3,108 | $6,250 | $65 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $29,600 | $2,467 | $6,250 | $65 / month |
| RN | $56,200 | $4,683 | $6,250 | $65 / month |
16Lone Star College System
Lonestar College is home to 73,499 students who are pursuing various AAS and other non degree awards. Of those students 39% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 21%. The average annual cost is $6,940. Accreditation Info.
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RN | $60,100 | $5,008 | $9,000 | $93 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $54,700 | $4,558 | $9,000 | $93 / month |
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $45,600 | $3,800 | $12,030 | $125 / month |
| FIRE PROTECTION | $40,700 | $3,392 | NA | NA |
| PRACTICAL NURSING & NURSE ASSISTANT | $38,800 | $3,233 | $13,800 | $143 / month |
17Tarrant County College
Tarrant County College is home to 51,100 students who are pursuing various AAS and other non degree awards. Of those students 23% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 16%. The average annual cost is $6,303. Many of the non degree programs carry specialized program specific accreditation. The school offers everything from automotive technology, medical assistant programs, and HVAC to welding and vet tech..
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEDICAL ASSISTING | $58,700 | $4,892 | $12,305 | $128 / month |
| DENTAL SUPPORT | $56,300 | $4,692 | $18,988 | $197 / month |
| RN | $56,000 | $4,667 | $10,626 | $110 / month |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $54,100 | $4,508 | $10,033 | $104 / month |
| FIRE PROTECTION | $54,000 | $4,500 | NA | NA |
18Johnson County Community College
Johnson County Community College is home to 18,373 students. Of those students 31% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 27%. The average annual cost is $12,255. The online trade school portion of the college offers many online programs including, nursing aide, vet tech, construction, and HVAC certifications..
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRACTICAL NURSING | $30,500 | $2,542 | $8,000 | $83 / month |
| GROUND TRANSPORT | $57,500 | $4,792 | NA | NA |
| ALLIED HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC & TREATMENT PROFESSIONS | $40,000 | $3,333 | $4,875 | $51 / month |
| DESIGN & APPLIED ARTS | $27,100 | $2,258 | $11,500 | $119 / month |
| RN | $47,500 | $3,958 | $10,791 | $112 / month |
19Lake Region State College
Lake Region State College is home to 2,072 students who are pursuing various AAS and other non degree awards. Of those students 88% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 44%. The average annual cost is $9,926. The school offers many online programs including, nursing assistant, medical assistant, wind technician, and automotive mechanics..
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $47,300 | $3,942 | $4,750 | $49 / month |
| RN | $56,200 | $4,683 | $14,859 | $154 / month |
20College of Southern Nevada
College of Southern Nevada is home to 34,169 students. Of those students 47% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 11%. The average annual cost is $6,918. The school offers many online programs including, casino management, criminal justice, early childhood education, and medical transcription..
| Top Vocation Programs | Median Earnings After Grad | Monthly Earnings | Median Total Debt | Monthly Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCIENCE TECHS | $23,600 | $1,967 | $8,000 | $83 / month |
| RN | $70,100 | $5,842 | $12,180 | $126 / month |
| CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CORRECTIONS | $29,300 | $2,442 | $9,500 | $99 / month |
21San Joaquin Delta College
San Joaquin Delta College is home to 18,209. Of those students 48% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 29%. The average annual cost is $10,066. The school offers online programs including medical transcription, medical billing and medical assistant. .
22South Texas College
South Texas College is home to 31,949 students. Of those students 27% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 28%. The average annual cost is $2,096. The school offers online programs including criminal justice, accounting, computer science and administration of early childhood programs.
23Florida South Western State College
Florida SouthWestern State College is home to 16,556 students who are pursuing various AAS and other non degree awards. Of those students 38% are enrolled in 100% online programs or are at least taking some courses online. The grad rate at this school is 34%. The average annual cost is $8,664. The school offers online programs including early childhood education, criminal justice technology and accounting technology.