In this article, I will explain the cost of trade school, including the primary costs such as tuition as well as all relevant fees, tools, housing, and certification exams.
Whatever your choice of career may be, be it healthcare, construction, or automotive repair, having a grasp of the overall cost of trade school allows you to calculate your plans accurately and decide in a well-informed manner regarding your education and prospects.
All About Trade School Cost
Trade schools, often referred to as vocational schools or technical colleges, provide education that is specific to certain trades or careers.
For instance, if you want to be a plumber, a welder, electrician or a medical technician, there are schools that will help you pursue those professions and they provide a clear cost effective career path.
Like most educational institutions, vocational schools have their own pricing parameters based on geographical location, duration and the institute’s reputation.
In this article, we will discuss the average expenditure related to trade schools, possible financing options and highlight the comparison between trade and conventional colleges.
Average Trade School Costs
The average trade school tuition costs typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the program, location, and other factors. Programs that last between six and twelve months are usually lower costing, averaging anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000. More extensive programs that take the full two years to complete usually range between $15,000 to $20,000.
Below is a breakdown of the average cost according to the program’s length and the type of school.
Short-term Programs (6 months to 1 year)
Cosmetology, welding, and HVAC are some short-term programs that can be completed within a year, and they are reasonably priced. You can expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000 for certificate programs.
Long-term Programs (2 years)
If you want to study medical assisting, electrical work, or plumbing, expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000, based on the complexity and length of the program.
Private vs. Public Trade Schools
Private institutions tend to charge a lot more than community colleges and public trade schools, which have lower tuition rates. This is because community colleges receive funding from the government. Private institutions may charge a lot, but they also provide dedicated resources and specialized programs.
Additional Considerations
Undoubtedly, tuition is the largest single expense when attending a trade school, however, there are other additional costs that should be taken into consideration.
Supplies
Aside from class and workshop expenses, some programs, such as cosmetology, require students to purchase beauty products, tools, and vocational equipment which, on their own, can amount to several hundred dollars
This also applies to students in other programs. Automotive repair students, for example, also have to purchase specialized tools which can range from 300towellover300towellover1,000
Accommodation
If your trade school is located far from home, you will need to consider travel arrangements as well as accommodation options. Students may freely choose to stay in on-campus dorms, while other students may prefer to rent off-campus apartments.
In some places, such as regions with a high-cost, rent can easily go above $1,000 a month, which would not only be a monthly expense but would incur long-term financial obligations.
Certification and Licensing Costs
Most trades are all but certain to require students to gain some level of documented proof that certifies they have acquired the essential knowledge and skills to begin work. For some industries, these costs range from 100andupto100andupto500 or more.
This is best illustrated with the example of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) program that incurs additional testing and licensing costs which can be in the hundreds of dollars.
Trade School Payment Options & Other Info
Extra Costs/Fees: Some trade schools add a registration fee, charge a technology fee, or even have a fee for the laboratory. It is best advised that you consult with the institution about what their extra costs are during your enrollment.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Although Lincoln Tech’s tuition is higher than community colleges, it is significantly lower than a 4-year university which can charge $100,000 or more.
Most trade school programs also have a shorter duration, typically ranging from 6 to 18 months, which means students can start working and earning money sooner.
Conclusion
Depending on the program offered, attending a trade school like Lincoln Tech would cost anywhere from $15,000 to $35,000. The amount might seem high, but it is an unmatched investment when compared to the cost associated with obtaining a college degree.
Additionally, a trade school enables students to enter the workforce faster than a college would. Given the financial aid opportunities provided by such institutions, pursuing a trade school is a viable investment for students targeting the healthcare sector or the skilled trades.
While contemplating the trade school route, one should look up the details of specific schools such as Lincoln Tech for proper and accurate cost estimations along with scheming for desired career paths.
