NY School Directory
Browse 23 accredited trade schools and vocational training programs in New York
23
Schools
14
Cities
15
Trade Programs
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.
Based on hiring activity, employer demand, and program enrollment in NY.
Strong union pipeline (IBEW Local 3) plus residential/commercial demand in NYC and Long Island
NYC building decarbonization (Local Law 97) is creating retrofitting jobs
High-volume hospital systems and outpatient clinics across the state
Last-mile logistics demand from NYC port and warehouse expansion
Bridge, MTA, and infrastructure repair work statewide
Typical range
$6,000–$22,000
Total tuition
Listed school avg.
$12,195
Across 23 schools
Schools listed
23
In 14 cities
See our full trade school cost guide for state-by-state breakdowns and a deeper look at how to fund your training.
Trade licensing in NY varies by program. Here's what you'll typically need to legally work in each field after training:
| Trade | NY Requirement |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Licensed at the city/county level (NYC requires Master Electrician licensure through DOB) |
| Plumber | NYC requires Master Plumber license; upstate licensing varies by municipality |
| HVAC Technician | EPA 608 federally; NYC requires DOB refrigeration certificate for larger systems |
| CDL | Class A/B issued by NY DMV; NYC adds Hazmat fingerprinting for tanker work |
| Cosmetology | 1,000 hours minimum + NY State Board exam |
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.
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.
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.
30 West 32nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10001
$9,000
200 students
3 East 43rd Street, New York, NY 10017
$25,000
1,500 students
254 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019
$22,000
700 students
45 Eighth Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018
$13,500
250 students
31-10 Thomson Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
$4,500
18,000 students
118-33 Queens Boulevard, Forest Hills, NY 11375
$15,450
800 students
222-05 56th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11364
$5,500
14,000 students
683 Northland Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14211
$5,500
600 students
121 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203
$5,853
8,364 students
360 Choate Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14220
$24,000
1,200 students
With 23 options to compare, choosing the right trade school takes some research. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating programs in NY: