Vocational training is an excellent choice for those who wish to gain the hands-on experience necessary to acquire job-related skills, even though a 4-year college in one of the best trade schools in West Virginia may seem like the logical next step for the majority of high school graduates who seek to study in West Virginia.
For those looking for a better job, a career change, or to acquire a new skill, trade schools are a fantastic alternative.
Trade Schools in West Virginia equip students for a wide range of in-demand careers, including carpentry, mechanics, dental assisting, and much more.
Please continue reading to learn more about what The Mountain State has to offer.
What are the Requirements for Trade Schools in West Virginia?
But after graduating from high school, students are expected to decide on their future and what they might want to do for a living.
A regular two- or four-year institution is an option occasionally, but not every graduate finds that to be the best fit. Attending trade schools is another choice that offers kids a special chance to be ready for a profession in an area they’re enthusiastic about.
Another advantage of trade schools in West Virginia is that they enable students to complete their degrees faster than at a typical institution. This implies that depending on the program you select, you can be working in the field in as little as two years!
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Previous Placement Tests and Education
Knowing all of the requirements for entering trade schools in West Virginia will give you the confidence you need to move forward once you’ve made the decision to pursue your education.
The completion of high school prerequisites is a universal prerequisite for enrolling in any trade school in West Virginia. This can look different for every student, and attending trade school in West Virginia does not necessarily require high school graduation.
In addition to a high school diploma, other documents may be recognized, such as a state-issued GED or results of an approved equivalency test. The conclusion of a homeschooling program that has received formal recognition is also accepted. Some trade schools in West Virginia will also recognize proof of enrollment in a Title IV-eligible program or successful completion of a degree program at the postsecondary level.
The majority of trade schools in West Virginia require students to take some sort of placement test before admission is granted, in addition to possessing some sort of recognized educational documentation. While these tests are used to assess a student’s suitability for the institution, the majority of trade schools do not demand extra testing or specific SAT or ACT scores.
GPA Requirements
You might be asking whether a student’s GPA is taken into account when they apply to trade schools in West Virginia. Depending on the school you’re applying to, this may change. In most cases, meeting other prerequisites, such as passing placement examinations or previous educational requirements, is more important than GPA.
Although UTI does not have a minimum GPA requirement, students may need a certain GPA to be eligible for scholarships that may help them pay for their education.
The manufacturer establishes the standards for Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training (MSAT) programs, and these requirements can change from program to program.
Additional Requirements for Trade School Admission
When considering entering any trade school in West Virginia, there are a few other considerations to bear in mind. Many trade schools in West Virginia have additional requirements for enrollment in addition to a few educational prerequisites.
Programs may have different minimum age restrictions for trade school applicants. Typically, the minimum age is 16, however, some programs may require older applications. A parent or legal guardian is required to sign an enrollment agreement at many schools that accept students under the age of 18, including UTIs.
There are trade schools in West Virginia, and many of them charge the same tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students. Nevertheless, prices can differ depending on which campus you attend. You can prepare by doing some research prior to knowing what to expect!
What are the Best Trade Schools in West Virginia 2024
#1. BridgeValley Community & Technical College
For sectors ranging from healthcare to industry, BridgeValley Community & Technical College offers higher education, workforce development, and training. The Higher Learning Commission has granted BridgeValley College accreditation. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia 2024.
Enrollment: Candidates must possess a high school diploma, GED, oTASC. Students in high school should ask for an official transcript to be sent to the Office of Admission.
Fees: Residents of West Virginia pay between $184 and $2,207in tuition, while non-residents pay between $438 and $5,225. Financial aid is offered to students who meet the requirements.
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#2. Carver Career and Technical Education Center
The certificate programs and short-term education programs offered by the Carver Career and Technical Study Center are intended to prepare secondary students and adult learners for work, career progression, and/or further education.
The Center was the first vocational school to open in West Virginia and was founded in 1970.
Carver Career Center has COE accreditation (Council on Occupational Education). This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
Enrollment: Students in secondary school must get an application from the guidance counselor in their high school. Adult candidates must present transcripts, a GED, or a high school diploma.
Fees: Full-time adult programs cost $2.75 per hour in tuition, while part-time adult programs cost $3 per hour.
Adult students must pay $35 for one-year programs and $55 for two-year programs as registration fees. Students who meet the requirements can also get financial aid.
#3. Ben Franklin Career Center
The Ben Franklin Career Center has been offering technical training to individuals and high school students for more than 30 years. After graduation, the training programs are intended to
assist students in obtaining an entry-level position in their field.
The Council on Occupational Education has accredited the school’s adult programs. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
Enrollment: Adult applicants must have a driver’s license or other photo ID and a high school diploma, GED, or TASC completion certificate.
Prospective candidates must set up an interview with the program’s instructor.
A background check and drug test are required of all students.
Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 can enroll in one-year high school programs; however, two-year programs are only available to students in grades 10 and 11.
Fees: An enrollment fee of $25 is required for adult students.
Adult students pay $3,713 in tuition for 11-month courses and $2,970 for 9-month courses.
#4. James Rumsey Technical Institute
West Virginia high school students and adult learners can receive career and technical education from James Rumsey Technical Institute.
The Institute also offers online courses, where students may select from fast courses that can be finished in a matter of weeks or vocational training that can take up to 18 months to complete.
The Commission of the Council on Occupational Education has granted James Rumsey Technical Institute accreditation. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
Enrollment: Adult program applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
High school students should submit an online application and appear for a program instructor interview (if required).
Fees: Depending on the course, adult program tuition
ranges from $1,500 to $9,141.
Also Read: Best Trade Schools in Raleigh, NC | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply
#5. Ross Medical Education Center
Future allied health professionals can receive training at the Charleston and Morgantown sites of the Ross Medical Education Center. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
Depending on the course and the program schedule, the length of the program might range from 30 to 42.5 weeks.
The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools has granted institutional accreditation to all Ross Medical Education Center and Ross College campuses.
Enrollment: Each applicant must finish a test that gauges overall aptitude.
Candidates must have completed high school or an equivalent.
Students in the pharmacy technician and dental assistant programs must be at least 18 years old. Additionally, candidates for the Pharmacy Technician Program must be cleared of criminal history. All other students must start their externships at least 18 years old.
Fees: Depending on the program tuition costs about $1,500 to $9,100
#6. Garnet Career Center
For adult learners, the Garnet Career Center offers career and technical programs.
Healthcare, business, and automotive technology are just a few of the various career fields that the Career Center offers training in. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
The Phlebotomy Technician program can be finished in 12 weeks, while the Business Education and Automotive Technician 675-hour programs can be finished in 6 months.
In one year, students can complete the Practical Nursing program. Through the Council on Occupational Education, Garnet has received full accreditation (COE).
Enrollment: A high school diploma or transcript, as well as a GED or TASC certificate, are required of applicants.
Before the program begins, clinical rotations, and/or on-the-job training, students must be 18 years old.
Prospective students must also bring a copy of their photo ID or driver’s license.
Fees: The Practical Nursing program has a $100 registration cost, whereas the other programs have a $20 registration fee. Depending on the program, total fees range from $1,270 to $7,763.
Students who meet the requirements can get financial aid.
#7. Putnam Career & Technical Center
The Putnam Career & Technical Center offers training courses that prepare graduates for both the workplace and further education. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
Depending on the course, a program might last anywhere between 10 and 22 months. The Commission of the Council on Occupational Education has accredited the Center.
The West Virginia State Department of Education has certified the center’s professors, all of whom have professional expertise.
Enrollment: Candidates must have a TASC or a high school diploma. Pre-entrance examinations, physicals, vaccines, and other conditions likewise could be needed.
Fees: The cost of books and supplies is between $30 and $805; tuition is between 3,225 and 5,182.
To those who qualify, financial aid is offered to students.
#8. Fayette Institute of Technology
The vocational and technical programs available via the Fayette Institute of Technology are meant to assist students in fusing their academic and technological knowledge. This is one of the best trade schools in West Virginia.
The Institute provides programs for secondary students who want to complement their high school course of study as well as vocational training for those who want certification.
Since its founding in 1973, the Fayette Institute of Technology has been acknowledged as a notable academic institution in Southern West Virginia.
The West Virginia School of Excellence Award was recently given to FIT. The Fayette Institute of Technology’s programs is recognized by the Council on Occupational Education and the West Virginia Department of Education.
Fees: The cost of tuition varies by program; eligible students can apply for financial aid.
#9. Clarksburg Beauty Academy
Future massage therapists, nail technicians, and cosmetologists are being trained at Clarksburg Beauty Academy.
The training facilities for the beauty industry include large classrooms with cutting-edge technology. The institution also features a full-service clinic where students can do specific tasks in a setting modeled after a salon.
A spa with private massage rooms has been created in the space designated for the massage therapy course.
Students are eligible to take the National Certification Exam for their field after graduation in order to obtain a West Virginia license. The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences has granted Clarksburg Beauty Academy accreditation.
Enrollment: A copy of a valid driver’s license or state identification card is necessary, and students must be at least 18 years old to start their studies.
A copy of the applicant’s high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with four passport-style photos and a copy of their Social Security card.
Students who qualify for the program must pass a test to determine their readiness to succeed in it. Program-specific requirements differ. By program, fees change.
- The Manicuring curriculum costs $3,350, whereas the Cosmetology program has a total cost of $16,090.
- The Massage Therapy program’s total tuition is $7,650.
- The cost of the hairstyling course is $11,060.
#10. Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
Future professionals in the fields of engineering, business administration, liberal arts, computer technology, and allied health can train for associate degrees, certificates, and certifications at Blue Ridge Community and Technical College.
In general, certificate programs give students the career preparation they need in half the time it takes to earn an associate degree. A lot of the certificate programs offered by the college let students earn credits they can use for subsequent degrees.
The Certification Programs are made to hasten students’ admittance into professions like technology and medicine. Additionally, students can receive credit toward a future degree through certification programs.
The Higher Learning Commission has granted Blue Ridge CTC accreditation.
Fees: The 12-month Certificate Programs cost $4,128 in tuition.
Conclusion
Choosing the career route you wish to take is a big decision that requires a lot of thought and reflection on your own situation.
Make a list of all the trade schools in West Virginia that offers training in your desired sector if you have decided that vocational training is the road you wish to take.
Then, you must make a comparison between them while taking into account all of the pertinent elements, including tuition, the schedule, the teachers, the accreditation, the graduation rate, the student reviews, etc.
So get going early and go gradually!
Frequently Asked Questions
West Virginia is the latest state to offer a free college program after its Gov. Jim Justice signed a plan into law last week that offers residents free tuition and fees for certificates and associate degrees at community and technical colleges, WTAP reported.
The Promise Scholarship is sponsored by the state of West Virginia for West Virginia resident students. It currently pays up to $4,750 per year for up to four undergraduate years or completion of a bachelor’s degree, whichever comes first.
West Virginia University Ranking Factors
West Virginia University is ranked #249 among National Universities. Schools are ranked according to their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence. Read more about how we rank schools.
WVU hosts the world’s first institute devoted to studying human memory and was ranked in the top 3% of 19,000 universities worldwide by the Center for World University Rankings.
WVU maintains R1 status, ranking alongside the most prestigious research universities. According to the latest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, WVU has maintained its classification as an R1, or very high research, university. Only 119 other universities occupy the R1 category.
References
- https://www.highereddive.com/news/west-virginia-joins-around-20-states-offering-free-college/
- https://financialaid.wvu.edu/home/scholarships/freshmen/residents/promise
- https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/wvu-3827/overall-rankings
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