15 Best Trade Schools in Indiana | Costs, Requirements, and How to Apply

Indiana trade schools are ideal for people who want to learn a specific skill set quickly. 

Since many individuals opt to go to college and pursue different careers, trades have become forgotten. 

That isn’t necessarily a bad thing. 

It simply increases your chances of finding work. 

A trade school can be an excellent alternative to a traditional university. 

Students who attend trade schools in Indiana can enjoy little to no student debt compared to the enormous debt that students often leave college.

A trade school education in Indiana can also lead to a high salary and access to skilled jobs that provide ongoing training. Keep reading to learn more about trade schools in Indiana.

See Also: 15 Best Trade Schools in Delaware | Costs, Requirements, How to Apply

Are there Trade Schools in Indiana?

If you live in Indiana and believe that vocational education is a good fit for you and your needs, look into the following schools:

  1. Indianapolis Dental Assistant School
  2. Aveda Fredric’s Institute Indianapolis
  3. Calumet Welding Center
  4. My Computer Career
  5. Ross Medical Education Center
  6. Midwest Bartenders School
  7. Tricoci University
  8. Central Line Career Center
  9. Kokomo Beauty School
  10. Indiana Wellness College
  11. Christina and Company Education Center
  12. Denmark College
  13. Don Roberts School of Hair Design
  14. International Business College-Indianapolis
  15. Paul Mitchell the School Indianapolis

How much Does Trade School Cost In Indiana?

Trade schools cost between $5,000 and $15,000 for an entire program, depending on your studies and the school you attend. 

The trade schools on our list are below average, just over $13,000.

The average cost of some higher programs at the top Trade Schools in Indiana falls around $22,805 for tuition fees.

Alternatively, One of the most significant benefits of attending a trade school over a traditional four-year university is the cost. Trades schools have a significantly lower price tag.

The average cost of a trade school nationally is $33,000, but the trade schools in Indiana on our list below cost an average of $13,141.

 How much you’ll pay largely depends on the type of school you attend and the program you choose.

An accredited school might entitle you to financial aid to help with your expenses. There are also plenty of scholarships available to vocational students.

What are the Requirements for Trade Schools in Indiana?

All applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

  • They must have a high school diploma or GED
  • They must have an up-to-date immunization record
  • A government-issued photo ID
  • If an applicant doesn’t have a high school diploma or GED, passing a Wonderlich Basic Skill Test is required.

What are the Best Trade Schools in Indiana | 2024?

Each program on the list will meet our criteria, being:

Rankings method:

  • Must offer less than one-year certifications
  • Accredited
  • Less than 18:1 faculty-to-student ratio
  • Less than $35,000 in tuition costs
  • Over 50% graduation rate

1. Indianapolis Dental Assistant School

A dentist founded Indianapolis Dental Assistant School for dentists. 

He noticed a shortage of highly trained dental assistant professionals, so he established a school with a well-rounded curriculum for aspiring dental assistants. 

The course is highly comprehensive and user-friendly. 

Their hands-on approach will make it easier for students to transition into the real-world workforce. 

The schedule is very flexible, and they also offer classes on Saturdays, making it perfect for individuals who have to balance work and school. 

Another prominent feature is that they have a career service dedicated to finding you a job as soon as you graduate.

Visit school here 

2. Aveda Fredric’s Institute Indianapolis

The Aveda Fredric’s Institute is a beauty and cosmetology school. 

It has educated some of the most successful hair, skin, and nail professionals. 

Their curriculum is adaptable, and they keep up with all the latest industry trends. 

They encourage creativity and hope to inspire their students to embrace the art of beauty. 

Their employees, each one is an expert in their field. 

They all have years of industry experience and, thus, a wealth of essential and insightful knowledge to share.

The school offers the following courses:

  • MUD makeup certification
  • Esthetics program
  • Manicuring
  • Cosmetology program

Visit school here 

3. Calumet Welding Center

Calumet Welding Center is a new business in Griffith, Indiana. It is considered one of the best trade schools in Indiana.

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Because welding is a growing industry with a scarcity of skilled workers, prospective students are more likely to find work sooner. 

Their programs produce incredible results, lasting between 3 and 6 months, depending on the course. 

One significant advantage of this institution is its affiliation with Calumet Testing Services. 

That means students have an incredible opportunity to work alongside the best in the welding industry. 

Students who complete the course will obtain the Welding Performance Qualification certificate.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Two Process Structural Plate Welding
  • Four Process Structural Plate Welding
  • Four Process Plate and Pipe Welding
  • GMAW/ MIG welding
  • Supplemental Welding
  • SMAW Pipe Welding

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4. My Computer Career

My Computer Career is another great institution that offers a variety of IT courses. 

Because the IT industry is the fastest-growing in the world, it’s no surprise that MCC is so popular among students looking for an outstanding vocational education. 

They have an excellent Career Solutions program that helps students prepare for work in the industry and find jobs. 

They have an extensive network of contacts with many employers actively looking for IT professionals. 

The Accrediting Council has accredited MCC’s program for Continuing Education and Training.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Information Technology Security and Administration Program
  • Cyber Systems Engineer Program
  • Information Technology Security Specialist Program
  • Associate of Applied Science in IT Network Administration and Security

Visit school here 

5. Ross Medical Education Center

Ross Education is a fantastic school that specializes in medical assisting and medical administration. 

They strive to provide the best education at the most affordable prices. 

They have tailored the courses to provide a fast-tracked yet high-quality program allowing students to seek employment immediately after completion. 

The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools has accredited all of its facilities. 

Students will also be able to get CMA or RMA certification upon graduation.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Medical Assistant
  • Medical Insurance Billing and Office Administration
  • Dental Assistant
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Veterinary Assistant
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Nursing
  • Practical Nursing
  • Veterinary Technician
  • Business Management

Online courses:

  • Human, Social, and Health Services
  • Health Administrative Services
  • Medical Office Management
  • Medical Billing Administrative Specialist
  • Medical Assistant

See Also: 15 Best Trade Schools in Kansas City | Costs, Requirements, How to Apply

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6. Midwest Bartenders School

Midwest Bartending School has been teaching the art of bartending since 1993. 

They provide some of the best courses in the country; they are easy to understand and informative; they train staff. 

They take pride in providing an authentic, hands-on experience. 

Students will constantly practice mixing drinks, serving, and proper conversational skills. 

Aside from the hands-on approach, students will also learn about the history and production of wine, beer, and spirits. 

In only two weeks, they will teach you how to make over 200 different cocktails. 

The Commission on Proprietary Education, a Better Business Bureau member, has fully accredited their courses. 

Overall, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get excellent results.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Professional Mixology
  • Advanced Mixology
  • Flairtending
  • Vino 101
  • Bar Management

Visit school here 

7. Tricoci University

Mario Tricoci, one of the most well-known names in the beauty industry, founded this university in 2004. It is one of the best trade schools in Indiana. 

Tricoci University is a forward-thinking institution dedicated to teaching new methods and industry secrets. 

Students will work alongside the best because their staff is so experienced. 

They have received many prestigious awards because of their excellence and high-quality education. 

These are just a few of their many incredible accomplishments: 

Modern Salon Intercoiffure Mondial’s Best World Academy Award Repêchage’s President’s Award for School of the Year for Excellence in Education 

Of course, the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences has accredited their courses.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Cosmetology
  • Barber
  • Nail technology
  • Manicuring
  • Barber teacher
  • Instructor training
  • Esthetics

Visit school here 

8. Central Line Career Center

Central Line Career Center is an excellent facility that provides an exceptional education at meager costs. 

Did you know that some of their courses range from $10 to $20? 

Its mission is to motivate and inspire students to pursue lucrative careers in various fields of expertise. 

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They will not only teach students the technical skills required for a specific job, but they will also teach them professional conduct.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Construction and landscape
  • Construction trades
  • HVAC
  • Landscape management
  • Health Science
  • Health Science I
  • Health science II–Exercise science/athletic training
  • Health science II–Medical Assisting
  • Health science II–Nursing
  • Human services
  • Cosmetology
  • Culinary arts
  • IT & interactive media
  • Programming
  • Computer tech support
  • Visual communications
  • Work-based learning
  • Manufacturing
  • Welding technology
  • Precision machining
  • Protective services
  • Criminal justice
  • Emergency medical services
  • Fire and Rescue
  • Transportation
  • Auto collision repair
  • Auto service technology
  • Aviation maintenance
  • Aviation operations
  • Diesel service technology

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9. Kokomo Beauty School

Kokomo Beauty School is a fantastic beauty-focused educational facility. 

Their facilities are spacious and equipped with innovative technology. 

They take pride in providing excellent, well-rounded courses that are easily accessible and appropriate for everyone. 

Kokomo Beauty School’s mission is to educate and train individuals who are eager to conquer the world of beauty. 

Because of their fantastic staff and informative courses, many of their students have achieved brilliant success in the industry. 

They also work with some local salons to help many of their students find suitable job opportunities.

The school offers the following courses:

  • Cosmetology
  • Barbering
  • Esthetics
  • Manicuring
  • Student instructor
  • Advanced esthetics
  • MUD Course

Visit school here 

10. Indiana Wellness College

Indiana Wellness College is a massage therapy-focused institution. This is one of the best trade schools in Indiana.

Because of their experienced instructors, industry professionals, and excellent curriculum, they have an excellent reputation. 

The curriculum includes anatomy, pathology, and essential business practices classes. 

Individuals who get a diploma from this college will work in the fields of sports massage, medical massage, and general massage. 

The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET) has accredited Indiana Wellness College, and the Office for Career and Technical Schools has accredited the school. 

What distinguishes IWC is that it is the only accredited massage program in Indianapolis.

Visit school here 

11. Christina and Company Education Center

  • Type: Private 
  • Cost: $8,401
  • Location: Lafayette, Indiana

Admission requirements: Applicants must be at least 16 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED.

Students must complete 1500 hours of training and pass all written tests and practical exams with a minimum grade of 75% or higher.

Accreditation: National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences

Besides their primary program in cosmetology, Cristina and Company Education Center also offers programs in esthetics and manicuring. 

The general cosmetology program takes ten months to complete.

Visit school here 

12.  Denmark College

  • Type: Private 
  • Cost: $13,010
  • Location: Merrillville, Indiana

Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent such as a GED. 

Additional requirements include an on-campus tour and interview.

Students must complete 1500 hours of training, pass all tests with a minimum grade of 75%, pass a pre-state final exam with a minimum rate of 80%, and complete a practical test.

Accreditation: Council on Occupational Education

Besides its well-known barbering program, the school offers cosmetology and medical help programs. 

The school reported that their 2021 barber and cosmetology state exams were 83% and 80%, respectively.

See Also: 15 Best Trade Schools in Brooklyn | Cost, Requirements, How to Apply

Visit school here 

13. Don Roberts School of Hair Design

  • Type: Private 
  • Cost: $16,724
  • Location: Schererville, Indiana

Admission requirements: Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED. They must complete an orientation and a class observation.

Students must complete 1500 hours of training, with full-time and part-time options available.

Accreditation: National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences

Don Roberts School of Hair Design has served northwest Indiana since 1978. 

Besides cosmetology, they also offer barber, esthetics, and manicure programs. The school reports a placement rate of 75% in 2019 and offers internships and off-campus job shadowing placements.

Visit school here 

14. International Business College-Indianapolis

  • Type: Private 
  • Cost: $14,672
  • Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

 Prospective students must tour the school and meet with an admissions representative. 

They must graduate from high school or earn their GED before classes start.

Students must attain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 and pass all courses.

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Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

IBC offers seven 16-month programs: accounting, computer programming, dental assisting, graphic design, medical assistant, paralegal studies, and veterinary technology. All programs lead to an associate of applied science degree. 

Some include 8-week externships.

Visit school here 

15. Paul Mitchell the School Indianapolis

  • Type: Private 
  • Cost: $15,684
  • Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

Admission requirements: High school or GED graduates may apply. The application requirements include an entrance essay, a personal interview, and the submission of two photos.

Graduation requirements: Students must complete the 1500-hour program.

Accreditation: National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences

The 13,000-square-feet state-of-the-art beauty school offers the latest trends and techniques in cosmetology. 

The school reported 74% graduation and 79% placement rates in 2019. Students give back through annual fundraising campaigns that have contributed over $22 million to charities.

Visit school here 

How Much Do Traders Make In Indiana?

A trade school education can provide plenty of opportunities for well-paying jobs. In Indiana, the average annual salary for a job that requires a postsecondary non-degree education is $48,358. 

And depending on the specific field you choose, you could easily find a career path that pays upwards of $70,000 without a degree.

So how does this compare with jobs at other levels of education? Graduates of bachelor’s and master’s programs usually leave with significant student debt. 

And while they make a higher salary, the payoff of higher education is less than that of a trade school education.

How do I Become a Trader in Indiana?

Trade schools in Indiana may also help students get apprenticeships in their field. 

Several trade apprenticeship programs provide classroom instruction and on-the-job training under the guidance of a master practitioner in their field. 

Students can find apprenticeship programs in many building and construction trades and manufacturing.

Several Indianapolis public high schools offer career and technical education pathways. 

These allow students to choose a school based on their interests and provide real-world skills in many fields, including construction, automotive service, computer science, cosmetology, and the culinary arts.

Best-Paying Jobs in Indiana with Salary

The following represent some of the highest-employed trade jobs in Indiana that only require postsecondary non-degree education. Some of these jobs require on-the-job training and certification.

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics

Average annual salary (May 2022): $45,230

Court Reporters

The average yearly wage (May 2021): is $44,290

Electrical Repairs (Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay)

Average annual salary (May 2021): $83,650

Health Information Technologists

The average yearly wage (May 2021): is $43,120

Nursing Assistants

The annual average wage (May 2021): is $31,110

Frequently Asked Questions 

How many trade schools are there in Indiana?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are over 90 vocational and technical schools in Indiana.

Which type of degree has the best return on investment?

While a trade school education may lead to a lower average salary than a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, it has a higher return on investment, especially early in your career.

Do technical schools accept scholarships?

Yes, most accredited technical schools accept scholarships and grants. These may be need-based and offered to individuals with the most significant financial hardship. They may also be merit-based and awarded to students based on grades or other academic achievements.

Conclusion

Vocational schools are an excellent alternative to a four-year college education. 

Their popularity grows yearly, with many people opting for this option. 

The schedules are more flexible; the costs are significantly lower, I will not saddle you with student loans, and you will be ready to work immediately upon graduation.

References 

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