Trade schools in Tennessee offer adults and young learners alike opportunities to acquire specialized skills for high-paying jobs in skilled trades and technical fields. With a mix of vocational education, flexible training options, and career services, these institutions are a cornerstone of Tennessee’s workforce development.
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List of Top Trade Schools
American National University
American National University offers Associate, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees in fields ranging from health to business. American National University offers credited programs to help attendees find jobs. There are courses in medical billing, pharmacy tech, accounting, network administration, and more. Students develop the skills and attitudes they need to succeed in their careers. Distance learning and online classes are an option.- 5760 Stage Rd. Bartlett, TN 38134
- 1328 Highway 11W Bristol, TN 37620
- 2576 Thousand Oaks Cove Memphis, TN 38118
- 1638 Bell Rd. Nashville, TN 37211
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy Technician
Aveda Institutes
Aveda Institutes, established in 1982, operates 63 accredited schools nationwide, offering programs in cosmetology, esthiology, and massage therapy. Known for hands-on training and externships that lead to job placements, the institute provides flexible class schedules and tuition ranging from $9,966 to $16,716 depending on the program.- 516 S. Gay Street Knoxville, TN 37902
- 1765 Galleria Blvd Franklin, TN 37067
- Healthcare and Nursing, Professional Services
Chattanooga College
Since its founding in 1968, Chattanooga College has offered in-depth, job-oriented training aimed at providing a direct path to career goals. Students benefit from dedicated teachers and hands-on skill training across various programs, including nursing, dental assisting, medical assisting, health science, cosmetology, aesthetics, and manicuring.- 5600 Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37411 Chattanooga, TN 37411
- Healthcare and Nursing, Cosmetology
Chattanooga State Community College
Chattanooga State Community College serves 8,000+ students with 150+ programs, strong industry ties, and clear university transfer paths. Classes run mornings, afternoons, evenings, online, hybrid, and live virtual. Tuition is $191 per credit for Tennessee residents and $331 per credit for nonresidents.- 200 4th Avenue Dayton, TN 37321
- 4501 Amnicola Highway Chattanooga, TN 37406
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services, Arts, Welding
Concorde Career College
With several locations throughout the United States, Concorde prepares attendees for jobs in healthcare and dentistry. This institution prides itself on providing an educational experience that is student centered, community based, and achievement driven.
Career seekers interested in studying a trade in healthcare or dental care can go to Concorde Career College for a diploma or associate degree in an array of fields. The institution offers programs in diagnostics, including cardiovascular and medical sonography. Allied health programs include medical assisting and office administration.
Several programs also focus on patient care, such as massage therapy, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, surgical technology, and coursework for physical therapy assistants. Concorde helps interested students prepare for high-level dental care, as well, with programs and training for dental assistants and hygienists.
- 5100 Poplar Ave, Suite 132 Memphis, TN 38137
- Healthcare and Nursing, Massage Therapy, Phlebotomy Technician, Radiology, Wellness
Construction Career Center
The Construction Career Center (CCC) in Chattanooga, Tennessee, provides hands-on training in construction trades through high school dual enrollment, adult certification, and continuing education programs. Partnering with Chattanooga State/TCAT and AGC East Tennessee, CCC offers training in carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, masonry, and more. Tuition for adult learners is approximately $5,499, and the center aims for 100% job placement for its graduates.- 2225 Roanoke Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37406
- Skilled Trades
Electrician Training Academy
The Electrician Training Academy (ETAK) in Knoxville has been training electricians since 1971, combining classroom instruction with hands-on, full-time work experience. The academy offers an Apprenticeship program and CW/CE program, guiding students toward journeyman status. Tuition costs include an $800 annual fee, $301 for tools, and additional training costs covered by the program.- 6107 Central Avenue Pike Knoxville, TN 37912
- Skilled Trades
Empire Beauty Schools
Empire Beauty Schools offers hands-on experience in cosmetology, skincare, and cosmetology education at all of their locations. Attendees receive training for in-demand beauty jobs. Full and part-time programs are available to fit each student’s lifestyle. High-quality career tracks include cosmetology and hair styling.- 1433 Hollywood Dr. Jackson, TN 38301
- 568 Colonial Rd. Memphis, TN 38117
- 7106 Moores Ln., Ste A Brentwood, TN 37027
- Cosmetology and Barbering
FORTIS College
FORTIS provides people with a quality post-secondary education. The school has locations in 15 states that offer diploma and degree programs. These include accredited tracks in healthcare, business, technology, and other trades. Specific options vary by campus. The college also has online courses. This allows busy students the flexibility to complete their schooling at a pace that works for them. Attendees can earn associate’s degrees in business, human resources, or marketing.- 1025 Hwy. 111 Cookeville, TN 38501
- 3354 Perimeter Hill Dr., Suite 105 Nashville, TN 37211
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Cosmetology and Barbering, HVAC and Building Services, Trucking and Transportation
Genesis Career College
Genesis Career College is renowned for its hands-on training programs in Health & Medicine and Beauty & Wellness, offering nine accredited programs across five campuses in Tennessee and Georgia. Students gain real-world experience through externships, preparing them for state licensure and professional certifications, with strong support for career placement and financial aid counseling.- 880-A E. 10th Street Cookeville , TN 38501
- 1505 Noah Court, Lebanon, TN 37087
- 520 Royal Parkway, Suite 250, Nashville, TN 37214
- Cosmetology
Lincoln Tech
Now with over 20 locations across the United States, Lincoln Tech opened its first New Jersey campus in 1946. Specializing in hands-on technical career training, degree programs include automotive, health sciences, culinary arts, cosmetology, and other skilled trades. Educators work hard to give learners the practical skills needed to succeed in new vocations.- 1524 Gallatin Ave. Nashville, TN 37206
- Healthcare and Nursing, Automotive, Computer and Information Technology, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, HVAC and Building Services, Machine Operation, Trucking and Transportation
Miller-Motte College
With courses in business, healthcare, beauty & wellness, law, skilled trades, and technology, Miller-Motte College lets students learn a new vocation. This prepares them to enter the job market. The program schedules are flexible, and online options are available. There are 11 locations in North and South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee.- 6397 Lee Hwy., Suite 100 Chattanooga, TN 37421
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Computer and Information Technology, Construction, Cosmetology and Barbering, Electrical, Healthcare Administration, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Tech, Veterinary Services, Welding, Wellness
Moore Tech
Moore Tech, established in 1939, is a nonprofit vocational school specializing in technical education, offering programs such as Machining Technology, Plumbing, and Automotive Service Technology. Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, the school provides flexible class schedules, including evening options, with tuition starting at $250 per credit hour. With open admissions, Moore Tech welcomes eligible applicants eager to gain hands-on skills.- 1200 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38104
- Skilled Trades
My Electric Career
The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) created My Electric Career to connect aspiring electricians with training programs at 50+ chapters across the U.S. IEC offers paid apprenticeships that combine hands-on job site training with evening classroom instruction, allowing students to earn while they learn. The program has no tuition costs, helping apprentices build their careers without student debt.- 450 Rev Kelly M Smith Way Nashville, TN 37203
- Skilled Trades
North Central Institute
North Central Institute (NCI) in Clarksville, Tennessee, has provided aviation training since 1988, offering FAA-approved programs like the 24-month Associate of Applied Science Degree (AASD) and the 17-month Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT 147) course. Flexible schedules accommodate students’ needs, with day and evening classes available. Tuition varies by program, with costs starting at $301 per course or credit hour.- 168 Jack Miller Blvd. Clarksville, TN 37042
- Skilled Trades
Northeast State College
Founded in 1966, Northeast State Community College offers a variety of associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas to approximately 6,000 students each semester. The college provides flexible class schedules, including online and hybrid options, and is recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.- 2425 Highway 75 PO Box 246 Blountville, TN 37617-0246
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades
Paul Mitchell Schools
There are more than 100 Paul Mitchell Schools nationwide that prepare future professionals for careers in the beauty industry. Students can learn in-demand skills to become cosmetologists, barbers, estheticians and nail designers.- 8380 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919
- 3419 Plaza Avenue Memphis, TN 38111
- 1720 Old Fort Parkway Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- 235 E Main Street Ste 200 Hendersonville, TN 37075
- Cosmetology and Barbering
Remington College
Hands-on learning and experienced faculty members mark Remington College’s dedication to students. Since 1985, the school has grown to nearly 20 locations across the U.S. With offerings from vocational training to master’s degrees, there are options for everybody. Several programs are fully online, too. Training is available in Healthcare, Technology, Culinary Arts, Health & Beauty, and Skilled Trades, among others.- 2710 Nonconnah Blvd. Memphis, TN 38132
- 441 Donelson Pike #150 Nashville, TN 37214
- 7415 Maynardville Pike #101 Knoxville, TN 37938
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Construction, Cosmetology and Barbering, Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services, Phlebotomy Technician
Roadmaster Drivers School
Roadmasters Drivers School provides students with the skills and hands-on training they need to obtain a Class A commercial driver's license. The school partners with a variety of industries hiring new drivers with Class A licenses. Classroom locations are nationwide and the curriculum is between three and four weeks long. A truck driving education is both affordable and accessible to anyone looking for long time work that pays well.
- 8050 Singleton Ave Memphis, TN 38053
- Trucking and Transportation
Ross Medical Education Center
The Ross Medical Education Center offers training in a variety of disciplines, including Nursing, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting. In addition to the 40 campuses across the U.S., online associate’s degrees are available. Scheduling is flexible so that enrollees can balance personal responsibilities.- 3021 E Oakland Ave. Johnson City, TN 37601
- 206 N Seven Oaks Dr. Knoxville, TN 37922
- Healthcare and Nursing, Veterinary Services
SAE Institute
SAE Institute offers hands-on training opportunities to give students real world experience in the entertainment industry. The institution offers programs in entertainment media fields like animation, game development, digital film, graphic design and more. SAE grants bachelor's and associate's degrees, and other certificates for in-demand tech skills.
- 7 Music Circle North Nashville, TN 37203
- Business, Computer and Information Technology, Graphics, Design, and Arts, HVAC and Building Services
South College
South College provides training in the fields of Business & Technology, Physical Therapy, Pharmacy, Physician Assistant, Health & Therapy, Legal Studies, Nursing, and Education. Since 1882, South College has focused on student-centered enrichment. With 7 locations in the southern United States, as well as online courses, programs meet the needs of various enrollees. Hybrid, transfer, and distance learning methods combine with traditional higher education and modern technology.- 3904 Lonas Dr. Knoxville, TN 37909
- 616 Marriott Dr. Nashville, TN 37214
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Dental, Healthcare Administration
Southwest Tennessee Community College
Southwest Tennessee Community College serves about 6,000 students with a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio and more than 140 programs, including associate degrees, workforce training, and technical certificates. Classes run day, night, weekend, on campus, and online, with strong job outcomes: 95% employed and 81% working in field.- 5983 Macon Cove Memphis, TN 38134
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services, Phlebotomy Technician
Strayer University
Strayer University is a private college that offers online and in-person programs from associate's to master's levels. The school has locations in over 15 different states. Degree options include business and criminal justice. SU has a mission to teach students the skills they need to grow and thrive.
- 728 Market St, Suite 140 Chattanooga, TN 37402
- 800 S Gay St, Suite P9330 Knoxville, TN 37929
- 617 3rd Ave S Nashville, TN 37210
- 7275 Appling Farms Parkway Memphis, TN 38133
- Criminal Justice and Law, Architecture, Computer and Information Technology, Trucking and Transportation
Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) is part of the Tennessee Board of Regents system, renowned for its comprehensive technical education programs. TCAT offers flexible class schedules with morning, afternoon, and evening options, blending online and in-person learning along with practical internships to prepare students for real-world careers.- 4501 Amnicola Highway Chattanooga, TN 37406
- 1100 Liberty Street Knoxville Knoxville, TN 37919
- 550 Alabama Ave. Memphis, TN 38105 Memphis, TN 38105
- 100 White Bridge Pike Nashville, TN 37209 Nashville, TN 37209
- 1303 Old Fort Parkway Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- Business, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Cosmetology and Barbering
The University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee (UT) Knoxville is Tennessee's flagship land-grant and premier public research institution, recognized as the #1 public university in the state and serving nearly 40,000 students. Accredited by SACSCOC, UT offers over 900 programs at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional levels—including highly-regarded programs in Nuclear Engineering, Nursing, and Law. The university has a selective 42% overall acceptance rate and offers flexible class schedules through traditional courses and over 70 fully online programs via Vols Online.- The University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN 37996
- Business, Criminal Justice and Law, Education, Healthcare and Nursing, Skilled Trades, Technology, Professional Services
Total Tech LLC
Total Tech LLC, founded in 2006, provides hands-on technical training in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing services from its Nashville, Tennessee campus. With programs like HVAC Service Protocol and Electrical Service Protocol, tuition ranges from $2,600 to $5,225 depending on the course. Combining on-site and online options, Total Tech ensures flexibility for students pursuing careers in technical trades.- 909 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37217
- Skilled Trades
Local Trade Guides
- How to Become a CNC Machinist in Tennessee
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- Best HVAC Schools in Tennessee
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- How to Become a Surgical Tech in Tennessee
- Schools to Become a Welder in Tennessee
Best Tennessee Trade Schools by Specialty
Healthcare
American National University provides Nursing, Medical Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding, Health Services Management, Pharmacy Technician, and Phlebotomy programs with 100% acceptance.
Concorde Career College offers diplomas in Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, Radiology, Sonography, Sterile Processing, and Surgical Technology in as little as eight months.
Fortis College runs fast‑paced certificates and associate degrees in Nursing, Medical Lab Technician, Radiology, and Pharmacy Technician with small classes and flexible schedules.
Genesis Career College delivers one‑year programs for Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Patient Care/Multiskilled Technician certification with hands‑on externships.
Ross Medical Education Center features 36‑week allied health diplomas like Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and Veterinary Services with career placement support.
Business & Technology
American National University also provides Accounting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Paralegal, Computer & Information Technology, and Computer Systems Technician degrees.
Lincoln Tech offers hands‑on training in Computer Systems Technology, Cybersecurity, Software Development, Networking, and Automotive Technology with industry partnerships.
Strayer University awards flexible online and on‑campus associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in Accounting, Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, Cybersecurity, and Software Development.
South College grants certificates and degrees in Accounting, Business Administration, Paralegal, and Technology fields with evening and online classes.
Skilled Trades
Construction Career Center partners with TCAT to teach Carpentry, Electrical Wiring, Plumbing, Masonry, and Building Construction Technology to high school and adult learners.
Electrician Training Academy combines paid apprenticeships and classroom instruction for an 8,000‑hour Journeyworker certification in construction electrics.
My Electric Career enrolls apprentices in 2‑, 3‑, and 4‑year electrician programs with 2,000 hours at job sites and 144 classroom hours annually.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) offers certificates and diplomas in Welding, HVAC, Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Machine Tool, Mechatronics, and Industrial Electricity with externships.
Moore Tech provides certificate, diploma, and associate programs in Machining Technology, Plumbing, Electrical, Automotive Service, and Welding with morning, afternoon, and evening classes.
Total Tech LLC offers on‑site HVAC Service Protocol, HVAC Replacement, Electrical Service Protocol, and Plumbing Service Protocol courses with hands‑on training modules.
Beauty & Wellness
Aveda Institutes trains students in Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Massage Therapy with hands‑on learning and externship job offers.
Empire Beauty Schools offers Cosmetology, Esthetics/Aesthetics, Educator Training, and Nail Technology with salon‑style clinics and comprehensive toolkits.
Paul Mitchell Schools delivers Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics, Nails, Makeup, and Instructor Certification in modern salon environments.
Chattanooga College includes Cosmetology, Aesthetics, Manicuring, and Nail Technology alongside healthcare and technical diploma programs.
Genesis Career College also features Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetician, and Nail Tech certificates across its Tennessee campuses.
Fast Trade School Programs
North Central Institute’s 4‑week AMT 65 course fast‑tracks you to an Aviation Maintenance Technician credential.
Concorde Career College’s healthcare diplomas can be completed in as little as eight months.
Ross Medical Education Center delivers allied health certificates like Medical Assistant and Pharmacy Tech in 36 weeks or less.
Genesis Career College prepares you for Medical Assisting and Dental Assisting roles in one year or under.
Examples of Flexible Learning Options
American National University’s Global Meet/Teach/Learn platform gives 24/7 access to online courses, remote advising, and on‑campus labs.
Fortis College keeps many campuses open around the clock and offers flexible start dates with hybrid options.
Strayer University’s fully online and blended programs let you proceed at your own pace and earn free general‑ed credits through partner schools.
South College accommodates evening, weekend, online, and on‑campus schedules across its seven campuses.
TCAT blends online, hybrid, and night classes with hands‑on lab and externship experiences.
Aveda Institutes combine web‑based theory with in‑person, salon‑style training and externships that often lead directly to job offers.
Cost & Duration of TN Trade Schools
Typically, tuition ranges from $3,000 to $20,000 per year.
For instance:
- Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT): One of the most affordable options, with tuition averaging $3,000 to $5,000 annually.
- Empire Beauty School: Costs approximately $16,200 for a cosmetology program.
- Miller-Motte College: Tuition ranges between $22,945 and $24,208 annually.
Free, Paid Apprenticeships: IEC’s My Electric Career and Electrician Training Academy offer 2–4 year programs with paid on‑the‑job training (8,000 hours) at no tuition cost.
Shortest Program: North Central Institute’s AMT 65 Aviation Maintenance Technology can be completed in just 4 weeks (≈ $16,856 total).
Cheapest Tuition: TCAT diplomas run $3,000–5,000 per year; Moore Tech certificate programs cost around $750 per trimester.
Average Certificate Length: 2–12 months with typical costs of $10,000–20,000.
Average Associate Duration: 18–24 months, $15,000–25,000 total tuition.
Bachelor’s Pathways: 2–4 years—Strayer’s per‑course model yields associate degrees for ~$6,100 and bachelor’s for ~$12,200; ANU undergrad runs $9,800–14,000 per year.
Popular Rapid Diplomas: Ross Medical Education Center’s programs finish in 36 weeks (~ $23,000/year); Concorde Career College offers healthcare certificates in as little as 8 months ($17,500–67,000 total).