How Long is Trade School?

Trade school typically takes 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the credential type and program intensity.

By Credential Type

• Certificates: 3-12 months (15-30 credits)
• Diplomas: 9-18 months (30-60 credits)
• Associate degrees: 18-24 months (60-70 credits)

By Program Type

Shortest Programs (3-6 months)

• Commercial truck driving (CDL)
• Phlebotomy
• Basic welding certificate
• Forklift/equipment operation

Short Programs (6-12 months)

• Medical assistant
• HVAC certificate
• Electrician certificate
• Pharmacy technician
• Welding certificate

Medium Programs (12-18 months)

• Cosmetology (state-dependent)
• Dental assistant
• Surgical technology
• Automotive technology

Longer Programs (18-24 months)

• Associate degree programs
• Dental hygiene
• Respiratory therapy
• Advanced automotive/diesel

Factors Affecting Duration

• Full-time vs. part-time enrollment: Full-time students complete programs 30-50% faster
• Program intensity: Accelerated programs with year-round scheduling
• Prior learning credits: Credit for work experience or prior training
• State licensing requirements: Cosmetology requires 1,000-1,600 hours in most states
• Associate degree vs. certificate: Degrees include general education courses

Comparison to Other Education Paths

Specific Program Lengths

Electrician Trade School

Electrician trade school programs run 6 to 12 months for certificate programs, or 18-24 months for associate degree programs.

Certificate Programs (6-12 months):

• 700-900 clock hours typical
• Covers fundamentals needed to begin apprenticeship
• Prepares for entry-level electrical helper positions
• Includes theory, NEC code, hands-on wiring practice

Associate Degree Programs (18-24 months):

• 60-70 credit hours
• More comprehensive technical training
• Includes general education courses
• May reduce apprenticeship hour requirements in some states

Note: Becoming a fully licensed electrician requires an additional 4-5 year apprenticeship with 8,000-10,000 hours of supervised work.

Welding Trade School

Trade school for welding takes 6 to 12 months for certificate programs, or up to 2 years for associate degree programs.

Certificate Programs (6-12 months):

• 400-900 clock hours typical
• Covers fundamental welding processes (MIG, TIG, Stick)
• Prepares for entry-level welding positions
• May include AWS certification prep

Note: Unlike electricians and plumbers, welders do NOT require state-mandated apprenticeships for most positions. Trade school graduates can enter the workforce immediately, though certifications increase earning potential.

HVAC Trade School

HVAC trade school programs typically last 6 to 24 months depending on credential level.

Certificate Programs (6-12 months):

• 600-1,000 clock hours typical
• Covers heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration fundamentals
• Prepares for EPA 608 certification (federally required)
• Entry-level technician qualification

Associate Degree Programs (18-24 months):

• 60+ credit hours
• Includes general education
• Business and customer service components
• Advanced diagnostics and controls

Note: Most HVAC technicians can work immediately after certification, though gaining experience increases wages significantly.

Plumbing Trade School

Trade school for plumbing takes 6 to 12 months for certificate programs, though full plumber licensure requires a 3-5 year apprenticeship.

Certificate Programs (6-12 months):

• Covers plumbing theory, pipe fitting, codes, and safety
• Prepares students to begin apprenticeship
• Hands-on training with plumbing systems

Note: After trade school, plumbers typically complete 4-5 years of apprenticeship with 8,000-10,000 hours of supervised work before full licensure.

Time-Saving Options

• Accelerated/intensive schedules: Year-round classes with no summer breaks
• Full-time enrollment: Complete programs 30-50% faster than part-time
• Credit for prior learning: Transfer credits from work experience
• Testing out of prerequisites: Skip courses via competency testing

Why Choose Shorter Programs?

Most trade school students seeking the fastest workforce entry choose certificate programs (6-12 months) over associate degrees. This approach offers:

• Faster entry into well-paying careers
• Lower total educational costs
• Reduced opportunity cost (start earning sooner)
• Focus on essential job skills