Best Trade Schools in Nevada

If you want a career that gets you working faster than a four-year degree, a trade school is one of your best options. Nevada has strong demand for skilled trades in construction, healthcare, automotive, and technology. The right school can help you learn practical skills, get certified, and connect with employers.

Below, you’ll find the best trade schools in Nevada, how their programs work, and tips for choosing the right one for your goals.

Trade programs in Nevada

Why consider a Nevada trade school

Trade schools in Nevada focus on practical skills. Training programs are shorter than traditional college degrees, usually ranging from a few months to two years. They often include built-in internships or apprenticeships. Many prepare you for state or national certification.

Common benefits include:

  • Direct pathways to licensing in Nevada
  • Smaller class sizes and hands-on labs
  • Established ties with local industry
  • Flexible schedules for working students

Top trade schools in Nevada

These schools are accredited and have strong reputations for training skilled workers. Contact each school for details on admission, tuition, and program length.

#1

College of Southern Nevada

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV College of Southern Nevada is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Truckee Meadows Community College

Reno, NV In-state option

Located in Reno, NV Truckee Meadows Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Appliance Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Western Nevada College

Carson City, NV In-state option

Located in Carson City, NV Western Nevada College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

Nevada Career Institute

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV Nevada Career Institute is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#5

Advanced Training Institute

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV Advanced Training Institute is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Electrical Systems Installation.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Program lengths and licensing steps

Training time varies depending on the trade. Below is a general guide for Nevada.

TradeTypical Program LengthLicensing or Certification in Nevada
HVAC Technician6-12 monthsEPA Section 608 certification required for refrigerants
Electrician4-5 year apprenticeshipNevada State Electrical License
Welding6-18 monthsAWS Certification optional but preferred
Medical Assistant9-12 monthsCertification through approved testing agencies
Automotive Technician9-18 monthsASE certification recommended

Nevada licensing requirements can change. Always verify current rules with the appropriate state board before enrolling.

What to check before you enroll

Before committing to a trade program, review these key points.

  1. Accreditation: Make sure the school is nationally or regionally accredited.
  2. Licensing Prep: Check if the program includes training for state licensing exams.
  3. Apprenticeships or Externships: Programs with real-world experience are more valuable.
  4. Student Support: Ask about tutoring, career services assistance, and career counseling.
  5. Graduation and employment outcomes: These numbers show how well the school prepares students for employment.

Nevada licensing contacts

If your trade requires licensing, here are some official resources:

Quick steps for starting a Nevada trade career

  1. Choose a trade that matches your skills and interests.
  2. Research accredited Nevada schools offering that program.
  3. Confirm program length, costs, and licensing requirements.
  4. Apply early to confirm availability.
  5. Complete your training and pass required exams.
  6. Apply for Nevada licensing where required.

Final Advice

The best trade school for you is the one that matches your career goals, schedule, and budget. In Nevada, you have options from large public colleges to focused technical institutes. Always verify accreditation, ask about career services, and check that your program will prepare you for any required Nevada license.

Here’s what you should do next:

  • Make a short list of two or three. Schools from the options above.
  • Call each admissions office and. Request program outlines.
  • Ask specifically about certification prep and career services help.

The sooner you train, the sooner you can apply for roles upon completion.


Sources: