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Best Trade Schools in Washington

If you want a hands-on career, Washington has excellent options for trade school training. These programs can get you into the workforce faster than a four-year degree, and many prepare you for state licensing requirements.

Why choose a trade school in Washington

  • Most programs take 6-24 months to complete
  • Focused curriculum tailored to your trade
  • Licensing preparation for Washington State requirements
  • Connections to union apprenticeships and local. Employers
  • Lower tuition compared to traditional university. Programs

Licensing reminder: Washington law requires trades like electrical and plumbing to be licensed before working unsupervised. Always confirm with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).

Top trade schools in Washington

#1

Bates Technical College

Tacoma, WA In-state option BOC Score 65.2

Bates Technical College is a Public, 4-year in Tacoma, WA serving about 1,813 students and accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,027
  • Out-of-state tuition: $12,165
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 43%
  • Programs offered: 70
  • Annual completions: 1,263
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Perry Technical Institute

Yakima, WA In-state option BOC Score 65.3

Perry Technical Institute is a Private nonprofit, 2-year in Yakima, WA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 25
  • Annual completions: 985

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Clover Park Technical College

Lakewood, WA In-state option BOC Score 63.9

Clover Park Technical College is a Public, 4-year in Lakewood, WA serving about 2,636 students and accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $6,634
  • Out-of-state tuition: $6,634
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 42%
  • Programs offered: 61
  • Annual completions: 1,796
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

Renton Technical College

Renton, WA In-state option BOC Score 63.3

Renton Technical College is a Public, 4-year in Renton, WA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 64
  • Annual completions: 901
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#5

Spokane Community College

Spokane, WA In-state option BOC Score 68.4

Spokane Community College is a Public, 4-year in Spokane, WA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 83
  • Annual completions: 1,838
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#6

Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Kirkland, WA In-state option BOC Score 68.9

Lake Washington Institute of Technology is a Public, 4-year in Kirkland, WA serving about 2,406 students and accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $5,997
  • Out-of-state tuition: $12,062
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 38%
  • Programs offered: 53
  • Annual completions: 878
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#7

Bellingham Technical College

Bellingham, WA In-state option BOC Score 69.4

Bellingham Technical College is a Public, 4-year in Bellingham, WA. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across WA.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 60
  • Annual completions: 965
  • Online programs available

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Trade ProgramTypical Training LengthLicensing Required?
Welding6-12 monthsOptional certification
HVAC Technician9-18 monthsYes: L&I license for certain work
Automotive Technology1-2 yearsNo, certs recommended
Electrical1-2 years + apprenticeshipYes: L&I license required
Plumbing1 year + apprenticeshipYes: L&I license required
Medical Assistant9-12 monthsOptional certification

Washington licensing rules you should know

  • Electricians: . Complete an apprenticeship, document work hours, and pass L&I exam
  • Plumbers: School + apprenticeship hours required, then licensing exam
  • HVAC: Licensing needed if handling refrigerants or certain systems
  • Healthcare roles: Certifications may be required for certain specialties

Choosing the right Washington trade school

  1. Verify accreditation (state or national)
  2. Check alignment with Washington licensing requirements
  3. Review career services and graduation rates Individual outcomes vary.
  4. Tour labs and facilities
  5. Compare tuition and total costs

Steps to Start

  1. Pick your trade and career goal
  2. Compare at least three accredited programs
  3. Visit campuses and speak with instructors
  4. Apply for admission and payment options
  5. Complete training and required certifications
  6. Start an apprenticeship or entry-level position

Trade programs in Washington

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