The Best Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

In recent years, more and more Americans in Ohio are leaning towards the idea of enrolling in a trade or vocational school, mainly thanks to their affordability. Though many others may still have preconceived notions or stereotypes about them, trade schools have their unique benefits and strengths that typical four-year colleges and universities do not always have.

Aside from being easier on the pocket for their students, trade schools also allow you to complete your chosen program and jump straight into an entry-level career in your chosen industry in as short as a few couple of months. Earnings wise, trade school graduates receive a median salary of about $35,720, based on data from the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), which is comparable to that of the bachelor’s degree graduates’ median salary at $46,900, as estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Potential trade school students can say goodbye as well to the rigorous, nerve-wracking admissions requirements and processes set by colleges and universities. Trade and vocational schools will usually require a high school diploma, GED, or its equivalent to be accepted. However, the testing often comes shortly after the completion of the program, when students are expected to undergo industry-set exams and certifications to prove their ability and capacity to carry out their preferred profession; it’s also an efficient way of testing whether your trade school was able to properly equip you with the proper skills and knowledge you need!

And despite being already a more budget-friendly option than four-year colleges and universities, the cost of trade school tuition and fees can even be cut down further, as the majority of schools are eligible for a variety of financial aid, including scholarships.

The smaller class sizes of most trade schools are also a welcome change for many students. The manageable teacher-to-student ratios of these schools give the student an exceptional individualized learning experience. This is especially important, as trade schools often have programs that require closely supervised, hands-on learning with equipment and tools.

For Ohio students fresh out of high school or adult learners who wish to gain a new skill or enter a new industry, the good news is that the state of Ohio enjoys an abundance of trade and vocational schools that offer an excellent array of certificate, diploma, and even associate degree programs.

Team Northeast Ohio, a group that studies economic development in the state, projects that in 2020, a 34% gap between the job openings that require technical, post-secondary credentials and the number of qualified workers to fill the vacancies. This alone points to the demand for skilled workers that trade and vocational schools produce.

There are over 70 trade schools and career centers to choose from all across various locations in Ohio. Public high schools in the state also provide career-technical education. And more good news for those intending to or are already taking programs in trade schools; Ohio also records a high demand for jobs requiring technical skills that are not precisely covered by four-year degrees.

Finding the most suitable on-campus and online trade schools in Ohio may prove to be quite a challenging journey for most incoming students. Coming up with the best decision that will shape your future career requires an in-depth knowledge of the best features of each of the schools that make it to your shortlist.

OnlineSchoolsCenter.com provides a comprehensive guide to help you discover the best trade school in Ohio that meets your needs. Our writers and researchers came up with the list of the Best Trade Schools in Ohio both online and on-campus, following an evaluation of the schools based on these factors:

• A comprehensive curriculum that focuses on specific industry skills,
• High retention and graduation rates,
• Experiential learning and rigorous training to prepare students for actual work,
• An impressive faculty whose credentials point to their competencies in the trade jobs they focus on,
• Financial assistance options,
• Full accreditation from agencies and organizations that promote high training standards.

Please check out our Methodology page for our ranking details.

Use the quicklinks below to check out the best trade schools in Ohio. Check out your industry or career field of interest!

• The Best Overall Campus Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best Overall Online Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best Plumbing Schools in Ohio
• The Best Landscaping Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best Aviation Maintenance Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best Automotive Mechanic Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best HVAC Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best Welding Trade Schools in Ohio
• The Best EMT Trade Schools in Ohio

The Best Overall Campus Trade Schools in Ohio

Traditional trade schools are those that operate an on-campus location where students are expected to report regularly. The vast majority of trade schools across the United States are mostly traditional types, which is to be expected, as a large number of the areas of study taught in trade schools benefit the most from hands-on training and experience (e.g., plumbing, woodworking).

The State of Ohio has over 70 registered trade and vocational schools to choose from. Some are purely traditional, while others offer both traditional and online programs. These schools usually have a smaller student population. The class-to-instructor ratio for trade schools (estimated to be as low as 6:1) is superior to other prominent colleges and universities in the state.

Trade or vocational professions like nursing assistants and maintenance or repair workers make up a large part of Ohio’s most in-demand professions, with the number of openings ranging 2,000 to 5,000 for each job annually. The number of job openings every year is also higher in Ohio than in most other US states.

The practical experience provided by traditional trade schools to students is quite possibly their greatest strength when compared to online trade schools. Being able to receive focused, face-to-face guidance from instructors and teachers in a simulated or real-life setting (as in laboratory work or internships) is an invaluable experience for those in the trade industries, as it prepares them for the actual work. Being able to work with other students or in a team is also excellent preparation for any profession, and it also opens up the possibility of making valuable connections that might lead to professional opportunities.

Columbus State Community College

Situated on two campuses, Columbus and Delaware, Columbus State Community College has enrolled 27,312 students. They have a myriad of associate degrees and certificates to offer in dozens of disciplines, from arts and humanities to construction and skilled trades. The college aims to guide students in pursuing their goals and improving their lives. They put students’ success in the center of their mission.

They are recognized as one of the 20 colleges entrusted by the Lumina Foundation-funded Right Signals Initiative. This allowed them to develop a new credentialing model to more articulate graduate credentials and capabilities to employers. Their aims include raising the percentage of students completing a degree or certificate at any institution within six years.

For students seeking a quicker route to employment, the offered courses for skilled trades craftsmen are the best option. In this career path, students are trained for the job, providing them with the needed knowledge and skills in preparation for their careers. It includes Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Sheet Metal, and Welding.

Apart from the associate degrees, they can also choose from several certificates, such as Intermediate Pipe and Plate TIG Welder Certificate, Intermediate Welder Certificate, Facilities Maintenance Certificate, Plumbing Module Certificate, Carpenter Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate, Construction Heavy Equipment Certificate, and many others.

Columbus State is known to offer the lowest tuition in the region. For a year, the tuition rate is around $4,738, allowing students to save as much as 40-60% on the total cost. Financial aid options are also available, with grants, loans, and scholarships. For certificates, $1000 scholarships are available as well on selected certificate programs.

Columbus State Community College has been recognized by the Higher Learning Commission since 1973.

Owens Community College

Owens Community College, which has campuses in the Toledo and Findlay areas, has been serving the state of Ohio for over fifty years now. It boasts a catalog of over 70 certificate and associate degree programs, and it has also been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1976.

The small class sizes, averaging a 16:1 student to teacher ratio, at Owens provides a nurturing and individualized learning experience for its 7,000+ student population. Meanwhile, the Community College’s programs are grouped under four academic divisions that cover varying interests and fields of study: Business, Information, & Public Service, Liberal Arts, Nursing & Health Professions, and Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM). Based on the number of graduates, Owens’ Nursing-related, Welding, and Accounting programs have proven to be the most popular choices for students. Owens also offers programs like General Arts, which are ideal for students who wish to transfer to a bachelor’s degree upon completion, popular skilled trades like Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) Engineering Technology and Pipefitting/Plumbing, and even more niche fields like Foreign Languages and Theatre.

Aside from boasting an impressive variety of academic choices, Owens is also known for being one of the most affordable options in the state of Ohio, with their rates for in-state students priced at only $152.50 per credit hour, plus a small in-state general fee of $15.50. Costs can even be decreased further by applying for financial aid like grants, loans, and scholarships. Students from out of state, however, pay nearly double, with the rate per credit hour set at $305.

Owens Community College also offers academic support services like tutoring centers and a retention-focused office that provides various types of resources that students may need to complete their chosen program successfully.

Cuyahoga Community College

Often referred to as Tri-C, Cuyahoga Community College is known as the first-ever community college established in the state of Ohio and is considered by many as one of the best as well. Thanks to the wide variety of its academic catalog and also its affordable tuition rates, Cuyahoga Community College currently enjoys high enrollment figures, serving over 26,000 students across its multiple campuses and training facilities in Highland Hills, Westlake, Brunswick, downtown Cleveland, Public Square, Parma, and Warrensville Heights.

Tri-C prides itself on offering over 190 areas of study for its students, with courses and curriculums aimed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to enroll in their trade or vocation of choice easily. Aside from the usual certificates and associate degree programs, Tri-C also has Fast Track options, non-credit community classes, and even online programs. Academic choices range from popular health careers like Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Nursing to creative arts offerings like Graphic Design and Photography to applied industrial technology programs in some of Ohio’s high demand fields like Plumbing and Carpentry.

Tri-C also has differences in its tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students, but Tri-C is one of the rare trade schools offering a much lower price for students who are residing within Cuyahoga County. Ohio residents pay $144.08 per credit hour, while those from outside the state pay $271.19. Meanwhile, if the student is a Cuyahoga County resident, he or she only has to pay $114.54, quite possibly one of the best rates in the entire area. Many of Tri-C’s students benefit from various types of financial aid as well, with the average amount provided to each student estimated to be at $4,080.

The Best Overall Online Trade Schools in Ohio

As trade schools usually specialize in more technical education that, more often than not, requires hands-on experience in a real-life setting, many people would probably be surprised to know the flourishing trade schools that offer fully online programs. The state of Ohio currently only records seven trade or vocational schools that offer online programs on top of their on-campus ones.

Trade or vocational schools already provide a much more economical education option for hundreds of thousands of Americans, and yet the innovative step of taking trade schools online has helped students save even more. The usual adjacent costs that come with taking a program in a traditional trade school, such as transportation, outside meals, lab fees, or even parking, are usually eliminated by choosing to take an online program instead. Also, thanks to online trade schools, those with reduced mobility or disabilities, those with demanding personal and professional schedules, or even people from remote areas can now earn a certificate, diploma, or even an associate degree in the profession of their choice.

The hesitation that some people might feel about taking a fully online program, especially for professions that require a lot of real-life experience and skill training, is understandable. Online trade schools acknowledge this, and they have taken many steps to bridge the gap between an education earned from a traditional trade school and an online one.

Online content learning platforms have been created and designed by professionals to ensure a better online learning experience; on these platforms, students can use message boards to communicate with classmates or instructions, post, and comment on discussions, and access materials and readings at any time. Many online trade and vocational schools also still require internships or specific hours of hands-on training to complement whatever content is learned online. These and many other innovations or practices make online learning just as effective as a traditional trade school program.

Sinclair Community College

Located in Dayton, Ohio, Sinclair Community College has more than 132 years of experience in helping students achieve their dreams and succeed in the changing workforce of new and growing career fields. This college equips students with the right skills necessary for their chosen profession.

Currently, they have more than 250 associate degrees and certificate programs, including specialized and technical areas of studies that are in high demand in the region. Students can have the option to match their course schedules with their lifestyle.

Most of the certificate programs are designed to prepare students in a specialized area, including general certificate programs and short-term technical certificates. The latter is intended for those who want to focus on a particular industry, a viable choice for workforce preparation. Some of the most notable certificate programs include Agricultural Technology, Automotive Technology, Construction Technician, Data Analytics, Electrocardiography, and many more.

Aside from their on-campus offerings, they also have certificates and degrees that are available online. This is ideal for students who live far from campus locations or have demanding schedules. Completing chosen certificate programs online can be the perfect solution for them, allowing them to pursue their educational goals while fulfilling their personal and professional demands.

Students can choose from an array of online associate degrees and certificates such as Supply Chain Management, Law Enforcement, Corrections Officer, Network Engineering Associate, Retail Management, and Ohio Real Estate Sales Associate, among many others.

Sinclair Community College has one of the lowest tuition rates in Ohio. Tuition fees can cost around $121.03 per credit hour for Montgomery Country residents while out-of-state students have a sub-charge of $193.37, bringing their total credit cost per hour to $314.40.

For students who struggle with finances, the college also offers financial aid in the form of student loans, scholarships, and grants.

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

As one of the country’s two-year colleges with the most extensive cooperative education programs, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College offers different associate degree programs and certificates in business technologies, health and public safety, and engineering and information technologies, among many others. It is also known to provide specialized workforce training programs for more than 150 area businesses.

The college also has a Workforce Development Center, the region’s leading workforce training and education center. It offers convenient, flexible, hands-on training that is custom-designed to help you get ahead. They have highly-customized accredited programs with up-to-date real-world simulations and hands-on practical instructions.

While they have extensive on-campus programs, the state college also offers hundreds of online courses as well as several associate degrees and certificate programs. Students who don’t have the time to attend classes on campus can still pursue their formal education through online learning. Although some courses may require a proctored test or exam, the majority of class activities and lectures are purely online.

Some of the available certificates include Accounting Certificate, Computer Applications, Coding Specialist Certificate, and Homeland Security Certificate.

The school offers one of the most inexpensive tuition rates. In-state tuition is at $163.64, while out-of-state tuition is at $327.28. There are also available grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs for students who struggle financially.

Clark State Community College

Situated in Springfield, Ohio, and founded back in 1962, Clark State Community College is one of the educational institutions in the state offering online programs that award students with certificates and associate degrees. As for its campuses, they operate several locations spread out across the state, namely in Springfield, Beavercreek, Bellefontaine, and Xenia.

Clark State maintains affordable tuition rates for its students; their in-state rate is at only $160.33 per credit hour, which can also apply to Indiana residents under certain circumstances, thanks to the Indiana Ohio Reciprocity agreement. Meanwhile, students who are from outside of Ohio pay $292.66 per credit hour. The usual types of financial aid, like grants, loans, and scholarships, are available to Clark State students, as well as other types of financial support, like military and veterans benefits. The College also reports that over 77% of its student population receives some form of financial aid.

Over 140 majors are available at Clark State, and 29 of those are certificates and associate degrees that can be earned online. Under its Arts and Humanities section, students can earn an Associate of Arts (AA) degree that can help them transfer to a four-year college or university or a Communication associate degree.

The Business pathway is one of the most varied, with 23 majors listed, including in-demand certificate programs like Accounting and Customer Service, and associate degrees in Management and Judicial Court Reporting, to name a few. Computer Programming and Web Development certificates are also available as online programs under the Computer and Information Technology division.

There is also an online Associate of Science degree program that is meant for students wishing to transfer to a four-year degree, just like the Associate in Arts option. The variety of online programs available and their affordability makes Clarke State Community College an excellent trade school option for Ohio residents.

Not sure which trade to pursue? Check this out: 30 High Paying Trade School Degrees and Jobs 2020

The Best Plumbing Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Plumbing systems are present in virtually every American household, and they are a crucial addition to modern life that many of us sometimes take for granted. Consequentially, those in the plumbing trade are also a valuable part of the workforce in the country.

Those interested in pursuing a career in the plumbing industry will be delighted to learn that jobs can pay quite well and that the demand continues to rise year after year all across the country. Plumbers in Ohio receive an average annual salary of $55,153 (with the estimated range being $47,971 to $63,098), while the hourly rates in the state are expected to average $22 an hour. The hourly rate is slightly lower than the national average, but it’s interesting to note that plumbers in the Cincinnati area receive generally higher rates than other cities in the state, with the average being $26.20 an hour.

The trend for job outlooks in plumbing is also excellent, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the figure for plumbing-related employment will grow up to 21% until the year 2022. Those interested in joining the plumbing trade must first usually start with an apprenticeship, and afterward, one can become a journeyman. The last step is often the acquisition of a master’s level license, after a considerable amount of working experience.

Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development

The Great Oaks Institute of Technology and Career Development in Cincinnati provides both full-time occupational programs and short-term certification programs in a variety of industries that are very much in demand in the state of Ohio, such as State Tested Nursing Assistant & Patient Care Assistant and Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technology.

Those looking to enroll in a program that can land them in the plumbing industry, as well as a myriad of other similar sectors, would be best suited for Great Oaks’ full-time Construction Technologies program. It spans 900 hours within 45 weeks and is more of a jack-of-all-trades type of program that covers not only plumbing, but also electrical systems, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and carpentry. The program is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE). Construction Technologies is available as evening classes (from 4:30 to 10:30 pm), and classes are held at Great Oaks’ Scarlet Oaks Career Campus. Meanwhile, the cost of attendance is on the reasonable side, with tuition totaling $7,695 and books and other supplies costing an additional $3,130.

Great Oaks requires applicants for this program to have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent and to be at least 18 years old. They also need a minimum assessment level of 4 for WorkKeys® assessments in the following sections: Applied Math, Workplace Documents, and Graphic Literacy.

The program teaches courses like construction math, blueprint reading, material handling, use of hand and power tools, and basic safety, which are aimed at equipping future carpenters, electrical apprentices, and plumber’s apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge for their profession. After completion of the program, Great Oaks also assists its students in resume writing, job interviews, and job searches.

• Official Program Name: Construction Technologies
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, federal grants, student loans, military, and veterans benefits

Owens Community College

Owens Community College has two campuses: one in Toledo and another in Findlay and one in downtown Toledo. The Community College offers more than 70 programs to choose from and boasts small class sizes that maximize the student’s learning experience.

Part of Owens’ academic catalog, under its selection of Mechanical and Building Maintenance Majors in the School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, is a Pipefitter & Plumbing certificate program. Up to 31 credits (six of which are electives) are needed to complete the program, which is offered only at the College’s Toledo campus. Courses range from math-related subjects that are used in the profession, such as Applied Algebra and Applied Geometry/Trigonometry, to the practical skills like Blueprint Reading for Industry, Welding Processes, Piping Systems, and Piping Print Reading. The program will allow students to be equipped for entry-level plumbing, pipefitting, and steamfitting jobs.

Owens Community College also allows credits earned under the Pipefitter & Plumbing certificate program to count towards its Building Maintenance Major Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Owens is also one of the most affordable trade or vocational school options in the state of Ohio, charging in-state students $152.50 per credit hour; on the other hand, out of state students pay $305 per hour. Under this program, students get access to multiple options for financial aid.

• Official Program Name:  Pipefitter & Plumbing
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, loans, scholarships, federal work-study, military and veterans benefits, AmeriCorps (tuition support in return for community service), Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), student emergency assistance

Columbus State Community College

A community college that is known for its widely diverse student population in the region, Columbus State Community College (CSCC), is also one of the most affordable institutions in Ohio. It is an excellent choice for those looking to earn an associate degree or a certificate in their trade of choice.

For students interested in entering the plumbing industry, Columbus State has two options that they can consider: the Plumbing Module Certificate and the Plumbing Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate. The former is a much shorter program, requiring only 15 credits across two semesters, and is intended to equip the learner with a new skill set in a short period. Meanwhile, the Plumbing Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate requires 25 credits (also taken within two semesters), and it aims to successfully prepare students who plan to be employed in a plumbing apprenticeship. Columbus State directs, upon completion of program, possible apprenticeship programs with its industry partners that the student can take afterward.

Both programs cover courses such as Survey of the Construction Industry, where students are given a glimpse of the possible opportunities and careers in the industry, Plumbing Supply Systems, Drain Waste and Vent (DWV) Systems, Plumbing Repair, and Service Practices, and Construction Industry Employability Skills, which are mainly life and soft skills that can supplement the student’s technical knowledge. The Plumbing Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate covers a little more ground in its curriculum through courses like Principles of Refrigeration, Mathematics of Measurement, and Construction Drawings, where students are taught to read and interpret drawings and specifications used in the industry.

Aspiring plumbers and plumbing apprentices in Ohio will be glad to know they can avail of Columbus State’s affordable in-state tuition of $157.93 per credit hour. This is much lower than the $323.03 per credit hour rate set for students residing outside the state.

• Official Program Names: Plumbing Module, Plumbing Apprenticeship Readiness
• Program Levels: Module Certificate, Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, federal loans, private or alternative loans, scholarships, community support (e.g., childcare assistance, health coverage, food assistance), federal work-study, third party sponsor payments

Cuyahoga Community College District

In the northeastern part of Ohio, Cuyahoga Community College, usually abbreviated as Tri-C, is one of the most affordable in terms of tuition and fees. Cuyahoga County residents are charged a low rate of $114.54 per credit hour. Students from elsewhere in Ohio pay slightly higher, with their rate at $144.08 per credit hour. Meanwhile, for US residents outside the state, one credit hour begins at $271.19.

Cuyahoga Community College is one of the best value options when it comes to trade schools that offer training for future plumbers. Currently being offered are a Plumbing Certificate of Proficiency program and a Plumbing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program. However, it should be noted that both programs require their applicants to be presently employed in a registered apprenticeship program acknowledged by the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, and the United Association (UA).

The certificate program aims to ensure that the student will be fit for journeyman status upon completing all of the 30 credits. To achieve that, Tri-C’s curriculum for this program has included required courses like Care and Use of Tools, Soldering and Brazing, State of Ohio Plumbing Code, Pipe Fittings, Valves, and Supports, Gas Systems, and City & State Backflow, to name a few.  The AAS program covers the same essential courses, plus plumbing-related electives like Green Building and Sustainability or Construction Print Reading. Its curriculum also features supplementary General Education electives that are still very much useful to the trade, like higher-level math, business, computer applications, composition, technical writing, and personal finance. All this leads to a total of 63 credit hours (with 12 of them made up of electives).

• Official Program Name: Plumbing (Proficiency), Plumbing AAS Program
• Program Level: Certificate of Proficiency, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Applied Industrial Technology with a concentration in Plumbing
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: For Associate of Applied Science program, federal grants, scholarships, loans, work-study, and third party sponsor payments

For other online options, see:

The Best Landscaping Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Landscaping is both a trade and an art. For people with green thumbs and an aesthetic eye, going into the landscaping industry is an excellent choice that can provide them with a good income and an opportunity to transform their surroundings into artful creations.

In the state of Ohio, landscapers (generally referring to the more labor-intensive aspect of the industry) earn an average of $26,601, with the maximum annual earnings reaching up to $37,000. This is only the starting point for many who belong to the landscaping trade. Those who work their way up into landscape designers enjoy an average income of up to $57,370 a year in the state, and this is already higher than the national average. Most major areas in Ohio, like Cleveland and Columbus, usually pay landscapers $13 an hour, which is roughly on par with the national average as well. In the next few years, the job outlook for entry-level landscapers is expected to grow up to 8.9%, so job shortages will also be less likely an issue in the industry.

Though most landscaping job opportunities require no more than high school diplomas, earning a trade school certificate or diploma for this profession can help budding landscapers gain a stronger foundation of the practices, knowledge, and even theories on how to create and maintain the best landscapes for each client. This mastery, in turn, can help them cement their reputation among their clientele and help them climb up the pay scale.

The usual tasks and responsibilities of landscapers include the designing of a fitting landscape for the client’s place, taking into consideration factors such as the location’s climate, terrain, size, and the client’s tastes or preferences. For those at the more entry-level point of landscaping, they may be less involved in the designing until they have gained considerable experience in the industry, working first under landscape designers who lead the project. Canvassing and purchasing materials, equipment, soil, plants, etc., follows, and the groundwork begins.

Afterward, maintenance and other tasks like pest control become part of the landscaper’s responsibilities. Regular lawn mowing, removal of weeds, spraying of pesticides, even snow removal during the winter seasons—these are just some of the daily tasks expected from landscapers.

Columbus State Community College

Despite being home to around 27,000 students, Columbus State Community College (CSCC) prides itself on its small class sizes (estimated to be at 20), which can give students a more individualized learning experience. The College, which has two campuses in Columbus and Delaware, as well as six regional centers, also offers a wide variety of areas of study – from Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences to Construction and Skilled Trades to Business and Hospitality Services. 

Columbus State Community College offers a Landscape Design & Management program that can either lead to a certificate or an associate degree and is accredited by the National Association of Landscape Professionals. The College’s program has also consistently been ranked in the top ten landscape programs in the United States for over 25 years, making it one the best options for aspiring landscapers in Ohio. Only 22 colleges and universities across the United States are accredited by the National Association of Landscape Professionals, including CSCC.

The Landscape certificate requires only 14 credits to be completed, while the Landscape Design and Management Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree requires 62 credits, which include Arts and Humanities, Natural and Physical Sciences, Social and Behavioral Science electives. Both programs cover Plant Sciences, Landscape Principles, and Landscape Management. Students are also taught about plant types, with courses such as Spring Plants, Autumn Plants, and Herbaceous Plants. Day and night classes are available for these programs, offering maximum flexibility for students. The college also provides hands-on, on-field opportunities in affiliation with organizations such as the Columbus Landscape Association, Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association, and Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA).

Ohio residents pay $157.93 per credit hour, and the College estimates the average cost of completing a year on full-time status at the institution to be roughly $4,738. US residents outside the state pay at a much higher rate of $323.03 per credit hour.

• Official Program Names: Landscape Design and Management Program
• Program Level: Certificate, Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, federal loans, private or alternative loans, scholarships, community support (e.g., childcare assistance, health coverage, food assistance), federal work-study, third party sponsor payments

Cuyahoga Community College

Usually referred to as Tri-C, the Cuyahoga Community College is headquartered at its namesake, Cuyahoga County, in the northeastern part of Ohio. Tri-C has multiple locations across the state, namely in Highland Hills, downtown Cleveland, Parma, Brunswick, Westlake, Warrensville Heights, and Public Square.

In their Highland Hills location, called the East Campus, Tri-C offers up to five options for those interested in pursuing a career in the landscape industry. Students can choose to take a short term certificate, which only takes two semesters, in Landscape Design or Landscape Horticulture (focusing more on subjects such as plant pathology or plant identification) or Landscape Contracting. Tri-C notes that these short certificates are ideal for those who already have existing knowledge and experience in the landscape industry but still wish to upgrade their skills or gain a more specific specialization. However, those without prior experience will always be able to benefit much from these short programs, especially if they do not have enough time or financial resources for more extended programs.

Tri-C also has a one-year Plant Science and Landscape Technology (Landscape Technician) program that leads to a Certificate in Proficiency. Lastly, a two-year, full-time Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Plant Science and Landscape Technology is also offered by the College.

When it comes to tuition and fees, Cuyahoga Community College is considered one of the most affordable options in northeastern Ohio. The College charges different rates depending on where the student resides: those from Cuyahoga County pay only $114.54 per credit hour, while Ohio residents, in general, pay $144.08. Out-of-state students pay the most at $271.19 per hour.

• Official Program Names: Landscape Design, Landscape Horticulture, Landscape Contracting, Plant Science and Landscape Technology
• Program Levels: Certificate, Certificate of Proficiency, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, scholarships, loans, work-study, third party sponsor payments

The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute

The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute (commonly shortened to Ohio State ATI) in Wooster is an academic unit under the Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) that offers affordable associate degrees in the state.

There are two possible options for potential students who wish to start a career in the landscape industry. The first is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in the Landscape Horticulture program, while the other is an Associate of Science (AS) in the Horticultural Science program.

Landscape Horticulture is a two-year, hands-on program that covers all the necessary areas of landscaping, such as landscape design, pest control, plant identification, landscape construction, and management. Students under this program can apply their classroom learning into real practice through Ohio State ATI’s state-of-the-art facilities, like their sprawling, 122-acre arboretum, and a laboratory equipped with design software that can be used for landscaping. The program also requires an internship in the form of full-time employment in various employers across the state, where students can harness their skills further and experience the industry for themselves. In addition, this program is one of the 18 programs accredited by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET).

Meanwhile, the Horticultural Science program focuses more on the study of plants and materials used in landscaping, while also covering horticultural and turf management and also greenhouse production. Aside from the facilities mentioned above for Landscape Horticulture students, those taking Horticultural Sciences also have access to Ohio State ATI’s greenhouse complex, conservatory, production nursery, turfgrass facilities, and many more. The program also serves as a transfer degree for those interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, as completion of the program already equals to a 50 percent completion of the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Plants System.

Presently, Ohio State ATI’s rates per credit hour are at $424.88 for Ohio residents, making them a slightly more expensive option compared to other colleges and schools in the state. However, there is a myriad of financial aid options to support interested and eligible students.

• Official Program Name: Landscape Horticulture, Horticultural Science
• Program Level: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree, Associate of Science (AS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Need-based grants, loans, student employment programs, scholarships, military, and veterans benefits

Owens Community College

Owens Community College (OCC) is one of the many schools in Ohio offering a certificate and an associate degree for aspiring landscapers. It has locations in Findlay and Toledo; however, their two landscaping programs are provided only at their Toledo campus.

The College’s Landscape & Turfgrass Management certificate can be acquired upon completing a program composed of 32 credits, which include required courses such as the fundamental Plant Science, Turfgrass Management, Woody Landscape Plants, and Arboriculture, and electives like Irrigation & Drainage, Greenhouse Management, Landscape Graphics, and Landscape Design. Upon completion of the program, OCC is confident that students can readily be accepted into entry-level positions in the landscaping industry, thanks to their combination of practical outdoor experience and classroom learning.

Classes from this program can also count towards OCC’s Landscape & Turfgrass Management Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The AAS degree covers more ground than the certificate version, with its curriculum featuring courses such as Technology in Society, Soil Science, Fertilizer, & Pesticides, Field Experience in Natural Science, and electives in Business, Math, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Composition, and even Public Speaking. A total of 61 to 64 credits are needed for the completion of the AAS program.

Opportunities for employment for students taking either the certificate or associate degree include arboretums, garden centers, greenhouses, zoos, and even sports facilities where turfgrass is commonly used.

As for tuition and fees, students residing within the state of Ohio are charged $152.50 per credit hour, while out of state students pay higher, with the rate placed at $305 per hour.

• Official Program Name: Landscape & Turfgrass Management
• Program Level: Certificate, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, loans, scholarships, federal work-study, military and veterans benefits, AmeriCorps (tuition support in return for community service), Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), student emergency assistance

Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Established in 1969 as a technical college, the Cincinnati State and Technical Community College (CSTCC) serves almost 10,000 students and offers over a hundred program options ranging from certificates to associate degrees. Cincinnati State runs multiple campuses, with the main being Central Parkway, an aviation-focused school at the Cincinnati West Airport, and satellite campuses in Evendale, Middletown, and Harrison.

Under CSTCC’s Landscape Horticulture Technologies division, there are two landscaping-related program options on offer: the Landscape Horticulture (LH) associate degree program, and the Landscape Design Certificate (LDC) program. The Landscape Design Certificate is composed of 37 credits, tackling subjects like Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Landscape Operations, Landscape Design, Computer-Aided Landscape Design, and Landscape Grading, Drainage, and Surveying, across three semesters. Meanwhile, the Landscape Horticulture degree curriculum is more extensive and also requires electives in areas like Math, English, Science, Management and Marketing, English Composition, and Computer.

Cincinnati State is also one of the more affordable options in the area. In-state tuition for Ohio residents begins at $163.64 per credit hour, while it is at $327.28 for students residing out of state. Thanks to reciprocity agreements, however, residents of Kentucky and Indiana can avail of the lower in-state tuition under specific circumstances.

• Official Program Names: Landscape Design, Landscape Horticulture
• Program Levels: Certificate, Associate’s Degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, student loans, scholarships, federal work-study programs

Clark State Community College

Clark State Community College offers more than 120 programs of study both on-campus and online. Clark State also has multiple locations and centers across the state of Ohio, allowing more residents the option to pursue affordable and accessible trade school educations. Their main campus is located in Leffel Lane, Springfield, while their other centers can be found at South Limestone Street, South Fountain Avenue, Beavercreek, and Bellefontaine. Their Nursing and General Transfer-related programs are considered the top majors taken by students at the College.

At the Springfield – Leffel Lane campus, two Associate of Applied Science (AAS) options can be chosen from by those interested in landscaping. The Horticulture Industries – Turf and Landscape Operations program is comprised of 62 credits (including the General Education electives) and focuses on grass science, landscape maintenance, plant pest control, and management, and even covers agricultural business management and sales management. Meanwhile, the Horticulture Industries – Landscape Design program requires 61 credits and concentrates on teaching landscape design basics and techniques. In-depth knowledge of common landscape materials and thorough mastery of computer-aided design software are also other subjects covered by the program.

Students from both programs can receive practical training and experience through lab work done in Clark State’s facilities, which include a greenhouse and a golf course and the campus grounds itself.

Offering one of the cheapest tuition rates in Ohio, Clark State offers in-state tuition at only $160.33 per credit hour, while out-of-state residents pay $292.66 per credit hour. Under certain situations, some Indiana residents may avail of the in-state tuition rate if applicable under the Indiana Ohio Reciprocity Agreement.

• Official Program Names: Horticulture Industries – Turf and Landscape Operations, Horticulture Industries – Landscape Design
• Program Level: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, student loans, student employment, scholarships, military, and veterans benefits

Kent State University

Under Kent State University’s College of Applied and Technical Studies, a program in Horticulture Studies is offered. The program, which can be taken only at Kent State’s Salem campus, awards an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree upon completion of 60 credit hours within four semesters. There are three concentrations available to students: Landscape Design, Turfgrass Management, and Urban Forestry. The first two are the ideal concentrations for those who wish to enter the landscaping industry upon graduation.

The Landscape Design concentration has courses intended to strengthen a student’s skill in designing both functional and aesthetic landscapes, like Horticultural Botany, Plant Identification and Selection, Landscape Design, Landscape Construction, Landscape Management, and Irrigation Design and Maintenance. On the other hand, the Turfgrass Management concentration is more focused on subjects like Golf Course Management (which is also still a form of landscaping), Occupational Regulations and Safety, and even Professional Selling Techniques and Human Communication. All students, regardless of concentration, must have an overall grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.000 to be eligible for graduation.

Kent State estimates the tuition costs for a full-time undergraduate with 12 to 18 credit hours in one academic year to be around $11,131.04 for Ohio residents and $20,007 for those residing outside of the state.

• Official Program Name: Horticulture Studies
• Program Level: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, scholarships, student loans, a federal work-study program

The University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati, under its College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning, has a program called Urban Landscapes offered at the University’s Uptown Campus West. Students may complete the program in two years, leading to an undergraduate certificate.

However, it may be essential to note that the University of Cincinnati is one of the slightly pricier options in the state, as the Uptown Campus rates for non-degree seeking students are at $416 per credit hour. However, financial aid may be applied to manage costs.

Nevertheless, the University’s Urban Landscapes program has a well-rounded curriculum that not only covers the usual landscape design techniques but also has a concentration on the sustainability that proper planning and design, as well as plant life, can bring to urban neighborhoods and areas. It has courses that are not usually found in other landscape-related certificate programs, such as Native Plants and Communities, Roofs and Facades, Permaculture, and Greening Cities and Neighborhoods. For those looking for a slightly different, more environmentally and sustainability-focused program, then the University of Cincinnati’s Urban Landscapes certificate program may be suited for you.

• Official Program Name: Urban Landscapes
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, scholarships, student loans, work-study

Upper Valley Career Center

The Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua, Ohio, is an educational center mainly catering to students and adult learners looking to enter STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and technical fields. It was established back in 1975 and presently offers 25 technical programs in its catalog.

One of its career programs is Landscape Management, which intends to provide the necessary training and knowledge needed for one to successfully land an entry-level job in the landscaping or horticultural industries. The career center also offers a unique career development option for students under this program; during their senior year, they can be employed in a position related to their program, and their class schedule will be modified to allow them to pursue both employment and schooling at the same time.

Some examples of the subjects and skills studied under the Landscape Management program are plant identification, landscape drafting and design, equipment safety and operation, landscape installation, greenhouse and hydroponic growing, and even business ownership.

Classes from this program can also count as credits towards Clark State Community College or Edison State Community College, for up to 4 semester hours. The estimated tuition for completing a short program at the Career Center is roughly $7,000.

• Official Program Name: Landscape Management
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, loans, scholarships, work-study

Ohio Hi-Point Career Center

The Ohio Hi-Point Career Center is a career-technical school founded back in 1974 that offers mostly two-year programs across five counties in the state of Ohio, with the main campus in Bellefontaine. However, the Career Center also has a handful of one-year programs that are mainly targeted towards students about to start their final year of high school who wish to earn some credentials.

Some of the Career Center’s one-year programs include Robotics, State Tested Nursing Assistants (STNA), NCCER Construction (HVAC), and Ohio Certified Nursery Technician. Students planning to pursue a career in landscaping will be glad to know that the Ohio Certified Nursery Technician program has a specialization in Landscape, which covers the necessary subjects like turfgrass management, landscape construction techniques, plant identification, and health, and plant pest control techniques. The other two specializations are Garden Center and Grower. Regardless of specialization, the Career Center provides practical, hands-on learning experiences and classroom learning that go hand in hand to prepare students for whatever profession they wish to pursue.

• Official Program Name: Ohio Certified Nursery Technician – Landscape Specialization
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-campus
• Financial Aid: Federal grants, student loans, scholarships

The Best Aviation Maintenance Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

An aircraft mechanic repairs and maintains airplane parts and systems, not including the instruments. The airplane parts they work on include the engine, brakes, pumps, and landing gear. They must make sure that the plane is regularly maintained and free of any problem—with responsibilities ranging from preventive maintenance to repairs. An aircraft mechanic usually performs routine inspections, and they document the inspections and repairs they execute. The various types of aircraft they work on include propeller-driven airplanes, helicopters, and jets.

Those who want to be aircraft mechanics must possess strong mechanical skills as they must solve mechanical problems quickly. The other skills that are expected of them are equipment maintenance and repair, troubleshooting, operation monitoring, critical thinking, and quality control analysis—among others. They must also be familiar and proficient with sophisticated equipment and ever-evolving technology.  Aircraft mechanics apply the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) standards and regulations in every aspect of their work. The FAA regulations oversee airplane maintenance schedules, inspections, and repairs.

Aspiring Aircraft mechanics need to train in FAA-approved vocational schools, apprenticeship programs, or get an associate degree. Certificate programs and associate degree programs in aviation maintenance technology and aviation technical engineering are some of the various programs approved by the FAA. In these programs, the students learn and train maintenance, repair, and inspection of airplanes, preparing them to take the FAA tests. The fundamental courses incorporated in the programs include math, physics, and electricity. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for aircraft mechanics is 65,230.

PIA Youngstown-Warren Branch Campus

The PIA first opened in 1929. Since its foundation, the school has produced excellent aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians. PIA always advocates and implements hands-on learning among its students. The main campus offers students with AST degree programs in Aviation Technology. With the branches like the Youngstown-Warren Branch Campus, PIA provides a diploma or certificate program in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

Aircraft mechanic graduates from the Youngstown campus fill the demand for technicians in Ohio as well as in other states. The school offers specialized shop areas for aircraft propulsion systems, electricity, sheet metal, hydraulics, instruments & controls, composite materials, non-destructive testing, welding, and painting. And there is full immersion using hands-on training. PIA Youngstown-Warren Branch Campus is recognized by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. The campus is located in 1453 Youngstown-Kingsville Rd NE, Vienna, OH.

• Official Program Name: Aviation Maintenance
• Program Level: Diploma/Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal Pell Grant, State Grant, Loans, scholarships

Columbus State Community College

The Columbus State Community College has branches at their Columbus Campus and Delaware Campus. The subjects in their program are offered so that the students can complete the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe certification process for the mechanic ratings. The Aviation Maintenance Airframe program has earned the approval of the Federal Aviation Administration, and it meets the requirements of FAA Regulation Part 147. Graduates of this program, along with its required technical studies, can proceed to take the Airframe exam for the FAA Airframe Certificate rating.

• Official Program Name: Aviation Maintenance Airframe
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study, Scholarships

Sinclair College

For 132 years, Sinclair College has been assisting students in the pursuit of their goals and dreams. The courses match the lifestyles of their students, and the credits they complete can be transferred to four-year colleges and universities inside and outside Ohio. The college has five campuses in Ohio: Dayton, Centerville, Englewood, Huber Heights, and Mason.

The Airframe Aviation Maintenance program is under the Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Division and Aviation Technology Department. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The subjects they offer include metallic and non-metallic structures, fuel systems, communication/navigation systems, and more.

• Official Program Name: Airframe Aviation Maintenance
• Program Level: Technical Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Work-Study, Loans, Scholarships

Southern State Community College

The Southern State Community College has four campus locations: Adams, Brown, Clinton, Fayette, and Highland counties. They offer various academic programs, including technical and transfer programs. The college is recognized by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). They offer the Aviation: General and Airframe program in the North Campus (Evening) and Laural Oaks (Evening). The courses being offered in the program include Aircraft Operations & Preservation, Basic Aircraft Electricity, Aircraft Materials, and Processes & Fluid Lines.

• Official Program Name: Aviation: General and Airframe
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Pell Grants /SEOG Grant, College Work-Study, Student Loans, Scholarships

Flamingo Air – Airline Ground Schools

For 50 years, Flamingo Air – Airline Ground Schools has been preparing students for Air Transport Pilot (ATP) and Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX) test preparation. This comprehensive school focuses on teaching and training Aircraft Dispatchers as well as Aircraft and Drone Avionics Technicians. With their instruction and guidance, students can become FAA Certified and work in airline operations and the field of Avionics Technology.

The Avionics Technology Training program is fully accredited by the National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies. The training they provide focuses on the maintenance, diagnosis, and repair or aviation electronics equipment and systems. The approximate time to complete the program is 15 months. The school is located at 262 Wilmer Avenue, Cincinnati, OH.

• Official Program Name: Aircraft and Drone Avionics Technician
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: N/A

The Best Automotive Mechanic Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Automotive mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain cars, light trucks, and other automobiles such as SUVs and pickups that run on gasoline, diesel vehicles, and heavy equipment that are handled by diesel mechanics. They also work on the vehicle’s systems—from its body to engines and electrical or computer systems. Their other responsibilities include routine servicing as well as giving a complete overhaul.

They need specific skills like analytical abilities and being detail-oriented to fulfill their responsibilities toward the vehicle engine and its mechanical/electrical components as well as vehicle computer and electronic systems.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of automotive mechanics is 40,710. They usually work for government agencies and automotive dealers. However, those who own and run their businesses tend to earn higher salaries. On the other hand, those who work for gasoline stations and private service outlets usually earn the least.

Automotive mechanics are required to finish an on-the-job training and diploma as well as a certificate or associate’s degree related to automotive service technology and ASE certification. They have various options for their learning and training: education (associate degree or diploma), apprenticeships, or continuing education. Some employers, though, only look for a high school diploma and provide on-the-job training to mechanics.

Columbus State Community College

The automotive technology programs of Columbus State Community College provide the students with all the knowledge and skills they need to land an entry-level job as service technicians or service advisors. The college offers classroom and hands-on experiences that give its graduates the qualifications to enter various job opportunities in new car dealerships, independent repair shops, or fleet repair facilities.

Students under this program have the option to earn an associate degree, complete certificates, or take individual courses. All the courses under the automotive technology programs help prepare the student for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification examinations. The Automotive Management Certificate takes six to nine months to complete.

• Official Program Name: Automotive Management
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study, Scholarships

Stark State College

Stark State College provides quality associate degrees, certificates, and professional development for all types of students. They pride themselves on having more than 200 full-time faculty who possess master’s degrees and doctorate degrees. Aside from their advanced academic degrees, these instructors also have extensive expertise in the fields they teach. This provides students with theoretical and practical learning and tools. Stark State College received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

The automotive technology they offer gives the required academic classes and a solid foundation in the automotive technical skills. The students go through a sequence of courses that emphasizes technology, academics, and hands-on application. With the Comprehensive Automotive Technology Certificate, the students learn core automotive courses that can either help them quickly find a job in the workplace or proceed to an automotive technology associate degree program.

• Official Program Name: Comprehensive Automotive Technology
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study, Loans

Washington State Community College

Washington State Community College first opened its doors in 1971. Along with their commitment to education, workforce development, cultural enrichment, and community service, they offer more than 50 certificate and associate degree programs. The college is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and it participates in the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP).

Their certificate programs are being offered as one-year programs that lead students to direct employment. If the students want to pursue further education, they can also use the credits they’ve completed to enroll in an associate program at Washington State.

With the Automotive Technician program, the students earn the basics of auto and diesel truck maintenance. They have a high-tech shop, where students can get practical experience working on various vehicles and their components.

• Official Program Name: Automotive Technician
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Loans, Grants, Scholarships, Veterans Benefits

Ohio Technical College

Ohio Technical College is an accredited private, proprietary, post-secondary technical college that offers real training for the real world. The college offers a wide variety of technician training programs in automotive, motorcycle, diesel equipment, collision repair and refinishing, and many more. All their programs have practical training that equips students to progress in modern mechanics. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).

Their diesel technology school has a training center that gives the vibe of a combined classroom and workshop space. In their Automotive Mechanic Technician Career Training Program, the students have access to all power tools, hand tools, and testing equipment.

• Official Program Name: Automotive Mechanic Technician
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Student Loans, Parent Loans, Scholarships

University of Northwestern Ohio

Started in 1920, the University of Northwestern Ohio runs five colleges. It is an entrepreneurial, private, non-profit institution with a College of Applied Technologies, a College of Business, a College of Health Professions, a College of Occupational Professions, and a Graduate College. The university is known as a leader in the automotive, diesel, and high-performance industries. The campus, accredited by Higher Learning Commission, is located at 1441 N. Cable Rd., Lima, Ohio.

Automotive Technology is under the College of Applied Technologies, which offers diploma, associate, and bachelor degree programs. Seventy percent of the Automotive Technology program is hands-on, making the program as one of the best in the country. The students are equipped with the newest tools and the latest equipment. The program’s courses include Electrical and Electronics I & II, Manual and Automatic Drive Trains, and Engine Diagnosis and Repair.

• Official Program Name: Automotive Technician
• Program Level: Diploma
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Employment, Scholarships

To earn your accolade through an online program, see our Online Schools for Auto Repair Programs

The Best HVAC Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning or HVAC is a skilled trade that installs, maintains, and repairs cooling and heating systems. The HVAC Technician ensures the temperature, humidity, and air quality of an HVAC system are working well. Their work environment is in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. HVAC Technicians either specialize in installation or maintenance and repair. Some technicians concentrate on either heating, air conditioning, or refrigeration, and others provide a more comprehensive service.

Aspiring HVAC technicians are required to complete either post-secondary education and apprenticeship, licensure, or certification. Students can choose to train from college programs, vocational school programs, or on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs. Although post-secondary education or an apprenticeship is the most common way to get employed, candidates can also go for certifications. Their subjects include electrical systems, refrigeration, air conditioning principles, and heating systems.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of HVAC technicians is $47,610, and it is expected to increase to 13% from 2018 to 2028.

Columbus State Community College

Columbus State Community College is an accredited institution that provides rigorous and affordable education. The college’s Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Technology program gives the students the knowledge, training, and skills they need to enter the $150-billion-dollar mechanical and environmental sciences field. The graduates’ usual employers are commercial heating and air conditioning contractors, residential mechanical contractors, commercial and industrial facility maintenance departments, and more.

• Official Program Name: Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Technology
• Program Level: Certificates
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study, Scholarships

University of Northwestern Ohio

The degrees, programs, and courses at the University of Northwestern Ohio are 70 percent hands-on training. Their programs in HVAC/R Technology provide foundational knowledge for the students’ future careers. The training is mostly HVAC/R training aids, Novar digital controls, and Simutech computer-generated simulation programs. The students are also immersed in the latest technology in furnaces, air conditioners, and commercial refrigeration units. Students will gain certifications in section 608 and 609 of the EPA Refrigerant Handling Requirements. They will then take the industry competency exams of the Air Conditioning Refrigeration Institute.

The program is fully accredited by the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). Graduates have the opportunity to work with the local Habitat for Humanity organization, assisting them by installing residential heating and cooling systems.

• Official Program Name: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technician
• Program Level: Diploma
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Employment, Scholarships

Remington College – Cleveland Campus

The graduates of Remington College – Cleveland Campus are all trained and skilled and professionals who always meet the needs of employers and the community as a whole. The college is affiliated with Cleveland-area employers. This ensures that the training keeps up with the changing times and industry-standard updates. They also regularly invite employers to review the facilities, equipment, courses, and programs of their campus. Their faculty and staff are dedicated instructors, and they are actively involved in the community, often volunteering in civic organizations. The campus also holds Career Days, blood drives, and seminars.

Their HVAC program specializes in career-focused training in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The students are trained in residential and commercial heating, cooling, and refrigeration diagnostics as well as tools, gauges, and meters repair—among others.

• Official Program Name: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration
• Program Level: Diploma
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, Grants, Loans, Military Discounts

Fortis

Fortis offers career education and training programs in the field of nursing, healthcare, medical, dental, business, information technology, skilled trades, massage, and cosmetology. The students emerge as competent and qualified professionals who have acquired the right training they need to get employment. The programs they offer are designed in a way that sends their students into the workforce fast.

Their Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC) training program prepares the students to gain entry-level employment as an HVAC Technician. The program also trains the students in computerized diagnostics. This makes them proficient it diagnosing and repairing modern complex systems for commercial refrigeration, gas heat, heat pumps, and air conditioning.

• Official Program Name: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration
• Program Level: Diploma
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal Student Aid Grant and Loan programs, State and Private funding sources, Student Payment Plans

Belmont College

Belmont College has provided educational services for more than 40 years. Their programs are often offered in on-site and online classes. For those who wish to master a skilled trade, the college has the Workforce Development and Community Education Department, which provides training for specific skill sets. The different job opportunities for graduates include Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning specialist; Furnace or heating equipment installer; Heat pump installer/mechanic, and many more. Those with certificate courses who want to continue their education can proceed to the Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning Applied Science degree.

• Official Program Name: Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal Aid, Scholarships, State Aid, Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans’ Benefits

Would an online distance learning program fit into your schedule? Online Trade Schools for HVAC-R Tech Programs

The Best Welding Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Welding utilizes intense heat to fuse various metal components and form a final product. Welders operate and maintain the equipment for fabricating and repairing metal structures. They can also read and interpret diagrams, sketches and blueprints, and required materials and time frames for projects. When they have a particular customer or employer, they also produce metal products according to their specifications. To comply with company safety measures, welders are required to wear specialized goggles, helmets, and gloves.

Welders are required to complete post-secondary training. Some employers prefer Voluntary professional certification through the American Welding Society. Experienced and skilled welders are familiar with multiple welding machines, including the arc welder, TIG (inert tungsten gas) welder, and MIG (inert metal gas) welder.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of welders is $41,380. There are career opportunities provided by the American Welding Society (AWS). Through this organization, welders can find job opportunities, internship programs, and continuing education resources. Welders are usually employed by industries such as construction, steel, aerospace, and motor vehicles.

Ohio Technical College

Ohio Technical College offers a certificate program for Welding Technology. Students will undergo 12 months of hands-on training and will emerge as a professional welding technician.

The college has a real shop environment, where students can gain practical experience using industry-standard power equipment and hand tools. The students’ courses and training include Welding Technology & History, Oxyacetylene Welding & Cutting, Plasma Arc & Air Carbon Arc Cutting, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (TIG), and more.

Their partnership with Lincoln Electric makes it possible for the program to provide up-to-date welding classes. Through Career Placement Services, graduates get skills training, networking assistance, and referrals to employers.

• Official Program Name: Welding and Fabrication Technology
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Student Loans, Parent Loans, Scholarships

Hobart Institute of Welding Technology

The Hobart Institute of Welding Technology started in 1930 as a department of the Hobart Brothers Company. It was granted a charter by the State of Ohio in 1940—turning it into the Hobart Trade School, nonprofit corporation governed by a board of directors. They have the Hobart Gallery of Welding History, where students and visitors can revisit the institute’s history. The institute is approved by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency.

The Structural Welding Program provides training for major welding processes, as well as, skills on safety and technical information. It equips students with the vital skills that can qualify them for entry-level fabrication work, construction work, job shops, and many others.

• Official Program Name: Structural Welding
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Scholarship

Stark State College

Stark State College teaches students with all mainstream types of welding and layout—basics to nuclear and pressure vessel welding. This program prepares students for the certification for different American Welding Society (AWS) testing, up through 3G and 6G certifications. Students will also learn specialty welding involving titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum.

The program trains students in various hands-on instruction so that they can develop core skills for steel and aluminum welding and fabricating; oxygen/acetylene and AC/DC electric and other processes; arc, MIG, and TIG welding equipment in horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions; gas welding and cutting, and many more.

• Official Program Name: Welding Technology
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study, Loans

Columbus State Community College

In Columbus State Community College, students can choose from a wide range of programs that can immediately get them employment or can prepare them to transfer to a four-year college.

The Intermediate Welder Certificate Program provides students with the required training and skills to enter the job market. Welders who are experienced but did not acquire formal training can enroll in this program. The courses they offer include Welding: Introduction to Stick, Welding: Oxyfuel Methods and Plasma Cutt, Welding: Introduction to MIG, Engineering Graphics, and many more.

• Official Program Name: Intermediate Welder
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study, Scholarships

The Best EMT Trade Schools in Ohio – Campus and Online

Since lives are always at stake everywhere, there is always a need for competent emergency medical technicians. Trained to administer on-site emergency care and take patients by ambulance to a hospital or care facility, EMTs need to have the skills to assess and deliver patient care, support, evaluation, and treatment in a pre-hospital setting. Some EMTs even drive the ambulance or work as part of a helicopter’s flight crew to transport patients.

EMTs must thoroughly complete Patient Care Transport reports and maintain familiarity with the latest practices in emergency and pre-hospital medical care. Their duties include responding to 911 calls for emergency medical assistance, emergency treatment of patients, and following the emergency procedures and training they have learned. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of EMTs is $34,320. Their usual employers are ambulance services, the government, and state, local, and private hospitals.

EMTs must have an EMT certification, a high school diploma or equivalent, and CPR certification. They must complete an EMT course and pass both a knowledge exam and a skills exam to be certified. Formal courses offer about 150 hours of specialized instruction, often occurring in a hospital or ambulance setting.  National certification of EMTs and paramedics are provided in three levels: EMT/Basic, Advanced EMT or EMT-Intermediate, and Paramedic. These certifications are issued by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).

Central Ohio EMS Training

Since 1999, Central Ohio EMS Training has been providing quality education for EMS professionals. Students acquire excellent educational experience that enables them to become competent EMS providers. Central Ohio EMS Training is accredited by the State of Ohio to provide all levels of EMS education and part of a consortium called North Central State College/Central Ohio EMS Training Consortium. This group offers training for paramedic students. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs approved the programs offered by Central Ohio EMS Training.

Central Ohio EMS Training focuses on the introductory level of EMS training, providing students with the knowledge and skills required so that they can work as Emergency Medical Technicians. The program combines lecture and lab training. Their training covers scene safety, EMS systems, communication, documentation, patient assessment, airway management, traumatic injuries, and many more.

• Official Program Name: EMT
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus, Hybrid
• Financial Aid: Scholarship

Owens Community College

Established in 1965, Owens Community College is a community college that offers more than 70 academic programs and certificates. It is perfect for students seeking a career, looking for a new job, or gaining credits to transfer to a four-year college or university. The college has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1976.

Their EMT course provides students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are needed for an entry-level Emergency Medical Technician work. The students must have a current American Heart Association health care provider CPR card. Graduates are eligible to receive state certification and take the National Registry exam. The Owens Community College Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

• Official Program Name: Emergency Medical Technician
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Scholarships, Federal Work-Study, Loans

Columbus State Community College

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program of Columbus State Community College is designed to provide students with an EMS certification, even without earning an associate degree. Students are required to complete the EMT course and then pass the State/National EMT Certification’s written and practical exams. By the end of the course, the students will be able to demonstrate the personal behaviors of an entry-level EMT, show the technical proficiency of an entry-level EMT, process emergency information quickly and efficiently, and more. If the students want to take the Paramedic Certificate program, state law requires them to be certified as an Ohio EMT first before enrolling.

• Official Program Name: Emergency Medical Services
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study, Scholarships

Mid-East Career and Technology Centers

The Mid-East Career and Technology Centers provide dynamic career opportunities for their students through exceptional educational programs. It is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education. Their EMT training specifically designed for people interested in the care and transportation of patients in emergency vehicles. The course contains classwork and clinical experience. Students will learn how to operate an ambulance, transport and care for patients, and much more.

• Official Program Name: EMT
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Federal IV Financial Aid, Recent High School Graduate Tuition Reduction, Workforce Investment Opportunity Act, Veterans Benefits, Trade Adjustment Act, Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Payment plans

Central Ohio Technical College

Central Ohio Technical College is a premier technical college in Ohio. It has four full-service campus locations: Newark, Coshocton, Knox, and Pataskala. These campuses provide hands-on, technical training that students need to impress employers and receive employment. They have an excellent faculty that blends real-world experience, academic theory, and hands-on experiential learning.

Their Emergency Medical Services Technology Program produces qualified emergency medical service personnel, namely Emergency Medical Responder, EMT, EMT Advanced, and Paramedic. The Emergency Medical Technician Certificate is a 7-credit hour or a single-semester course that enables graduates to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician exam. The Central Ohio Technical College Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

• Official Program Name: Emergency Medical Services Technology
• Program Level: Certificate
• Learning Format: On-Campus
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, Student Employment