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2019 Best Trade Schools in CaliforniaAbout this List

Explore the top trade schools in your area based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education. List includes vocational schools, technical colleges, and 2-year schools with a focus on a skilled trade. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

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  1. Mt. San Antonio College

    • 2 Year
    • Walnut, CA
    • 1,652

    Sophomore: Mt. San Antonio College is such an amazing community college with several classes and programs offered at an affordable price! Attending this school makes me wish that I could have attended community college much earlier. It is not just the affordability that is positive, but the staff of this school is very attentive to student needs. There is an amazing amount of counseling resources on campus to help students build an educational plan for their academic or transfer needs, and mental health services that go above and beyond to aid their students. I feel safe, secure, and accomplished at this school.
    Read 1,652 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $4,890 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. Santa Rosa Junior College

    • 2 Year
    • Santa Rosa, CA
    • 1,093

    Niche User: This college offers a great Interior Design Program that I will complete within 2 years. I will be starting a new career that will fulfill a lifelong dream. I have a BA in Psychology from U.C. Santa Cruz and am a retired senior looking for a new adventure. I plan to put my skills to work by helping the recovery from the fires in our area in October 2017 and assist seniors in staying in place as they age. Without Santa Rosa Junior College, I would have to travel over an hour and a half and attend a much more expensive program. Santa Rosa JC is convenient and cost effective. I am very satisfied with this college and its program!
    Read 1,093 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $8,770 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Canada College

    • 2 Year
    • Redwood City, CA
    • 203

    Alum: Completing my pre-requisites for Pharmacy school at Canada was a great experience. The teachers I've had, although very few to choose from because of the specific classes I need, were all very helpful and made me feel well prepared to start higher education. I also love how Canada offers STEM compared to their sister schools CSM and Skyline. Of course since it's a community college you won't get the "full college experience", but I still met people who I am still friends with now after transferring. It's a smart and cheaper way of attending college!
    Read 203 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $6,453 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  4. Sponsored

    Saint Mary's College of California

    • 4 Year
    • Moraga, CA
    • 984

    Senior: I transferred to SMC after the Summer of 2016. I was accepted 1 week prior to the beginning of the semester, so it was a hectic week trying to get everything sorted out. But the housing staff was very accommodating and helpful in getting me a place to live. I've enjoyed my classes here and my professors as well. I've developed great friendships and relationships with some professors, one of whom has written me a letter of recommendation for grad school.
    However, being a transfer student is a challenge anywhere, but SMC could not separate themselves from the pack. There was lots of information that I did not receive about the school and the way of life on campus. Furthermore, several previous classes were not accepted, and I was forced to take several classes all over again.
    Read 984 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 82% Acceptance Rate
    • $33,414 Net Price
    • 1060-1240 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. City College of San Francisco

    • 2 Year
    • San Francisco, CA
    • 836

    Freshman: I am glad that I decided to go to CCSF but not any other community college. The campus is well-located with a lively vibe. The course range is pretty huge and the professor I met so far (8) are great! Many counselors are there and ready to help the students finding the right courses or the right path. There are a gym and a swimming pool in the Wellness Center you can take advantage of. The thing it needs to improve on is probably the diversity of clubs and more volunteer work, sports activities that help connect the students better!
    Read 836 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $5,479 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. Cabrillo College

    • 2 Year
    • Aptos, CA
    • 591

    Sophomore: Cabrillo college has a huge diversity of students: parents, elderly, young, and different races. It is a 4 minute drive from the beach so you can leave and take a breather. The professors are so understanding of any situations that might be going on in your life. Also, the student employment is great. They pay higher than minimum wage. There is a Watsonville campus that is smaller than the main campus in Aptos. The Watsonville campus mainly focuses on the general lower math and english classes. But, there is something connected with it that is named the digital nest. They are a company that works with young adults. Also, the Cabrillo library has two floors. On the second floor, you will find a place called the hub. The hub offers free tutoring to students for almost every subject. Overall, everyone at Cabrillo is very friendly. Random people will smile at you and say hey! I would highly recommend anyone to come here.
    Read 591 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $10,157 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. Glendale Community College - California

    • 2 Year
    • Glendale, CA
    • 562

    Freshman: From the moment I stepped onto the campus at Glendale Community College, I felt at home. I have not been in school for 10 years, so of course I had many emotions running through my body. My favorite part about this school are the aids- Financial aids, Guidance Counselors, Dean, and Professors. Everyone is very knowledgeable and patient on showing you the ropes. They are easy to converse with about all types of questions or issues. The campus itself is breath taking. It is located in the hills on Glendale, filled with fresh air, and beautiful scenery. I am very happy to be a student at Glendale Community College this year!
    Read 562 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $4,293 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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  9. Cerritos College

    • 2 Year
    • Norwalk, CA
    • 1,086

    Sophomore: I have honestly been shocked by the level of education I have received from Cerritos. I went into my educational experience hearing really negative things about community colleges and even reading some things on various websites, I felt nervous! Honestly, the college far exceeded my expectations. My teachers have been beyond helpful and I have been intellectually challenged by them. There are also a lot of honors and priority registration opportunities.
    Read 1,086 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $10,210 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. San Diego Miramar College

    • 2 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 441

    Sophomore: I really like this institution -- the professors are very well-knowledgeable and, from my experience, care about their students. They're also passionate about what they teach. Other staff, like counselors (and really everyone I've met so far) are wonderful. Professional and care about you. Everyone I've met so far wants their students or peers to succeed. The campus, also, is very beautiful. New buildings and renovations = a beautiful, convenient and clean campus. A wonderful place to study. There are so many computers available as well as other resources. Very glad I started my college path here, and highly recommend this college to others, who are interested in transferring after 2 years or simply want to get an Associate's degree!
    Read 441 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,113 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. Los Medanos College

    • 2 Year
    • Pittsburg, CA
    • 636

    Sophomore: This is my third semester at Los Medanos College! I have enjoyed my college career here, due to all of the positivity and different programs. There are amazing teachers and amazing councilors to help you get through your college experience!
    Read 636 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,042 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Merritt College

    • 2 Year
    • Oakland, CA
    • 199

    Niche User: This school is an excellent choice when it comes to getting any sort of degree or certificate. Personally they have the greatest teachers, known for multiple subjects but the ones that put Merritt on the map is Nursing programs coming in at number one in the state. Science courses, communications, psychology, Paralegal Studies.
    Read 199 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $6,540 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. Long Beach City College

    • 2 Year
    • Long Beach, CA
    • 1,518

    Niche User: I graduated from a university and decided to go back to school to further my education. I am currently taking prerequisites at Long Beach City College to apply to PT school in the nearby future. I enjoy classes at LBCC because the professors there truly prepare students who plan on transferring! The science classes here are just as challenging as the ones at a university. People often have the misconception that a junior college is easier but its not the case, at least not here. Don't let this scare you! The professors here truly want you to succeed and they are willing to write you a letter of recommendation if needed. Although it is a great school, they should revamp their cafeteria! They should provide healthier options instead of burgers, fries, etc. What we put in our bodies now will affect our brain later!
    Read 1,518 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $5,526 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. Cypress College

    • 2 Year
    • Cypress, CA
    • 751

    Junior: I love this school and so happy that I decided to go here. I have met so many amazing students and professors and made some unforgettable memories here! They are currently working on upgrading the school so I am sad I will already have graduated by the time it is done, but what has been completed so far is amazing! Cypress also has this magical pond that draws people into this school and once you are there it makes you feel like you aren't at school while sitting in the shade on the grass starring into the pond. The professors really care about their students and teaching them all they know and learning from us students.
    Read 751 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $6,636 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. Oxnard College

    • 2 Year
    • Oxnard, CA
    • 232

    Freshman: My experience at Oxnard College has been amazing so far. I've only completed one semester so far and I've already fallen in love with the atmosphere. The professors are so helpful and really dedicated to helping their students. The ASG has gone above and beyond to assist me with anything and everything, and has made me feel extremely comfortable despite my severe anxiety. I've just started my second semester at OC and I'm loving every second of it!
    Read 232 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $3,860 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. San Jose City College

    • 2 Year
    • San Jose, CA
    • 243

    Freshman: San Jose City College is a prime and promising institution in terms of academics and integrating the rise of technology and artificial intelligence into it's overall theme and curriculum. In particular, I'd like to point out the award-winning college newspaper, City College Times, is an innovative, interactive print and digital paper that has a great staff and advisor. However, there are some things SJCC could improve upon, such as their financial aid office. There are always long wait durations, no phone services, and the staff at the front desk is unwelcoming to most inquiries regarding the financial aid process. Also there are no dorms on campus and taking into consideration the vast abundance of international students who study here, this should really be a priority. Other than that, San Jose City College is a promising 2-year college that I believe will advance in the coming years.
    Read 243 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,531 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. Butte College

    • 2 Year
    • Oroville, CA
    • 611

    Sophomore: Butte College takes pride in being sustainable! 44% of the colleges electricity s powered by 5 large solar panels. The college has managed to save energy and still plans on doing so with energy conservation projects. The campus is extremely beautiful and the view when you walk out of class is breathtaking. Professors from Chico State enjoy working there as well! I have had the chance to meet and take classes administered by these professors. They are also giving freshman free tuition this Fall semester, which makes it really affordable as well.
    Read 611 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $5,823 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. Riverside City College

    • 2 Year
    • Riverside, CA
    • 1,131

    Freshman: RCC is a pretty place but the main problem with that college is the parking: there are so many students that have enrolled in here and that caused a limited amount of parking, despite having multiple parking areas that are bigger than the college itself. Everything else is quite fantastic! Everyone is quite nice and very diverse; we have students that are from half-way around the world! There are also free food on thanksgiving day so that was really great, I got to bond with people that I've never met before. As of the professors, there are good professors and bad ones: some have bipolar characteristics and some have a caring characteristic and some are just completely terrific that just keeps you in engage in learning!
    Read 1,131 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,462 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Crafton Hills College

    • 2 Year
    • Yucaipa, CA
    • 450

    Junior: Crafton Hills is a beautiful college campus! What I love about it is that classes, online and on campus, are offered many times through the year and with many sections. The teachers are generally wanting to invest in the students. They work with you and want you to succeed instead of throwing you out in your own. I’ve been to different colleges and this one is probably my favorite. They are ranked high in academics, which is awesome considering it is a valley college. It has the feel and the expectations of a university, which is also pretty amazing!
    Read 450 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,162 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. Columbia College - California

    • 2 Year
    • Sonora, CA
    • 152

    Junior: Many students thrive with different teaching styles- one student may love a teacher while another despises them. Columbia college has great professors, but they also have a selection that have been unsatisfying to my learning experience. Teaching style differs, so that should not be held against a college; however, Each time I come in to the AAC (Academic Achievement Center), they do not have a tutor for my course. This is understandable, but when a simple question is asked that they have no knowledge of, such as primary and secondary sources, is when I consider going somewhere else for tutoring. Overall, I give this beautiful college a 4 because I have learned immense amounts and have enjoyed every semester. This is home.
    Read 152 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $8,156 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. College of the Siskiyous

    • 2 Year
    • Weed, CA
    • 228

    Sophomore: I have enjoyed my time spent at College of the Siskiyous. It being a small, community-based college allows students and professors to work closer together and communicate better. Student life is also an upside at this school because of the many resources available, including a food pantry, warm jackets for donation in the winter, accommodating dorms, a weight room, warm meals, and even book vouchers for students with financial need.
    Read 228 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,636 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. Cerro Coso Community College

    • 2 Year
    • Ridgecrest, CA
    • 214

    Freshman: Cerro Coso Community College has one of the most friendly and caring atmospheres that I have ever that the pleasure of experiencing. The campus looks nice and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The professors at this school are extremely nice and willing to work with students in order to help them succeed. There are also many different clubs and activities for students to partake in. Personally, the financial department has been the most helpful and kind to me. I have enjoyed my time already spent here and I look forward to the years I have to come. The college and people at the college are incredible and beneficial to academic success.
    Read 214 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $10,721 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. Los Angeles Trade-Technical College

    • 2 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 630

    Sophomore: Take advantage of the programs and all opportunities, You will succeed as long as you try. Do your best to move forward, the school Provides all the resources! All it requires is grit and hard work. Stick to class. Stick to the work. Always check school email for any updates. Always make an appointment when you visit the financial or business office, it does get packed! Another thing... always plan ahead... Don't let the procrastinating bug get you.
    Read 630 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $7,797 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. San Diego City College

    • 2 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 810

    Freshman: I'm still a freshman at San Diego City College and only about two months in. So far, all my professors have been great (I have five different professors). The campus is easy to navigate through and all the staff are friendly and supportive. They have a little market that sells snacks, ready meals and various refreshments. It also sells Starbucks coffee! I personally really like the Library because of its spacious environment and comfort. It has three floors - which is plenty to find yourself a cozy spot to sit and study.
    Read 810 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $6,360 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. Reedley College

    • 2 Year
    • Reedley, CA
    • 392

    Sophomore: Reedley College had a wonderful small town feel. They have a huge variety of programs from nursing to dental hygiene to aviation to agriculture and animal science, there is something for everyone! There are a lot of rescources available to the students such as three places to get free tutoring in all subjects.
    Read 392 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $3,653 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. Cosumnes River College

    • 2 Year
    • Sacramento, CA
    • 579

    Sophomore: This college is soo close to my house! Academics wise, this school is great! They got good professors, a tutoring center, a math center, a computer lab and a library. Diversity isn't too bad at CRC. I do see a lot of Caucasians, but I also see many Asians, African Americans, Latinos, etc. I'm not really into sports and don't really no any athletes at CRC, so I cant answer that. As previously stated, this college has good professors! Of course you may find some that aren't that great here and there, but for the most part all my professors here haven't been too bad. This college has no housing. There are apartmnets available acorss the college, but that's it. As for safety, their is a Los Rios Police station on campus. Often there are police officers patrolling campus. CRC has some incidents regarding safety, but those mainly occur at night. I would say that it's mostly safe and I do feel safe when on campus. This college isn't expensive at all. I would say its worth the money.
    Read 579 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $5,921 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. West Hills College - Coalinga

    • 2 Year
    • Coalinga, CA
    • 77

    Sophomore: My experience at West Hills College has been great. I have taken many online courses and a couple face to face courses and most of them have been great. There is always going to be those classes in which the professor is not the best or the work is just too hard for you, but that's when you fight through the struggle. This college has gotten me prepared for what I am going to be facing at a university. It will be different going from a community college to a university but I feel as if I am going into this very well prepared.
    Read 77 Reviews

    • C
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • $9,203 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    NewSchool of Architecture & Design

    • 4 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 39

    Sophomore: It is a fun school with small campus. All the staff is nice. Climate is awesome. I am architecture atudent and the program is pretty nice. The only thing is quarter system is quite a rush.
    Read 39 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 99% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,402 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    Musicians Institute

    • 4 Year
    • Hollywood, CA
    • 75

    Senior: This is a great school . There is a goood community of musicians willing to work and are serious about music. You will meet a lot of smart , vivacious , ambitious, people at this school. This school is costy but provides many connections that are priceless.
    Read 75 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • $36,165 Net Price
    • — SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
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