Trade Schools
Trade schools have at least two advantages over traditional college: they are less expensive, and usually, require less than 2 years to complete.
Through small class sizes and hands-on training, the right trade school can help you become ready for employment in your chosen profession right after graduation.
This page compiles information about 10 of the best trade schools in New Mexico.
The aim is to help you decide what is the path you want to take and what school will equip you to gain the skills needed to fulfill your professional dream.
Trade Schools by City
1Massage Therapy Training Institute
Massage Therapy Training Institute is an NM Registered Massage School medical massage therapy school located in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
During the Massage Therapy training students learn Anatomy and Physiology, get hands-on experience and apply all they are learning while massaging clients in a professional massage clinic.
The Institute’s 6-month and one-year programs meet the requirements for licensure in most states.
The school also offers an Advanced Medical & Sports Massage Certification for Massage Therapists who want to specialize in sports and medical-massage.
The program consists of 6 two-week-long sessions build on one another.
Continuing Education classes are also available year-round.
To become licensed as a massage practitioner, you’ll need to pass the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
Fees. The total cost of the Advanced Medical & Sports Massage Certification is $4,400. Payment Plans and Financial aid is also available to qualifying students.
Courses offered:
- Massage Therapy
- Advanced Sports and Message
Contact information:
- Massage Therapy Training Institute is located at 1210 N Main St, Las Cruces, NM 88001
- Phone: 575-523-6811
- Website: https://www.mtti.org
2Santa Fe School of Massage
Another great school for future massage therapists in Santa Fe School of Massage.
The Santa Fe School of Massage was originally founded by Dr. Jay Scherer in 1979.
It was then named Dr. Jay Scherer’s Academy of Natural Healing.
In 1997, the school changed its name to the Scherer Institute of Natural Healing.
And most recently, the school became the Santa Fe School of Massage.
Santa Fe School of Massage graduates has earned a 100% success rate and a 96% first-time pass rate on the NCE exam, and a 100% pass rate on the MBLEx.
Enrollment. Prospective students can apply by filling out an application form and send the necessary information to the school’s admission department. In the next step, applicants will be invited to an interview. If accepted, future students will complete the enrollment process by signing the enrollment contract and paying a $500 deposit.
Fees. Tuition for the Massage Training program is between $8,900-9,500.
Courses offered:
- Massage Training
- Integrative Palliative Care for Massage Therapists
- Intuitive Presence
- Neuromuscular Therapy Certification
- Manual Lymph Drainage – MLD Certification
Contact information:
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5737, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87502
- Phone: 505.982.8398
- Website: https://www.santafeschoolofmassage.com
3New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting
New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting is providing a 13-weeks-long training program for future dental assistants.
Institute students are instructed by experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the dental industry and prepared for certification.
They will be able to work in a dental office right after graduation.
New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting is authorized by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
The school offers classes in the evening.
Students receive in-class instruction as well as hands-on training.
The school also helps students find an externship.
New Mexico Institute of Dental Assisting is located inside of Smiles For Kids Building on the Northwest corner of Paseo Del Norte and Eagle Ranch Road.
Enrollment. The school is continuously accepting students. Applicants should first call or email the school to set up a consultation to discuss curriculum and financing options.
Fees. Tuition for the Dental Assisting program is $4,800. This price includes books and lab fees. Financing options are also available.
Contact information:
- The school is located at 9201 Eagle Ranch Rd. NW, Albuquerque NM 87114
- Phone: (505) 414-1431
- Website: https://www.newmexicodentalassisting.com
4Albuquerque Barber College
Albuquerque Barber College is offering training classes for future barbers.
The College’s mission is to give students education in the barber styling profession and to prepare them for the New Mexico State Board examination.
With over 35 years in business, the school is providing training in all services required by clients in a full-service barber or hair styling salon for men and women.
Enrollment. Applicants need a proof of age (Birth Certificate or Driver’s License), proof of education (High-School Diploma or equivalent), a completed application, completed permit application. An interview will be conducted with each candidate. Prospective students also need a $25.00 Money Order made out to the States Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists.
Fees. The total cost of the 1200-hour Barber Course is $9,989.23. This includes an $8,000 tuition, $1,260 for tool kit and books and a $729.23 tax. Payment plans are also available.
The total cost of the 1000-hour Instructor Course is $6024.82. This includes a $5,500 Tuition, $85 for Books and Supplies and $439.82 in Tax.
Courses offered:
- Barber Course
- Instructor Course
- Cross-Over/Brush-Up
Contact information:
- Albuquerque Barber College is located at 8104 Wyoming Blvd. NE Ste C, Albuquerque, NM 87113
- Phone: 505-856-7885
- Website: http://abqbarbercollege.com
5A Better U Beauty/Barber Academy
Another great school for future barbers is A Better U Beauty/Barber Academy.
The Academy’s curriculum and activities are designed to provide a solid foundation for graduates to become successful in the hair artistry industry.
The school is accredited with the Better Business Bureau and accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.
The Barbering Program requires 1200 hours of training and takes approximately 31 weeks to complete.
The Refresher course consists of 250 hours of training and it takes approximately 6 weeks to complete.
The Barber Instructor program requires 1000 hours of training and can be completed in approximately 24 weeks.
Enrollment. Those who want to enroll in the Barber Program must be at least 17 years of age. They must be interviewed by a school official, and given a tour of the facility. Prospective students must have a 10th grade level of education, Diploma or GED.
Fees. The registration fee is $15. Tuition varies by program. Financial aid is available to qualifying students.
Courses offered:
- Barber Program
- Refresher Course
- Barber Instructor
Contact information
- The school is located at 5400 Phoenix Ave NE Albuquerque, NM 87110
- Phone: 505.265.4777
- Website: http://abuacademy.com
6Pima Medical Institute Dental Clinic
The PIMA Medical Institute Community Dental Clinic is offering certificate and associate programs in healthcare and nursing at its two campuses in Albuquerque and Albuquerque West.
The institute is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
Both New Mexico campuses are licensed by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
Enrollment. Admission requirements vary by program. Among other things, Potential students should have a high school diploma or recognized GED equivalent.
Applicants under the legal age must have written approval of a parent or legal guardian.
Students who are of compulsory school age may not enroll unless they have a high school diploma.
All applicants must pass an entrance exam with a minimum score.
Fees. The registration fee is $150. Total costs vary between $12,512 and $69,084, depending on the program. Different types of financial aid programs are available to those who qualify.
Courses offered:
Associate Programs:
- Dental Hygiene
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Radiography
- Respiratory Therapy
Certificate programs:
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Administrative Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician
- Practical Nursing
- Veterinary Assistant
Contact information:
- The Albuquerque Campus is located at 4400 Cutler Ave N.E, Albuquerque, NM 87110
- Phone: 800-477-PIMA
- Albuquerque West-Rio Rancho Campus is located at 8601, Golf Course Road N.W., Albuquerque, NM 87114
- Phone: 800-477-PIMA
- Website: https://pmi.edu
7IntelliTec College
IntelliTec College is providing “hands-on” career-specific training that
prepares students with entry-level skills necessary to be employed in their chosen field.
IntelliTec College in Albuquerque, NM, was opened in 2015.
The 12,000-square-foot campus offers two programs: Computer System Technician and Automotive Technician.
The Automotive Technician Program teaches students hands-on how to perform maintenance, run diagnostic tests and do repairs on vehicles.
This certificate program takes 10.5 months.
The Computer Systems Technician Program teaches students how to set up and maintain networks and keep routers and servers functioning.
This Certificate program also takes 10.5 months.
The IntelliTec College in Albuquerque is approved and regulated by the Private Postsecondary Schools Division, New Mexico Higher Education Department.
IntelliTec College is a member of the Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU).
Enrollment. Applicants need documentation of a U.S. High School Diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent. A personal interview with a member of the admissions staff is required.
Fees. The total cost for the Computer Systems Technician Program is $18,189. The total cost for the Automotive Technician Program is $31,708. Financial aid is also available to qualifying students.
Courses offered:
- Automotive Technician
- Computer Systems Technician
Contact information:
- The College is located at 5001 Montgomery Blvd, NE, Suite A24
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109 - Phone: (505) 508-5225
- Website: https://intellitec.edu/locations/albuquerque-campus
8Albuquerque Job Corps Center
Job Corps is the nation’s largest free education and job training program for young adults.
The Center helps young people ages 16 to 24 to improve the quality of their lives through career technical and academic training.
Founded in 1964, the Center offers hands-on career technical training in high-growth industries and can also help students get a GED or high school diploma if they don’t already have one.
By attending the work-based learning program students have the opportunity to link their career technical training with practical, on-the-job activities.
The programs take 18+ months to be completed.
The Job Corps program is authorized by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014.
Enrollment. Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates need to complete the core curriculum with passing scores on all written and performance tests. Potential students need to meet basic academic requirements in math and reading.
Fees. Job Corps is fully funded by the federal government and is free to students and their families.
Courses offered:
- Office Administration
- Electrical Training
- Plumbing
- Certified Nurse Assistant
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Medical Office Support
Contact information:
- Phone: 800 733-JOBS / 800 733-5627
- Website: https://albuquerque.jobcorps.gov
9Vista College
For more than 30 years, Vista College helps students get the training they need to pursue work in their chosen fields.
The College offers two types of programs: on-line and on-campus.
Graduates have lifetime employment assistance from Vista College.
Vista College is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.
Computer Career Center, a Division of Vista College is approved by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
The Practical Nurse program is regulated by the New Mexico Board of Nursing.
The Cosmetology program is regulated by the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department.
The Online-Campus is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Enrollment. Applicants must be at least 17 years old. Students under 18 must have a parent/legal guardian signature on the enrollment agreement. They also have to visit the campus and complete an interview with the Admissions Department. Applicants also need official documentation of completion of secondary education.
Fees. Total tuition costs vary between $21,229.25 and $39,479.91. Financial aid is also available to students who qualify.
Courses offered:
The Las Cruces campus is providing the following programs:
- Dental Assistant Diploma
- Medical Assisting Diploma
- Medical Insurance Billing and Coding Diploma
- Medical Insurance Billing and Coding Associate of Applied Science
- Practical Nurse Diploma
- Business Administration Diploma
- Business Administration Associate of Applied Science
- Information Technology Diploma
- Cosmetology
- HVAC Diploma
Contact information:
- The Las Cruces campus is located at 850 North Telshore Blvd., Suites F-G Las Cruces, NM 88011
- Phone: (575) 993-5952
- Website: https://www.vistacollege.edu
10San Juan College
San Juan College offers a wide range of occupational training programs and job enhancement classes for future professionals.
The College was founded in 1956 as the Farmington Branch of the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts.
The College’s mission is to “Educate and empower individuals to thrive in an ever-changing world.”
San Juan College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award associate degrees and certificates.
The College has 16 main campus buildings and four off-campus facilities in New Mexico.
Fees. The enrollment fee is $25/semester. Tuition fees vary by program. Financial assistance is also available to qualifying students.
Courses offered:
- San Juan College is offering a variety of certificate programs, including:
- Accounting – Bookkeeping Certificate
- Barber Certificate
- Building Trades – Finish Carpentry Certificate
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Certificate (Class A)
- Cosmetology – Makeup/Hair Artist Certificate
- Health Care Certificate – Nursing Assistant
- Health Care Certificate – Phlebotomy
- Veterinay Assistant Certificate
- Welding Certificate – General
Contact information
- The College is located at College Boulevard, Farmington,NM, 87402
- Phone: (505) 326-3311
- Website: https://www.sanjuancollege.edu
Salary Information for Popular Trade Careers
| Career | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 1,850 | $56,840 | $27.33 | $74,480 | $42,010 |
| Medical Records Specialists | 1,210 | $48,490 | $23.31 | $67,440 | $34,140 |
| Nursing Assistants | 4,460 | $37,030 | $17.80 | $46,060 | $29,260 |
| Dental Assistants | 2,220 | $40,530 | $19.49 | $48,940 | $30,770 |
| Medical Assistants | 6,580 | $39,020 | $18.76 | $47,950 | $30,690 |
| Phlebotomists | 710 | $40,310 | $19.38 | $47,990 | $31,080 |
| Electricians | 5,060 | $58,880 | $28.31 | $82,020 | $37,090 |
| Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | 2,890 | $55,430 | $26.65 | $81,580 | $36,040 |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | 5,410 | $46,380 | $22.30 | $71,420 | $28,270 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | 1,770 | $49,000 | $23.56 | $65,560 | $35,320 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
A trade school can help you fulfill your professional goals after just a few months of training.
From medical assisting to truck driving and welding, New Mexico trade school have many vocational programs designed for future skilled professionals.
You have to choose the program that best fits your skills and interests.
When choosing the trade school, don’t forget to take into account important factors, such as accreditation, completion rate, placement rate, and student reviews.
