Vocational training courses provide a practical, cost-effective, and time-efficient way to develop the skills needed for a new career, offering a faster path to employment than a traditional two- or four-year degree.
You can receive vocational training in a wide range of industries, including:
- Technology: Training for positions in IT support, web development, and cybersecurity.
- Healthcare: For careers like medical assistant and certified nursing assistant (CNA).
- Green jobs: Opportunities in fields like solar panel installation and wind turbine maintenance.
- Banking and finance: Preparing for roles like loan officer and credit analyst.
- Transportation: Pathways to work in positions such as commercial truck driver or public transit operator.
- Skilled trades: Courses aimed at roles like electrician, plumber, and HVAC technician.
These in-demand careers equip you with essential technical skills to succeed. Many vocational programs also offer industry-recognized certifications that employers value.
In this article, we’ll explore 11 vocational training programs designed to help you start a new career across various industries.
These programs differ in cost, duration, and format, allowing you to choose one that fits your budget and schedule. Some job training programs are free and can prepare you for a new role in under a year.
1. Climb Hire: Free vocational training courses in high-demand tech fields
Location: Climb Hire’s headquarters are in San Jose, California, but our programs are online, and we accept students from anywhere in the US.
Climb Hire is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping low-income adults break into the tech industry. Our vocational training courses are completely free for all students. They’re also fully remote, offering you the flexibility to study from anywhere in the US.
Vocational courses we offer
1. IT support
This 6-month course covers key technical skills like hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting. You’ll graduate with the CompTIA A+ certification, a credential recognized by employers in entry-level IT roles.
IT is a great industry to break into if you’re looking for flexible roles that pay well and that offer many opportunities for career advancement. As just one example, the entry-level role of IT support specialist pays up nearly $60,000 a year.
2. Digital marketing: This 4-month course in paid search marketing focuses on teaching you how to create and manage successful Google and Meta Ads campaigns. The course culminates in two industry-recognized certifications: Google Ads certification and Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate.
Marketing jobs offer diverse opportunities for creativity, problem solving, and analysis. You can find out more about these roles here: Is digital marketing a good career? Key considerations.
What’s included in Climb Hire’s courses
- Technical skills training: You’ll get comprehensive training in the technical skills needed to succeed in the tech industry, leading toward industry-relevant certifications.
- Live, expert-led classes: All courses are taught by industry professionals who provide real-time feedback to ensure you grasp key concepts.
- Hands-on learning: You’ll apply what you’ve learned through practical simulations and real-world projects, preparing you for what you’ll actually be doing on the job.
- Soft skills training: Aside from learning the technical skills, we also dedicate class time to teaching you essential workplace skills, things like professional communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and time management. These soft skills are incredibly helpful for both landing a job and thriving in your role.
- Free certification: Climb Hire covers the cost of your certification exams, ensuring you face no barriers to finishing the program with industry-recognized credentials.
- Career support: We help you find a job when you graduate. In fact, a Career Development Advisor will work with you one-on-one through your job search, providing support with things like resume building and interview prep.
- Strong professional network: All alumni gain access to our extensive professional network of tech industry companies and professionals, which can really speed up the process of connecting you with the right career opportunities and landing a role.
Thanks to all of this, more than 80% of Climb Hire graduates secure jobs within 12 months, with an average starting salary of $50k. Alumni have gone on to work for leading companies like Google, Salesforce, Discord, and IBM.
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Admission requirements
No prior tech experience is needed to enroll at Climb Hire. To be accepted into one of our courses, you must:
- Be between 24 and 40 years old
- Earn $30k a year or less
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have access to a laptop and WiFi.
Are you ready to break into the tech industry? Apply now to one of our career training courses.
2. Job Corps: Vocational training for young adults in more than 100 fields
Location: Job Corps headquarters are in Washington DC, but there are 120 Job Corps campuses across the US and Puerto Rico.
Job Corps is a federal education program that offers free vocational training to low-income young adults. They provide structured training in over 100 fields.
Students are required to live on campus and follow a set learning schedule. Programs can last from eight months to three years, which may be a bit too long for many people who are hoping to change careers.
Courses offered
Job Corps offers training in more than 100 industries. Some of the most popular are:
- Healthcare: Prepare for careers such as certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, and pharmacy technician.
- Construction: Gain skills for positions like cement mason, HVAC technician, and plumber.
- Renewable energy: Train for roles like forestry conservation specialist and solar photovoltaic technician.
- Information technology: Learn to work as an Amazon Web Services cloud practitioner, a desktop support technician and security specialist, and more.
- Homeland security: Build expertise for positions like corrections officer and security and protective services officer.
- Hospitality: Develop skills for careers in areas like hotel management and culinary arts.
Every state runs its own Job Corps program, with different vocational tracks available depending on your location.
What’s included
- Free housing, meals, healthcare, and a small stipend: Job Corps provides living essentials during your training.
- Certification costs covered: Job Corps pays for program supplies and certification fees.
- Soft skills training: Job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation are part of the curriculum.
- Job placement support: Graduates are connected with local employers and apprenticeship opportunities.
Job Corps doesn’t require a high school diploma for enrollment and will help you get your GED if you don’t have one.
Admission requirements
Admission is available to individuals between 16 and 24 years old. To apply, you’ll need to:
- Complete an application
- Attend an interview
- Undergo required health and background screenings
- Meet income requirements
- Follow the rules of the program, including maintaining a drug and alcohol-free environment.
3. Propel America: Tuition-free job training in healthcare fields
Location: Propel America’s main office is in Boston, Massachusetts, with vocational training courses available in California, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Propel America is a nonprofit organization that offers tuition-free healthcare job training programs for young adults aged 18 to 26. Courses range from one to two semesters, depending on the career path.
Courses offered
Propel America focuses on healthcare career pathways, including:
- Medical Assistant (MA): During this two-semester program, you’ll learn how to take vital medical information, assist in exams and basic procedures, prepare samples for labs, and more.
- Sterile Processing Technician (SPT): During this one-semester program, you’ll learn how to sterilize medical equipment and ensure it’s ready for surgery.
Program availability varies based on location.
What’s included
- Tuition-free training: Propel America offers training programs that are free for all students. Program fellows must complete the FAFSA. Most students receive Federal Pell Grants that completely cover the costs. If not, Propel will pay the rest.
- Stipends: Students receive a free laptop plus a stipend during training. The stipend amount varies depending on your program and location.
- Personal career coach: You’ll be assigned a personal coach to guide you through the training process and provide support during the job search.
- Guaranteed job interview: Once you complete your program, you’re guaranteed an interview with one of our employer partners.
- College credits: You’ll take college-level technical courses that count as credits you can transfer to other schools.
Admission requirements
You can apply for Propel America by completing an online application. Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 26 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Not be enrolled in a two or four-year college
- Live near an employer partner
- Show commitment to a healthcare career.
4. Aveda Institutes: Cosmetology training programs across the US
Location: Aveda Institutes’ headquarters are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, but they have campuses in over 30 locations across the US.
Aveda Institutes specializes in training for cosmetology and esthetics careers. As part of the globally recognized Aveda brand, the institutes are known for their focus on eco-friendly, nature-based products and holistic methods.
Vocational education courses are in-person and range from 6 to 12 months, depending on the program and location. Tuition varies by program and location, typically ranging from $15k to $25k. Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans are available to help students cover costs.
Courses offered
Aveda Institutes offers training in:
- Cosmetology: This program trains you to offer hair cutting, coloring, styling, skincare, and nail services, combining technical skills with business training to prepare you for salon or freelance work.
- Esthiology/Skincare: You’ll learn a variety of skincare techniques and body services, makeup application, and waxing, plus business skills to prepare you for the workforce.
- Massage therapy: Training includes therapeutic massage techniques in Swedish massage, aromaology, and reflexology, and includes Ayurvedic principles, anatomy, and other wellness practices.
The availability of Aveda’s programs varies by location.
What’s included
- Hands-on training: Aveda emphasizes real-world work experience, with students practicing on live clients under the supervision of licensed instructors.
- Sustainability focus: Programs incorporate Aveda’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, teaching students how to use sustainable, health-conscious products and methods.
- Licensing exam preparation: Aveda training is designed to help you pass state licensing exams for cosmetology or esthetics.
Admission requirements
You can apply by submitting an online application. Eligibility depends on the program and location, but generally, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational qualification needed.
5. Merit America: Low-cost, remote tech training programs for working adults
Location: Merit America has its headquarters in Washington DC, though its vocational courses operate entirely online and are accessible to students across the US.
Merit America is a nonprofit organization that provides part-time, remote training in tech and related fields. Designed with working adults in mind, programs span 14 to 24 weeks.
All courses cost $5,700, though you won’t have to pay anything until you secure a job earning at least $40k annually.
Courses offered
Merit America offers training tracks along six career paths:
- IT support: Prepares you for entry-level IT support roles, culminating in the Google IT Support Professional Certificate.
- Data analytics: Focuses on data organization, visualization, and analysis, leading to the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate.
- Cybersecurity: Introduces foundational cybersecurity concepts, preparing you for entry-level roles and certifications.
- Project management: Teaches project management fundamentals, ending with the Google Project Management Professional Certificate.
- UX design: Covers user experience design principles, preparing students for industry-recognized certifications.
- Human resources: Training in HR fundamentals, culminating in the Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) Certification.
What’s included
- Flexible, remote learning: Courses combine self-paced modules with live instruction, making them accessible to working adults.
- Hands-on technical training: Curriculum is tailored to provide job-ready skills specific to each career path.
- Soft skills development: Training includes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving essentials.
- Career coaching: You’ll receive personalized support for resumes, interviews, and job searches.
Admission requirements
You can apply to Merit America by completing an online application. To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Earn $35k or less annually
- Not hold or be pursuing a graduate degree.
6. Pursuit: Free rigorous web development training for NYC-area residents
Location: Pursuit serves the New York Metro Area, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, with a hybrid learning model that combines in-person and online instruction.
Pursuit is a nonprofit initiative offering free, intensive web development training to underserved communities in the NYC area. The four-year Fellowship program is highly selective, with limited spots available to those who meet the criteria and demonstrate a strong commitment to the program’s rigorous schedule.
Pursuit’s vocational training course
Pursuit offers a comprehensive training program in full-stack web development. The Fellowship is divided into two core components:
- Pursuit Core (year 1): Focuses on foundational coding languages, website development, and job readiness, with hands-on exercises in debugging, unit testing, and practical coding skills.
- Pursuit Advance (years 2–4): Concentrates on career development, including leadership skills, workplace communication, and ongoing technical education. This phase includes exclusive job opportunities and continued professional support.
What’s included
- Hybrid learning format: The Fellowship combines in-person and remote learning, with 25 hours of classroom instruction each week, along with 20 additional hours dedicated to self-study, assignments, and networking.
- Community and networking: Fellows have access to a community of alumni and mentors throughout their course of study.
- Job support services: Pursuit provides personalized assistance with resume building, mock interviews, and access to job placements with leading tech companies.
- Industry partnerships: Graduates benefit from Pursuit’s connections with tech firms. Over 80% of fellows secure tech roles within 6 months of completing the Core program.
Admission requirements
You can apply to Pursuit’s Fellowship by completing an online application. To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Live in the NYC metro area
- Earn $45k or less annually
- Commit to a full-time, four-year program with a demanding schedule.
7. Center for Legal Studies: Training in various legal fields
Location: The headquarters for the Center for Legal Studies are in Dallas, Texas, though they offer vocational training courses in an online format accessible to students across the US.
The Center for Legal Studies offers a variety of accredited legal courses that take from 7 to 14 weeks to complete. They’re available online or in-person, though the in-person format is only available in certain locations.
Prices for the programs range from $995 to $3,960, depending on the course. Financial aid and payment plans are available.
Courses offered
The Center for Legal Studies offers training in four legal training career tracks, including:
- Paralegal courses: Includes their flagship Paralegal Certificate course as well as an Advanced Paralegal Certificate course, an Advanced Legal Writing and Research course, and others.
- Nursing and medical legal courses: Includes Legal Nurse Consultant Training and a Medical Professional Legal Consultant course.
- Industry specialty legal courses: Includes a Victim Advocacy Certificate course and a Legal Investigation Certificate course.
- Legal support courses: Includes an Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate course, an Employment Law Certificate course, and a Legal Secretary Certificate course.
For in-person courses, program availability varies by location. However, courses are available online for students across the US.
What’s included
- Flexible online learning: Some programs are available 100% online, allowing students to study at their own pace and fit learning around other commitments.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Courses are taught by legal professionals and cover both legal topics and specific skills needed in real-world job settings.
- Partnered with more than 150 accredited colleges: These partnerships provide access to a wide network of academic and professional resources and offer students opportunities for further education or certification within the legal field.
Admission requirements
You can apply to the Center for Legal Studies through their website. Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some courses may have additional requirements, such as prerequisites or background checks, particularly for programs involving legal investigations.
8. Penn Foster: Online vocational training for career advancement
Location: Penn Foster’s headquarters is in Scranton, Pennsylvania, though they operate entirely online, allowing students to access their programs from anywhere in the US.
Penn Foster is a fully accredited online school offering online vocational training programs in over 50 career tracks. Students complete courses at their own pace, with most taking anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the program and your individual progress.
Program costs range from approximately $500 to $2,600, depending on the career track. While financial aid is not an option, payment plans are available to make tuition costs more manageable.
Courses offered
Penn Foster offers training in many industries, including:
- Automotive and engine repair: Automotive, diesel mechanics, and more.
- Business: Business management, marketing, accounting, and more.
- Healthcare: Medical billing, pharmacy, medical coding, and more.
- Computers and electronics: IT support, computer information systems, and more.
- Skilled Trades: HVAC, plumbing, residential electrical work, and more.
- Childcare and education: Early childhood education, child psychology, and more.
- Travel and hospitality: Hotel and restaurant management, travel agency services, and more.
- Veterinary: Veterinary assistant, pet grooming, obedience, and more.
Vocational training in several additional career tracks is also available.
What’s included
- Self-paced learning: All courses are fully online and self-paced, which means you create your own study schedule.
- Personalized support from faculty: While classes don’t include a live instructor, you’ll receive one-on-one support from faculty members via phone and email.
- Professional career services: All programs include access to connections to potential employers, our job board, and tips for building your resume.
Admission requirements
You can apply for Penn Foster vocational courses directly on their website. Most programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, though some programs may have additional prerequisites.
9. Path to Pro: Free remote training for construction careers
Location: Path to Pro offers 100% virtual training for residents across the US and Puerto Rico.
Path to Pro is an initiative by Home Depot that provides free, remote vocational training designed to equip you with the foundational skills needed for careers in the construction industry. The program will prepare you for a wide range of trade jobs.
Courses offered
Path to Pro offers training in various skilled trades, including:
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Carpentry
- Plumbing
- Welding
- Roofing
- Construction and Remodeling
- Landscaping
- Property Management
Vocational training for additional career paths is also available.
What’s included
- Virtual, self-paced learning: All courses are delivered remotely and allow you to go at your own pace.
- Support from experienced instructors: You won’t have live instruction during classes, but access to expert instructors and mentors for guidance is available throughout your training.
- Real-world simulations: You’ll have the chance to practice the skills you’ve learned in realistic, hands-on simulations before entering the job market.
- Certification exam fees included: The program covers certification exam costs, which can be expensive.
- Job search and career support: Path to Pro helps with job search strategies, resume building, and interview prep to ensure you’re ready for the workforce. They also connect you with a professional network to help with job leads.
Admission requirements
Applications for Path to Pro can be submitted online through their website. No prior trade experience or degree is needed—just a strong motivation to pursue a career in skilled trades. Keep in mind that construction and trade jobs can be physically demanding, so it’s important to consider whether that kind of work suits you.
10. Flatiron School: Intense tech-industry bootcamps taught remotely
Location: Flatiron School’s headquarters are in New York City, but they offer fully remote vocational training courses, allowing students to attend from anywhere.
Flatiron School provides part-time and full-time bootcamp-style programs in various tech fields that typically take between 15 and 60 weeks to complete. Their hands-on, project-based approach simulates real-world tasks, helping students develop practical, industry-ready skills.
Tuition fees range from $14,900 to $17,900, depending on the vocational training course. To offset the impact of the cost, Flatiron School offers financing, payment plans, and scholarship opportunities.
Courses offered
Flatiron offers bootcamps in several tech fields, including:
- Artificial intelligence: You’ll learn AI development, machine learning algorithms, and deep learning techniques.
- Software Engineering: You’ll learn to build websites, develop web applications, and create interactive features.
- Data Science: You’ll gain skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and using programming languages.
- Cybersecurity: You’ll focus on network security, threat analysis, and protecting systems from breaches.
- Game design: You’ll learn how to conceptualize, design, and develop video games.
- Game programming: You’ll work on coding and programming languages specific to game development.
- UX/UI Product Design: You’ll learn to design intuitive, user-friendly digital products with a focus on user experience and interface design.
What’s included
- Hands-on, project-based learning: Flatiron’s programs are intense, hands-on, and project-based, simulating real-world tasks. You’ll build a solid portfolio by working on practical projects in a fast-paced learning environment.
- Flexible study options: You can choose between part-time and full-time study to best fit your schedule.
- Career support: You’ll get coaching on resume writing, mock interviews, and personal brand development throughout the program.
- Job placement assistance: Flatiron School offers you support in finding a job for up to 180 days after graduation.
Admission requirements
To apply, fill out an online application. Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Complete an admissions interview and skills assessment.
- Demonstrate readiness and commitment to the program’s demands.
11. American Home Inspector’s Training: Online and in-person courses available in 48 states
Location: American Home Inspector’s Training (AHIT) headquarters are in Greenwood Village, Colorado, but their courses are available online and in-person across 48 states.
American Home Inspector’s Training is a nonprofit organization that offers home inspection training designed to prepare students for certification and a career in the field. Their programs include online self-paced courses, live webinars, and in-person classes tailored to meet state-specific requirements.
Online courses typically take 120 hours to complete, with tuition varying from state to state, up to around $1700.
Courses offered
AHIT offers training in home inspection, which includes things like residential home inspection, light commercial property inspection, and more. Programs are tailored to meet the specific requirements of each state, ensuring they align with local regulations. These state-specific programs also prepare you for the required certification exams.
What’s included
- Flexible learning options: Choose from online, in-person, or live webinar courses to best fit your schedule and learning preferences.
- Hands-on experience: In-person classes often provide field training with real-world inspections guided by certified professionals.
- Exam preparation: AHIT includes practice exams and test-taking strategies to help you pass state licensing exams.
- Support from instructors: You’ll receive support from instructors during and after your training, which can include guidance on the course material, business tips, and more.
Admission requirements
You can apply directly through AHIT’s website. No prior experience is necessary for admission, though some trade experience can be helpful.
Other Options for Vocational Training
In addition to the programs above, there are a few other vocational training paths you may also want to consider:
- Local vocational programs. State and local governments as well as nonprofit organizations often offer free or low-cost vocational training programs tailored to in-demand jobs in the region. We’ve compiled a list of job training opportunities by state in case you want to find out what’s available in your area. We’ve also put together a list of free courses for SNAP recipients across the US.
- Digital learning platforms. Platforms like Coursera, Google Learning, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer a wide range of vocational courses, from coding bootcamps to project management certifications. Many of these courses are self-paced, which makes it easy to fit them into your schedule. However, they come with drawbacks, such as the lack of real-time guidance and direct support from instructors.
- Short vocational training courses through colleges. Many community colleges and universities offer short-term vocational programs designed for fast entry into the workforce. These programs often focus on practical skills, like medical billing, graphic design, or computer programming, and can often be completed in just a few months. However, while they’re usually more affordable than a full degree program, they can still be expensive.
Get free vocational training with Climb Hire
Climb Hire’s vocational training courses in IT support and digital marketing can prepare you for a tech career in under a year.
Here’s a recap of what makes our programs stand out:
- No cost to enroll: Vocational training courses are free for all students, thanks to the funding we receive from philanthropic organizations and government grants.
- Job-ready skills: Practical, hands-on training and industry-recognized certifications ensure you’re prepared for real-world tech jobs.
- Career support: One-on-one guidance for your job search, from resume building to interview prep.
- A strong network: You’ll be connected to our expansive professional network, which makes finding a job a lot easier and faster.
Explore our IT Support and Google & Meta Ads Certification programs and apply today!