Technical schools, also known as trade schools, usually require a high school diploma or GED for admission. However, some institutions offer enrollment options without these credentials, broadening access to a diverse range of students.
Even if you haven’t completed high school, meaningful career opportunities are still attainable through trade professions, which not only provide financial rewards but also a sense of accomplishment.
Understanding which trade school programs do not require a high school diploma can enhance your awareness of postsecondary education options.
While trade schools may accept students without a high school diploma or GED, obtaining these credentials can still increase your chances of enrollment and success. If you do not currently hold a high school diploma or GED, you can enroll in a GED test prep course to prepare for the GED exam effectively.
Trade Schools Without GED/Diploma Requirements
There are several trade schools and programs that accept students without a high school diploma or GED. Here are some examples:
Beauty Schools
Beauty schools provide comprehensive training in hairstyling, skincare procedures, and manicures. While becoming licensed is mandatory in most states for aspiring cosmetologists or beauticians, some states do not require a high school diploma as a prerequisite.
Students can anticipate learning a wide range of skills including hair cutting, styling, manicures, pedicures, and various skincare treatments. It’s crucial to understand that training programs in this field are tailored to meet specific state licensing requirements and specialized areas of focus.
Examples of beauty schools that do not require a high school diploma or GED for admission.
Georgia Beauty School
- Accepts students as young as 16 years old without a high school diploma or GED.
- Curriculum includes courses in hair cutting, nail and skincare, manicures, pedicures, and more.
Find Out: GED in Georgia
Illinois Beauty Schools
- Students can apply to beauty schools in Illinois without a high school diploma or GED
- Programs focus on cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology.
Check Out: GED in Illinois
Mima’s Beauty College (Arizona)
- No GED requirement necessary for cosmetology, nail tech, esthetician, hairstyling, or smaller courses
- The only course with a GED requirement is the beauty school instructor course. If you aim to be a beauty school instructor, you can still get your GED in Arizona.
- As long as applicants have the equivalent of a 10th grade education level, they can be accepted into the program
Massage Therapy Schools
Massage therapy schools provide education on using touch to manipulate a client’s muscles and soft tissue. This therapeutic approach aims to alleviate pain, enhance circulation, induce relaxation, and aid in injury recovery.
While a high school diploma is not always required for entry into massage therapy programs at trade schools, obtaining a state license is mandatory for practice.
The curriculum typically covers techniques such as hot stone therapy, aromatherapy, reflexology, acupressure, and comprehensive understanding of the human musculoskeletal system.
Massage therapy schools that do not mandate a high school diploma or GED for enrollment.
Southeastern College (Florida)
Southeastern College in Florida offers a Massage Therapy diploma program that does not require a high school diploma or GED. The curriculum includes courses in various massage modalities, such as:
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Other Modalities
Students in this program learn the theory and practice of massage, including hygiene, practice demonstration, human anatomy and physiology, legal aspects of massage practice, allied modalities, leadership and human relations skills, health and safety, CPR, and employability skills.
Anthem College (Multiple Locations)
Anthem College, with multiple locations, offers a Massage Therapy diploma program that accepts students without a high school credential. The curriculum covers essential subjects such as:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Massage Therapy Techniques
This program provides comprehensive training in massage therapy, preparing students to become licensed massage therapists. The curriculum includes courses that develop students’ hands-on skills, client assessments, treatment plans, thorough documentation, and client-centered communication skills.
Nursing Assistant/CNA Programs
CNA schools prepare students to work alongside medical professionals in patient care settings. Under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses, CNAs assist with bathing, dressing patients, admitting patients, maintaining cleanliness in patient rooms, and administering medications under supervision.
While a high school diploma is not always required to start a career as a CNA, completing high school or obtaining a GED is essential for advancing in the field to become a nurse.
Read More: Can you Become a Nurse with a GED
It’s important to note that in some states, CNAs are referred to as certified nurse aides, although their training and responsibilities remain consistent.
Those interested in the medical field can pursue nursing assistant or CNA training without a high school diploma or GED.
Examples of CNA programs that do not require a high school diploma or a GED as a requirement:
Brookline College (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas)
- The Nursing Assistant program at Brookline College has no high school diploma prerequisite
- Students learn patient care, medical terminology, and clinical skills as part of the curriculum
Fortis College (Multiple Locations)
- Fortis College offers a Nursing Assistant diploma program that does not require a high school credential
- The curriculum focuses on nursing assistant duties, patient rights, and clinical rotations
Southeastern College (Florida)
- Southeastern College offers a Nursing Assistant program that does not require a high school diploma or GED
- Students receive training in patient care, medical terminology, and clinical skills
It’s important to note that while these CNA programs may not mandate a high school diploma or GED for enrollment, graduates may still need to obtain certain licenses or certifications to work as a CNA in their state. Students should research the specific requirements in their local area.
Community College Trade Programs
Many community colleges provide vocational programs that focus on specific trades rather than awarding associate degrees. These programs often accept students without a high school diploma.
Areas of study available at community colleges without requiring a high school diploma include medical and dental assisting, culinary arts, and personal training.
Front Range Community College (Colorado)
Provides certificate programs in skilled trades like welding that do not have educational prerequisites. Courses cover welding safety, fabrication, and cutting processes
Tulsa Community College (Oklahoma)
The Automotive Service Technology program accepts students without a high school diploma or GED. Students learn vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.
Admission Requirements to Trade Schools Without GED or High School Diploma
For students who do not have a high school diploma or GED, there are several alternative pathways they can explore to gain admission to trade schools:
Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) Test
The Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) test allows students to demonstrate college readiness and eligibility for federal financial aid, even without a high school credential. ATB tests assess skills in reading, writing, and math to determine if a student has the academic ability to succeed in a postsecondary program.
Students who pass the ATB test can enroll in eligible career education programs and receive federal aid like Pell Grants and student loans.
Relevant Work Experience
Some trade schools may consider relevant work experience in lieu of a high school diploma or GED. Students can highlight skills, certifications, and accomplishments from previous jobs that demonstrate their preparedness for the program.
Work experience can show a trade school that a student has the necessary knowledge and abilities to succeed, even without a traditional academic credential.
Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses and earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. This enables students to start their trade education before completing high school, providing an alternative route for those who may not have a diploma.
Dual enrollment can help students get a head start on their career training while also working towards their high school credential.
Non-Degree Seeking Status
Trade schools may admit students as “non-degree seeking” if they do not have a high school diploma or GED. In this status, students can take individual courses or complete a certificate program without formally enrolling in a degree program.
This can be a good option for students who want to explore a trade field or gain specific skills without the requirement of a high school credential.
NOTE: The availability and specific requirements of these alternative admission options may vary by trade school and location. Prospective students should thoroughly research and contact the admissions offices of their target programs to understand the options that best fit their educational background and goals.
Why You May Still Need a Ged or a High School Diploma
Even if a trade school does not require a high school diploma or GED for admission, there are several reasons why students may still need to obtain a GED or high school diploma:
Licensing and Certification Requirements
Many trade careers require additional licenses or certifications to work in the field. These certifications often require a high school diploma or GED as a minimum educational requirement.
For example, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program may require a high school diploma or GED for certification, even if the program itself does not require it for admission.
Employer Preferences
While a trade school may not require a high school diploma or GED, some employers may still prefer or require candidates to have a high school diploma or GED. This can be especially true for entry-level positions or those that involve more responsibility or higher pay.
Employers may view a high school diploma or GED as a sign of academic readiness and work ethic.
Read more: How can an employer verify a GED?
Career Advancement
Having a high school diploma or GED can provide a foundation for further career advancement. Many trade careers offer opportunities for promotion or specialization that require additional education or training.
A high school diploma or GED can be a stepping stone to these opportunities.
Transfer Opportunities
If a student decides to transfer to a four-year college or university, they will likely need a high school diploma or GED to be eligible for admission. This is especially important for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Find out: How Do You Get a GED?
FAQS
What Certifications Can I Get Without a High School Diploma or GED in Georgia?
In Georgia, people without a high school diploma or GED can pursue various certifications, including those in fields like cosmetology, barbering, truck driving, and healthcare.
These programs range from several weeks to a year and provide hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials, enabling participants to develop specialized skills and enter the workforce more quickly.
What Trade School Takes the Least Amount of Time?
Trade schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as a few months to a year, depending on the field. Some of the shortest programs include cosmetology, which can be finished in as little as 12 weeks, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) technician training, which typically takes 6-12 months.
Welding and automotive repair programs also tend to be relatively short, often lasting 6-18 months. The specific duration of a trade school program depends on the state’s requirements, the school’s curriculum, and the student’s enrollment status (full-time or part-time).
Can You Go to College Without a High School Diploma in Canada?
In Canada, it is possible to attend college without a high school diploma, though the specific requirements and options may vary by province and institution. Some alternative pathways include completing a high school equivalency program, such as the General Educational Development (GED) test, or enrolling in a college preparatory program.
Additionally, some colleges and universities may consider mature students or those with relevant work experience on a case-by-case basis. The admission process and eligibility criteria can be complex, so it’s essential to research the specific requirements of the institution and program you’re interested in to determine the best path forward.
Can You Go to College with a Local Diploma?
Yes, you can attend college with a local diploma. Many colleges and universities accept local diplomas as a valid form of high school completion.
However, the specific requirements may vary by institution. It is advisable to check with the college or university you are interested in attending to confirm their admission policies and requirements.
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The course is self-paced, accessible across devices, and features structured lessons, quizzes, and tests to keep students engaged and well-prepared for the GED exam.