Some New York City trade schools are also known as vocational colleges, career institutes and technical schools. For example, the Technical Career Institute is located across from Madison Square Garden and offers degree programs in more than 40 fields, including computers and construction. The Star Career Academy, located in Greenwich Village, offers programs in culinary arts, hotel management and medical assistance. Apex Technical School features programs in automobile mechanics, welding and other construction trades.
Because each trade is specialized, each degree program will have varying costs and different steps toward completion. Certificate and licensure programs generally cost less than full degree programs, as they require only a few courses. For example, at Berkeley College in 2011, a student can pay $480 per credit until a certification is complete. Online trade schools programs can also be less expensive and more flexible, making them a good option for students pursuing degrees in fields like information technology and web design.
Tuition for trade schools is generally lower than four-year colleges and universities. TCI's 2011 rates are $5,760 for a full-time student per semester. 2011 Apex rates vary by program between $15,000 and $17,000 per degree program. Tuition and fees for a cosmetology degree at Empire Beauty School total $11,500 in 2011. Some schools charge tuition by credit hour, some by semester and some by total degree. Additional fees, such as equipment or laboratory fees, may vary with your particular trade. Tuition costs can also vary between public and private institutions.
Most accredited colleges will include financial aid information of their websites, including application details and deadlines and answers to frequently asked questions. Ninety-four percent of incoming students at TCI receive some form of financial aid, whether from federal and state grants or from the institution. Government aid information can be found on the New York State website. Meet with the school's financial adviser to determine your level of need and the best financial aid package.