Trade Schools in Merced, CA

Merced, CA has 3 schools with trade and career programs in this directory: 1 public and 2 private. Together they graduated 869 students from these programs in the latest federal count.

Published program tuition runs from $3,200 to $15,527, with a median of $8,702 across the 9 programs that report a program price.

Graduates earned a median of $20,696 one year after finishing, where the Department of Education reports earnings for the program.

The largest programs by graduates are at Merced College, Milan Institute-Merced and Sierra College of Beauty.

3
Schools
869
Graduates last year
$8,702
Median program tuition
$20,696
Median earnings, 1 yr after

All 3 schools in Merced, CA

Sorted by size. Tap a name for details.

Merced College

Merced, CA

Programs
Auto Mechanic, CNA, Electrician and EMT and Paramedic and 3 more
Average net price
$714
Completion rate
35%
Type
Public

Milan Institute-Merced

Merced, CA

Programs
Barber, Cosmetology, Dental Assistant and Esthetician and 2 more
Average net price
$21,818
Completion rate
64%
Type
Private for-profit

Sierra College of Beauty

Merced, CA

Programs
Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetician and Nail Technician
Average net price
$12,597
Completion rate
71%
Type
Private for-profit

Also within 30 miles of Merced

Common questions

How much does trade school training cost in Merced, CA?

The median published tuition is $8,702 (range $3,200 to $15,527, 9 programs reporting). The lowest listed prices are at Sierra College of Beauty ($3,200) and Milan Institute-Merced ($8,702). Public community and technical colleges often charge less but report tuition per year rather than per program, so check each school's net price calculator.

How long does trade school school take?

Programs that report a length take a median of 8 months to finish (4 to 9 months). Certificates are shorter; associate degrees usually take about two years.

How much do trade school graduates earn?

Across 14 programs with reported outcomes, the median graduate earned $20,696 one year after finishing (U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard). Earnings vary by program and local labor market.

Are there public trade school programs in Merced, CA?

Yes. 1 public school offer it, including Merced College.

Data: U.S. Department of Education: IPEDS 2024-25 and College Scorecard (October 2026 release). Listings change; confirm details with the school before you go. How this directory is built.