11 Best Trade Schools for Carpentry in the USA | How to Apply

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The best trade schools for carpentry in the USA offer programs of various durations, from certificate programs that can be completed in less than a year to two-year programs that lead to the degree of a junior specialist. 

Trade schools for carpentry usually include electives in related subjects in the construction industry, offer many opportunities for practical training, and pay special attention to training in occupational safety.  Read on to find out what you need to do to start your carpentry career.

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Read More: 10 Best Carpentry Schools in Massachusetts| Requirements, Cost & How to Apply

How Long is Trade School for Carpentry?

Attending the best trade schools for carpentry or vocational college in the USA usually takes eight to 24 months. 

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Although much less common, shorter programs (often including online carpentry courses) may be available to help you learn the basics of becoming a carpenter in just four months. *

Training programs can last up to four years.  If you complete the pre-study program, this course work may add two more years.  There are two things to remember when calculating the time you will need to train a carpenter. 

Carpenters and other craftsmen are usually paid for on-the-job training.  So you are more likely to start receiving financial rewards from a carpenter’s career faster than in some other professions.

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Are there Trade Schools for Woodworking?

Many trade schools and community colleges worldwide offer continuing education in a wide range of fields, where knowledgeable community members teach for free. 

Fortunately, many communities have woodworking clubs where you can learn valuable advanced skills programs.

The key advantage of joining a local woodworking club is socializing with other local woodworking enthusiasts willing to take newcomers under their wing. Some may even offer you a job!

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Can I Become A Carpenter Without Doing an Apprenticeship?

Inexperience does not mean that you cannot become a qualified carpenter.  In addition to the right attitude, which makes you much more valuable, you also need skills.

Another way to become a carpenter is to find a job as a handyman or carpenter’s assistant and then go up when you start gaining skills and experience. 

Working with other carpenters will allow you to learn technical skills and practical techniques.  As an assistant, you complement your training by completing a carpenter training program. 

This may be the shortest path you can take if you want to become a carpenter, but it doesn’t give you much compensation because, as an assistant, you earn much less money.  Just like when you study, you learn while you work.

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Are there Trade Schools Offering Carpentry?

You can also take carpentry training at a public college or one of the best trade schools for carpentry in the USA. 

See if your local community college or college in your area offers carpentry courses.  The school will teach you how to safely operate power tools and work with hand tools such as saws, hammers, and drills. 

These classes, which are offered by these schools, usually last several weeks or months, teaching you the basics of carpentry and allowing you to gain the experience needed to enter this profession.

ALSO CHECK: 10 Best Carpentry Schools in Michigan| Requirements, Cost & How to Apply

How Much is Trade School for Carpentry?

The best trade schools for carpentry cost 750–6,500 dollars, and they can usually be obtained in one year.  For example, Penn Foster’s online carpentry program costs $ 758. 

The carpenters’ program at Caddo Kiowa Technology Center in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, costs $ 2,550 for Oklahoma residents for the nine-month program or $5,780 for residents of other states. 

An associate’s degree in the field of carpentry costs 4000-20,000 dollars and usually takes two years.  Courses and fees at Alexandria College of Technology and Community in Minnesota cost $12,468 with a degree in carpentry. 

The University of Montana at Missoula charges $6,600 for residents or $19,800 for non-residents for tuition and a two-year junior carpentry degree.

9 Best trade Schools for Carpentry in the USA

After thorough research, rankings, reviews, and value offers, we have curated a list of the best trade schools for carpentry in the USA from the best MOOC platforms online.

Below is the list of the best trade schools in Carpentry in the USA.

#1 Hennepin Technical College

At Hennepin Technical College, students develop a variety of skills related to carpentry and woodworking in general. 

Some examples: are reading drawings, specifications, and sketches; determining the best types of construction and materials for the performance of works; and using their skills to achieve great results. 

Students also learn safe and effective ways to use hand and power tools, as well as large appliances. Each student carpenter in this trade school must purchase the necessary set of tools, a list of which will be provided on the first day of classes. 

These tools will be the property of the students and thus can be used to do their job.  Hennepin Technical College emphasizes environmental responsibility. 

Students learn about environmentally friendly building materials and methods, as well as the best ways to use them.  Professionalism and ethics at work are encouraged, as these soft skills mean retaining a job or retaining a client.

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#2 Western Technical College

Thanks to the autumn and summer start dates, the WTC makes it easier for those interested to register in its first-class program for novice carpenters. 

Students receive a technical diploma by fulfilling the requirements of up to 36 credits.  Students do not have to worry about studying, as this financial aid is available.

Students acquire relevant skills for a variety of construction jobs, including carpentry and cabinet making.  The comprehensive curriculum consists of courses related to the specialty, such as Fundamentals of Woodworking.

Because carpentry is not just about driving nails into wood, the course work includes building arrangements and identifying and using materials.  Practically from the first day, they also teach the use of stationary power equipment and hand, portable, and power tools. 

Occupational safety procedures, professional mathematics, and principles of construction science are also included in the curriculum.

Practical training takes place in actual workplaces, where students can work with professional carpenters and apprentices who also practice their craft.  Laboratory classes strengthen practical skills in framing and finishing, among other skills related to a particular profession.

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#3 Thaddeus Stevens Technical College

The 70-credit Associate in Carpentry Technology program includes two years of outstanding, hands-on training for novice carpenters. Students are constantly improving their knowledge and skills and preparing for residential and commercial construction careers. 

Instructors ensure that students benefit from a positive environment where academic support and practical guidance are an integral part. Because it is a public college of technology, its students must be real Pennsylvania residents. 

A minimum annual residency requirement must be met before applicants are considered for admission.  The only exception to the rule is military veterans.

The intensive training program covers both the technical and available skills that students will need in the workplace.  Technical skills include the preparation, interpretation, and execution of drawings, as well as the design of various carpentry works. 

Oral and written communication is required to write accurate technical reports and collaborate with others.  Possession of hand and power tools, including carpentry equipment, is also an important skill set for students.

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#4 Bismarck State College

Bismarck offers three carpentry programs with different credit requirements.  The program certificate consists of 36 credits with a minimum duration of nine months. 

The Diploma and AAS in Carpentry are programs for 60 credits, with the main difference being the number of credits in each category.

The AAS carpentry program consists of technical (36 credits), general education (15 credits), and elective courses (9 credits).  Students earn their degrees two years after enrolling in full-time study and on-campus classes.

Experienced teachers share their knowledge and skills with students in a supportive learning environment.  Both scientists and practitioners are given equal weight because of their complementary nature. 

For example, knowledge of mathematics directly affects the performance of accurate measurements, which is mandatory in carpentry.

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#5 Fox Valley Technical College 

This 37-credit technical degree program is taught on the Oshkosh campus and is taught during the day. 

Students must enroll in full-time education and be prepared to adjust their schedules accordingly.  Financial aid is available to needy students, but the FVTC, as a public college, has affordable tuition.

Students study the theory and practice of basic woodworking skills in the manufacture of furniture, furniture, and architectural joinery. 

The construction of these facilities is becoming almost second nature, as well as a safety-oriented mind when using hand and power tools.  Students also know how to use computer numerical equipment and stationary woodworking equipment.

It is a blended curriculum, so students learn through online classes and personal labs.  Classes cover topics of layout and sawing, forming and shaping, and milling.  Before entering, candidates undergo an intensive assessment of academic skills. 

The minimum requirement is at least a 2.75 high school grade point average, at least 165 for the 2014 GED, or a master’s degree or satisfactory standardized test scores.

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#6 Williamson College of the Trades 

In Williamson College of the Trades, carpentry students can focus on their extensive training while living on campus for three years.

Carpentry skills are acquired through lectures, usually for knowledge formation, as well as exercises and demonstrations in the store. 

Students are also working on numerous on-campus work projects that develop their carpentry and collaboration skills with their peers and faculty.  Emphasis is placed on skill sets useful in residential and light commercial projects with the possibility of professional development.

The comprehensive coursework is designed for three years to consolidate strong basic skills before moving on to advanced skills. 

Students will learn about safety at work, the proper use of tools, and other carpentry-specific topics, such as rough framing, trimming, and interior and exterior finishes.

Skills assessment is conducted through on-site store projects and construction work.  The latter includes new construction and renovation, as well as maintenance of buildings.  Graduates can choose to work as experienced apprentice carpenters, pursue careers as apprentices or be employees of the front office.

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#7 Gateway Community College

Because it is one of the best trade schools for carpentry, many students from Gateway’s active student body are enrolled in the AAS program in construction: carpentry. 

Students have confidence in a comprehensive carpentry education, which will lead to lucrative employment and business opportunities.

Students receive 60 to 78 credits over a two-year program.  Keeping in the program requires at least a grade of “C” in all courses.  Each course is designed to provide students with a variety of competencies that will reinforce their basic carpentry skills.

Graduates also acquire the status of apprentice in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Arizona Department of Economic Security and other institutions.

Gateway also offers a certificate of completion for carpentry work. Students will learn about the frame, formwork, staircase shapes, and exterior finishes.

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#8 St. Cloud Technical and Community College 

The Diploma in Carpentry program has a hybrid format, meaning most of its classes will be held on campus in St. Cloud, Minnesota. 

Students receive 33 credits in carpentry courses, which prepare them for professional work in residential and commercial construction. Many people also choose self-employment because it can also bring in good money.

Learning outcomes reflect the commitment of students to the success of teachers.  In fact, graduates are ready to work! 

Simple and complex projects, from cabinets and carpentry to heavy bridges and highway construction, are on the books.  Graduates are considered equal to experienced students for their diverse set of skills.

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#9 South Central College

The SCC Carpentry Certificate may be one of the shortest in duration, but it is one of the best, as students leave the program as ready as possible! 

Students receive 17 credits, which include general education and practical training courses.  Classes are held on the Faribo campus; the only start date is autumn.

The course work begins with the basics of carpentry, including tools, reading drawings, and safety on construction sites. Then students move on to refresher courses, where they learn carpentry skills applicable to residential and commercial projects. 

SCC also offers a diploma in carpentry.  Students receive 57 credits based on the curriculum, with courses on the roof frame, stair technology, and carpentry laboratory. 

Samm group communication, public speaking, and intercultural and interpersonal communication complete the students’ learning. This program also begins in the fall with classes at the Faribo campus.

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Read More: Read More: Best Carpentry Schools in Tennessee| All You Need to Know

What are the Best Trade Schools for Construction?

Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale.  The school enrolls nearly 52,000 students in a wide variety of academic programs.  By earning a degree, you can learn the professional skills needed in the construction industry. 

You can study construction work, reading architectural projects, surveying, computer-aided design, appraisal, construction methodology, management, and planning.

Conclusion

Traditionally, to become a carpenter, you had to become a student under 3 years old, gradually mastering the skills needed to perform work independently.  Today you can learn the necessary skills in much less time. 

Our best professional carpentry schools in the United States combine hands-on teaching with virtual classroom lessons to give you the carpentry skills and experience you’ll need to do a variety of carpentry jobs.

Best Trade Schools for Carpentry FAQs

Do You Need a License To Practice Carpentry in the USA?

In most states, carpenters only need a license if they are self-employed or working on projects that cost more than a certain amount in dollars.  But requirements can vary greatly from state to state. 

And many local jurisdictions (such as cities and counties) have their own rules.  It is, therefore, important to contact the appropriate state and local offices that oversee the licensing of contractors and dealers in your area.

Is Math Skills Needed for Carpentry?

Carpenters use arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics to measure materials, add volumes, and perform other project planning tasks. Mathematical knowledge also helps carpenters study drawings to understand the project’s layout and determine the supplies’ size. 

In addition, carpenters need to know the practical application of engineering science, including the application of mathematical principles and engineering methods to design and production.

How Can I Earn More As A Carpenter?

Carpenters can earn an average of $ 55,742 per year.  Joining a carpenters’ union can give you access to better pay, benefits, and representation.  Some carpenters receive higher wages by gaining experience in niches such as furniture or construction joinery. 

More experienced carpenters earn more than entry-level carpenters, which may also depend on your skills and skill level.  Some areas also offer better pay for carpenters if demand is higher.

Is Carpentry Work Hard?

Carpentry is a time-consuming career that requires physical training and endurance.  You often stand, walk and squat for long periods, if not the entire shift.  You can also lift heavy objects, place heavy beams, furniture or appliances, and use hand tools to shape and cut wood.

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