What are postsecondary schools designed to teach specific skills needed for a trade called?

Postsecondary schools designed to teach specific skills needed for a trade are called technical schools. These institutions focus on providing hands-on training and education in a particular field or career, such as plumbing, automotive repair, nursing, information technology, and other vocational areas. The curriculum at technical schools is typically more specialized, aimed at equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to enter the workforce directly after graduation.

In contrast, community colleges offer a broader range of courses, including associate degrees and general education, while liberal arts colleges emphasize a well-rounded education in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, preparing students for various fields rather than specific trades. Online colleges primarily focus on delivering courses and degree programs through online platforms, catering to a wide array of fields without necessarily emphasizing practical, trade-focused training. Therefore, the focus of technical schools on vocational skills aligns them specifically with the asked designation.