New Mexico State University
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in New Mexico / New Mexico State University
New Mexico State University – Las Cruces, NM
Programs Offered
- Automotive Technology (Certificate & AAS)
- Welding Technology (Certificate & AAS)
- Electrical Systems / Electrical Technology (Certificate)
- Building Trades / Woodworking & Construction Technology (Certificate)
- Energy Technology / Industrial Maintenance (Certificates)
Program Overview
NMSU is a major public university whose community‐college and technical divisions offer trade and career‐technology programs that prepare students for immediate workforce entry. Through certificate and associate degree tracks, students develop hands-on skills alongside theoretical instruction in fields such as automotive repair, welding, electrical systems, industrial maintenance and construction trades.
The university’s approach integrates practical labs, industry standards, and local employer alignment—making it a strong choice for students seeking technical careers in southern New Mexico and beyond.
Hands-On Training
Students engage in applied training environments where they:
- Work on actual automotive systems, diagnostics and repair in the Automotive Technology program
- Practice welding techniques—MIG, TIG, Stick—and fabrication in the Welding Technology track
- Install and troubleshoot electrical systems, wiring, controls and industrial automation in the Electrical Systems program
- Build and renovate structures, perform finish carpentry and blueprint reading in the Building Trades tracks
- Study machinery operations, energy systems and maintenance of equipment in Energy/Industrial programs
Certifications & Career Opportunities
- Graduates earn credentials (certificates or AAS degrees) recognized by local industries
- Pathways into roles like automotive technician, certified welder, electrician apprentice, construction trades worker, or industrial maintenance technician
- Programs often align with industry and employer needs in New Mexico’s manufacturing, construction, energy and transportation sectors
Program Length
- Technical Certificates: Often 1 year or less, depending on the field
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Typically about 2 years of full-time study
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent
- Basic math and reading skills required for trade work
- Meet NMSU admission standards as outlined in the university or technical‐division catalog
Financial Aid & Student Support
NMSU provides access to federal and state student aid, scholarships for career‐technical education, and student support services including advising, placement assistance, and tutoring. These support structures help students in technical programs transition into employment or further education.
Location
The main campus in Las Cruces, New Mexico serves as the hub for technical and trade programs offered through NMSU’s branches and technical divisions. With a network that spans the state, NMSU connects students with local industry and workforce opportunities.
Cost & Career Outlook
Based on publicly reported data for New Mexico State University-Dona Ana (Las Cruces, NM) — U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Program Type: Primarily Certificate or Associate Programs
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Median Earnings (10 yrs)
Time to Earn It Back
ROI Grade
About this data: Tuition and earnings are averages from federal College Scorecard data for comparable programs at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana. Actual costs may vary by program length, residency, and supplies. Earnings reflect median salaries ten years after entering the institution. This helps estimate how quickly your training can pay off in real-world wages.