New Castle School of Trades (NCST) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
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About New Castle School of Trades
You first notice the steady rumble of shop floors and the get-to-work attitude. New Castle School of Trades is known for hands-on education in skilled trades and technical fields, taught with a focus on safety, precision, and problem solving. Labs and shop spaces feel like real work sites, with tool rooms, practice bays, and plenty of chances to learn by doing. Students find practical support too, from tutoring and study help to advising and career guidance. Not fancy. Effective.
Campus life is straightforward and friendly: classmates team up on projects, grab coffee in commons areas, and swap tips like coworkers. The culture has a reputation for dependability, craftsmanship, and showing up early. Career prep runs through everything, with resume help, mock interviews, and employer connections around western Pennsylvania and nearby hubs. The small-city setting offers local shops and outdoor escapes, plus quick access to bigger scenes. It's unpretentious, focused, and proud of turning effort into a real skill set.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
4117 Pulaksi Road, New Castle, Pennsylvania, 16101, USA
Phone:
+1 (724) 964-8811
Website:
ncstrades.edu
Unit ID:
214290
Academic & Institutional
Control:
Private for-profit institution (operates for revenue)
Accreditation:
ACCSC
Length of Study:
Programs of 2 to less than 4 years (e.g. associate degree)
Calendar System:
Varies by program (different calendars used across programs)
Award Levels:
Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Residency
Carnegie Classification:
Doctoral Universities: Very High Research
Associate's - High Career & Technical, Traditional
Campus Setting:
Located in a fringe town (within 10 miles of urbanized area)
Tuition:
Not available
Student Profile:
Total Students:
623
Undergraduate:
623
Graduate/Other:
0
Male: 560
Female: 63
Applications:
Total Applicants:
Not available
Admitted:
Not available
Enrolled:
Not available
Staff:
Total: 71
Full-time: 48
Part-time: 23
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at New Castle School of Trades (NCST) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Pennsylvania. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Pennsylvania vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Transportation (2)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
Transportation (2)
Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems
49.0205
Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor.
(Cert<1y, AltPostBac)
49.0205
Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor.
(Cert<1y, AltPostBac)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to drive trucks and buses, delivery vehicles, for-hire vehicles and other commercial vehicles, or to instruct commerical vehicle operators. Includes instruction in operating gas, diesel, or electrically-powered vehicles; loading and unloading cargo or passengers; reporting delays or accidents on the road; verifying load against shipping papers; arranging transportation for personnel; and keeping records of receipts and fares.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25-1194 | Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $68,710 | $70,580 | +$1,870 (+2.7%) |
| 53-3032 | Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,400 | $53,800 | -$4,600 (-7.9%) |
| 53-3033 | Light Truck Drivers | $47,950 | $35,340 | -$12,610 (-26.3%) |
| 53-3051 | Bus Drivers, School | $46,660 | $41,160 | -$5,500 (-11.8%) |
| 53-3052 | Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity | $58,390 | $38,850 | -$19,540 (-33.5%) |
| 53-3053 | Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs | $39,070 | $29,940 | -$9,130 (-23.4%) |
Mechanics (7)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
Mechanics (7)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0201
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
47.0201
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Includes instruction in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49-9021 | Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | $62,690 | $57,000 | -$5,690 (-9.1%) |
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y)
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair and maintain industrial machinery and equipment such as cranes, pumps, engines and motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, production machinery, marine deck machinery, and steam propulsion, refinery, and pipeline-distribution systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 47-4021 | Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers | $104,860 | $100,430 | -$4,430 (-4.2%) |
| 49-9012 | Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door | $75,970 | $80,370 | +$4,400 (+5.8%) |
| 49-9041 | Industrial Machinery Mechanics | $67,160 | $65,660 | -$1,500 (-2.2%) |
| 49-9043 | Maintenance Workers, Machinery | $61,820 | $64,390 | +$2,570 (+4.2%) |
| 49-9044 | Millwrights | $68,640 | $79,280 | +$10,640 (+15.5%) |
| 49-9045 | Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons | $61,480 | N/A | N/A |
| 49-9081 | Wind Turbine Service Technicians | $67,580 | $79,650 | +$12,070 (+17.9%) |
47.0604
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
47.0604
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49-2093 | Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment | $80,980 | $75,300 | -$5,680 (-7%) |
| 49-2096 | Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles | $50,240 | $39,820 | -$10,420 (-20.7%) |
| 49-3023 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $55,260 | $47,290 | -$7,970 (-14.4%) |
47.0605
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
47.0605
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain diesel engines in vehicles such as automobiles, buses, ships, trucks, railroad locomotives, and construction equipment; as well as stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49-3031 | Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists | $62,480 | $53,680 | -$8,800 (-14.1%) |
47.0611
Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
47.0611
Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain motorcycles and other similar powered vehicles. Includes instruction in lubrication and cooling systems, electrical and ignition systems, carburetion, fuel systems and adjustments of moving parts.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49-3052 | Motorcycle Mechanics | $49,650 | $49,810 | +$160 (+0.3%) |
47.9999
Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other.
(Cert<2y)
47.9999
Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Any instructional program in mechanic and repair technologies not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Construction (2)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
Construction (2)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0302
Electrician.
(Cert<2y)
46.0302
Electrician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain, and repair electric apparatus and systems such as residential, commercial, and industrial electric-power wiring; and DC and AC motors, controls, and electrical distribution panels. Includes instruction in the principles of electronics and electrical systems, wiring, power transmission, safety, industrial and household appliances, job estimation, electrical testing and inspection, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $82,330 | -$2,170 (-2.6%) |
| 47-2111 | Electricians | $69,630 | $68,760 | -$870 (-1.2%) |
| 49-2098 | Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers | $60,040 | $52,490 | -$7,550 (-12.6%) |
| 49-9097 | Signal and Track Switch Repairers | $84,940 | N/A | N/A |
46.0415
Building Construction Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
46.0415
Building Construction Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to residential and commercial building construction and remodeling. Includes instruction in construction equipment and safety; site preparation and layout; construction estimating; blueprint reading; building codes; framing; masonry; heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; electrical and mechanical systems; interior and exterior finishing; and plumbing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17-3022 | Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $68,450 | $61,040 | -$7,410 (-10.8%) |
| 47-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers | $84,500 | $82,330 | -$2,170 (-2.6%) |
Production (3)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
Production (3)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
48.0503
Machine Shop Technology/Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
48.0503
Machine Shop Technology/Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to fabricate and modify metal parts in support of other manufacturing, repair or design activities, or as an independent business.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51-2041 | Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters | $52,740 | $51,900 | -$840 (-1.6%) |
| 51-4033 | Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $46,600 | $47,500 | +$900 (+1.9%) |
| 51-4041 | Machinists | $57,390 | $55,410 | -$1,980 (-3.5%) |
| 51-4081 | Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $48,590 | $43,500 | -$5,090 (-10.5%) |
| 51-4191 | Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic | $49,030 | $46,570 | -$2,460 (-5%) |
| 51-4192 | Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic | $65,770 | $57,380 | -$8,390 (-12.8%) |
| 51-4194 | Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners | $51,790 | $45,560 | -$6,230 (-12%) |
| 51-4199 | Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other | $45,850 | $44,320 | -$1,530 (-3.3%) |
| 51-9161 | Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators | $52,900 | $60,160 | +$7,260 (+13.7%) |
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y)
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51-4121 | Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers | $55,100 | $50,890 | -$4,210 (-7.6%) |
| 51-4122 | Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders | $49,270 | $47,640 | -$1,630 (-3.3%) |
48.0510
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist.
(Cert<1y)
48.0510
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Machinist Technology/CNC Machinist.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, such as lathes, mills, precision measuring tools, and related attachments and accessories, to perform machining functions, such as cutting, drilling, shaping, and finishing products and component parts. Includes instruction in CNC terminology, setup, programming, operations, and troubleshooting; blueprint reading; machining; lathe and mill operations; technical mathematics; computer literacy; CAD/CAM systems; shop and safety practices; equipment capabilities; and regulations and laws.
Graduate Career Earnings in Pennsylvania
Average graduate salary for this degree:
| SOC Code | Occupation | US National | Pennsylvania Avg | PA vs US |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51-9161 | Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators | $52,900 | $60,160 | +$7,260 (+13.7%) |
| 51-9162 | Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers | $69,880 | $65,140 | -$4,740 (-6.8%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
N/A
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
N/A
In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
N/A
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
N/A
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
N/A
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
N/A
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition
(incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
38%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$6,373
Avg. Loan
$6,417
Avg. Federal Loan
$6,417
Additional
Students with Any Grant
219
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
216
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
214
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$6,561
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
N/A
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
N/A
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$24,833 – $62,922
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$24,833 (25th %)
$62,922 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$44,814
Median Salary After 6 Years
$41,932
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$44,814
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
43.5%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
51.4%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$9,567
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low
35.9%
Middle
55.6%
High
81.9%
Repayment by Dependency
Dependent
53.6%
Independent
36.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about New Castle School of Trades (NCST)
What academic programs and degree levels does New Castle School of Trades offer?
New Castle School of Trades (NCST) offers 17 academic programs across 4 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Residency.
Most popular program areas include:
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (7 programs)
- Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts (3 programs)
- Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts (2 programs)
- Logistics Management, Supply Chain and Transportation Systems (2 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at New Castle School of Trades?
New Castle School of Trades (NCST) provides financial aid to 38% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,373 and average loans of $6,417.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,741
- State/Local grants: $4,136
- Institutional grants: $6,561
- Federal loans: $6,417
The university supports 219 students with grants and 216 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for New Castle School of Trades graduates?
New Castle School of Trades (NCST) graduates earn a median salary of $41,932 after 6 years and $44,814 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $24,833 (25th percentile) to $62,922 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $63,600 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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