Best Trade School & Training Programs - Leading Certification Courses in Monterey Park for 2026
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Choosing the right trade school in Monterey Park can shape your future career and open doors to new opportunities. This article introduces the best trade school programs for 2026, based on a ranking carefully developed by the Research.com team of data scientists.
By exploring this guide, you’ll gain insight into programs that truly stand out, helping you find the perfect fit for your goals. Earning a trade school diploma or certification can boost your confidence, skills, and job prospects, making this an exciting step toward a rewarding career.
Key benefits of finishing trade school programs trade school in Monterey Park
- Trade school graduates in Monterey Park can earn strong starting salaries, from around $38,000 for entry-level roles up to $90,000 for skilled trades like electrical power distribution, with healthcare and IT fields also offering competitive pay.
- Popular career paths include skilled trades such as HVAC and electromechanical technology, healthcare roles like registered nursing and radiography, plus business and cybersecurity programs, providing diverse options to fit many interests and goals.
- Online trade school diplomas offer flexibility and convenience, helping students balance work and study while gaining practical skills quickly, which many graduates find boosts their confidence and job readiness.
What can I expect from trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
Expect to invest roughly $5,000 to $15,000 for a full trade school program in Monterey Park, depending on the field and length. One graduate from a local school recalls juggling weekend HVAC classes while working, saying the financial aid options made a huge difference in managing costs without stress.
Students in healthcare tracks, like medical assisting or respiratory therapy, often report feeling energized by hands-on labs and real patient interactions early on, which justifies the tuition that covers supplies and clinical placements. Meanwhile, those pursuing technical trades such as automotive or welding appreciate the smaller class sizes and direct mentorship, making every dollar spent feel like a smart investment in personalized skill-building.
The average cost reflects more than tuition-it's the price of flexible schedules tailored around busy lives, support services to help you excel, and connections that can launch your career fast. Monterey Park's trade schools know that education is a pathway, not a payday sacrifice, and many local grads speak proudly of gaining job-ready skills without drowning in debt.
Where can I work after finishing trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
After finishing a trade school program in Monterey Park, opportunities ripple out like a fresh blueprint. Graduates from local programs routinely land hands-on roles as electricians, plumbers, or HVAC specialists, tackling real projects that transform homes and businesses. Imagine stepping onto a bustling job site, toolbelt ready, collaborating with seasoned pros-all while earning and learning simultaneously.
Others find steady gigs in facilities management, maintaining schools, hospitals, or government buildings, turning everyday spaces into smooth-running environments. A former graduate shares how starting as a maintenance aide at a nearby government complex soon opened doors to leadership roles.
Public sector jobs like park aides in California State Parks tap into skills gained at Monterey's trade schools, with wages that make hard work feel rewarding. For those craving a teaching vibe, local colleges and adult schools beckon, offering positions guiding the next wave of trade students, blending education with real-world grit and growth.
How much can I make after finishing trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
After finishing a trade school program in Monterey Park, the paycheck can pleasantly surprise you. Imagine a fresh graduate stepping into the role of a Permit Technician, clocking in around $30.98 an hour - that's roughly $64,400 a year, enough to start dreaming about that new apartment or weekend getaways. Meanwhile, another graduate starting as an Office Assistant I pockets about $17.51 hourly, which adds up to a steady $36,400 annually, supporting daily life without stress.
Popular local trade schools, known for hands-on training and industry connections, often send their grads into roles that pay anywhere from $17 to $45 per hour. For those diving into specialized fields like Technical Business Analysis, the story gets even better. Graduates stand to earn approximately $92,606 a year-nearly $45 an hour-without needing a full four-year degree, just the right technical skills learned in Monterey Park.
Construction and public works apprentices feel the slow climb too, gaining wages as their skills sharpen, following rates set by Los Angeles County standards. Graduates often share how the local wage ecosystem fuels both excitement and confidence as they launch their careers right here in Monterey Park.
Best Trade School & Training Programs - Leading Certification Courses in Monterey Park for 2026
# 1 position
East Los Angeles College - Information Technology.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a hybrid Information Technology program that covers the design of technological information systems for business and research data needs. The curriculum includes computer hardware and software principles, algorithms, databases, telecommunications, user tactics, application testing, and human interface design. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 2 position
East Los Angeles College - Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a Hybrid Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration program that prepares students for leadership roles in public law enforcement. The curriculum covers law enforcement history, operational command, labor relations, budgeting, legal responsibilities, and public relations. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238, and median earnings one year after completion are $22,228.35.
# 3 position
East Los Angeles College - Criminal Justice/Police Science.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a Criminal Justice/Police Science program designed to prepare students for roles in police and public security. The hybrid program covers patrol, investigations, traffic and crowd control, evidence management, and basic crime prevention. Students learn weapon handling, report preparation, and witness interviewing. The in-state tuition is $1,238 annually. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 4 position
East Los Angeles College - Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a hybrid program in Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician, preparing students to repair, service, and maintain various automobile systems. The curriculum covers brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance and repair, suspension and steering, transmissions, and heating and air conditioning. The program’s annual in-state tuition is $1,238 and it is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 5 position
East Los Angeles College - Business Administration and Management, General.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a Business Administration and Management, General program in a hybrid format with some distance-education options. The curriculum covers management theory, human resources, accounting, purchasing, logistics, marketing, and business decision-making. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 6 position
East Los Angeles College - Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a hybrid program in Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping designed to prepare students for technical administrative roles supporting accountants and financial personnel. The curriculum covers posting transactions, record-keeping systems, accounting software, and general accounting principles. The annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 7 position
East Los Angeles College - Physical Fitness Technician.
certificate or diplomaEast Los Angeles College offers a Physical Fitness Technician program with a hybrid format, including some distance-education options. The program prepares students for roles in health and fitness clubs, wellness centers, and corporate fitness programs, covering anatomy, exercise science, nutrition, and customer service. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 8 position
East Los Angeles College - Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
certificate or diplomaEast Los Angeles College offers a hybrid program in Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician that prepares students to repair, service, and maintain various automobiles. The curriculum covers brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance and repair, suspension, steering, transmissions, and heating and air conditioning. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238.
# 9 position
East Los Angeles College - Physical Therapy Assistant.
certificate or diplomaThe Physical Therapy Assistant program at East Los Angeles College offers a hybrid format with some distance education options. It trains students to assist physical therapists in implementing treatment plans, conducting interventions, and monitoring patient progress. The curriculum covers applied anatomy, kinesiology, neuroscience, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
# 10 position
East Los Angeles College - Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary.
associateEast Los Angeles College offers a Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary program with a hybrid format, including some distance education. The program trains students for administrative roles supporting healthcare professionals, covering medical terminology, health care operations, communications, software applications, scheduling, and professional ethics. Annual in-state tuition is $1,238. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
Key Findings
- Trade school programs in Monterey Park offer certificates and diplomas in fields like HVAC, welding, automotive technology, and medical careers including medical and dental assisting.
- Program lengths range from 6 months to 2 years, with some medical and electrical programs completing in less than a year and automotive technology usually taking about one year.
- Costs for trade school programs range from $5,000 to $20,000, generally less expensive than a four-year college degree in California.
- Financial aid is available through federal grants, loans, and scholarships offered by some schools.
- Entry-level salaries for graduates typically range from $35,000 to $50,000 annually, with experienced skilled trades professionals earning $60,000 to $80,000 or more.
- Local trade schools are accredited and offer state-approved programs, meeting California's licensing requirements for regulated fields.
How long does it take to complete trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
Trade school in Monterey Park is like setting a fast-track timer on your future. Graduates from popular spots such as East Los Angeles College often finish their certificate or diploma programs in as little as 6 months to 2 years. Imagine diving into an HVAC technician course, gaining hands-on skills, and landing your first paycheck-all within a year!
Some classmates opt for associate degrees in tech fields, spending a solid 2 years of focused study. They juggle classrooms and practical labs, excited to feel the thrill of mastering new skills quickly. Others appreciate the flexibility of hybrid or online classes, adjusting their pace to fit family or work, sometimes stretching their education but saving stress.
Electrical technician grads recall blending classroom lessons with real-world work, finishing in under 18 months or up to 2 years depending on licensing demands. Apprenticeships can stretch longer-up to 4 years-but come with paid on-the-job training, making the wait rewarding and deeply immersive.
For many in Monterey Park, the bright appeal is clear: in just months or a couple of years, they're stepping confidently into skilled careers with pride and purpose.
What's the difference between online and on-campus trade school programs trade school programs?
Online trade school programs in Monterey Park feel like having the freedom of a magic time-turner. Graduates often share how they juggled family, work, and study by accessing courses anytime-whether during a lunch break or after the kids were asleep. East Los Angeles College's online format lets students dive into welding theory at midnight from their couch, no commute required. This flexibility makes education feel like it fits your life, not the other way around.
On-campus? It's more like showing up for a hands-on adventure. Imagine standing in a bustling classroom, surrounded by buzzing machines, learning HVAC repairs under an instructor's keen eye. Graduates treasure those moments: the instant feedback, the camaraderie during group projects, the chance to network face-to-face. For trades demanding physical practice-medical assisting labs or welding workshops-Monterey Park's campuses transform learning into a tactile, sensory experience.
Both paths usually mean one to two years of dedicated effort, but online students often appreciate saving money on gas and meals, a subtle boost to motivation. In-person students thrive on human connection that sparks creativity. Whether clicking through modules or tightening a bolt in a lab, Monterey Park trade schools offer tailored routes to success.
What is the average cost of trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
If you're eyeing a trade school in Monterey Park, the average trade school tuition in Monterey Park offers a surprisingly accessible entry point into a skilled career. Graduates often recall starting with annual tuition and mandatory fees hovering between $1,238 and $1,516 when enrolling in community colleges like those in the Los Angeles Community College District. This range feels achievable for many locals, making the dream of hands-on training feel close at hand.
Picture a graduate who balanced weekend shifts and classes charged about $10,130 in yearly tuition at the well-known Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, reflecting the jump for out-of-state students. Yet, these costs don't scare the determined-because they understand that adding roughly $938 yearly for books and supplies is just part of the package that gets their skills sharper and resumes stronger.
Some specialized paths, like nursing, flip the model by showing total program costs instead of annual fees. Imagine finishing a full registered nursing course for a total of about $8,000, covering essentials like tuition and supplies, which makes budgeting feel straightforward and less intimidating.
Financial aid stories abound. One graduate shared how securing grants dropped their net price to about $11,761 a year, thanks to the 84% of students who receive scholarships or grants, making Monterey Park trade school program costs much more manageable. These nuances show why knowing the unique breakdown can make all the difference.
Choosing to study here means embracing the advantages of vocational training, which turn those fees into a springboard for real, rewarding careers.
What financial aid is available for trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
Imagine stepping into Los Angeles Trade-Technical College with the confidence that your education is within reach-thanks to the Pell Grant, which can cover up to $5,100 a year. Many Monterey Park trade school students feel this relief firsthand, having secured federal aid by simply completing the FAFSA. Another graduate juggling work and classes found support through the Federal Work-Study program, blending hands-on job experience with tuition help.
Over at East Los Angeles College, students frequently tap into state resources like the California College Promise Grant, wiping out enrollment fees to lift financial stress. Some celebrate the Cal Grant awards boosting their budgets, enabling them to focus on certifications instead of bills.
Local champions such as CALSOAP Los Angeles transform the aid hunt into a relatable journey-offering workshops and personal assistance to Monterey Park hopefuls, including guidance for undocumented students via the California Dream Act Application. Many grads describe this support as a game-changer, turning daunting paperwork into a clear path toward their new careers.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
To step into a trade school program in Monterey Park, think of it as unlocking a door with a few key essentials. First off, you'll need a high school diploma, GED, or something officially equivalent. Imagine a recent graduate proudly handing over that piece of paper at a popular local automotive tech school-it's their golden ticket.
Age matters too; most programs want you to be at least 16, though certain paths like electrical or healthcare might ask for you to be a bit older. One graduate shared how they waited patiently until they hit the minimum age to start their journey in a well-known culinary arts program right in Monterey Park.
Forget the SAT or ACT-trade schools usually skip those. Instead, expect a placement test to see where your skills sit, but if your high school GPA was rocking a 3.0 or higher, or if you hold an associate degree, that test might be waived.
- Official transcripts must often be submitted, like proof of your academic past
- Filling out an online application and paying a non-refundable fee (usually $30-$50) is standard
- Some apprenticeships will want extra documents, including references or evidence of prior work experience
Remember, many schools roll admissions out like a welcoming red carpet, with multiple start dates throughout the year. But if you're eyeing specialized apprenticeships-like those in the electrical field managed regionally-the gates open only during specific periods and on time. These prerequisites are the clear, friendly signals guiding you into Monterey Park's thriving trade education scene.
What are the typical courses in trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
If you're diving into trade school programs in Monterey Park, expect to roll up your sleeves with courses that launch careers fast and solid. Imagine yourself in a busy healthcare training room, mastering Medical Assisting or Medical Coding, just like many graduates from East Los Angeles College who quickly snag certifications and jump into roles in hospitals or clinics.
Next, picture welding sparks flying at Monterey Peninsula College, where students fuse metal and skills in welding or HVAC classes while learning safety protocols. These programs blend:
- Blueprint reading skills
- Electrical system troubleshooting
- Hands-on CNC machining
Not your style? The tech and business classrooms buzz with energy as students train in Computer Installation, Accounting, or Business Administration. Graduates report feeling confident, knowing they're gearing up for local jobs with real certifications.
Finally, practical programs in Emergency Medical Technician or Automotive Mechanics fit students with busy lives-offering evening and weekend classes that make career upgrades possible without missing a beat.
What are the available specializations in trade school programs trade schools in Monterey Park?
Trade school programs in Monterey Park are buzzing with specializations that fit real-world jobs and dreams alike. Graduates from local hotspots like the Maxine Waters Employment Preparation Center often share stories about mastering hands-on skills that got them hired fast. For those who feel at home with tech gadgets, programs include Computer Operations preparing you for entry-level IT support, while the Automotive Technician track tunes you into vehicle diagnostics and repairs.
Electrical wiring and welding captivate many students, creating sparks-not just in class but in actual job sites. Construction and Building & Grounds keep the city's growth alive, making skills here highly sought-after. Meanwhile, health-focused programs such as Pharmacy Technician and Personal Care Aide offer practical, in-demand healthcare roles-graduates feel proud knowing their training directly helps the community. Many have enhanced their paths by exploring hvac certificate programs online, adding valuable expertise effectively.
For food lovers, Culinary Arts & Baking seasons up careers with kitchen confidence, while ESL classes provide vital language skills that open doors. Flexibility with day and evening classes means nearly anyone in Monterey Park can find a path that fits their busy lives.
How do you choose the best trade school programs trade school program in Monterey Park?
Picking the perfect trade school program in Monterey Park starts with zoning in on accreditation-graduates from Mt. San Antonio College rave about how their officially recognized credentials opened doors instantly. Imagine walking the halls of Hacienda La Puente Adult Education, where hands-on learning blends with top-tier resources and faculty who truly know their craft. If juggling work or family is your reality, seek out schools offering flexible schedules and online options designed precisely to fit your busy life.
When you compare Monterey Park trade schools, dig into real stories from alumni who secured internships and apprenticeships that catapulted them into thriving careers. Costs matter too; explore scholarships, grants, and aid programs tailored for locals. Knowing the trade school program costs in Monterey Park upfront means less stress and smarter financial planning.
For a clearer perspective on navigating choices, consider checking out insights on vocational school vs college to understand where your fit lies best. The right trade school creates a roadmap where your passion meets tangible skills and job-ready confidence.
What career paths are available for trade school programs trade school graduates in Monterey Park?
Trade school graduates in Monterey Park dive headfirst into a vibrant scene bursting with career opportunities for trade school graduates in Monterey Park. Imagine walking out of Monterey Peninsula College equipped to become a medical assistant, pharmacy technician, or dental assistant-graduates often snap up these valuable roles in bustling clinics and hospitals serving the local community. Others find their calling safeguarding neighborhoods as police officers or firefighters, trained through focused programs that align perfectly with regional certification requirements.
Handy with tools? Graduates skilled in applied technology launch themselves into careers as electricians, HVAC technicians, automotive service pros, or machinists, vital cogs ensuring the region's infrastructure hums smoothly. Meanwhile, business and hospitality programs prepare many to thrive in Monterey Park's diverse economy, landing entry-level jobs in lively restaurants, hotels, and offices.
Looking for technical and vocational jobs in Monterey Park? STEM-focused students step into IT support, network administration, and software development, riding the wave of local tech demand. Career services make the path even clearer, matching determined graduates with local employers eager to hire.
- Healthcare roles: medical assisting, allied health
- Public safety: police, firefighters, EMTs, teacher aides
- Applied trades: electricians, HVAC, automotive, machinists
- Business and hospitality: entry-level hotel and restaurant roles
- STEM positions: IT support, network admin, software development
For those curious about niche fields, there are even options to explore affordable online landscaping technology trade school programs linked to the local economy's green spaces. Monterey Park's trade schools aren't just offering classes-they're crafting practical, hands-on journeys leading right into rewarding careers.
What is the job market for trade school programs trade school graduates in Monterey Park?
Trade school graduates in Monterey Park jump straight into a sizzling job market. The job outlook for trade school graduates in Monterey Park is electrifying, with booming sectors like construction and welding craving skilled hands. Imagine finishing your HVAC program and landing a paid apprenticeship within weeks, just like graduates from popular local trade schools who share stories of quick hires and paycheck milestones that beat traditional four-year grads.
Monterey Park trade school employment trends are shaped by massive infrastructure projects around Los Angeles, meaning:
- 154,900 new construction jobs expected annually in California
- A nationwide shortage of 400,000 welders in 2025
- Abundant apprenticeship openings offering paid, hands-on experience
If you're exploring options, check out the most affordable online beauty and cosmetology trade school programs to see how rapidly a focused trade certificate can lead to immediate employment-sometimes within the same month of graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions about trade school programs
After completing trade school in Monterey Park, preparing for the job market involves several key steps. First, graduates should obtain relevant certifications and licenses, as these credentials often enhance employability in fields like HVAC, electrical work, or cosmetology. According to the California Employment Development Department, trade school graduates in the region saw a 12% increase in job placement when certified.
Next, building a professional network is crucial. Joining local trade associations and attending job fairs in Los Angeles County can open doors to apprenticeships and entry-level positions. Many Monterey Park programs offer career services that assist with resume writing and interview preparation.
Additionally, gaining hands-on experience through internships or part-time work strengthens practical skills and improves hiring prospects. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that trade skills workers with direct experience have higher median wages and lower unemployment rates.
Employers in Monterey Park highly value trade school graduates with strong technical skills relevant to their industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local workforce reports, proficiency in hands-on skills such as electrical work, HVAC technology, and welding ranks among the top requirements. Additionally, problem-solving abilities and adaptability are essential because trade jobs often involve troubleshooting complex machinery and evolving work conditions.
Soft skills are equally important. Employers emphasize communication, teamwork, and time management. A 2023 survey by the California Labor Market Information Division revealed nearly 70% of hiring managers in Monterey Park prioritize these interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise.
Finally, certification and continued learning play a critical role in employability, as they demonstrate a graduate's commitment to quality and updated knowledge.
Finding internships in Monterey Park related to your trade school program involves several practical steps. Start by visiting your trade school's career services office, which often maintains partnerships with local businesses offering internships. Many trade programs have connections in industries like automotive, healthcare, or construction specifically in the Monterey Park area.
Local resources such as the Monterey Park Chamber of Commerce and city government websites also list internship opportunities. According to the California Employment Development Department, industries with strong internship availability here include manufacturing and healthcare, relevant to many trade fields.
Online platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn can be filtered for Monterey Park internships, helping students identify relevant positions nearby. Networking with instructors and attending local industry events can further increase your chances of securing a placement.
In Monterey Park, a trade school diploma significantly enhances career mobility by equipping students with practical skills in high-demand fields such as automotive technology, healthcare, and information technology. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupations requiring vocational training are expected to grow faster than average nationally, benefiting local economies like Monterey Park's.
Trade school graduates often find quicker entry into the workforce compared to traditional four-year degree holders. This rapid entry can lead to earlier job promotions and salary increases. Data from the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office show that students completing trade programs in the region have a 25% higher employment rate within six months after graduation.
Moreover, the diplomas offer pathways to certifications and apprenticeships, strengthening professional credentials and opportunities for advancement. For many Monterey Park residents, this means improved economic stability and career flexibility in evolving industries.
Monterey Park offers various part-time job opportunities that align well with trade school training, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning. Popular options include retail positions, which help develop customer service skills, and food service jobs that improve workplace communication and time management. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, part-time jobs in Los Angeles County-which includes Monterey Park-pay an average wage of $15 per hour, providing a reasonable income alongside studies.
Students enrolled in technical trades like automotive repair can find part-time roles at local garages, which offer hands-on experience. Similarly, those in healthcare-related programs may secure positions as medical assistants or pharmacy clerks, gaining valuable exposure to their fields. These roles complement academic learning and increase employability after graduation.
To choose the best degree program near Monterey Park, CA, consider factors like accreditation, program rankings, faculty expertise, and available resources, using platforms like Research.com for insights. Seeking advice from academic advisors and visiting campuses can be beneficial in understanding what programs suit your interests and career goals. Fortunately, there are numerous programs and universities near me that offer a range of specialties to fit diverse academic and professional pursuits.
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References
- Career & Academic Pathways https://www.mpc.edu/academics/career-academic-pathways/index.html
- Monterey High Pathways – CTE Pathways – Career Technical Education https://cte.mpusd.net/apps/pages/index.jsp
- California LaborMarketInfo, The Economy https://labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/cgi/databrowsing/localAreaProfileQSMoreResult.asp
- Pre-Apprenticeship | Monterey County Works https://montereycountyworks.com/pre-apprenticeship/
- Salinas, CA - Center for Employment Training https://cetweb.edu/location/salinas-ca
- Monterey Park | Southeast California College https://southeastcacollege.com/monterey-park/
- Practicum: International Trade | Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey https://www.middlebury.edu/institute/academics/degree-programs/international-trade-economic-diplomacy/program-details/practicum
