Construction Trades

Construction School Online

If you're interested in a job that allows you to combine creativity with your attention to detail, our online Construction Trades Program could be the perfect fit for you. With flexible online courses, you can prepare to build the knowledge and skills needed to take the first steps toward a career as a carpenter, floor installer, or woodworker.

  • Learn essential skills like design techniques, understanding building codes, and more.
  • Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.
Accredited
Online
Self Paced

Save up to $200 Ends 11/26/2024

Cost of Program

$939

$1,139 Save $200

or

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

1-800-275-4410 (9AM - 9PM ET)

What You Will Learn

  1. How to explain the elements used in construction drawings relating to the shape, style, and design of a building.
  2. How to explain the methods and building and zoning codes used to construct foundations.
  3. How to install drywall, frame flooring and stairs, and install insulation.
  4. How to determine the correct materials and tools needed to complete a project.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Construction Trades Career Outcomes

Carpenter

AVG SALARY*

$51,390/yr

NUMBER OF JOBS*

956,300


Our online Construction Trades Career Diploma is designed with job-readiness in mind. Construction and carpentry jobs remain steady over the next ten years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for jobs in this field are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered in the Penn Foster Program. Prospective students should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where they plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in this program.  See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information. This is particularly important for residents of California and Florida.

Online Construction Course Curriculum

  • 4 courses
  • 26.5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
  • 17 exams


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 3 months
  • Average time = 6 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - April 2022, excluding withdrawals.

In our online Construction Trades Career Diploma, you'll learn the skills and build the foundational knowledge to work as a carpenter or in another construction role. Your online construction courses include:


  • Construction Drawings and Building Materials
  • Framing
  • Insulation and Exterior Finishes

Show Full Curriculum

Optional Construction Work Experience

Should you choose, you'll have an opportunity to gain hands-on experience after completing your online coursework. Since the work experience is optional and not required for graduation, students who wish to participate are required to find a site to complete the work on their own. 

Construction Trades Student Stories

Penn Foster’s Construction Trades Career Diploma courses can help prepare you for the first step in your carpentry and construction career. This program has helped recent graduates learn at their own pace, find new jobs, and advance in their current roles. Learn more about Penn Foster graduates' experiences and how Penn Foster worked for them.
View Student Success Stories
quote icon

Gary M.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2023

“The program was kept interesting and easy to follow and use. I really enjoyed the time the instructor took to help me through some difficult situations.”

Looking for skilled trades training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
Learn More

Online Construction Program Tuition

Take the first steps toward a new career with our online Construction Trades Career Diploma Program. Simply choose from one of our low-cost customized payment plans below and get started today! 

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $200 Ends 11/26/2024

Cost of Program1

$939

$1,139 Save $200

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Cost of Program1

$1,139

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • All major credit and debit cards accepted
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program1

$1,139

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $39 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

California residents please click here for Required California Disclosures.

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

Tuition & Payment Options

We're here to help. Call 1-800-275-4410 (9AM - 9PM ET)

Request Info

Our Proven Construction Trades Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

  • Start anytime
  • No exam due dates
  • Self-paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides
  • Presentations and animations
  • Simulations and videos

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Online student community
  • Dedicated Learner Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty
  • Dedicated student services
  • Robust learning resources

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Online Construction Courses FAQs

What are some jobs you can do with construction trades? 

With a background in construction trades, you can prepare to work as a carpenter, including roles in residential and non-residential building construction, or as a finishing contractor.

What does a carpenter do?

Carpenters construct, repair, and install building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. Working with a construction, you'll be a vital part of building new structures for residential and commercial use. Most carpenters work full-time for a business or as a contractor and they often work on one large-scale project at a time.

What skills do you need to become a carpenter?

Becoming a carpenter requires skills in math, problem-solving skills, and qualities like dexterity, physical strength, and being a detail-oriented person.

What is the average salary of a carpenter?

The average salary for an entry-level carpenter was $51,390 in May 2022, though pay can vary based on your location, the industry you work in, and your experience.*

What industries can I work in as a carpenter?

Carpenters can work in a variety of settings within the construction industry including residential construction, non-residential construction, for contractor companies, or as a contractor themselves.

What types of work can I do as a carpenter?

Most carpenters work indoors and outdoors and can expect to be involved in construction projects from building highways to installing kitchen cabinets.