In short
Jobs with training programs often offered in about six months or less include commercial truck driving, phlebotomy, nursing assistant, pharmacy technician, medical coding, EMT and some HVAC and welding certificates. Truck drivers earned a median of $58,640 in May 2025. Program length varies by school, so confirm the hours before you enroll.
Jobs with common short programs
| # | Job | Median pay | Typical way in | Growth 2025 to 2035 | Openings a year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers | $61,010 | Certificate | 10.9% | 40,600 |
| 2 | Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | $58,640 | Certificate | 3.8% | 214,500 |
| 3 | Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers | $53,750 | High school or GED | 2.4% | 40,300 |
| 4 | Medical records specialists | $51,140 | Certificate | 7.8% | 14,000 |
| 5 | Dental assistants | $48,070 | Certificate | 7.4% | 53,000 |
| 6 | Medical equipment preparers | $47,700 | High school or GED | 10.8% | 10,700 |
| 7 | Medical secretaries and administrative assistants | $45,930 | High school or GED | 4.8% | 89,200 |
| 8 | Pharmacy technicians | $45,750 | High school or GED | 6.4% | 44,700 |
| 9 | Skincare specialists | $45,330 | Certificate | 8.8% | 14,200 |
| 10 | Phlebotomists | $45,230 | Certificate | 6.8% | 18,000 |
| 11 | Emergency medical technicians | $44,470 | Certificate | 5.8% | 13,800 |
| 12 | Nursing assistants | $42,260 | Certificate | 2.6% | 196,200 |
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2025 to 2035 (Table 1.2), May 2025 median wages, retrieved 2026-10-09. Openings include jobs that open up when people retire or switch fields.
Paying for a short program
Starting in the 2026-27 award year, Workforce Pell Grants can cover short programs of 150 to 599 clock hours lasting 8 to 15 weeks, if the state and the U.S. Department of Education approve the program. See our Workforce Pell guide.
Questions people ask
What is the highest-paying 6-month certificate?
Commercial driving often leads the list on pay among short programs.
Are 6-month programs legit?
Many are, at accredited community colleges and schools. Check accreditation and outcomes.
Can I work while doing one?
Many programs have evening options.