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| URL | https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma |
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| First Indexed | 2021-10-14 11:12:15 (4 years ago) |
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| Meta Title | Construction School Online Skilled Trades Diploma | Penn Foster |
| Meta Description | Our construction school online covers the foundational skills and provides you with practical hands-on exercises to help you master carpentry. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | What You Will Learn
How to explain the elements used in construction drawings relating to the shape, style, and design of a building.
How to explain the methods and building and zoning codes used to construct foundations.
How to install drywall, frame flooring and stairs, and install insulation.
How to determine the correct materials and tools needed to complete a project.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes
Construction Trades Career Outcomes
Carpenter
AVG SALARY*
$59,310/yr
NUMBER OF JOBS*
959,000
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. Â 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
Non-US residents: This is a United States-based institution with course materials that are geared toward US job and labor standards. Learners from outside of the US may find that some information and materials will differ from the current standards of their country. Please note, the materials for this program are in English and use the Imperial unit of measurement, not the metric system.
Show Full Curriculum
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Calculate Your Tuition Now
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.Â
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
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
Learning Resource Center and digital library
Dedicated Learner Center
Supportive
Expert faculty
Dedicated student services
Robust learning resources
Online Construction Courses FAQs
What are some jobs you can do with construction trades?Â
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 $59,310 in 2024, 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.
Sources:
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "
Carpenters
." Accessed October 24, 2025.
Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.
Disclaimers:
1
Based on data from a 2024 Penn Foster Group End of Program survey of all programs.
2
Depending on where you live, you may be charged taxes in addition to the total cost of your program. |
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1. [Home](https://www.pennfoster.edu/)
2. [Programs](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs)
3. [Trades](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades)
4. Construction Trades Career Diploma
## Construction Trades
Career Diploma 3 months
# 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
- [Overview](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma#overview "Overview")
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or
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Read Video Transcript
Video Transcript
At Penn Foster our goal is to provide you with an online student experience that opens the door to career success and opportunity. That is why our Student Portal is designed to help you prepare for in-demand roles in todays fastest growing industries. Our Student Portal features live action demonstrations, animations, and interactive videos to keep you engaged and motivated from start to finish. Whether at home or on the go. We think that flexibility is essential to helping you learn at your own pace and getting you to the finish line. Our interactive learning aids help improve the understanding of foundational and technical skills. Mirroring some of the work you will be doing on the job. We are committed to delivering a learning experience that will help ensure your success in our programs and beyond. Our dynamic learning model pairs short learning bursts with relevant learning exercises to help you apply key concepts and improve the recall of skills when you are on the job. When you need help, we have ample support resources to encourage you along the way, from our instructors to an engaging student community. We have invested in the online learning experiences that we provide so that you can be confident that the skills you have gained will help you stand out to employers and help you pursue your career goals. From getting hired for a new job, to receiving a promotion or salary increase at work. Ready to get started? Learn more about how Penn Foster can open doors for the next step in your career by visiting us online or contacting us today\!
#### 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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma/program-outcomes "Full Program Goal & Outcomes")
### Construction Trades Career Outcomes
Carpenter
AVG SALARY\*
\$59,310/yr
NUMBER OF JOBS\*
959,000
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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/admissions/admissions-requirements/state-licensing) for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information. This is particularly important for residents of California and Florida.
[ Are Online Courses A Good Investment?](https://www.pennfoster.edu/blog/are-online-courses-a-good-investment)
## 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
Non-US residents: This is a United States-based institution with course materials that are geared toward US job and labor standards. Learners from outside of the US may find that some information and materials will differ from the current standards of their country. Please note, the materials for this program are in English and use the Imperial unit of measurement, not the metric system.
[Show Full Curriculum](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma/curriculum "Show Full Curriculum")
## Not sure if the Penn Foster program you’re interested in will fit your budget?
Use our Tuition Calculator to estimate your total tuition costs to help you decide what payment plan works best for you.
[Calculate Your Tuition Now](https://www.pennfoster.edu/tuition-calculator?TuitionCourseId=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Calculate Your Tuition Now")

- 95%
Would recommend to a friend1
- 92%
Achieved the goals they had before enrolling1
- 96%
Student satisfaction1

#### 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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/why-penn-foster/reviews "View Student Success Stories")

Christine M.
Penn Foster Graduate, 2024
“Excited to move into a new career path. I look forward to new skills and more flexibility in my life! Thank you, Penn Foster, for walking me through this adventure.”
#### Looking for skilled trades training for your workers?
Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
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[Learn More](https://partners.pennfoster.edu/programs/construction/construction-trades-career-diploma "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 4/28/2026
Cost of Program2
\$939
\$1,139 Save \$200
- Best price. Best value.
- Pay the full cost today
- No monthly payments
[Enroll Now](https://enroll.pennfoster.edu/?product_code=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Enroll Now")
Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan
Cost of Program2
\$1,139
- Pay \$59 per month
- Start for \$20 down
- All major credit and debit cards accepted
[Enroll Now](https://enroll.pennfoster.edu/?product_code=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Enroll Now")
Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan
cost of program2
\$1,139
- Pay \$59 per month
- Start for \$39 down
- Mail your payments
[Enroll Now](https://enroll.pennfoster.edu/?product_code=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Enroll Now")
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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma/tuition "Tuition & Payment Options")
We're here to help. Call [1-800-275-4410](tel:1-800-275-4410) (10AM - 7:30PM ET)
[Request Info](https://www.pennfoster.edu/request-info-form?courseid=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "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
- Learning Resource Center and digital library
- Dedicated Learner Center
Supportive
- Expert faculty
- Dedicated student services
- Robust learning resources
#### Related Programs
[In Demand  Residential Electrician Career Diploma Prepare for an in-demand career as an electrician with our affordable online Residential Electrician Career Diploma. 7 months As low as \$59/mo](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/residential-electrician-career-diploma)
[ Plumber Career Diploma Prepare for entry-level jobs in plumbing and pipefitting with our self-paced, online plumbing classes. 6 months As low as \$59/mo](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/plumber-career-diploma)
[In Demand  HVACR Technician Career Diploma Prepare to become an HVAC technician, HVAC installer, or refrigeration mechanic with our self-paced, online training program. 5 months As low as \$59/mo](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/hvac-technician-career-diploma)
### 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 \$59,310 in 2024, 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.
**Sources:**
\*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "[Carpenters](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/carpenters.htm "Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Info ")." Accessed October 24, 2025.
Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.
**Disclaimers:**
1 Based on data from a 2024 Penn Foster Group End of Program survey of all programs.
2 Depending on where you live, you may be charged taxes in addition to the total cost of your program.
Modal Popup
On average, learners can complete their program in as few as 6 months. Faster learners, or those with more time to dedicate to their coursework, can finish in as little as 3 months. If you don’t have lots of time to dedicate to your program, that’s ok too! You can learn at the pace that works for you and your schedule. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - April 2022, excluding withdrawals.
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Office Locations
Office Locations
Penn Foster Career School
200 Hickory Street
Scranton, PA 18505 USA
[1-800-275-4410](tel:1-800-275-4410)



Penn Foster College
3133 West Frye Road, Suite 215
Chandler, AZ 85226 USA
[1-800-471-3232](tel:1-800-471-3232)

Penn Foster High School
315 Deaderick Street
17th Floor, Suite 1721, UBS Tower
Nashville, TN 37238 USA
[1-888-427-6200](tel:1-888-427-6200)



Quick Links
Quick Links
- [Accreditation](https://www.pennfoster.edu/about/accreditation)
- [Our History & Mission](https://www.pennfoster.edu/about/our-history-mission)
- [Our Faculty](https://www.pennfoster.edu/why-penn-foster/instructors)
- [Military](https://www.pennfoster.edu/admissions/military)
- [Partnership](https://partners.pennfoster.edu/)
- [Careers @ Penn Foster](https://us232.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/pennfostercarrus/Site/PENNFOSTERGROUPCAREERSITE)
- [News & Media](https://partners.pennfoster.edu/about-us/news)
- [Bookstore](https://pennfoster.creator-spring.com/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.pennfoster.edu/about/contact-us)
- [Site Map](https://www.pennfoster.edu/sitemap)
Student Resources
Student Resources
- [Learner Resources](https://www.pennfoster.edu/blog)
- [Student Login](https://www.pennfostergroup.com/login-penn-foster)
More Penn Foster Schools & Divisions
More Penn Foster Schools & Divisions
- [Ashworth College](https://www.ashworthcollege.edu/)
- [New York Institute of Art & Design](https://www.nyiad.edu/)
- [New York Institute of Photography](https://www.nyip.edu/)
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[Request Info](https://www.pennfoster.edu/request-info-form?courseid=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Request Info") [Enroll Now](https://enroll.pennfoster.edu/?product_code=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Enroll Now")
 |
| Readable Markdown | #### 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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma/program-outcomes "Full Program Goal & Outcomes")
### Construction Trades Career Outcomes
Carpenter
AVG SALARY\*
\$59,310/yr
NUMBER OF JOBS\*
959,000
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](https://www.pennfoster.edu/admissions/admissions-requirements/state-licensing) 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
Non-US residents: This is a United States-based institution with course materials that are geared toward US job and labor standards. Learners from outside of the US may find that some information and materials will differ from the current standards of their country. Please note, the materials for this program are in English and use the Imperial unit of measurement, not the metric system.
[Show Full Curriculum](https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/trades/construction-trades-career-diploma/curriculum "Show Full Curriculum")
## Not sure if the Penn Foster program you’re interested in will fit your budget?
Use our Tuition Calculator to estimate your total tuition costs to help you decide what payment plan works best for you.
[Calculate Your Tuition Now](https://www.pennfoster.edu/tuition-calculator?TuitionCourseId=COS-CARDIPL-PFCA "Calculate Your Tuition Now")


#### 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.
#### 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](https://partners.pennfoster.edu/programs/construction/construction-trades-career-diploma "Learn More")
#### 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
- Learning Resource Center and digital library
- Dedicated Learner Center
Supportive
- Expert faculty
- Dedicated student services
- Robust learning resources
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 \$59,310 in 2024, 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.
**Sources:**
\*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "[Carpenters](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/carpenters.htm "Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Info ")." Accessed October 24, 2025.
Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.
**Disclaimers:**
1 Based on data from a 2024 Penn Foster Group End of Program survey of all programs.
2 Depending on where you live, you may be charged taxes in addition to the total cost of your program. |
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