Key Takeaways
- It’s not too late: Many career training programs in healthcare, tech, business, and skilled trades are still accepting students for summer 2025 start dates.
- High school level entry: All the programs listed only require a high school diploma or GED to enroll, making them accessible if you don’t have a college degree.
- Financial aid available: You may be eligible for financial aid such as federal Pell Grants (studentaid.gov) or WIOA workforce funding (careeronestop.org) to help pay tuition (eligibility varies by program and location).
- Dreambound can help: Dreambound is a free platform where you can compare programs nationwide and easily apply online. It’s a one-stop resource to find schools, check start dates, and get guidance on enrollment and funding.
- Diverse career paths: Summer-start programs range from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training to Software Development bootcamps, Cybersecurity degrees, HR certificates, and HVAC Technician courses – all leading to in-demand jobs in growing fields.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Entry-Level Healthcare Program
One great option for a quick healthcare career start is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. CNA training programs are typically short (often just a few weeks) and prepare you for the state certification exam to become a nursing assistant. For example, the TSC Career Institute – Certified Nursing Assistant program in Mesquite, TX is still accepting Summer 2025 applicants. CNAs learn basic patient care skills like taking vital signs, assisting patients with daily activities, and ensuring comfort.
Why choose CNA? Nursing assistants are in high demand to staff hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. You can start working in healthcare quickly – no college degree needed, just the CNA course and state exam. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing assistants generally need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam for certification. Job prospects are steady as well, with 216,200 CNA job openings each year on average. Starting salaries for CNAs are modest (around $30k–$40k per year), but the role can be a stepping stone to higher-paying healthcare positions (many CNAs go on to become LPNs or RNs). If you want to get into healthcare this summer, a CNA program is a fast and affordable route.
Program details: Most CNA courses can be completed in 4–12 weeks and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice. After passing the state exam, you’ll be placed on your state’s Nurse Aide Registry and eligible for employment.
Eligibility: Typically a high school diploma or GED is required, plus a background check and immunizations.
Financial aid: Many state-approved CNA schools qualify for WIOA or employer-sponsored tuition programs, and if offered through a community college, may also qualify for Pell Grants.
Software Developer Training – Tech Career Bootcamp
If you’re interested in technology, software development bootcamps and training programs are still enrolling for the summer. A great example is the Southern Careers Institute – Software Developer program, which offers an online coding course starting in Summer 2025. This program focuses on teaching you the skills to become a junior software developer, including programming languages (like JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, and more).
Why choose Software Development? The tech industry continues to grow, and software developers are among the most sought-after professionals. You can land jobs as a web developer, app developer, or QA tester without a four-year degree. Many employers value practical skills and projects, which these programs provide. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 17% growth in software developer jobs by 2033, with around 140,100 new job openings each year. This field is also lucrative; software developers often earn well over $100,000/year with experience.
Program details: SCI’s program is online, approximately 33 weeks in length, and covers essential web development concepts (full-stack).
Eligibility: High school diploma or GED required.
Financial aid: Some bootcamps or schools qualify for WIOA. You may also explore scholarships or payment plans. By the end, you’ll have a portfolio of projects and the foundational coding skills to start a career in software development.
Cybersecurity Program – Protect the Digital World
Cybersecurity is another booming tech field with programs still taking summer applicants. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) – Online Cybersecurity Program is accepting students for an upcoming term in Summer 2025. SNHU offers online cybersecurity degrees (Associate or Bachelor’s level), perfect if you want a flexible, accredited path into IT security. The program covers network defense, information security, cyber law, and prepares you for roles like cybersecurity analyst or IT security specialist.
Why choose Cybersecurity? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst jobs are projected to grow 33% from 2023 to 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations. Salary prospects are strong as well, with median pay around $112,000/year. This demand means plenty of opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Program details: SNHU’s online degree programs let you study on your own schedule.
Eligibility: High school diploma or GED, no prior IT experience needed.
Financial aid: Since SNHU is regionally accredited, qualified students can use Pell Grants and other federal aid. You could finish an associate degree by 2026 or bachelor’s by 2027 and enter a field with excellent job prospects.
Human Resource Management Certificate – Business & HR Skills
Interested in the business side of things? A Human Resource Management certificate is a quick way to gain HR skills and enhance your resume. Southern New Hampshire University – Human Resource Management Certificate is an online program still enrolling for the summer term. It covers key HR topics like recruitment, employee relations, and employment law.
Why choose an HR certificate? HR is needed in every industry, and HR specialists handle hiring, benefits, and compliance. According to the BLS, the field is projected to grow by about 8% through 2033, adding thousands of jobs annually. An HR certificate can qualify you for entry-level HR assistant, payroll, or recruiting roles and can be completed in under a year.
Program details: SNHU’s HR certificate typically involves 4–6 online courses.
Eligibility: High school diploma/GED.
Financial aid: Many online certificate programs at accredited institutions may qualify for federal Pell Grants if you meet need requirements. You can also ask about scholarships or employer tuition reimbursement. By the end of 2025, you could have this credential and be ready to pursue HR job openings.
HVAC Technician Training – Skilled Trades Path
Skilled trades are another excellent option for high-demand, hands-on work. Penn Foster – HVAC Technician program offers a self-paced diploma course you can start this summer. You’ll learn the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration to prepare for roles in residential or commercial HVAC maintenance.
Why choose HVAC? The BLS projects 9% growth in HVAC mechanics and installers through 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Technicians can earn a solid income (median pay was around $57,000/year) and enjoy a mix of indoor/outdoor work.
Program details: Penn Foster’s program can be completed online at your own pace, typically in about 5 months.
Eligibility: High school diploma/GED.
Financial aid: Penn Foster does not accept federal financial aid, but offers flexible payment plans and may be eligible for WIOA funds in certain states.
How to Enroll and Pay for Your Summer Program
- Choose Your Program: Determine your field of interest – healthcare, tech, business, or trades.
- Compare Schools on Dreambound: Visit Dreambound.com to view programs, costs, and schedules.
- Check Eligibility & Financial Aid: Most require a high school diploma or GED. Ask schools about WIOA, Pell Grants, or scholarships.
- Apply Online: Fill out the school’s application or use Dreambound to apply directly.
- Complete Any Additional Requirements: Some programs may require background checks, immunizations (for healthcare), or placement tests.
- Start Class & Begin Your New Career Path: Most programs begin in late spring or summer. You could be job-ready by fall or early 2026.
