If you’re looking to enter the workforce in a trade or profession that requires specialized training, you may be considering your options. While most people choose to go the traditional route and attend a university, there are alternatives that can grant you the same benefits of a college education without taking four years to complete your degree. One of those alternatives is a technical school, also known as a vocational or trade school. Technical schools focus on providing practical, specialized education in specific fields and careers, often leading to an internship or a job after graduation. The programs are designed for those who know what they want to do as their career and take less time to finish than a bachelor’s degree, typically taking two years or less to complete.
A lot of the training at a trade or a technical school is hands-on, and you are likely to spend a lot of your time in classes with other students who share your interests and goals. This type of classroom atmosphere helps to create a tight-knit community and is beneficial when it comes time to finding a job.
Many of the instructors at a vocational or a trade school are industry professionals, having worked in the field that they’re now teaching. They’re not just teachers, but mentors and advisers who can guide you through the intricacies of the industry and give you tips that are hard to find in books. This kind of experience will help you stand out to potential employers and get a head start on your career.
The programs offered at a technical or a trade school can be completed in less than the four years required for a bachelor’s degree, saving you a significant amount of money in tuition fees. Plus, you’ll be able to begin earning money in your chosen career much faster and put that cash toward living expenses or other pursuits that don’t require the kind of commitment that a university education does.
Some of the programs at a technical or a trade school are designed to help you prepare for industry certifications. These are usually more difficult to outsource to another country and will set you up for a higher paying, more secure career.
There are many people who don’t fit the typical profile of a college student and may struggle to complete a program at a university. A technical or a trade school can be more flexible in terms of scheduling and curriculum, making it easier to take the classes you need to complete your education and move forward with your career.
A technical or a trade school will also likely have a good range of resources to support non-traditional learners, including support services for military members and their families. This can make it a great option for those who want to pursue their education and career but have other obligations they need to keep up with, such as caring for children or family members or returning from military service.