Though a traditional four-year college or university may seem like the right choice for many students, trade schools are worth keeping on your radar. Trade schools, also known as technical or vocational schools, teach and develop skills related to a specific job. Read on to learn more about the benefits of trade schools.
Benefits of Trade Schools
Less time and money
Most trade schools offer 2-year programs, so naturally, the cost is going to be less than paying for a 4-year bachelor’s degree. The average trade school degree cost around $33,000 compared to many bachelor’s degrees that exceed $100,000. With affordability being a major factor in the college decision-making process, you might want to consider trade school as an option.
Smaller class sizes
When attending a college or university, the first couple years are dedicated to general education classes that tend to be larger in size. Technical schools allow students to jump into intimate class sizes right away. When classes are smaller, they offer greater focus on the material and allow for more student-teacher interaction. This may be appealing to students eager to become experts in their specific field as soon as they can.
Flexible learning environment
Not only is the learning environment more intimate, but trade school programs also offer more flexible options for non-traditional students. If you don’t have the ability to attend physical classes during the day, technical schools have more options for online and night classes.
Variety of programs
Technical schools offer many programs that appeal to all different interests. You may prepare for a career as a HVAC technician, practical nurse practitioner, home inspector, commercial diver, electrician, landscape designer, construction manager, dental hygienist, and so much more! One thing all these jobs have in common: they involve hands-on work that can’t be outsourced to another country.
Job security
Probably the biggest and most appealing reason to consider trade schools: you are bound to secure a job right after graduation. Many technical schools have connections and partnerships that commit to hiring directly from the graduating classes. Not to mention, most programs are training students for jobs that are in high demand. As the baby boomer generation enters retirement, experts predict a shortfall of skilled trade workers. This means there will be more trade job openings for younger generations to fill.
Networking
When attending a technical school, you are completely immersed in an environment surrounded by people with similar interests and entering the same field as you. Because of this, you are bound to make connections that will stay with you long after you graduate. You will be exposed to all kinds of networking opportunities and connections that will lead you to success.
Before making a decision about the kind of school you want to attend, be sure to think about your goals for the future. A traditional four-year college or university is an ideal option for students who want a well-rounded education or a chance to explore their interests. Trade schools better serve students who want a shorter, inexpensive path to a career. One choice isn’t better than the other; it’s all dependent upon what you want from your education.