Why Vocational School?
If you got a taste of vocational classes such as shop or woodworking while you were in high school and couldn’t get enough, vocational school might be the right choice for you. Vocational schools teach specific, specialized job skills that can help you launch a career in a variety of growing professions.
What exactly are vocational schools?
Vocational schools are post-secondary institutions that offer courses in a specific career or trade. Sometimes programs are offered through a community college or technical institute. Other times vocational schools are private. For a hands-on career, such as cosmetology or electrical engineering, on-campus classes are required. For other trades that don’t require in-person learning, such as tourism, vocational schools may offer online certifications.
What vocational programs are available?
In recent years, the courses offered by vocational schools have expanded. These programs can get you started in a variety of careers, including:
Construction
Including plumbing, electricity, carpentry, professional locksmithing, welding
Cosmetology
Dental assistant and technology programs
Floral design
Information technology
Mechanics
Including automotive and motorcycle repair
Medical Assisting
Medical Billing and Coding
Pharmacy Technician
Retail
Tourism
What are the benefits?
- It’s quick. Vocational programs can be completed in 2-3 years, rather than the traditional four years required for a Bachelor’s degree. This turnaround can get you working fast, and means you might even be able to save some money on tuition.
- You’ll get experience. Many vocational and technical schools make internships and externships a part of their programs. This means you’ll be getting hands-on working experience while you study, you’ll be creating valuable business contacts and relationships, and (depending on your employer) you may even make a little cash.
- You can start working right away. Graduating from a technical programs means that you’re getting the job training you need to start working as soon as you complete your program. While graduates of four-year programs often have to take entry-level positions to get the career training they need, you can skip that step entirely.
Can I get financial aid?
The FAFSA isn’t just for four-year universities. According to the U.S. Department of Education, you can use your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to apply for financial aid to help pay for courses at a career or vocational school. For more information, or to apply, visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/.
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