Vocational Training
Vocational education and training programs offer alternatives to four-year college degrees. Technical training programs prepare students for skilled jobs in less time than do four-year colleges, and are excellent choices for students who want a quick entry into the workforce.
Myths of Vocational Education and Training
Students and parents sometimes dismiss vocational education and training programs as poor substitutes for a "real" college education. This line of thinking is perpetuated by a series of misconceptions about vocational training. Chief amongst these myths are the following:
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"Vocational training is for students who lack the smarts to get into college." This is simply not true. Many students choose vocational or technical training because they are interested in careers that are best served with hands-on technical training that the more academic colleges don't always provide.
Many vocational training programs offer two-year associates degrees. Many of these degrees include courses that can be credited towards four-year college degrees. Students can earn their associates degree, enter the work force, and complete a four-year degree in the future if they wish.
- "You need a college degree to get a well-paying job." Also untrue. In fact, only two out of three college graduates find employment in their field of study. Many technical training programs have better placement outcomes that college degrees, and the pay for skilled technical workers can be very competitive.
Technical Training Programs and Degrees
Vocational education and training programs are usually completed in less time than four-year college degrees. While a two years of study is standard for vocational training, some technical training programs can be completed in a year, or even a few months.
Vocational training can also be flexible. Working students can study part-time, or complete their training through online courses. Many technical training programs include on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
Vocational Degree Scholarships
Vocational degree scholarships are widely available, but sometimes overlooked by students. The myth that technical training is somehow superior to vocation training carries with it the assumption that vocational degree scholarships are unlikely. In fact, there are many grants, bursaries and scholarships for vocational education.
Popular Vocational Training Programs
Vocational and technical colleges offer a wide variety of training programs. Among the many vocational education and training programs offered, the following are some of the most popular:
- computer-aided drafting and design
- criminal justice
- culinary arts
- heating, ventilation and air conditioning programs
- home inspection certification
- hotel/restaurant management
- information technology
- mechanical training
- medical insurance
- plumbing
- tourism
- veterinary training.
Academic College or Vocational Training?
The choice between vocational training, technical training programs and four-year college degrees is a highly individual decision. Comparing the merits of these programs is like comparing oranges to concrete: they're too different. Each provides students with valuable education and training. It's up to the students to decide whether they're better suited to academic colleges or vocation education and training.