Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

When you think about your future and education, picking the right school can be overwhelming. You might be looking at colleges that offer four-year degree programs, thinking that is your best option. You likely think you will get a better job and possibly earn a higher income with a bachelor’s degree, but consider a vocational school because it also has a lot to offer. Trade schools offer many programs with many benefits.

If you are not considering looking at vocational programs for further education, there are many good reasons you should. You may be pleasantly surprised by what these schools can offer you.

Reasons to Consider Vocational School Over Traditional College

Cost-Effective Education

As you know, the cost of college can be prohibitive in the United States. While a four-year college degree can cost 80-100k or more, you can finish your trade school program for much less. Unless you come from a wealthy family or receive a full scholarship, you are likely looking at student loans.

Why be in debt for years, drowning in all that loan plus interest, when you can get great training from a vocational school for much less? The price of education continues to rise, actually putting it out of reach for many potential students. Many consider trade schools over traditional colleges for career and training choices.

Faster Than Average Path to the Workforce

Another huge advantage to trade school training is that you are fast-tracked through. While a college spends a lot of time on theory, trade schools typically focus on what you will need in the job market. Traditional colleges usually require outside courses from your main program to earn credits and complete your degree. These can be a lot of extra work and eat up your study time, and if you drop them or fail, you risk not graduating on time. Trade school programs offer what you need and focus on real-life skills you will need to get the job you want. A trade school program is generally over a one to two-year period or less than a four-year program at a college.

Vocational School Has Smaller Classes

Sitting in a lecture hall with a hundred other students can make you feel like just another student. It’s easy to blend in and disappear, and it is easy to become distracted and bored. The smaller classes at your technical school mean you are participating in the activity, get one-to-one training, and have the chance to ask questions. You will learn from your fellow students, and fewer people mean more time for you to learn technical skills, contribute, and grow. This also means the training is more intense, and you can get down to what you need to know faster and clearer than competing with so many other people. You get hands-on experience all the time.

Vocational School Means Jobs

The best way to learn your trade is through hands-on experience, which is precisely what trade schools provide. Whether training to be an HVAC technician or electrician or pursuing other trade school careers, you’ll face real-life situations and problem-solving opportunities not found in traditional academic settings. Unlike traditional colleges that prepare students for entry-level positions, trade school jobs offer sufficient training to start working immediately in essential roles. Trade schools focus on practical skills, ensuring you’re ready to enter the workforce where it matters most. With the growing demand for skilled trades, now is an excellent time to pursue a career through trade school education.

Practical Training and Career-Focused Curriculum

Part of your program may include a practicum or externship segment. This is the perfect way to apply your new skills and get real-life training; it is still a learning experience. As these are conducted in a controlled environment, you will receive feedback from your site supervisor, school instructor, and perhaps others in your workplace. This type of training is invaluable, as it can lead to a position at your place right after graduation. Additionally, you could have a reference that could be an excellent addition to your resume before leaving school.

Vocational Education and Earnings Potential

You can start earning right after graduation. When you enter the job market, you will have all the skills and hands-on training and already have some contacts. Because trade school training is usually job-specific, you don’t waste much time learning many things you don’t need. Your training is pinpointed to what you want, the area you want, and is far more concentrated in your selected field, so you are ready to earn after graduation. Make sure to visit the BLS website to check your trade’s earning potential. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

All Learning is Great

Vocational education is education, and getting out in the world and the workforce to put it to use is really what matters. It’s the whole point of going to higher education to better your future. Check out any classroom in a technical school, and you will find students there with a degree who realize they also need practical training. Some students seek their four-year degree after trade school training, too.

Fulfilling Career Opportunities

Another advantage of vocational school training is that it usually focuses on demanding careers. This means you will have skills that are never out of fashion or obsolete. You can upgrade your skills as needed, but your training will lead you to work in the field. Furthering your education is always a great idea, so check out a trade school first if you have your heart set on a particular occupation. You may be pleasantly surprised that you can get your training in the trades or health care faster, for a lot less money, and still come out with a job.

Comparison with Community Colleges

Community colleges offer various educational opportunities, often providing two-year associate degrees and certification programs. They are typically more affordable than four-year universities and can serve as a stepping stone for students planning to transfer to a university later. However, vocational schools have distinct advantages, particularly for students aiming to enter the workforce quickly with specific, hands-on skills. Vocational schools focus intensely on practical training tailored to high-demand careers, often allowing students to complete their education in a shorter time frame and enter the workforce faster. This targeted approach can lead to immediate job readiness and higher employment rates in specialized trades, making vocational schools highly attractive for those looking to start their careers swiftly and efficiently.

Explore More About Vocational Schools

For more information or to get started, contact us. We are always here to help. (*externships and online not available for all programs at ICC)

Related Links

• What Is The Average Time It Takes To Complete Trade School?
• How to Choose a Trade School That Suits Your Needs
• A Complete Guide to Vocational Schools

Vocational Schools – FAQ