Finding a job in 2022 requires more than just the right skills. Employers look at your educational credentials to assess how experienced and committed you are to investing in your profession. A degree also helps you develop secondary skills unrelated to your field that are important to succeeding in everyday work. The research, writing abilities, and analytical thinking you develop through college will play a large role in your performance on the job.
However, you may wonder if college is the right choice for you. You might have time commitments or financial needs that demand finding work sooner than four years. In that case, trade school offers the opportunity to qualify for well-paying jobs in 12 months or less. This decision might feel stressful, so instead of having analysis paralysis, change your perception of stress and use that energy to help you decide instead of surrendering to it. To decide which educational option is right for you, let’s take a look at the differences between trade school diplomas and college degrees.
What Do You Study in Trade School?
A trade school, also known as a vocational school, prepares students to enter a particular workforce. These programs are comprehensive and tailored for a specific job title. In most cases, students graduate with a diploma, but some programs may award you an associate’s degree if you extend your period of study. Costs can range from $4,000 to $15,000 a year depending on your program and location. Some of the most common vocational school diplomas are:
- HVAC/R Technician
- Electric Technician
- Plumbing
- Cosmetology
- Dental Hygienist
- Veterinary Tech
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Aviation Mechanic
Depending on your career ambitions, trade school can be a good way to enter your target field. You might find, however, that you want more opportunities after you’ve graduated. For many students who start their careers after trade school, promotions require additional education.
College Degree Options
College can last two to four years for a primary degree, and some students decide to earn master’s and doctorate degrees later. You can decide which program is right for you as you progress through your studies and shape your professional goals. Sometimes, college is better for students who are passionate about a particular field and want multiple job opportunities. The transferrable education and skills you gain in school can make it easier to find a variety of work after graduation. You may even be able to use the same degree to change fields later in your work life.
Of course, it’s impossible to consider college without discussing the cost. A degree is more expensive than trade school, but it can be managed with financial aid. Federal loans are one option, but you aren’t limited to government-issued loans. Borrowing student loans from a private lender offers greater flexibility and customization as you can qualify for more diverse loans, explore different repayment options, and spend the residual funds however you like.
Which Option is Right for You?
For those with highly specific career goals, trade school may be the best way to enter their field. College, on the other hand, offers broader material and learning opportunities in a number of fields. With the ability to move between industries and apply a wide skill set in numerous positions, those who want more long-term opportunity may find a college degree to suit their goals.