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high school level. Talk with your guidance counselor to
find out whether there is a career-tech center serving your
district or region.
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Trade schools or vocational schools: Trade schools,
vocational schools, and technical colleges are types of
colleges that largely focus on industries and career paths
related to the skilled trades. These can be thought of as
an alternative to traditional college, usually with a shorter
time commitment and a less expensive price tag. In fact,
most vocational colleges in the United States focus on
two-year associate’s degree programs (as well as even
briefer certificate programs) that allow students to train
toward specific careers and then enter the workforce upon
graduation. Where most university programs are heavily
classroom-based in their approach to curriculum, trade
schools typically combine classroom learning with hands-on
projects that require students to apply what they’ve learned
in a real-world setting. Trades such as welding, automotive
technology, and HVAC technology often require vocational
college schooling. Costs for these programs can vary, but
research suggests that a typical two-year trade school
certificate ends up costing around $15,000.
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Apprenticeships and on-the-job training: Many employers,
instead of requiring a college degree, will work with
employees straight out of high school to offer on-the-job
training opportunities. A good example would be electricians,
who often start their careers shortly after high school
working as apprentices for electrical contractors. Electrical
apprentices work and learn by getting on-the-job experience
and guidance from knowledgeable mentors and then
eventually take a journeyman’s test to level up in the
industry. This pathway is attractive to some high school
graduates because it allows them to start making a living
in their field right away but still provides opportunities for
learning, growth, and advancement. Apprenticeships and