Weighing the Options of Vocational Training Programs vs. Community College

Education is not one-size-fits-all. When considering what comes after high school, you may think that your only options are a traditional four-year college or immediately entering the workforce (30% of students think college is the next natural step, and 23% feel that it’s what is expected) . In reality, if you want to build a future you can be proud of, you may want to weigh the options of a vocational or technical training school and community college. Keep in mind that each offers unique value depending on your personal learning style, the amount of time you want to spend learning, and the costs to attend.

LEARNING STYLES

Training programs at technical or vocational schools offer a comprehensive deep-dive into a single specialized subject area, such as Dental Assistant or Medical Assistant Technician. Vocational and training programs typically appeal to those who are confident in their career path and want to get right to the work of developing their skills through hands-on practice in a lab or shop.

Community College, on the other hand, is often a stepping stone to a college or university degree. Community college students often only earn general education credits and may earn an Associate’s degree upon completion. Many learners choose this path because they are unsure about what career they want to pursue, and the wide range of options available to them lets them explore different avenues before settling on one path. Others choose it because their chosen career requires a four-year degree, and this is the less-costly first step toward a bachelor’s degree.

TIME COMMITMENT

Training programs can typically completed in as few as 10 months (depending on the specialty), but a community college Associate’s degree usually takes at least two years if attending full-time. For those set on a specific career and who are ready to start working immediately, a training program offers a quick path without a lot of unnecessary coursework. For less sure students, the slower path through community college means studying a combination of English, math, and science courses in an effort to learn about a variety of potential careers.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

Student debt is a significant drawback to secondary education. The price can be daunting and has long-lasting repercussions for debt holders. The good news is that studies show that workers who have pursued some type of secondary education in high performing fields can do better in the job market and greater career stability.

Community college is a great place for students to save a significant amount of money because they are cutting university/college fees through this less-costly first step. Training program graduates may accelerate and capitalize on those savings by finishing their training sooner and entering the job market with less debt.

GETTING STARTED

If, after reviewing the above, you feel that a hands-on, wide-ranging education is for you, consider the career raining programs at Florida Career College (FCC).  Most programs at FCC are designed to provide instruction for a new career in as few as 10 months. Through real-life experience, you will be prepared for an entry-level position in the field of your choice. Our people-focused programs are regularly updated to ensure that you are ready for the latest developments in the industry, and faculty and staff are committed to helping your career take off.

Get where you are going faster with a training program at FCC.

*Length varies by program. 
*Financial aid is available for those who qualify. 
*UEI does not promise or guarantee employment to any student or graduate.

Source:

https://www.degreequery.com/trade-school-vs-community-college/

https://www.educationcorner.com/benefit-of-earning-a-college-degree.html