Whether you have just graduated from high school, or you are exploring the possibility of pursuing a different career, you should consider attending a technical school when weighing your options. Technical schools offer training in numerous fields and could be the perfect solution for students who want to work in an industry that requires—as well as benefits from—hands-on training.
At times it can feel like a traditional college education is the only option after high school. However, depending on your goals, financial situation and ideal career, a technical school could be right for you. Here are a few reasons to attend a technical college:
Career-focused
Technical colleges prepare students for specific careers. This is quite different from universities, where you’ll get a more general education, with the flexibility to change paths if you decide to. If you know what you want to do and it requires a fair amount of firsthand training, a technical school may be a good choice for you.
At a Technical Science College, even the general education courses are designed to educate and benefit you in your chosen industry.
Less costly
Because technical programs are typically less time-intensive, the cost of tuition is usually significantly less than a community college or university. Some trade schools build the cost of books into tuition, making it even more cost-effective.
Practical practice
Universities tend to take a more theoretical approach, where trade schools focus more on the practical. Technical colleges offer students opportunities to experience what their future workplace might be like. The primary way they do this is by offering internships to their students, which allows them to work in their field and gain some valuable on-the-job training.
Admissions requirements
Getting into a university can be competitive, and a lot of focus is put on an individual’s GPA and test scores. Gaining entrance into a technical college, however, can be less stressful. Admissions requirements for most programs are more relaxed than a university or community college.
Job placement before graduation
Technical schools put a lot of emphasis on career development by offering seminars that focus on subjects like how to find and get a job, how to create an effective resume, useful job-hunting tips and how to communicate with a potential employer. The instructors at most technical colleges are industry professionals who can offer useful advice and have connections in the field.
Whether it be through internships or job fairs, students are put in contact with potential employers before graduation.
High employment rate
The programs that trade schools offer typically point toward occupations and industries that are expected to be in high demand by the time students graduate. Additionally, students train for jobs that require someone to be physically present. This decreases the likelihood that these positions could be outsourced or automated in the future.
Flexible and convenient
As with universities, a majority of the programs at a technical college will require students to attend weekday classes, but there are other options available. Many programs offer weeknight and weekend courses as well, which is ideal for individuals who are working while attending school.
Taking night or weekend classes may be more convenient, and it allows students to take their time to get through the program at their own pace.