Is a Vocational, Technical or Trade School Right for You?

Perhaps you are not sure if a trade ortech school is right for you, or you just want to know more about this type ofeducational option. Read on to learn the ins and outs of the technicaleducation path.

Ifyou want to learn specific skills that are directly transferable to a job orcareer field, then a vocational, technical, or trade school may be just whatyou’re looking for. Often these schools give you a lot of freedom to learnexactly what you want to learn and to be hands-on—even with specialized,cutting-edge technology. Generally, instructors have worked or currently areworking in the field, so they can share their personal experiences from theindustry with you, which a lot of students really enjoy.

Whenyou get training through a vocational or technical school, you will skip over alot of the general education or liberal arts classes that you might have totake at a college or university and focus just on the classes that will benefityour career goals. You’ll save a lot of time this way; however, technicaldegrees tend to be less flexible when it comes to changing careers, so you haveto think about your career’s future growth.

Do you think vocational/technical school is right for you? Great—buthere a two things to consider when you select a trade school:

• Make sure the school is accredited. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology or ACCST is a recognized accreditation leader. Check out their website for more information about accreditation guidelines and recognized schools.
• Ensure your school accepts veteran’s benefits. Unfortunately, some of the newest technology programs may not accept your benefits. It’s easy to find out; simply contact the school to inquire about military benefits policies.

Ready to find the perfect tech or trade school for you? Use our School Finder to match your needs with military-friendly schools in your area.