On the minds of many high school students and their parents is the question, “What comes next?” In many high schools, a lot of emphasis is placed on the college path. While there is no doubt that college can be an incredible experience personally, socially, and professionally and can open up many opportunities for students, it is true that the college track is not necessarily the best fit for all students. Far less emphasis is placed on the trade school path, to the point that many students don’t even know that trade school is an option. If you are considering trade school or are having a tough time deciding between trade school and college, keep reading. Discussed below are factors to keep in mind when making the trade school vs. college decision.
1. Types of Classes
In most colleges, students are required to take a certain number of general education requirements to graduate. These classes may or may not be related to your major. If you are graduating from high school and are unsure of what you want to study or just want to explore different fields, this might be a good option. In trade schools, you only take classes that are directly related to your field of study.
2. Time
College generally takes 4 years or longer. Given the structured nature of trade school, it is also much faster to complete.
3. Cost
Related to the matter of time is the matter of cost. The college’s longer program length also means a higher cost. Students in trade school are able to save money while still actively preparing for the job market.
4. Hands-On Training
Most colleges offer a plethora of theory-based classes but place less of an emphasis on hands-on training. Hands-on training might come in the form of internships, but internships often involve additional costs and tend to be unpaid. Trade schools, on the other hand, are all about hands-on training and real-world skills.
5. Specialized Career Training
Any single major in college can lead to a variety of career paths. Trade schools, however, prepare students for a very specific career path. This requires a certain level of dedication to your chosen field that may not be required in college.
6. Job Prospects
Because trade school courses are geared towards a specific career path, it is easier for trade schools to connect students with potential employers. Trade schools also train students in networking and resume writing. Trade school students, therefore, have an easier time finding a job after graduation. However, because trade school students are trained in a very specific skill set, it might be harder to change careers in the future.
If you are interested in pursuing a career as an electronics technician and are looking into trade schools, check out Blackfox’s courses. A well-renowned technical training center in the electronics manufacturing industry, Blackfox offers hands-on experience for beginners and experienced electronics systems technicians alike. A trade school certificate from Blackfox can help your electronics technician career blossom.
Source:
North American Trade Schools. Trade School vs. College – 7 Things You Need To Know.
