What is a Technical School?
A technical school is a two-year school that prepares students for a particular type of employment. These schools train students to learn the skills needed for a specific career as opposed to focusing on a “well-rounded” education. The goal is to prepare students with as much on-site and on-hands training possible so they know what to expect once they enter the workforce.
Technical school comes with many benefits such as a lower tuition, skills that can be used immediately, and flexible coursework. Technical schools are becoming more and more popular amongst those who have a clear vision of their future career. Although this route has typically been for the working individual looking to further his/her education, more and more high school graduates are making the choice to attend technical school. This route avoids the basic, lower level courses, and allows students to jump right into skills that will be useful directly after they graduate.
How to Pick a Technical School
The great thing about education after high school: You suddenly have options. High school was forced upon you by your parents, which high school you went to depended on your location, the classes you took were decided by your teachers, and who was in your class fell completely to chance. However, this horrible do-what-I-tell-you 4 year experience probably led you to discover what you want to pursue as a career. If you jumped right into the work force after high school, there is a good chance that experience gave you the knowledge you need to go after a promising career. For some, a 4 year degree is not necessary. Certain career paths require choosing a technical school.
A technical school is a two year program that earns a student a degree in a specific area for a specific career path. Although the 4 year University is the most well-known, people are often surprised to find that there are many professions that require a technical college. If you’re interested in a career in computer programming, electrician work, welding, the culinary arts, or a technician in the medical field, a technical college is the way to go. Visit The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) website to see a list of even more careers that require a 2 year technical school program. A technical school is something to consider for a variety of reasons:
· Tuition and fee costs are far lower than a four year institution.
· You will learn skills that can be used immediately.
· Classes are flexible and work well for those who have a full time job or a family.
· Classes are generally more hands-on as opposed to lecture based.
· You will be considered an expert in your field after attending a technical school.
Once you know that a technical school is right for you and your future, it’s time to choose the right one. While this may seem overwhelming at first, it becomes very simple once you know what to look for in a school.
5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Technical School
1. Accreditation—This is the first thing you should look for when choosing a school because it lets you know the quality of education you would be receiving for your money. An accredited school means that the school has met certain quality standards established by an accrediting agency. Schools that are accredited are often the most respected amongst employers, so for many professionals this is a crucial piece to the puzzle.
2. Placement Rate—Check to see how many graduates from the program are out there working in their field. Many schools offer job fairs and assistance in helping their students find employment once they have completed the program. Ask the school if this is something they offer, and then get the proof by checking out their placement rate.
3. Tuition and Fees—Believe it or not, there are technical schools out there that only accept students who can afford to pay out of pocket. If this does not describe you, it is important you check to see if a school offers a financial plan, scholarships, or financial assistance. The prices of technical schools vary considerably depending on the school you choose, but in general a good technical school will cost between $4,000 and $5,000.
4. Atmosphere—Not all technical schools are the same. It is in your best interest to visit the school and talk with professors, students, and the school’s career center if you can. Many schools will even let you sit in on a class to get a feel for the courses you would be taking. Make sure the instructors seem knowledgeable, the students seem interested, and the information is up to date.
5. Admission requirements—Check to see if the school you are interested in requires a high school diploma, GED, or any type of specific grades. Applying to a technical school sometimes comes at a price, so you will want to make sure you meet all admission requirements before applying.
Attending a technical school is great for anyone who wants to further their education or start fresh with a new career. In the end, the convenience and quality of technical schools will help open up doors and opportunities for a better future without breaking the bank.
