College isn’t for everyone. For some students, vocational schools provide the freedom to work with their hands. For others, an associate’s program at a community college can offer a competitive edge at work. Or perhaps a four-year degree is the only way for you to achieve your goals. It’s essential that students see all of their options before they make the choice between college and trades.

College Isn’t For Everyone

Education is a wonderful thing, but encouraging students to pursue a degree for the sake of a degree is pointless. The recent popularity of 4-year degrees has made those who don’t feel inclined to pursue them feel inferior and unsure. The goal should be to put individuals in places where they will thrive, not to force students to conform.

1) It’s Expensive

The average public college education will run you about $40,000, or much more if you’re not a resident in the school’s state. The average vocational program will cost about $3500 annually, with certificate programs often less than that. Two-year degrees, vocational certificates, and trade programs can be a great way to set yourself up for financial security upon completion.

2) The Value of a Degree Varies

The value of a college degree varies dramatically, depending on factors such as field of study, type of college, graduation rate, and future occupation. The higher paying the job, the more demanding the degree, and often the longer it takes. The average student seeking out a traditional 4-year degree might be surprised by how little it’s worth in the real world.

3) Vocational Jobs Need You

There are many US jobs that require education in a trade, such as an HVAC technician or electrician. These are well-paying jobs with good benefits that are increasingly lacking qualified applicants. With the rise in popularity of 4-year colleges, the pool of candidates has shrunk, leaving these industries desperate for experienced employees.

4) The Weight of Debt

U.S. colleges have fairly high dropout rates. Students who would rather be doing something else are pressured to attend four-year colleges. When they realize that perhaps this is not the path for them, they’ve often already paid thousands in tuition for an education that will not help them. Even if they find their calling elsewhere, they enter into it under a heavyweight of debt.

A Personal Decision

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a college education or alternative training should be made by individual students, based on their unique interests, strengths, and personal values, not only income and career prospects. Students should have realistic expectations about what they’re likely to get out of pursuing higher education, and the alternative options available to them.

Reach out to us to learn more about finding the right vocational training program for your future!