Deciding Between Academic and Career Programs
Deciding what type of higher education program to enroll in can be a difficult decision since it sets the direction for a person's career. Many students routinely enroll in the type of program their peers are attending without considering all of the other options. Not all people or all careers are suited to a broad academic program so it is valuable to understand other options such as career, vocational and technical training programs. The advantages of the two types of programs are discussed below along with information about the types of schools that offer career and vocational programs.
Advantages of Career, Vocational and Technical Training Programs
These programs provide focused training that prepares students to start a specific career upon graduation. Some of the advantages of certificate and associate degree programs over traditional academic programs include:
- Shorter program options – Many programs can be completed in one to two years so students can start working sooner.
- Less expensive – Since the programs are shorter, tuition is lower.
- Lower loan debts – Students will need to take fewer student loans and can begin paying them back sooner.
- More flexibility – Many programs allow students to attend part-time or full-time. Many also offer evening and weekend classes.
Advantages of Academic Degree Programs
- Career decisions can be delayed – Final decisions about a major and future career don't need to be made at the beginning and can change during the course of one's education.
- More options after graduation – Programs are generally not specific to only one job so graduates have more flexibility in choosing a career path after graduation.
- Higher salaries – In very general terms, the higher the degree, the higher salary one can earn.
- Transferrable credits – Regardless of the school, course credits are more easily transferrable to other academic schools.
Choosing the Right School
Depending on one's career choice, individuals may be able to choose from career and technical programs at their local community college, career and technical schools, online schools and academic colleges and universities. The following provides a summary of the advantages of each option:
Community Colleges – These schools are usually the least expensive option and are regionally accredited, thus making credit transfers more likely.
Career Schools – These schools often offer shorter program options as well as degree programs and career-focused training in a number of fields.
Vocational and Technical Schools – These schools offer specialized training in a computer, trade or mechanical repair field that prepares students for a specific career.
Online Schools – Many of these schools are regionally accredited, offer a wide variety of program options, flexible schedules and the convenience of attending school from home.
Academic Schools – Traditional four-year colleges and universities offer high-quality programs and are regionally accredited.
Resources
Association for Career and Technical Education
U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
College Board: Career Colleges and Schools
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