Are you trying to decide between attending a technical school vs. community college, and which is better for your future? If so, you’re probably wondering which option will lead to a successful career in a job you love and at a price you can afford.
Technical School vs. Community College
The truth is that both options have affordable degree programs and take a lot less time than traditional four-year colleges. That means you’ll be able to start your career before your friends.
Many students, however, find that technical college is a better fit once they dig a little deeper and start comparing technical school vs. community college.
Here are some key points worth considering:
Job Potential?
If you’re debating between attending a community college vs. a technical college, take a look at each school’s job placement rates, program offerings, and the average starting salaries for graduates of those programs. Students who earn a technical associate’s degree enter a hotter job market than those with non-technical degrees and face lower unemployment rates.
Required Classes?
When comparing community college vs. technical college, consider the type of education you want. The focus of technical education centers on practical, industry-specific training in shops or labs to prepare you for your future career. Community colleges often require more general education classes that are unrelated to your field.
Real-World Experience?
Considering the type of training you’ll get is important when looking at technical school vs. community college. Technical schools offer lots of hands-on training and immerse students in a trade or profession through paid internships or other real-world experiences. Not all community college programs offer the same level of practice in the field, and many require more “theory-based” education.
Program Offerings?
A school’s focus on the program you want is also critical when you’re comparing community college vs. technical college. While community colleges have to support a wide variety of programs, technical colleges can focus on offering the best vocational and technical education possible – it’s all they do.
Major employers and our government know that technical education is important to our economy. They offer programs and incentives to help students succeed. Non-profit schools also put all of the money they make back into the school’s offerings and facilities – all to benefit you and to focus on what makes students successful.
So, when comparing community college vs. technical college, some aspects of the education are similar. However, many students find that the benefits of technical education outweigh what a community college can offer. Just think – in as little as one year, you could be working at your new job and making up to $60,000 per year as a technical school graduate.