What is Trade School?
Trade schools, often called technical schools, build career skills and credentials to prepare students to enter a mechanical or technically oriented field, such as electrical engineering, heating and air conditioning repair or installation, or plumbing. Trade schools may appeal to students who want to take the quickest route to build a career and enter their chosen field. Since there are many high-paying career options for trade schools that require less time and money to complete than four-year degree programs, choosing the right trade school can equip future job seekers with the skills they need to enter the job market quickly and competitively.
What is a Vocational Degree?
A vocational degree is another option for those who have chosen a particular field and want to learn the skills they need to enter it in a timely fashion. Vocational degree programs award academic degrees to students who have completed career-specific program requirements. Vocational schools, two-year colleges or universities, or in some cases, four-year institutions may award vocational degrees. A vocational degree typically takes between one year to two years to complete, depending on the study area. Vocational degrees that award associate degrees at completion will usually take two years. Students interested in health and nursing, business management or information technology may choose to pursue a vocational degree to get started in their careers.
What is the Difference Between Trade Schools & Vocational Degrees?
Trade schools and vocational degrees offer students a method to meet their career goals faster than a traditional four-year degree program. Though closely related, trade schools and vocational degree programs vary in length, coursework, and the type of credential awarded at their program completion. For these reasons, students should consider their unique career needs before determining the best trade school or vocational degree program for them.
The most significant difference between a typical trade school program and a vocational degree program is the credential for program completion. Most trade school programs award certificates or diplomas upon completion. Trade school programs can take between a few months to two years to complete. A vocational degree program ends with an academic degree, often an associate degree. For this reason, most vocational degrees will take two years to complete, though some vocational degree programs may take less time.
Unlike trade school programs, vocational degree programs may require some general education coursework and career-specific courses. Trade schools usually have shorter programs focused exclusively on career-specific material. Trade school programs are often less expensive than vocational degree programs, especially with shorter trade school programs.
Who Should Pursue Trade Schools or Vocational Degrees?
Earning a vocational degree or a certificate through a trade school can be an efficient method for many people to begin a career in a specialized field. Because students can complete trade schools and vocational degrees in a short period, they offer an advantage over four-year degree programs in terms of time and money investments. Trade schools may appeal to students who find traditional academic settings unappealing or those who already have a good idea about what field they want to enter as a career. Trade school or vocational degrees can also benefit those already working in a particular field and wish to advance further by earning a certificate or taking an additional training program. Vocational degrees may also benefit professionals who want to change careers by completing a shorter degree program and then entering their new field as expediently as possible.
Requirements for Trade School & Vocational Programs
Generally, most trade schools and vocational degree programs require students to hold a high school diploma or a GED. Some trade schools may make exceptions for those who alternatively take placement tests and demonstrate an ability to succeed in their program. Some trade schools, such as those specializing in cosmetology or barbering, may not require a high school diploma or GED. Trade school or vocational degree-seeking students should expect at a minimum to also provide proof of identification, immunization records if they are recent high school graduates, and sometimes proof of selective service for young men between eighteen to twenty-five.
Every program will have its own requirements. For instance, students preparing to enter a medical field may be required to show vaccination history or complete CPR certification before completing their program. In contrast, students in a commercial driving certificate course will be required to hold a suitable license. Students in particular programs, such as electrical, welding, or nursing programs, may also be required to purchase sufficient protective equipment. Some programs may require students to pass a criminal background or drug test. Students entering traditional trade school certificate or diploma programs will often have fewer prerequisites than vocational degree-seeking students, though this is not always the case. Potential students should find all applicable requirements for their specific program of interest on the school's website.
Trade School Programs
There are many kinds of trade schools to choose from, and each potential career pathway has its own strengths and challenges for prospective trade school students to consider. Trade schools provide a place for those interested in mechanically-oriented fields such as careers in the construction trade or careers in the electrician trade as well as future mechanics, dental or nursing assistants, cosmetologists, chefs or computer technicians, among others.
The following list offers a few examples of the most common kinds of trade schools:
- Cosmetology & Wellness
- Culinary Arts
- Skilled Trades including Construction, Electrical, Welding and HVAC
- Nursing & Dental Hygiene
- Commercial Driving, Aviation & Mechanics
- Computer & Information Technology
Culinary Arts Trade School Program
Attending a culinary arts trade school can prepare students for careers as caterers, chefs, bakers or kitchen managers. Programs at trade schools can range from 4-week certificate programs to 2-year vocational associate degrees and range from $8,500 to $29,000. Students should expect to pay additional costs for a chef's uniform and kitchen equipment. Coursework will cover food prep, food safety, and kitchen or restaurant management.
Electrical Trade School Programs
Future electricians may choose to complete a trade school program to make them more competitive for apprenticeships as they enter their chosen field. Individuals interested in the electrical trade should have good color vision for determining color coding on wires and sufficient physical stamina for the type of work expected of an electrician. Programs can be a few weeks to one year and will include building trade courses for electrical installation and electrical systems. Graduates of electrical trade schools should expect to complete a 4-5 year apprenticeship after their program to become licensed master electricians. Course costs typically range between $3,400 to $14,000, depending on the length of the program.
Welding Trade School Programs
Welding trade school gives students hands-on practical experience with different forms of welding. Some programs may require students to hold a high school diploma or GED, but other programs are open to all students above age 16 or 18. Students should expect to wear appropriate protective clothing such as steel-toed boots. Program costs range from $2,200 to $10,000 and may take as few as one semester to ten months to complete.
Vocational Degree Fields
Vocational degrees come in many forms, such as an associate of applied science (AS), an associate of science (AS) or sometimes an associate of occupational studies (AOS). A vocational degree typically takes two years to complete, though some vocational degree programs can take as little as one year for full-time students. In some cases, a vocational degree, such as some nursing degrees, may be used as transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree. Vocational degree programs can typically be found at technical schools or community colleges and usually require at least a high school diploma or GED to apply.
The following vocational degree programs are common:
- Computer & Information Technology
- Nursing
- Business
- Engineering
Vocational Degree Programs in Business
Business vocational degrees focus on preparing students for managerial positions in various industries, including technology, service, or small business management. The degree type awarded is typically an associate of applied science (AAS). Coursework will cover business model management, spreadsheet or technology management, organizational and team management, and some accounting or finance coursework.
Some vocational business degrees include:
- Business Management
- Business Technology
- Business Administration Technology
Vocational Degree Programs in Information Technology
Vocational degrees in information technology train students to maintain and repair the complex hardware and software systems of computers. Students will take courses on network security, software suites such as Microsoft, operating systems like LINUX or Windows, and complete CompTIA training. The degree awarded will typically be an AAS in Information Technology and may take one to one and a half years to complete.
Vocational Degree Programs in Engineering
While engineering is often associated with more extended degree programs, there are some different forms of vocational degrees in engineering for students to choose from. Most two-year vocational programs in engineering are found at community colleges, and some individuals may choose to continue to a four-year degree after completing their program, while others may earn professional certification and enter their field directly.
Some vocational degrees in engineering are available in:
- Civil Engineering
- Engineering Technology
- Electronics Engineering
- Software Engineering & AUTOCAD
Vocational Degree Programs in Health & Nursing
Health and Nursing is a popular career choice for professionals earning vocational degrees. There are comprehensive programs in various healthcare-related fields available to interested vocational degree students. Students may earn a vocational degree at nursing schools or two-year colleges. Programs will typically emphasize hands-on experience, and most students will complete their programs with professional practice, while some nursing students may be qualified to take nursing certification exams.
The following health and nursing vocational degree programs are available.
- Certified or Licensed Nursing Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Dental Assistant
- Healthcare Administration
Vocational Degree Programs in Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and Consumer Sciences is most typically taught in career and technical education among high school students. This field of study encompasses parenting, early childhood education and development, food science and nutrition, and consumer-oriented skillsets such as hospitality.
While vocational degree programs do not typically offer Family and Consumer Sciences, interested students may find related vocational degrees in:
- Early Childhood Education
- Career and Technical Education specializing in Family & Consumer Sciences
- Culinary Arts
Vocational Degree Programs in Public and Protective Services
Roles in public services, such as firefighting or emergency medical services, can be dynamic, challenging and fulfilling to the right individual. Vocational degree programs focus on ensuring that individuals entering the field are sufficiently knowledgeable to pass appropriate certification exams and help professionals earn promotions.
Students can earn public and protectives services vocational degrees or certificates in:
- Fire Science
- Criminal Justice
- EMT Training
Coursework for Trade Schools
The coursework at trade schools is highly variable, depending on the field of interest. Since trade schools are focused on providing students with a real-world understanding of their future occupation, trade schools will focus on practical experience. Trade schools generally do not require electives or general education courses.
Students may find the following courses in many trade school program curriculums:
| Trade School Course | Coursework Description |
| Employment Skills | Courses train students in resume writing and interview skills or offer job placement assistance |
| Practical, Lab or Clinical Experience | Students take part in hands-on work experience in an appropriate work environment |
| Test or Certificate Training | Courses prepare students for applicable certification exams in their field |
Coursework for Vocational Programs
Vocational degrees often require taking some general education courses in math and English and may also allow students to choose from electives to meet necessary credit hours for degree completion, depending on the program.
While courses will vary, students may find the following courses in many vocational degree programs:
| Vocational Degree General Education Courses | Coursework Description |
| English | Students write essays and demonstrate skills in college freshman level English composition |
| Math or Science | Students meet general education requirements in math or science at the college freshman level |
| Social Science | Students complete a history, American government, or oral communication class to meet general education requirements |
| Electives | Students may take additional classes in their field to meet degree-specific credit hours |
Like trade schools, most vocational degree courses will focus on practical experience in the field of study outside of general education coursework.
Accreditation for Trade Schools
Trade schools should hold appropriate, trade-specific accreditation to ensure the program meets universal standards of professionals in their field of interest and will prepare them for any certification exams. Students at accredited trade schools are also more likely to be eligible for financial aid. Trade-specific accreditation will vary, but the largest accrediting bodies in trade schools are recognized accreditors in various fields.
The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges and the Council on Occupational Education are two of the most well-established accreditors for trade schools in the United States. Both are recognized by the US Department of Education and have been established accreditors for over fifty years.
Accreditation for Vocational Degree Programs
As with trade schools, accreditation assures students that their education will be recognized as comprehensive and complete by future employers and accreditation can positively impact financial aid. In addition, accreditation is critical to vocational degree holders who decide to continue their education later by ensuring that their credit hours transfer appropriately at a four-year institution.
Since many vocational degrees are offered at two-year colleges, students may investigate institution-level accreditation through the Council of Higher Education Accreditation. Other regional accreditors include the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training or the Higher Learning Commission. These accrediting bodies review programs to ensure that students receive high-level education for the best start to their careers after graduation.
Career Options After Trade Schools & Vocational Degrees
Trade schools and vocational degrees prepare students for a specific career. A strength of this kind of program is that students should meet specific requirements to enter a particular trade at its conclusion, unlike bachelor's degree programs that are often more exploratory in terms of future careers. The following careers are possible for trade school graduates or vocational degree holders.
Office Manager
Vocational degree holders in business administration or business technology may become office managers. Work experience is a must in this field, so potential office managers should obtain intermediate managerial experience before being promoted to senior positions. While some workplaces may seek managers with bachelor's degrees, it is not required and an associate degree can give candidates an advantage over high school graduates. Earning certification through professional associations may also help candidates earn promotions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), administrative and facilities managers employment growth will be at 9 percent between 2020 and 2030.
Computer Support Specialist
A computer support specialist troubleshoots technical issues with users and can help set up computer equipment. A vocational degree in information technology or certification in different software technology and products can benefit computer support specialists during their job hunt. However, some companies may prefer or require a bachelor's degree. In May 2020, the BLS reported the average wage for computer support specialists was $57,000.
Nursing Assistant
Nursing assistants assist licensed or registered nurses in inpatient care or perform hospital administrative roles. Certification is crucial in health care, so nursing students should ensure that their nursing school or vocational degree program meets state-specific education requirements before enrolling. Certified Nursing Assistants will pass a state-specific exam to hold their title and must also hold CPR certification. In May 2020, the average wage for nursing assistants was $32,050.
Early Childhood Educator
Early childhood educators, or preschool teachers, will lead classrooms of children younger than five. The requirements for becoming a preschool teacher vary by state. Future preschool teachers may start in some states with an associate-level vocational degree in early childhood education, though all public schools require teachers to hold a bachelor's degree. Prospective preschool teachers should also consult certification requirements for their state to be certain that they are sufficiently qualified for their future position.
Firefighter
Firefighters fight fires and provide emergency medical care. Firefighters must meet physical fitness requirements such as carrying or lifting heavy objects. In many cases, firefighters may begin training with a high school diploma or its equivalent. However, promotion to higher-level positions often relies on holding a degree in fire science or related fields. Most fire departments also require firefighters to hold EMT certification. Future firefighters who earn a vocational degree in fire science can increase their opportunities for promotion while the coursework also often meets EMT training requirements.
Electrician
Electrical trade schools and electrician courses are among the most popular degree or certification programs in the construction trade. Electricians are required to be licensed by most states, which includes a required apprenticeship. Electrical students who start at a trade school can often apply their coursework toward an apprenticeship. In May 2020, the BLS reported the average wage for electricians was $61,550.
Chef
A chef or head cook creates and prepares various menu items in a restaurant while maintaining food safety standards, an inventory of fresh ingredients and managing kitchen staff. Most positions require a high school diploma. Completing a program at a culinary school can make applicants more attractive. Work experience is a must in the field of cooking, so future head cooks should expect to gain experience as a line cook or sous chef initially.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Trade School & Vocational Degree Programs
An advantage to earning a vocational degree or attending trade school is the lower cost compared to four-year degree programs. However, the financial burden of completing any educational program can sometimes be challenging to meet alone, so there are many avenues for vocational students to defray the costs of attendance.
The first thing that students should complete is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after checking that their trade school or program accepts FAFSA. While some programs do not accept FAFSA, many vocational programs are FAFSA eligible.
Students should also consider trade association scholarships when preparing for their education costs. For instance, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools offers information on various grants and scholarships to qualified cosmetology students such as the $2,500 Beauty Schools Directory Cosmetology Scholarship or the $1,000 Keller Cosmetology Scholarship. In addition, the American Trucks Scholarship is a twice-yearly $2,500 scholarship for trade school students in building trades such as carpentry, HVAC or electrical engineering.
Trade school students may also consider taking a personal loan. The Sallie Mae Career Training Smart Option Student Loan can help non-degree seeking vocational students meet the costs of trade school tuition. Students should keep in mind that loans must be paid back, unlike scholarships and grants.
Vocational degree students enrolled at an accredited two-year college should also explore various college scholarship programs. Some scholarships may be merit-based and others may require essays or focus on underrepresented groups, while some scholarships are based on a random lottery. For example, the Second Chance College Scholarship Program awards five $1,000 scholarships by random selection. Similarly, the Niche $2,000 "No Essay" College Scholarship randomly awards a $2,000 scholarship to a college or future college student attending any school, including trade schools or two-year community colleges, listed on its website.
With some research, trade school or vocational degree students from every background can find a source of financial assistance to cover educational costs and help them meet their future career goals.
