Theresa,
This is where community involvement can be beneficial through workforce boards, employers, chambers of commerce, etc.
Patty Aronoff
This may be the critical question of our time. At a time when getting a job, any job, is difficult, the issue of educational program relevance has never been more important. The traditional college degree was once a passport to a better future or at least a door opener. The pendulum has swung. The question at the forefront of an employer now is what can you prove that you can do now that is of importance to me now. Today, it just may be more important to acquire an applicable skill that can fund broader educational pursuits later.
I have attended both vocational and community college. Needless to say vocational, technical or career schools are way more affordable and reasonable. I have acquired my associates in science without enduring all the prerequisites. Its a pain but unfortunately prerequisites are a requirement for some.
Most vocational schools offer a much lower tuition rate unfortunately financial aid isn't always available. Some counties offer aid to those who have had prior injuries. It is very difficult for able bodied people to find funding. Most career schools are not accredated, therefore cannot accept pell or other govt loans or grants. A rare few counties have started paying for some of the tuition for a select few. This has been very helpful for some wonderful students! I hope other counties will follow their lead.
David,
Career schools often have 9 month programs where students earn their diploma and can quickly get into the field of their choice.
Patty Aronoff
I totally agree.. unless someone has the time for at least 4 to 6 years (if considering graduate school) to commit to a program, then it is a very hard sell. I think the career schools serve for some as a great starter, because even if a 4 or 6 year program is what they desire, having a license, work experience, and the ability to earn a higher wage - can allow them to work during the institution and lessen the financial burden.
Glenis,
Cost will vary from public to private, colleges to universities, and career and technical school. Several other differences are program offerings and entrance requirements.
Patty Aronoff
Sheldon,
Many schools do! It ensures that everyone is using the current and appropriate form.
Patty Aronoff
You would think career and technical schools would be less costly than colleges and universities. However they appear to be very similar in cost. One major difference is career schools' course work can help students prepare and gain hands on experience in a particular field from day one whereas students at colleges and universities must take electives and other gen ed. courses before they even go into their major as part of a requirement to graduate.
with the current econimic climate it may be more suitable for someone to take a faster pace adn less expensive course or program to begin thier career and then go back to school once they land employment in thier field.
however if money is no objective then i say do the full 4 years in 4 years, not 8 years.
Dana,
For students, it is the right school for them in their decision to continue their education. Comparatively speaking, if costs are the same, what are the difference in the education.
Patty Aronoff
Dr. Sylvester ,
Career schools offer a viable option for students. Our sector offers education in so many career options, something for everyone! We touch the community in so many ways with the employment of graduates. A very exciting place to be!
Patty Aronoff
Some of the vocational and technicals schools are within the 40,000 to $50,000 range. In comparison almost the same situation.
