Trade Schools Ranked by Potential Salaries

Do you think the best route to a high-paying career is a four-year degree? Think again. For many high school graduates, trade schools offer opportunities better suited to their interests and lifestyles.

What Are Trade Schools?

Four-year degree programs are broad-based educational programs designed to give students depth in liberal arts and humanities concepts. While that works for some students, others prefer a more hands-on approach. That’s where trade schools come into play. They give students technological knowledge and skills in specific trades or occupations.

Trade school programs typically range from 8 weeks to two years, depending on what you’ll be learning and the type of education you will receive. Trade schools can be public or private, and many operate as for-profit businesses. Graduates will earn a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Graduates may sit for licensing exams, apprentice to gain more skills, or seek immediate employment.

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Trade School

Choosing to take the next step in your education is a big decision. Even if you are set on a career path, selecting the right school that aligns with your goals can be difficult at best. With so many factors to consider, you can start with a few questions to help you decide on the right school for you:

Do They Have a Good Reputation Within the Industry?

People attend school for two reasons: education and connections. Before you enroll in a particular trade school, do some research on its reputation. Does it have a good alumni program? Do industry partners work with the school and hire students regularly? What are past students saying about the experience? You want to ensure that the training you receive will be considered valuable to the businesses that will hire you.

What is the Total Cost of Attending?

Education is expensive no matter where you go. It’s important to understand what’s included in the quoted price and what isn’t. Depending on your industry, books and tools can add up. Be sure the school is transparent about what’s included in your original fees and what will be expected of you to finish your certificate or program.

Do They Offer Job Assistance While Attending Classes?

Many trade schools realize you must bring in money while attending classes. Some offer you part-time job opportunities to earn while you learn. In many cases, these can be in the industry you’re learning, helping you increase your knowledge in a relevant sector. This can be a win-win for future employment possibilities.

Do Most Graduates Find Jobs in Their Field of Study?

This is a great indicator of future success. A successful trade school cares about helping its attendees solidify their career goals before they attend and helps them find jobs after graduation. They provide help every step of the way.

Is the School Accredited?

Accreditation is an essential factor to consider. Accredited schools have been evaluated by an authority within the industry and are held to specific standards to ensure they are qualified to teach students. They are continuously assessed and must meet specific criteria to keep their accreditation.

Do They Offer Financial Aid or Scholarships?

No matter what school you attend, there’s always a significant financial investment to move forward in your chosen career. However, there may be ways to make it more affordable while you attend. Check to see if your trade school has a financial aid team who can help you apply for scholarships and financial aid. Those who qualify can also use grants and student loans.