80% of all careers require education of training beyond a general high school education. One career may require four years of college while another may require a 4-month training program. Here are 5 educational options that we will discuss:

CAREER AND TECHNICAL SCHOOLS

Career and technical schools offer short-term training in a wide variety of career fields. While some programs last only a few months, others may take up to two years to complete. Some examples of technical schools are ITT, The Art Institute or UTI.

Technical school programs are designed to prepare students for specific careers. Students therefore spend most of their class time in job-related settings where they receive hands-on training from experienced instructors.

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

Most high schools offer a variety of vocational courses and programs. Vocational education is particularly appropriate for those students, who prefer a practical, “hands-on” approach to learning. Vocational instruction also enables you to prepare for a career while you are still in high school. Examples of vocational education are courses offered by ROP, One Stop Centers, CUI and ARBOR. The length of vocational training can vary from 2 months to two years. (Computer training, Nursing Assistant, Truck Driving, etc.)

COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Community colleges provide affordable programs that enable students to begin their careers after only one or two years of college. Students completing one-year programs receive certificates or diplomas; students completing two-year programs earn Associate’s Degree (A.A.). Students can also start at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college. Also, students who are not academically prepared to enroll at a four-year college often start their education at a community college. It is also a good idea to enroll in a community college if you are undecided on your career. (IVC)

UNIVERSITY

A four-year college education, or bachelor’s degree, is necessary for approximately 20% of today’s careers. A bachelor’s degree can open doors, provide status, and prepare students for financially rewarding careers. Students are able to obtain a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree (B.A.), Masters of Arts Degree (M.A.) or a Doctorate’s Degree (PhD). (Examples of universities are San Diego State University or UC Los Angeles)

THE MILITARY

The military trains young men and women so that they can protect the interests of our country. In order to do this, the military offers qualified high school graduates a good salary and free job training. There are four major branches of the military: the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Opportunities for students also exist in the Coast Guard, the National Guard, and the Reserves. If you are serious about the military, you should consider taking the ASVAB exam which will increase your options when you enter the service.