function of vocational education

Working Adolescents: Rethinking Education For and On the Job pp 61–82 Cite as

Vocational Education in the United States of America (U.S.A.): The Case of the United States of America (U.S.A.)

• Mary Ann Maslak 14  
• First Online: 13 March 2022

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Part of the book series: Global Perspectives on Adolescence and Education ((GLAE,volume 2))

This chapter begins by providing a history of youth and work in the U.S.A.. Next, it offers a brief history of V.E. in the United States. It discusses both positive and negative outcomes of work for youth. It also reviews both government- and non-government related organizations’ input into policy development and curricular design for vocational education. Then, it discusses trends in Career and Technical Education (C.T.E.) participation in the U.S.A. It ends with discussing the standards that guide current career and technical education in the United States.

• United States of America (U.S.A.)
• Vocational education
• Positive outcomes
• Negative outcomes
• Career and Technical Education (C.T.E.)

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Congress established the United States Office of Education, a division of the Federal Government, within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1867. The U.S. Office of Education sought to advance the country’s educational system. The Division of Vocational and Technical Education in the Office of Education is responsible for administering the vocational education arm of the system, including funding to states.

Between 1870 and 1930, the concept of the “priceless child” emerged in the middle-class community. This idea supported youths’ enrolment in school instead of employment in the labor market (Dreeben, 1968 ).

For example, youth comprised more than 50% of the textile operators in Rhode Island in 1820. Other substantial percentages of youth worked in mills in the south as well (Zelizer, 1985 ).

Whereas less than 5% of the school-aged population graduated from secondary school in 1890, the percentage rose to over 50% in 1940 (Historical Statistics of the United States, 1997). However, these statistics still point to the fact that many families could not afford to or chose not to allow their children to attend secondary school during this period (Kett, 1978 ).

The Joint Apprenticeship Council took responsibility for this.

Retail and service sectors offered the most interesting opportunities for youth at this time.

YouthBuild trains participants for construction opportunities.

Another example is Wagner-Peyser employment services which match youth with employment.

With both public and private institutions of higher education struggling based on both the slow economic and the effects of the Covid-19 crisis, institution of higher education are grappling with the possibility to offer short-term certificate programs in a variety of fields. The programs seek to increase enrollment, offer necessary certificates for work, and strengthen the financial state of the institutions.

Forty-six percent of students are at least at 22 and are working part-time.

A program evaluation of the Project QUEST program found that “…participants earned significantly more than equivalent control group members who were not randomly selected into the program. By year nine, this gap was over $5000 per year in additional earnings for graduates of the program.”

A survey by the U.S. Government Accountability Office cited by MIT’s the Future of Work report (2020) highlighted the importance of job training programs that help to match those seeking jobs to jobs in local communities (Autor et al., 2020 ).

Single- and multiple-country studies offer great potential to understand youth’s vocational development across cultures. The case studies in this book address one facet of this discussion.

Stress at work also negatively affects adolescents’ decision-making capability.

Unlike nationalized educational systems in other countries, each state determines the types and number of vocational education programs.

Schools phase out programs that lose enrollment.

Those jobs do not require a baccalaureate degree.

China experiences the same problem.

Study Abroad programs like that at St. John’s University in New York also provides students with this student teaching situation in which students earn credit by working with teachers and students in local schools in Rome, Italy.

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Maslak, M.A. (2022). Vocational Education in the United States of America (U.S.A.): The Case of the United States of America (U.S.A.). In: Working Adolescents: Rethinking Education For and On the Job. Global Perspectives on Adolescence and Education, vol 2. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-79046-2_5

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• Trends in Education

The pros and cons of Vocational Education Training

November 23, 2023 •

7 min reading

Students interested in pursuing higher education encounter the choice between broader, liberal arts- educational options and vocational training. The academic vs. vocational debate affects many students preparing for their careers.

While both options offer excellent education and prepare students for their jobs, each offers a slightly different approach to learning and coursework. Students interested in pursuing a specific type of trade, such as working within the hospitality industry, will find that vocational schools can present several advantages and open many doors to success.

Advantages of vocational education training

Pursuing a vocational education has its advantages. By learning and focussing on a specific trade, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the trade allowing them to build an exciting career in a new field. As students recognize the value of vocational education training, they will find unparalleled advantages to this type of schooling.

The focus on practical skills

"Learning by Doing" is the core of Vocational Education Training. Practical learning more than theoretical learning is the priority. Students in vocational schools spend significantly more time practicing tangible skills that they will need and can apply to the workplace. The focus of their studies is on acquiring knowledge and competencies that they need to work proficiently in their chosen field.

With this style of learning, work experience becomes an actual part of the course itself, rather than something to be pursued outside of course time through internships or low-level jobs. Students have the opportunity to graduate with practical experience in their chosen field, which helps them hit the ground running once they begin their full-time job.

They are more prepared to begin their jobs immediately.

An education that prepares students for the global stage

Vocational schools attract students with a variety of different life experiences. Students have the chance to attend courses and work closely with classmates from different ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds. Students come from a variety of different countries to attend classes together and then go on to work in hospitality businesses around the world.

The world becomes increasingly globalized with each passing year. The internet connects businesses and customers instantaneously, which helps break down barriers between people of different backgrounds. Travel and tourism provide people with the opportunities to explore different cultures and locations. More people take advantage of these possibilities with each passing year.

With an education that allows students to work closely with such a diverse group of people, it becomes easy to see how these educational opportunities benefit professionals. Students graduate with intimate experience of working cross-culturally, a better understanding of communicating with people from different backgrounds, and the insight they need to thrive in jobs worldwide. In other words, they become assets to their organizations in the globalized world.

Building better relationships with classmates and professors

The schooling experience differs when it comes to the vocational education experience. Students spend significantly more time in their physical classes and less time working on outside projects. In a traditional classroom, students might spend only a few hours a week in their classes as they need time to work on their research papers. Whereas in a vocational school, they spend many hours working intensely on the practical skills and subject matter they learn in the course.

This results in an environment where classmates and professors build better and deeper relationships. Students work together closely with their classmates and form relationships with their professors as they move through the program. Working with people in a collaborative manner is a highly underrated skill. It is something that one has to be able to ace for the rest of their professional lives . Vocational education and training provides students with the opportunity to actively engage with their classmates, professors and get first-hand experience of working in groups.

Students also have immersive classes because they might need access to specialized equipment or environments to learn and practice their newfound skills. This further gives them hands-on experience in the field and ensures they will be prepared for the first day on the job.

Students' hours in a vocational setting closely imitate the typical work hours in the field, making the transition from a student to a professional even smoother.

Awakening passions

Students in vocational jobs enter their career paths because they have the chance to pursue their passion or a career that interests them. When they get to the vocational school, one can notice that the significant hours spent every week pursuing something they want to devote their time and energy to.. This promotes an excellent learning environment for students.

Adaptable Programs

Vocational Courses are intended to support non-conventional students who wish to study while balancing other obligations. Options such as online learning, evening, night weekend make this alternative beneficial for those trying to develop new career expertise while working full-time.

Economic benefits of vocational education

Students entering vocational programs also experience various economic benefits by choosing this educational path. Here are a few of the most common ones we see.

They often have an easier time finding a job

When students graduate from a vocational program, they have work experience and specific training for their exact field. In other words, their prospective employer knows that this candidate has gone through specialized learning, practice in the field and is prepared to start in the new position right away with minimal training.

Students find that this can open many professional avenues. They do not have to worry about applying for jobs without specific work experience in their chosen field, devoid of which the applicant may not be considered. Rather than having to start off in jobs that also provide training, students have the education they need to jump right into the position and lay the foundation for a successful career significantly faster than others who had attended traditional academic schools.

Students can often finish school faster

Students finish vocational programs faster than the education programs in other fields as the learning focuses specifically on the career choice.

With less time spent in school, students get to transition from spending money for learning and training opportunities to making money in their careers faster, allowing them to create net benefits for themselves from a financial standpoint.

Schools in the vocational sector often cost less than other types of learning institutions

Vocational Education is generally a low-priced alternative for individuals as vocational courses can be completed in two years or less. Tuition and other fees that go into learning this field do not run as high as they do at other types of schools. This contributes further to the financial savings experienced by students during their education. They pay less each year they are in school, which helps them decrease any debt they have to take on to pay for school, allowing them to begin building their savings and establishing their financial security faster than those who spend thousands more on their education.

INVEST IN EDUCATION TOOLKIT With this 10-step process, you will have all the tools you need to master the critical areas of a successful school.

Challenges facing vocational education.

Although the benefits for students entering vocational educational programs are many, there are a few challenges of vocational education that those entering a related field should be aware of. Understanding these challenges can help students make the best decisions for their school and professional careers. They can make plans that will help them accommodate these challenges and set themselves up for academic and professional success.

Less of an opportunity to explore different subjects

In a traditional academic school program, students have opportunities to explore different subjects and disciplines outside their core topics for their future degrees. In other words, a student majoring in mathematics may also take some classes on philosophy or similar liberal arts studies. This can help to create a well-rounded course of study that helps to create a broader education.

In a vocational setting, however, the subjects that students study revolve around their core concentration. While they may take some closely related tangential courses, they have fewer opportunities to take classes well outside their discipline.

Employers who focus on vocational students might be less able to adapt

Some organizations have encountered struggles when it comes to adapting with students who were educated in primarily vocational settings. Students who did not have the opportunity to broaden their skills across various disciplines and topics might be less willing and able to transition and adopt new technology and strategies within the workplace. Since their education focused on learning a specific means of completing certain routine tasks and engaging within the industry, sharp changes might be challenging to adopt.

However, students and employers can counter this problem through regular employee training. Schools themselves can also work to provide classes that explore some of the cutting-edge technologies that might become more mainstream over the course of the students’ careers, so they feel more poised to transition in the workplace. Schools can also offer workshops or refresher courses designed to introduce graduated students to some of the latest industry advancements and how new capabilities can benefit the sector and consumers.

When it comes to educating students, many find that two main paths exist. The first, a traditional four-year degree, offers students academic and professional education through intensive coursework. The lessons consist of core subjects in their area of study as well as other various broad courses that touch upon other disciplines. Meanwhile, vocational education focuses on providing learning opportunities for those who want to excel within a particular trade. While there are benefits and drawbacks to each system, understanding how these two types of education relate to each other and their impact on students and their future career is critical for anyone deciding on their academic career.

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What is vocational education?

Put simply, vocational education teaches you skills directly related to work.

By developing skills that are specific to a trade or job role, you can improve your employment prospects, get ahead in your current career… or even turn a hobby into a business.

Some people assume vocational education and training (VET) only covers practical, hands-on subjects like plumbing, construction or childcare, but this is an old-fashioned view. Of course, these vital subjects are still taught, but vocational education has expanded and diversified over the last thirty years and now offers a huge range of choice in subjects related to a wide range of careers.

Modern vocational education allows people to learn highly transferable creative and personal development skills, as well as practical skills and activities specific to a chosen job role. Those who undertake vocational training or apprenticeships can expect to learn a lot about themselves, and to discover talents they didn’t know they had!

What’s more, vocational education is no longer only available at school. Now, across Europe, there is a vast range of full-time and part-time courses available at higher-education and vocational colleges, as well as on-the-job training and apprenticeships. You can even learn online, with a growing number of courses available on the web, delivered by specialists and professionals.

For people who want to turn the theory into practice straight away, you can learn while you work, attending training sessions directly in the workplace. Many companies and sectors even have their own dedicated training facilities. For employers, the priority is to ensure that skills supply meets skills demand, so businesses all over the world are investing in the resources to provide high quality vocational training to their current and potential employees.

Perhaps the best people to explain what vocational education is all about are the people who have already taken advantage of VET. People like Hannah Colston, a Trainee Quantity Surveyor at UK construction company Trojan Group, and a Member of the European Apprentices Network.

Speaking at last year’s European Vocational Skills Week in Brussels, Hannah said, “apprenticeships and vocational education are definitely worthwhile career choices. You have the opportunity to study a subject, and work alongside studying that subject, and it can lead to future employment.”

Khaleb Ouared is an Apprentice who took part in an event at Nestlé in Vittel, France, during last year’s European Vocational Skills Week. He said, “I strongly recommend it because when you're at school, when you study, it's all about the theory – they teach us things that are only theoretical. When we leave school, we do not necessarily know what we are talking about – we only have theoretical notions – whereas here we practise, and it gives us a real experience. A real experience for your CV.”

If you’d like to find out more about vocational education and the opportunities available in your sector or country, why not discover your talent at this year’s European Vocational Skills Week? Join us from 5–9 November in Vienna , or between September and 31 December 2018 at one of the many hundreds of events across Europe.

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What are the Benefits of Technical and Vocational Education?

Going to college is a noble ambition, but did you know that are dozens of jobs in technical fields that employers are struggling to fill? In less than a year, you could have a new career and a secure future in an exciting industry by getting a vocational school diploma. The many benefits of technical and vocational training are too good to be ignored.

What Is a Vocational School?

Jobs were once divided by intellectual and manual laborers. Becoming a tradesperson meant you went to a vocational school and worked with your hands while the college-educated held office jobs. Now, nothing could be further than the truth.

The distinction between blue and white collar workers has faded as tech-driven jobs fill the gap. Vocational schools are still dedicated to trades, but the trades have changed to include jobs in healthcare, computer science, and information technology.

What differentiates vocational schools from colleges is how they approach education. Universities want to graduate “well-rounded” students, while technical and vocational schools teach students to do specific jobs.

Training is comprehensive but hands-on and vocation specific. Less academic and more practical than degree programs, there are few elective courses that don’t contribute to your skills in the field. Students graduate faster but with the expertise they need to succeed.

Most programs last about a year and confer a diploma. Some schools also offer abbreviated certificate programs and longer associate degree options. Like colleges, some courses may be offered online, and students may have their choice of full-time or part-time learning options. For vocational schools, the goal is to eliminate education barriers.

Vocational school training is ideal for adults who want a new career without spending years in school. Programs are lifestyle friendly and include perks like:

A Whole New Vocation

Technical schools cater to entry-level positions. Unlike degree programs that require prerequisite credits in specific subjects, most vocational programs are open to anyone who wants to learn. You can train for an entirely new career with little experience. There’s no faster way to do an about-face in the workplace.

A Competitive Advantage

Formal education isn’t required to work in some fields. Still, as in medical assisting, it may be the industry standard. Without training, you may forever compete against experienced applicants without getting a job.

Having a vocational school diploma makes you a more attractive candidate by demonstrating proven skills and dedication to your field. And in some cases, it prepares you for must-have industry certifications.

A medical assistant, for example, must be certified to enter a doctor’s order into a patient’s chart. A diploma and certifications make you a more valuable employee.

Small Class Sizes

A college student is one voice among many, but you’ll feel heard in a vocational school. Smaller class sizes means all students get the individualized attention they deserve. Everyone’s input is valued, and no one is left behind.

Students typically learn best in small classes because there are more opportunities to interact with instructors and classmates. The network of connections you’ll make will last a lifetime.

Like-Minded Peers

In a college chemistry class, some students are majoring in medicine while others are interested in physics, no one topic brings people together.

However, in a vocational classroom, students share a goal. The atmosphere is more creative because everyone’s on the same page. Like most teams, more is accomplished when the people involved are of like mind and share similar interests.

Seasoned Instructors

Classroom learning is part of any educational program, but vocational programs offer hands-on learning opportunities that reinforce lessons.

And what better way to learn the ropes in a new field than from an industry-seasoned instructor? More than teachers, they’re mentors. Students benefit from their experience in ways that books don’t cover.

Career Services

Training is just the beginning of what vocational schools offer. Students benefit from career services beginning before graduation and beyond.

Partners with local businesses, vocational schools design programs to meet occupational demand. And when employers need qualified applicants, they turn to graduates.

Schools also support students with job fairs and networking opportunities. Finding the right job in a new industry can be intimidating, but vocational colleges are in your corner.

What Are Some of the Vocations You Can Learn?

These are many careers you can train for with a technical or vocational education from Peloton College. These careers include:

Medical Assisting

Medical assistants support licensed healthcare professionals in office settings. Employed by doctors, clinics, and hospitals, they manage a broad range of clinical and administrative responsibilities, such as:

• Managing the schedule
• Triaging phone calls
• Rooming patients
• Taking vital signs
• Drawing blood
• Obtaining urine samples
• Performing diagnostic tests
• Administering medications
• Assisting with treatments
• Helping with procedures
• Sterilizing instruments
• Maintaining medical records
• Billing and coding
• Patient education
• Client outreach

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , the demand for medical assistants is projected to rise nearly 18 percent in the next ten years. If you’re a compassionate person with a passion for wellness and good organizational skills, you’re wanted in the healthcare field.

You’ll learn about these topics and more in a vocational school program:

• Pharmacology
• Microbiology and infection control
• Electrocardiography
• Electronic health records
• Medical law and ethics
• Office and laboratory practices
• Therapeutic communication

Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding specialists handle payment issues and insurance claims in healthcare settings including private practices, clinics, hospitals, insurance companies and medical billing services. Duties include:

• Chart reviews
• Transcribing health data into alphanumeric medical codes
• Submitting insurance claims
• Requesting service authorizations
• Troubleshooting denials
• Tracking insurance payments
• Answering patient inquires
• Light accounting

Programs cover:

• Medical terminology
• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Electronic recordkeeping
• Billing technology and regulations
• Private and public insurance models
• Government insurance programs, such as worker’s compensation
• Collections regulations

Many more billing and coding specialists are needed to meet growing demand through 2032. More than 30,000 new openings are projected in the next decade.

Information Technology

IT specialists help businesses establish, manage and maintain computer systems. On an average day, you’ll:

• Test the function and efficiency of computer systems
• Install and update hardware and software
• Design new systems and implement upgrades
• Install and diagnose LANs
• Verify security certificates and monitor data compliance requirements
• Provide education and technical support for staff and clients
• Backup system files

Programs topics include:

• Digital electronics
• Basic coding
• Operating systems
• System analysis and design
• Multimedia applications
• Hardware, software, and mobile technology
• Networks, internet connectivity, cybersecurity

IT specialists work for all types of businesses, schools, healthcare facilities and the government. A broad field, job descriptions vary significantly. There’s ample opportunity to specialize and grow your career through continuing education and experience. The job outlook for IT specialists has never been brighter.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity specialists safeguard digital data. One of several diplomas you can get in IT-related fields, it’s among the most exciting roles for the tech-savvy ethical hacker. As a cybersecurity specialist, it will be your mission to make computer systems virus-, malware- and hack-proof. Responsibilities include:

• Developing security systems
• Implementing protection strategies
• Assessing network vulnerabilities
• Penetration testing
• Threat response

Programs delve into:

• IT concepts
• Basic programming
• Cybersecurity principles
• Cloud and mobile security
• Database design
• Digital forensics
• Threat analysis

An entry-level position, there’s no shortage of opportunity in this field. The need for cybersecurity experts is expanding across all sectors.

Final Thoughts

If training is an investment, then why not invest in yourself with a technical or vocational education? Enroll today and start loving what you do sooner.

Want to Learn More?

Peloton College offers Electronic Systems Technician, Information Technology Support Professional, Associates of Applied Science in Cybersecurity, Medical Billing, and Coding, and Medical Assistant programs consisting of fast-track learning courses taught by experienced technical professionals who are committed to providing individual attention to every career college student.

The mission of Peloton College is to be the premier provider of hands-on training and education by providing students and graduates with the necessary skills to secure occupational careers. Contact us today to learn more.

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18 Benefits of Vocational Education in 2021

• August 12, 2021

Table of Contents

Vocational education delivers practical, hands-on skills for students to use on the job during their program and immediately after graduation. The process is also known as Career and Technical Education ( CTE ).

There are a wide variety of industries and career options available through vocational education schools and programs. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics , the most popular career fields include the health sciences, trades (manufacturing, construction, repair, and transportation), and consumer services.

The benefits of vocational education fall into three main categories: strong job market and career growth, varied vocational school options, and investment value. Keep reading to learn more.

The Top 18 Benefits of Vocational School in 2021

1. trade schools offer hands-on knowledge.

Traditional universities focus more on theoretical knowledge than hands-on, practical training. That type of knowledge is great for certain jobs like engineering. However, for many people who attend universities, their education is primarily background knowledge so when they get a job, they will need to learn on the job.

Vocational training schools, on the other hand, have a stronger balance between background knowledge and hands-on training. As a result, you’re likely to be better prepared for the day-to-day tasks of your job than someone whose degree has emphasized theoretical knowledge, whether your job is in  information technology ,  holistic healthcare , or another field.

2. Trade Schools Offer More Direct Training

When a student attends a traditional four-year university, they don’t spend four years studying their chosen field. The universities focus more on well-rounded liberal arts to teach students general skills and information.

The problem is that on top of your career training, you end up with silly and sometimes unnecessary classes like pottery-making and frisbee golf solely to meet your credit requirements.

Vocational training school focuses solely on the training you need for your job. You learn the practical skills you’ll need day-to-day in your career rather than skills that are less specific.

3. Individualized Attention from Experienced Instructors

In vocational education programs, you will learn from experienced practitioners who serve as mentors and trainers. Every school is different, but vocational training schools tend to have lower faculty-to-student ratios than traditional colleges, allowing each student direct supervision and guidance. You won’t have the large lecture halls where your needs get lost among 200 other students.

In fact, the average class at ICOHS College has a 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio. Compare that with the national  average of 1:14  among all post-secondary schools, and to the 1:22 average at for-profit private institutions.

Your instructors are industry professionals, prepared not only to train you in specific techniques and skills but guide you to overall success in their particular field. Since they are active members of the industry, they are also well-placed to provide networking and internship opportunities.

4. Education at a Lower Cost / Investment Value

Vocational education is an investment of both time and money towards your personal growth and to build your career.

According to a 2002 report by the U.S. Department of Education (“ National Assessment of Vocational Education ”), students who attend vocational programs benefit from higher employment levels, increased wages, and increased job satisfaction rates.

Many students expect to go into some amount of debt when they invest in their education. However, graduating from a four-year university with $100,000+ in debt means you’re starting your career with a major hurdle to overcome.

Trade schools, on the other hand, are far more cost-effective. The annual cost is often lower than it is at traditional universities, and you’re also paying for two years in most cases compared to four or more. On top of this, ICOHS College offers  financial aid  as well as  military financing options . As a result, you can start your career with far less debt and enjoy the profits of your higher income potential sooner.

5. Classes for Flexible Schedules

Traditional universities are set up for full-time students who have just graduated from high school and are completing all of their education before entering the workforce. Many of them have far fewer course options for students who work a 9-5 job and want to get their education in the evenings.

Vocational training schools have more diverse options because they serve a wider array of students. Most programs offer flexible full-time, part-time, or online schedules, allowing students to work around their work schedule or family needs.

At ICOHS College in particular, we offer hybrid programs as well which equip you with both practical and theoretical knowledge.

Teenagers can get started in vocational training in over 80% of U.S. high schools. At the same time, independent post-graduate institutes cater to the needs of nontraditional students and adult learners at any point in their careers. Students will find diversity in the ages and backgrounds of their vocational education peers.

6. Accreditation

Accredited vocational schools demonstrate a commitment to meeting quality standards through an independent accreditation process. The ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training) is the leading national accrediting body for vocational schools.

Vocational programs may obtain additional approvals and certifications to assure their commitment to quality. For example, ICOHS College is accredited by ACCET and approved by the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, and the California Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education (BPPE).

In addition, specific professional programs within a vocational school may have additional certifications, such as the American Massage Therapy Association certification or the Cisco Certification for IT specializations.

Accreditation, approvals, and certifications are not just stamps on paper. They assure the community of a vocational school’s commitment to quality, improvement, and peer accountability. They may also open opportunities for professional licensing or additional funding sources.

7. Internships and Practicums

Vocational programs recognize hands-on training in a “real world” context is essential to helping students succeed. Vocational courses are typically delivered through traditional classroom learning and significant practical work in learning labs.

Quality programs build relationships with local companies and business leaders to offer internships and practicums, earn course credit, or provide paid opportunities. These opportunities help develop your skills further and provide employment history and references to round out a resume when applying for future positions.

8. Successful Job Placement

Career counseling and job placement is a large part of the mission of vocational schools. The school’s career services center may help with networking, posting available positions, resume writing, and interview skills to help you launch your career.

Students may find support through study groups, tutoring, and test-taking skills practice in industries with professional licensing exams. Some programs offer career support services not only at graduation but throughout your career.

9. Strong Job Market and Career Growth

At one time, vocational education was considered a less prestigious alternative for high school students not attending college. In recent decades, however, the prestige and strengths of vocational programs have grown, proven through strong rates of employment and higher wages.

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Get started today . Fill out the form to speak with an Admissions Representative about enrolling at ICOHS College.

Today, prospective students can look to vocational education programs to gain practical experience and acquire the skills needed for jobs across in-demand fields.

10. Growth Industries

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , many of the fastest-growing occupations are in fields served by vocational education.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also helped demonstrate a need for skilled workers in fundamental infrastructure and service positions, including healthcare, electrical, construction, and automotive repair. Demand continues to rise as employers struggle to fill positions across the technical, healthcare, and manufacturing industries.

Well-trained, experienced employees in such industries are critical for the country’s economic growth. Vocational programs are the best way to introduce them to the workforce.

11. Strong Employment Qualifications / Attractive to Employers

Part of the reason trade schools are becoming so popular is because more employers are looking on them favorably. Because of the practical, hands-on training you get at a vocational training school, employers know you’re more prepared to do the job than many candidates with four-year degrees.

As a result, your chance of getting a relevant job with your certification after trade school is very strong and you’re likely to see the financial benefits sooner. Vocational schools also focus more directly on preparing you for your industry’s certifications like CompTIA or Cisco certifications which are often required by employers.

Thus, employers can be confident in their new employees’ technical and soft skills when hiring vocational graduates, simplifying the onboarding and training process. Often, graduates will have already obtained professional licenses and certificates.

12. Easier Path to Successful Careers

One of the most common myths is that traditional universities allow you to achieve more profitable careers than trade schools. The fact is that both types of education open the door to a wide range of successful career options. The income level depends on your career path rather than your degree.

Take IT for example. The median salary for the IT field is  over $88,000 per year . That’s the case whether you have a four-year degree or a vocational school certification, so a vocational school is a more efficient way to get onto the same successful career path.

13. Faster Start to Your Career

The four-year period of traditional colleges is a significant amount of time. It’s a long time to either be out of the workforce by attending college full-time or to balance part-time college with a full-time job.

Vocational training schools, on the other hand, have more focused programs. The program length depends on the certification or degree you choose, but most trade school programs take less than two years to complete.

Depending on the program requirements and flexible scheduling options, some training programs can be completed in as few as six to nine months.

Students who fully complete their program and any required certifications reap the greatest benefits in employability and wages, both short and long term.

14. Funding Options

Vocational school is more affordable than earning a traditional four-year college degree. Tuition for vocational education programs is often less than that of universities, and since the time commitment is shorter, this can result in significant cost savings.

Vocational schools work with their students to offer financial aid and guidance. Available funding options include federal grants and loans, private grants and scholarships, low-interest cash payment plans, and paid internship opportunities.

As one of only a few approved MyCAA schools , ICOHS proudly provides military spouses with hands-on learning for exciting careers across the information technology and wellness fields.

Through government partnerships, various financial assistance programs are available specifically for U.S. military service members, spouses, and veterans. There are also special programs to support vocational training for individuals with disabilities.

15. Variety of Options

Trade schools, or career colleges, offer a wide variety of shorter programs for students looking for professional training in a certain field. For example, here at ICOHS College, we offer programs in Massage Therapy and Information Technology. Our students get training that is meaningful and practical. Trade schools are a great option if you don’t have the time or funds to attend a 4-year university.

16. More Start Date Options

Career colleges tend to have multiple start dates for their programs. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about missing an application deadline or having to wait an entire semester to enroll. ICOHS College has a new session beginning on March 16th.

Since trade schools don’t operate on the same semester schedule as traditional universities, it gives our students more freedom to start their journey towards success when they want to.

17. Easier Admission Requirements

Traditional universities can have very high standards for applicants due to the sheer amount of people that apply to them. They take your GPA and other extracurricular activities into account.

They also focus more on teens that are fresh out of high school or transfer students going to community college. Trade school requirements tend to be more relaxed, especially in certain fields.

18. Networking Opportunities

Instructors at trade schools tend to be working professionals in the industry you’re training for. Paired with the small class size, this makes it easier to build a network with those already in your desired field of work. Networking and making contacts can help you progress or move in your career after graduation.

Is Vocational Education Right for You?

If you need specialized training for your chosen career path, vocational education is an option worth exploring. Flexible scheduling and funding options make vocational school more affordable and manageable than ever.

Quality vocational programs assure accreditation and the long-term support needed for industry licensing and job placement. Experienced instructors will guide you in hands-on practice and on-the-job skills training. Upon graduation, you will be ready to enter the job market as an attractive, competent, and experienced employee with marketable skills in a growth industry.

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By submitting this form, you are giving your express written consent for ICOHS College to contact you regarding our programs and services using email, telephone or text – including our use of automated technology for calls and periodic texts to any wireless number you provide. Message and data rates may apply. This consent is not required to purchase goods/services and you may always call us directly at 858-581-9460 .

What is Vocational Education & What Its Benefits?

Vocational Education

Vocational Education , often referred to as career and technical education (CTE), is a form of education. That focuses on providing individuals with the practical skills, knowledge, and training necessary to prepare them for specific careers or trades.

It is designed to equip students with the skills and competencies needed to enter the workforce directly in a particular field or industry. Vocational ed programs are typically more hands-on and skill-oriented compared to traditional academic programs.

Here are some key aspects and benefits of vocational education:

• Practical Skills: Vocational education programs emphasize hands-on learning. Allowing students to develop practical skills and knowledge relevant to their chosen field. This can include trades such as plumbing, electrical work, automotive repair, culinary arts, nursing, and many others.
• Shorter Duration: Vocational programs are often shorter in duration compared to traditional four-year degree programs. This means students can enter the workforce more quickly and start earning a living sooner.
• Career Readiness: Vocational ed is specifically designed to make students job-ready. Graduates are equipped with the skills and qualifications needed to enter their chosen career field immediately. Reducing the gap between education and employment.
• High Demand: Many vocational fields are in high demand, which can lead to better job prospects and potentially higher wages. Industries like healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades often have a shortage of qualified workers.
• Cost-Effective: Vocational education programs are generally more cost-effective than traditional college or university degrees. They often have lower tuition fees and shorter durations, which can result in lower student debt.

More Benefits…

• Diverse Career Options: Vocational education offers a wide range of career options. Students can choose from various programs in different areas. Such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, and more. Allowing them to find a path that aligns with their interests and strengths.
• Flexibility: Vocational programs often offer flexible scheduling options. Including evening and weekend classes, making it easier for individuals to pursue education. While working or managing other responsibilities.
• Adaptability: Vocational education programs can adapt to changing industry demands more quickly. Than traditional academic programs, ensuring that students learn the most up-to-date skills and knowledge.
• Personal Fulfillment: For many individuals, vocational ed can provide a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction, as they develop expertise in a field they are passionate about and contribute to their communities through their work.
• Lifelong Learning: Vocational education is not limited to entry-level positions. Many vocational programs offer opportunities for advancement and specialization, allowing individuals to continue learning and growing in their careers.

Final Words

Overall, vocational education plays a crucial role in addressing workforce needs. Providing individuals with the skills they need to secure stable employment, and contributing to economic growth and development. It offers a valuable alternative to traditional higher education pathways. And can be an excellent choice for those looking to pursue specific careers or trades.

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