University or trade school? When considering which educational route to take, high school students should consider several factors to make an informed decision about their future. Here are some key points to consider:
Career Goals: Assess your career aspirations and determine which path aligns better with your goals. Consider whether a specific profession requires a university degree or can be pursued through vocational training.
Interests and Strengths: Evaluate your interests, strengths, and learning style. University education often provides a broader academic experience, while trade schools offer focused training in specific fields.
Duration of Study: Universities generally require a longer time commitment, typically four years or more for a bachelor’s degree, whereas trade schools offer shorter-term programs that can range from several weeks to a few months. Associate degrees can usually be earned in just 18 months.
Financial Considerations: Analyze the costs associated with each option. University education can be more expensive due to tuition, fees, room and board, parking passes, meal plans, and other related expenses. Because trade schools aim to be more efficient and focused on students acquiring specific skills, they are generally offer more affordable.
Job Market Demand: Research the job market demand for the field you’re interested in. Many skilled trade positions are in high demand by employers, offering quicker entry into the workforce with potentially lucrative opportunities. Trade school graduates can have several years of working experience (and the paychecks that come with it) before a university student walks the aisle at commencement.
Hands-On Experience: Trade schools provide hands-on, practical training directly related to the job, while universities focus more on theoretical knowledge and a broader academic curriculum – the difference between reading about a subject vs. actually doing it.
Learning Environment: Consider your preferences regarding class sizes, teaching methods, and campus life. While universities may have sprawling campuses, sports teams, Greek life, often times classes are held in large lecture halls where reading and taking notes are vital. Trade schools generally offer more face-to-face experience-based learning in smaller classes and labs.
Certifications and Licensing: Some professions require specific certifications or licenses, which might be obtained through trade schools. Universities offer advanced degrees such as bachelor’s, master’s and PHD’s in specific fields of study. Research these requirements for your desired career path.
Long-Term Goals: Reflect on your long-term goals and how each educational path can contribute to your career advancement, job satisfaction, and personal growth.
It’s essential to research and gather information about both educational formats, weigh the pros and cons, and consider your individual circumstances before making a decision. Additionally, speaking with career counselors, professionals in your desired field, or individuals who have pursued similar paths can provide valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.
Consider Penn Commercial Business/Technical School
Located in Washington, PA just 28 miles from Pittsburgh, Penn Commercial has been educating professionals in southwestern Pennsylvania for over 95 years. We offer training in high demand industries, including medical, computer technology, beauty, and the skilled trades. Below is a list of our programs with career outlook data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (1/2024):
Practical Nursing
Job Growth: 5% (faster than average) / 54,400 open positions per year
Phlebotomy
Job Growth: 8% (faster than average) / 19,500 open positions per year
Computer Aided Drafting and Design
Job Growth: -2% (slower than average) / 16,600 open positions per year
Information Technology and Security
Job Growth: varies / 377,500 open positions per year
Commercial Driver’s License
Job Growth: 4% (average) / 241,200 open positions per year
Electrician
Job Growth: 6% (faster than average) / 73,500 open positions per year
Heating, Ventilation, AC and Refrigeration
Job Growth: 6% (faster than average) / 37,700 open positions per year
Welding Technology
Job Growth: 1% (slower than average) / 42,600 open positions per year
Cosmetology
Job Growth: 8% (faster than average) / 89,400 open positions per year
Nail Technology
Job Growth: 9% (much faster than average) / 25,500 open positions per year
Esthetics
Job Growth: 9% (much faster than average) / 12,400 open positions per year