Although a university degree can definitely open many doors, this is not the only path to employment. With just two years of studies you’ll be able to obtain a professional technician degree to work in the area of your choice. It’s typically a cheaper alternative that allows you to get a job relatively quickly.
Do you still think it's too late to resume your studies? Don’t beat yourself up by thinking about what you might have done and focus on what you can do now. This is the ideal time to start studying for a technical degree and find more opportunities!
What is a technical degree?
A technical degree is typically considered more pragmatic rather than academic. The programs are focused on teaching students certain skills, so class time spent on theory is minimal. Because the training characteristics vary considerably from one program to another, certain degrees measure your progress in hours rather than years.
Where can you get a technical degree?
In addition to being much shorter than a university degree, the educational programs of technical schools offer both face-to-face and online learning options. This provides more flexibility to students.
Regardless of which modality you choose, face-to-face or online, we advise you to verify the accreditation of the program you are interested in with the U.S. Department of Education. This will give you the certainty that your studies are officially valid.
What can you study at a technical school?
The training offered by technical schools has a high focus on practice, so the programs can be completed in a period of eight months to two years. Although there is a wide variety of programs, they can be broadly classified into:
- Cosmetology
- Welding
- Plumbing
- Woodworking
- Aeronautics
- Healthcare (practical nursing, radiology, etc…)
- Locksmithing
- Electrical maintenance
- Automotive repairs
- Floral design
- Medical transcripts
- Hospitality
- Restoration
When you graduate from one of these technical degree programs, you’ll be able to work as a hairstylist, a freelance plumber, a mechanic, or a hotel receptionist, to name a few trades.
What are the requirements to study for a technical degree?
Aside from helping you get a job faster, another great advantage of getting a technical degree is the ease of entry. To get into the vast majority of technical schools, it’s only necessary to be at least 16 or 17 years old (depending on the program) and to have a high school diploma or GED. With a more lenient age limit and no specific school history requirements, technical degrees are a great option for adults who want to change careers or resume their work-life.
How much does a technical degree cost?
Unlike college, which can cost as much as $200,000, technical degrees are cheaper by comparison. On average, getting a technical degree can cost as much as $33,000. However, that price may be reduced if you decide to apply for financial aid or a scholarship. Some scholarships you could apply to include:
- Bernard E. Dillon Vocational Skills Scholarship: offers grants of $1,000 per year.
- Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship: grants $2,500 in financial support to three students who have been accepted into a nursing school.
Another option is Community Colleges. These public institutions offer two-year study programs and upon graduation issue a certificate known as an Associate Degree. That's the equivalent of a technical degree. In addition, because they receive public funding from the government, Community Colleges offer the possibility to apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Head to your nearest Community College and ask for more information!
Scholarships and financial aid for Latinos in the U.S.
Certain companies support their employees and their children with scholarships to study technical careers. If you or any of your family members are working, we recommend that you research the opportunities or programs offered by your/their company.
Do you still have questions about technical degrees? Send us your questions and we’ll gladly help!
