WHAT IS CAREER-TECHNICAL EDUCATION? In today's global economy, a high school diploma is simply not as valuable as it once was. Employers are looking for people with knowledge and training that high school cannot provide. On the other hand, maybe you're one of the millions of Americans for whom the thought of another four years of school, and the tens of thousands of dollars it would cost, is unappealing. You want to get a job which pays well and interests you, but you don't want to spend any more time in a classroom than you have to.
Career-technical school, also known as technical school or vocational school, is a post-high school educational option. Like 4-year or 2-year college, CTE school requires a commitment of time and money. Unlike 4 or 2-year college, however, CTE school is not intended to provide you with broad academic knowledge, but instead with practical, hands-on training in specific jobs or fields.
Most CTE schools are non-competitive, meaning that any student with a high school diploma or G.E.D. can enroll. CTE schools do not grant degrees - instead, students who complete their training are granted certificates that demonstrate their ability in a specific area.
Barbering Cosmetology, Hair, Pet Grooming
Business Accounting, Marketing, Secretarial
Health Nursing, Medical Assistant, Paramedic
Legal Court Reporter, Paralegal
Construction Plumbing, Electrical Work
Entering CTE school requires you to commit to a particular field of study- not all CTE schools offer training in the same fields, but popular areas include
The field you choose will determine the amount of time you spend in CTE school, although it will almost certainly be less than you would spend at a 2 or 4-year college. CTE school is also much less expensive, on average, than 2 or 4-year college, and financial aid is available for qualified candidates.