Vocational Schools Portland ME

Not everyone has to attend a traditional college in order to get a “real” job. The type of college you attend will depend on the career field you choose. For example, if your goal is to become a pastry chef, culinary school if the best choice. Aspiring fashion designers may choose art or design school and individuals interested in construction may choose a designated school of construction, career institute, or trade school.

Trade schools, also called vocational schools, are non-traditional schools that teach job-specific skills. Many of these schools do not require successful completion of college level general education courses. However, they do require a high school diploma or GED as well as passing score on an entry exam(s) before acceptance.

There are many benefits to attending trade school rather than a traditional college if your goal is to become, say, an electrician, medical records clerk, or technician. For starters, trade school programs are shorter than traditional degree programs. This means, they cost less and you can start working sooner. Next, because students are not required to take general education courses as part of the program, they can dive right into major courses.

Trade school programs also offer hands-on training throughout the program—not just at the end of it. A significant amount of time is spent in “labs” or on location where students can build, repair, and perform other duties in order to increase their skill levels. And finally, because many trades require certification or licensure, a program at a trade school typically offers test preparation courses to help prepare for local or state exams.

After completing a program at a trade school, you will receive an associate degree, diploma or certificate. In addition to a degree or certificate, a quality program will also send you on your way with a list of job prospects. As an alumnus, you should have unlimited access to the schools career center—for life.

 Trade School Accreditation Notes

When choosing a trade school, always make sure the school is accredited by an agency that’s recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. If you settle for less, you can end up wasting thousands of dollars on a worthless certificate or degree. Most employers will not accept a degree or certificate from a school that’s accredited by an unrecognized agency. The top recognized accrediting agencies for trade schools are:

• •Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and T...