Online Vocational & Trade Schools: 2016-2017

Guide to Online Vocational and Trade Schools

There is increasing demand for qualified workers to fill middle-skill jobs, jobs that require less than a bachelor’s degree for employment. In fact, the Center for Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University projects that by 2020 more than 30 percent of all jobs in the United States will require some form of vocational training, with 5 million requiring a postsecondary vocational certificate. Learn more about online vocational and trade schools, the training and degree options, and the benefits of completing a technical education program.

Find Online Vocational and Trade Schools

Students interested in career and technical education have a variety of academic choices, from trade schools to community colleges. Finding the right school is the first step in preparing for a vocational career field. Prospective students can use the search tool below to find and review online vocational and trade schools to locate a program of study that fits their academic and professional needs.

Expert’s Guide to Online Trade Schools

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, National Education Association

Vocational Training FAQs

What exactly is vocational training?

Vocational training, known as Career and Technical Education (CTE), is a form of instruction that prepares students for work in a specific career field that does not require a bachelor’s degree for employment. CTE programs focus on professional skill development and technical knowledge over academic learning.

Where is vocational training offered?

Career and technical education is traditionally provided by career schools, also known as technical or trade schools, as well as community and junior colleges. The programs of study are career-specific and can typically be completed in two years or less. Below is an overview of where prospective students can take vocational classes or earn vocational credentials.

How do vocational schools compare to traditional universities?

Both traditional universities and vocational schools offer students a variety of educational programs. The major difference is the type of training provided. While traditional universities focus on a broader, theoretical academics, the training at vocational schools is skill-based and designed around a specific vocation or professional field.

Online vs. Campus Vocational Training

Whether in automotive repair, heating and air conditioning, or home health care, students in these programs develop specialized skill sets tailored to those fields of work. In an effort to provide their students greater flexibility and choice of study, many career schools have begun to launch both fully-online and partially-online programs. Although similar in curriculum, online and campus-based programs have significant differences. Below is an overview of the learning experience at online vocational and trade schools.

What tools and technologies can online students expect to use?

Although specific tools vary by program, online programs require students to have a computer, steady Internet connection and up-to-date office and web browser software. Below is a list of four other common forms of online learning technologies used in vocational programs.

How are hands-on training and clinical experiences integrated into online programs?

Virtual learning environments at online vocational and trade schools are complemented with practical, in-person education experiences. Although it varies by the program of study, hands-on training typically takes two forms: local practicums/externships and local learning intensives.

Students are traditionally required to receive approval for a local preceptor and site placement for their area of study, allowing them to complete their professional training in their local region. In learning intensives, students attend campus for in-person classes specific to their area of study. These may last from one day to several weeks. For example, students in an online pharmacy technician program may receive training through the school’s partnership with a local pharmacy, while a student in an online veterinary technician program may have to find their own local animal clinic to complete an externship.

Am I a good candidate for online vocational training?

There are numerous factors to consider when thinking about enrolling in a vocational program. Is it the right career field? Does my learning style work with online classes? Below is a list of five items to decide if online vocational training is the right for you.

• You want to enter the workforce more quickly
• You want to spend less on your postsecondary education
• You want specialized training for a specific career field
• You want practical, hands-on instruction
• You want flexibility in class scheduling, pace of instruction, and location

Types of Online Vocational Training Programs

Vocational training programs vary from certificate programs that last a few weeks to multi-year, comprehensive associate degrees. Below is an overview of the major types of training available at the vocational level.

Identifying Quality Online Trade Schools

Making an informed decision about which online vocational and trade school to attend is paramount for future career success. Below is a list of several factors to consider prior to enrolling in a vocational training program.

• Is the school accredited?

  Attending an accredited program is important as many vocational careers are licensed at the state level and require graduation from an accredited school.

• Is the program licensed and approved?

  States regulate technical and career training programs and may require the school to hold a state license to operate legally in the state.

• Is the curriculum career focused?

  Online curriculum should offer career-specific, technical training in a similar fashion to their campus-based counterparts.

• Does the program offer student support?

  Online students should have the same access to career services, financial aid, and academic support as campus-based vocational students.

• Are the faculty experienced and qualified?

  Online instructors should be qualified in their field of study and have professional, industry experience.

Popular Online Vocational Programs

Online learning is well-suited to vocational fields of study because it provides working professionals greater flexibility in their scheduling, seamlessly integrates experiential learning, and allows students the opportunity to study at their own pace. Through specific skill building instruction, vocational programs prepare students for direct entry into a career field. Below is a list of some of the most popular online vocational programs available today.

Vocational Career Comparison: Salaries & Job Growth

As noted earlier, many vocational career fields are experiencing significant career growth and increasing demand. The table below details the salary and projected job gains for six different vocational occupations.

Occupation	National Job Growth (2014-2024)	National Median Annual Salary (May 2014)
Medical Billing and Coding Technician	15%	$35,900
Paralegal	8%	$48,350
Physical Therapy Assistant	41%	$54,410
Pharmacy Technician	9%	$29,810
Ultrasound Technician	24%	$54,330
Veterinary Technician	19%	$31,070

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Vocational & Trade School Online Resources