What are Vocational Schools? - FTC Florida Technical College

What are Vocational Schools?

Every year millions of American students are enrolled in vocational schools. And as we’ll see below, this can have a big affect on their careers. But “vocational school” is kind of a vague term. So before we discuss why a vocational school like Florida Technical College may be best for you, let’s be clear on what it is exactly that we are talking about.

A vocational school, also known as a technical or trade school, is basically an institution of higher education that helps its students learn the skills for a particular job. While a college might take a more holistic approach to education, a vocational school trains you for a specific occupation — which is why back in the day they used to call them “trade schools.”

Every year, more and more people turn to vocational schools like Florida Technical College to help them get the focused education that can make a big difference in their lives and careers. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports there are more than 7000 schools in the U.S that have awarded literally millions of certificates and degrees!

So why are vocational schools so popular? For one reason, students can choose from a wide range of certificates and degrees. At Florida Technical College, just a few of the possibilities include:

  • Hairstyling
  • Baking
  • Cosmetology
  • Web Design
  • Medical Billing and Coding
  • Business Management
  • Medical Assisting
  • Criminal Justice
  • Information Technology

Another reason that vocational schools are a popular choice is that they help people get jobs! According to the CTE, 80-90% of vocational school graduates are employed, with up to 75% working in their field of study.

There are a lot of things to consider if you’re deciding between an Associate’s degree, a Bachelor’s degree or a vocational school. We’ll get into more detail in a later post.

But for now, here are a few things to consider:

  • Time. Can you attend full-time? Part-time? Do the class schedules offer any flexibility? Because you’ll need to consider how long it’ll take to get your degree; especially if you already have a job and/or family obligations.
  • Money. Does the school offer financial aid? And (this is important) is there a financial aid office that can help you with the paperwork?
  • Job prospects. Do you want to work as soon as possible? And do you already know exactly what you want to do?

The Benefits of Attending a Vocational School?

There are many benefits to attending a vocational school. From a complete curriculum to hands-on learning and everything in between. Once you obtain your degree or diploma from a vocational school, you are ready to hit the ground running.

Complete Curriculum

Vocational schools shape their culinary arts course requirements and content to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the kitchen. Upon completion of the program, you’ll have the knowledge and abilities needed to work as a culinary arts expert. The curriculum will prepare you for increasing responsibility as you grow your knowledge base through real services with hungry patrons.

Hands-on Learning

Whether you want to become a chef or a short order cook, during a culinary arts program, you will get plenty of hands-on experience working in a real kitchen. You will start by creating dishes for your classmates and move on to real dinner services. You will also enjoy an externship in real kitchens in the community to further cement your knowledge and skills in culinary arts. This externship will not only provide you with experience but it will help build your resume and focus your efforts on a job in the kitchen that you are passionate about.

Experienced Instructors

Educators at vocational schools are industry veterans with immense real-world experience. Your teachers are passionate about culinary arts and possess valuable insight into the nature of the career. They are adept at blending the theoretical knowledge and practical skills you’ll need to maximize your performance and excel in the kitchen.

Career Services

Vocational schools value job placement above any other metric. They offer many career services to help you find openings, submit the optimal resume, and shine during the interview process. Schools have wide alumni networks that provide access to the culinary arts industry, keeping you aware of emerging trends and available positions.

At Florida Technical College, we recognize that our students are all busy individuals with family, work and a wide variety of other responsibilities. That is why we offer day and evening classes. You can choose the schedule that best fits your lifestyle. Professional career training is necessary in order to get ahead in today’s job market, but you don’t have to put your life on hold to get it.

If you think these things are important, then a vocational school like Florida Technical College may be best for you! Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you reach your goals with a vocational school.

 

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