Career Training Programs
Sure, you can apply and go straight to regular university, but did you know there are many other options available that might be more cost effective? Check out these awesome alternatives to traditional college for high school graduates!
Apprenticeship = Get paid to learn and work
Do you want to work with your hands? Forget boring classrooms! Start working right away in high demand fields that need skilled workers. Employers will pay you to learn their valuable trade. Plan to spend 2 to 6 years in an apprenticeship to become a certified journey worker in a very specific hands-on field, usually with the same employer. Apprentices start off earning $12 to $22 per hour and finish earning $20 to $38 per hour! Must be 18 years old with high school diploma or GED.
Virginia Department of Labor - Registered Apprenticeship Program
United States Department of Labor - Apprenticeship Program Directory
United States Department of Labor - Apprenticeship Program Directory
Tech Bootcamp = Few Months INTENSE training, then PAID internship
Do you like software, social media, and staying on top of the ever changing world wide web? Invest 3 months in learning a new programming language or in dominating the online marketing sphere with personalized instruction and coaching, then get a guaranteed paid internship or be prepared for immediate job prospecting using your new skills. These programs are usually designed such that your internship is guaranteed to pay you back for your training investment, or you do not pay for your program until you land a full-time job.
Vocational Training = up to 2-year degree with specific career focus
Do you want a practical college education that prepares you for a very specific job? Complete up to 2 years of vocational training at a trade school or a community college.