Vocational schools provide students with career-oriented instruction in an array of fields such as art, culinary studies, auto repair, film, allied health, and information technology. These programs are offered in traditional classroom environments as well as online.
There are more than 300 unaccredited schools operating in the United States, so prospective students need to do some research to ensure their choice is accredited by a reputable agency approved by either the US Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Accrediting agencies maintain certain criteria to which schools must conform, offering students and employers reassurance about the quality of degree programs. Most colleges will not accept transfer credits from an unaccredited institution, so attending one that is accredited also offers students the option to transfer if necessary.
Other factors to consider when choosing a vocational school include:
- Student completion rate - How many students complete the entire program?
- Placement record - What are the school's statistics on placing graduates in their career field?
- Facilities - How up-to-date are the classrooms, labs, libraries, etc.?
- Tuition and fees - What is the basic tuition and how comprehensive are financial aid packages? What are the hidden fees? What is the policy on refunds?
- Services - Does the school offer counseling services? Does the career services office work with students seeking internships as well as jobs after graduation?
