How Long Does it Take to Complete Trade School in the US?

Trade school degrees are typically two-year programs, but most schools offer flexible schedules. Depending on the length of study, trade school diploma programs can last anywhere from three months to a year. Business-related associate degrees at community colleges usually take one to two years to complete. The amount of time it takes to graduate from a technical school depends on several factors, including the length of the program and whether you follow a part-time or full-time schedule.

Traditional trades are symbolized by professionals such as electricians, car mechanics, carpenters and plumbers, but the list of specialized trades is long and even includes high-tech specialists, such as avionics technicians and wind turbine installers.

Trade schools

only teach a very particular curriculum, which is designed solely to teach a person the specific skills that will allow them to enter the workforce, at one level or another. As an alternative or supplement to education at a trade school, research your state's paid internship programs. The researchers found that trade school graduates enjoyed an increase in employment at first, but that their employment declined later in life.

It's worth noting that while a trade school may prepare you well for a specialized trade, it may not be necessary for the career you want. The COVID-19 pandemic has led many technical schools to opt for the online format, so finding an online program could be easier than ever, depending on the profession you want. Trade schools are for anyone who is interested in learning a skill quickly so that they can go out into the world and start earning money with it. Both trade schools and two-year bachelor's degree programs typically cost significantly less than four-year programs.

However, the relatively easy path for trade school graduates may be offset by difficulties in the future. Trade schools with strong ties to industry can facilitate job placement, and this type of education tends to prepare graduates for jobs that are more prepared for the recession and the future. Because there are many different types of operations and because these operations differ greatly in terms of the information that needs to be covered, the duration of the programs also varies greatly. Pursuing a career in welding will most likely require an apprenticeship position or certification even after graduating from a vocational trade school.

Remember that many of the same sources of federal financial aid that help students pay for college, such as Pell Grants, can be applied to education at institutions such as trade schools.