Other Post-Secondary Options
Your options after high school exist outside of 2-year and 4-year college education. See examples below.
Need help getting started? Log on to Xello and explore careers, or talk to your counselor
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Trade School
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Vocational Training:
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Plumbing: Training to become a certified plumber, learning installation and repair of water supply and sanitation systems.
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Electrical Work: Education in electrical systems, wiring, and safety protocols to become a licensed electrician.
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Carpentry: Skill development in woodworking, construction, and furniture making.
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Automotive Repair: Training in vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and repair.
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HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Learning to install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems.
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Welding: Instruction in various welding techniques, safety, and metal fabrication.
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Cosmetology: Courses in hair styling, makeup application, and skincare to become a licensed cosmetologist.
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Culinary Arts: Training in cooking, baking, and kitchen management for a career in the food industry.
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Technical Institutes:
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Information Technology (IT): Programs in computer programming, network administration, and cybersecurity.
Healthcare Technology: Training in medical equipment technology, radiology, and lab technology. -
Engineering Technology: Courses in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering technologies.
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Graphic Design: Instruction in digital design, multimedia, and visual communication.
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Drafting and CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Training in creating technical drawings and plans using CAD software.
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Aviation Technology: Education in aircraft maintenance, avionics, and flight operations.
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Biotechnology: Programs in laboratory techniques, bioinformatics, and genetic research.
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Marine Technology: Training in marine engineering, boat building, and underwater welding.​
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Apprenticeships
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Hands-On Experience: Earn while you learn through paid apprenticeships in trades such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
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Industry Certification: Gain industry-recognized credentials and valuable work experience.
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Military Service
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Training and Education: Receive training in various fields and earn educational benefits for future use.
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Career Opportunities: Explore careers in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.
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Workforce
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Immediate Employment: Enter the workforce directly and gain practical experience.
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Career Advancement: Many companies offer training programs and opportunities for advancement.
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Entrepreneurship
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Start a Business: Use your skills and passion to start your own business.
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Freelancing: Offer services in areas like graphic design, writing, programming, and more.
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Gap Year
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Travel: Explore different cultures and gain new perspectives.
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Volunteer: Participate in volunteer programs locally or internationally.
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Skill Development: Take courses, internships, or short-term jobs to develop new skills.
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Certifications and Online Courses
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Professional Certifications: Gain credentials in fields like IT, project management, healthcare, and more.
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Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses in a wide range of subjects.
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Public Service Programs
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AmeriCorps: Engage in community service projects across the United States.
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Peace Corps: Volunteer internationally in education, health, and community development.
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Internships
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Gain Experience: Internships provide hands-on experience and can often lead to full-time employment.
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Networking: Build connections within your chosen industry.​
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