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Other Post-Secondary Options

Your options after high school exist outside of 2-year and 4-year college education. See examples below.

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  • Trade School

    • Vocational Training:

      • Plumbing: Training to become a certified plumber, learning installation and repair of water supply and sanitation systems.

      • Electrical Work: Education in electrical systems, wiring, and safety protocols to become a licensed electrician.

      • Carpentry: Skill development in woodworking, construction, and furniture making.

      • Automotive Repair: Training in vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and repair.

      • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Learning to install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems.

      • Welding: Instruction in various welding techniques, safety, and metal fabrication.

      • Cosmetology: Courses in hair styling, makeup application, and skincare to become a licensed cosmetologist.

      • Culinary Arts: Training in cooking, baking, and kitchen management for a career in the food industry.

    • Technical Institutes:

      • 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.

      • Graphic Design: Instruction in digital design, multimedia, and visual communication.

      • Drafting and CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Training in creating technical drawings and plans using CAD software.

      • Aviation Technology: Education in aircraft maintenance, avionics, and flight operations.

      • Biotechnology: Programs in laboratory techniques, bioinformatics, and genetic research.

      • Marine Technology: Training in marine engineering, boat building, and underwater welding.​

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  • Apprenticeships

    • Hands-On Experience: Earn while you learn through paid apprenticeships in trades such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.

    • Industry Certification: Gain industry-recognized credentials and valuable work experience.

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  • Military Service

    • Training and Education: Receive training in various fields and earn educational benefits for future use.

    • Career Opportunities: Explore careers in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.

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  • Workforce

    • Immediate Employment: Enter the workforce directly and gain practical experience.

    • Career Advancement: Many companies offer training programs and opportunities for advancement.

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  • Entrepreneurship

    • Start a Business: Use your skills and passion to start your own business.

    • Freelancing: Offer services in areas like graphic design, writing, programming, and more.

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  • Gap Year

    • Travel: Explore different cultures and gain new perspectives.

    • Volunteer: Participate in volunteer programs locally or internationally.

    • Skill Development: Take courses, internships, or short-term jobs to develop new skills.

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  • Certifications and Online Courses

    • Professional Certifications: Gain credentials in fields like IT, project management, healthcare, and more.

    • 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

    • AmeriCorps: Engage in community service projects across the United States.

    • Peace Corps: Volunteer internationally in education, health, and community development.

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  • Internships

    • Gain Experience: Internships provide hands-on experience and can often lead to full-time employment.

    • Networking: Build connections within your chosen industry.​

Entrepreneurship
Gap Year
Certifications and Online Courses
Public Service Programs
Internships
Workforce
Military Service
Trade School
Apprenticeships
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