What Is Vocational Training? (With Examples)

Vocational training is a crucial component of career preparation that emphasizes technical, hands-on skills for specific professions. Whether you aim to jumpstart a career without a traditional undergraduate degree or seek to acquire practical skills for immediate employment, vocational training remains an excellent choice in today’s evolving job market.

In this article, we will explore what vocational training entails, how to access it, and the benefits it offers in 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Vocational schools provide specialized courses and programs that focus on practical, career-oriented training.

• While often associated with blue-collar jobs, vocational training is increasingly relevant in sectors like IT, healthcare, and the service industry.

• Vocational education can be pursued at the high school level, through tech prep programs, and in post-secondary institutions.

• Generally, vocational training is more affordable than a university education, though median salaries for university graduates may be higher.

• Vocational training can yield stable career growth with minimal student debt, making it an attractive option for many individuals.

What Is Vocational Training?

Vocational training encompasses programs designed to equip students with the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in specific careers, often referred to as trade schools.

This type of training can lead to numerous well-paying, satisfying jobs. Below are examples of vocational courses and the careers they may lead to:

• Dental Hygienist

• Construction Manager

• Electrician

• Computer Technician

• Aircraft Mechanic

• Information Technology Specialist

• Marine Mechanic

• Mason

• Carpenter

• Licensed Practical Nurse

• Graphic Designer

• Administrative Assistant

• Welder

• Plumber

• Automotive Technician

• HVAC Technician

• Civil Engineering Technician

• Cosmetologist

• CNC Machinist

• Machinist

• Collision Repair Technician

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Drafter

• Pharmacy Technician

• Radiologic Technologist

• Medical Coder

• Electric Utility Lineworker

• Cook

The primary goal of vocational schools is to equip students with the practical skills and certifications required to enter the workforce promptly.

This practical experience can give candidates a competitive advantage in job searches, as they are often more appealing to employers than candidates with only theoretical knowledge.

How Can I Receive Vocational Training?

There are various avenues for receiving vocational training, including high school CTE programs, Tech Prep initiatives, and a range of post-secondary vocational training options.

• High School CTE Programs. Many high schools offer Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses that merge traditional academic study with practical work experience.

  These introductory courses familiarize students with a specific industry rather than providing in-depth career-specific training.

• Tech Prep Programs. Tech Prep bridges the gap between secondary and post-secondary education, integrating classroom learning with hands-on experience to cultivate valuable workplace skills and provide direction for a career path.

  This transition typically begins in a student’s junior year and may continue for one to two years post-graduation, with some programs allowing completion during high school. Graduates often receive an associate degree or a professional certificate.

• Post-Secondary Education. These options cater to high school graduates who are ready to explore a specific career or enhance skills acquired in high school technical programs.

  Examples of vocational education options include:

  1. Community College Programs. Most community colleges offer a variety of vocational programs, often in a cooperative training format where students attend classes while working in their chosen field.

  2. Standalone Courses. Both community colleges and trade schools may provide individual courses focused on specific career-related skills. While these do not typically result in a full degree or certification, they impart valuable skills and transferable credits.

  3. Diploma/Certificate Vocational Education Programs. These programs offer diplomas after completing a series of courses, ranging from six months to two years, without the general prerequisite courses common in traditional undergraduate programs.

     Examples include:

     • Certificate in Automotive Service Technology

     • Diploma in Information Technology

     • Certificate in Electrical Consumption

     Postsecondary vocational schools, or trade schools, often focus on specific industries or careers, offering programs in areas ranging from culinary arts to criminal justice.

  4. Associate-Level Programs. These programs, which include traditional associate degrees, often provide hands-on training and are considered vocational education, such as an Associate’s Degree in Nursing or becoming a physical therapist assistant.

     While these typically take two years to complete, they also require general education courses.

  5. Apprenticeships. Depending on your chosen trade, you may find apprenticeship programs. While academic courses are included, the emphasis is on practical work under the supervision of experienced professionals. This pathway not only provides necessary skills and certifications but also pays you throughout the training period, typically lasting four to five years.

The Differences Between Vocational Education and University Education

Deciding between vocational education and university is a significant choice in one’s career journey, necessitating a clear understanding of the differences.

While we won’t cover every aspect of the ongoing analysis and debate surrounding this topic, we can provide baseline comparisons to assist your research.

Let’s examine how vocational education and university education stack up in key areas:

• Salary. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, trade school graduates earned a median annual salary of $35,720 in 2019, while the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported median earnings of $46,900 for bachelor’s degree holders. However, some studies indicate that graduates from both paths can earn comparable median salaries, influenced by several factors:

  1. Variance. These figures only represent medians; some trade jobs out-earn many college graduate positions, while others earn less. It’s essential to research average salaries in your chosen field for a clearer understanding.

     Medical professions generally require traditional college degrees and rank among the highest-paying jobs, while many lucrative IT positions are accessible through vocational training. For instance, computer and information systems managers often command high salaries.

  2. Job Growth. College graduates typically see higher income growth rates over their careers due to greater job growth in their fields. For example, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science holder might expect salary increases of up to 20% with each job change.

     However, exceptions exist. In states like Nevada, electrical assemblers are among the fastest-growing jobs, while many trades, including industrial mechanics and drillers, are also experiencing high demand.

     Additionally, vocational careers related to clean energy, such as wind turbine technicians and solar panel installers, are projected for significant growth in the coming years.

  3. Time Spent. Vocational students typically start earning money much sooner than college students, as bachelor’s degrees usually require at least four years of study. Many vocational programs enable graduates to secure well-paying jobs in as little as six months.

• Price of Education. The average cost of a bachelor’s degree has reached nearly $130,000, whereas the typical trade school tuition is around $33,000. This nearly $100,000 difference can be exacerbated by student loan interest rates, making college debt unmanageable for some.

  Moreover, vocational education often offers more affordable pathways, such as apprenticeships, where students may graduate debt-free. Many unions provide scholarships or cover tuition costs, requiring only minimal expenses like textbooks.

  Veterans may also benefit from the GI Bill, covering tuition at approved trade schools. Some states offer free vocational training programs to high school students, enabling them to graduate with certifications and skills for immediate employment.

• Job Security. This aspect largely depends on the chosen career. Vocational roles often face less outsourcing risk due to their physical nature. For instance, while a computer programmer’s job might be outsourced, welders and field technicians are typically hired locally.

  However, advancements in technology threaten some trade occupations, as automation may replace certain jobs in the future. Despite this, many vocational fields are unionized, providing job security benefits, including collective bargaining, disability resources, and legal support in workplace disputes.

How to Decide If Vocational Training Is Right for You

As we’ve discussed, there is no definitive answer when choosing between vocational training and traditional university education.

When it comes to salary, education costs, and job security, the answer often lies in personal circumstances.

Let’s delve into the factors that influence this decision:

• Career Interests. Identifying what jobs excite you can significantly inform whether a college education or vocational training aligns better with your aspirations. Utilize resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for detailed salary and job growth data in your desired field. Zippia offers excellent tools for analyzing job prospects, including required education and salary information.

• Speed to Employment. One notable advantage of vocational training is the ability to start working within a year or two. If immediate employment is a priority, vocational education may be the best fit. Conversely, if you prefer a more prolonged academic experience, a university may suit your needs better.

• Social Aspects of College Life. For some, the social experiences of university life are just as important as education. College offers opportunities for friendships, memories, and extracurricular activities that some vocational students might miss. However, vocational programs often have their own social and extracurricular offerings to consider.

• Financial Goals. Pursuing a career with minimal debt might lead you to vocational training, provided it aligns with your interests. Conversely, if your goal is to earn a high salary in a specialized field, like a surgeon, the financial investment in college may be justifiable.

• Learning Style. Some thrive in traditional classroom settings, while others excel through hands-on learning. Universities may lean towards theoretical education, while vocational programs prioritize practical skills. If you prefer experiential learning, vocational education may be an ideal choice.

Vocational Training FAQ

1. What is a trade school?

   A trade school refers to an institution that offers vocational or technical education. The objective is to prepare students with a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application.

2. What is the difference between technical and vocational schools?

   Technical schools offer a more generalized education, while vocational schools focus on specific career skills. Technical schools often emphasize traditional educational elements, leaning more towards theory than practice. In contrast, vocational schools are tailored to job-specific skills, although some institutions combine both approaches.

3. What vocational fields are growing the fastest?

   By percentage, careers such as wind turbine technicians and solar panel installers are among the fastest-growing opportunities prepared for by trade schools. However, these fields currently have low job numbers. Other rapidly growing jobs include physical therapist aides, medical assistants, industrial machinery mechanics, and psychiatric technicians.

4. What is a vocational training program?

   A vocational training program is designed to prepare individuals for skilled jobs. It typically includes hands-on and on-the-job training, equipping students for apprenticeships or full-time employment.

Final Thoughts

Vocational training provides work-based learning opportunities that prepare students for success in skilled trades. Fields ranging from carpentry to cosmetology fall under the umbrella of vocational education.

By enrolling in a trade school, you can earn advanced certifications or associate degrees more quickly than through traditional four-year programs. Many vocational paths, especially through apprenticeships, allow you to graduate without debt while gaining valuable qualifications.

Choosing the right educational path to achieve your career goals is a significant decision. Consulting with a career counselor can help clarify your options in today’s dynamic labor market.

References

1. National Center for Education Statistics – Vocational Education in the United States

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.