Trade school programs are often compared to getting an associates degree due to the similarities. While trade schools and associate degrees share some commonalities, the two are different programs, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The biggest difference between the two is trade schools provide certificates which indicate you are trained in a specific area, while associate degrees focus on broader categories.
For example, graduating from carpentry school only prepares you for carpentry work, not general construction. In comparison, an associate of arts degree (AA degree) can apply to a wide range of jobs, such as HR manager, painter, chef or social media manager. Listed below are some of the main benefits and drawbacks of both trade schools and associate programs.
Benefits of Trade School Programs
Trade school programs are more convenient than associate classes. An associate degree typically takes two years to complete and is only available during traditional school semesters. While some trade school certificate programs require two years to complete, the majority are completed in three to six months. Because the classes are not as long, they are available at different points throughout the year. Shorter courses typically result in less expensive classes as well.
Online trade schools are also more readily available because of the shorter class lengths. Not only are these trade school classes more readily available during the year, but the classes themselves often have flexible schedules. With in-person associate degree classes, you are mostly limited to day and afternoon classes. While some night courses are available, these classes are limited.
Additionally, if you have a varied schedule, it is harder to commit to only day or night classes. Online trade schools allow you to set your school schedule around the rest of your life, while associate courses often require the opposite.
Another one of the major benefits of trade school programs is smaller, more focused classes. With something like an associate degree in business, your classes are made up of students with a wide range of job options. Some may be interested in running a tech startup, while others want a general marketing or accounting job.
In carpentry school or electrical engineering courses, all students are on the same page with their career choices. This makes it easier to relate to one another, especially with the smaller class size. Smaller classes also means the instructor is able to pay more attention to each student and personalize lesson plans to suit his or her needs. With 2-year degrees, especially in larger colleges or universities, this is simply not an option.
Trade school courses also place a greater emphasis on developing hands-on experience and getting you to work as soon as possible. Many programs help you sign up for apprenticeships or similar programs to continue to advance your certificate. There are also many careers where employers value trade school certificates over degrees because they know trade school graduates have practical experience.
Disadvantages of Trade School Programs
While trade school programs are initially less expensive than an associate degree, trade schools do not offer the same level of financial aid. Depending on where you want to attend classes, you may end up paying roughly the same amount as an associate program. The costs are also upfront instead of spread over multiple semesters, which can be more demanding for some students.
Finding a job after graduating from a trade school course may be easier, but advancement is typically harder. Many graduates need additional certification which is only completed after a lengthy apprenticeship or similar service. While you are working during this period, advancement is limited until you complete all of your training. There are also some employers that only hire employees with a degree. In some cases, employers will substitute the degree requirement with years of experience, but you normally require at least five years of experience in these circumstances.
It is also harder to take your trade school certificate and transition into a different career. To make the most out of trade school classes, you want to already have a good idea of your career path. While jobs are easier to get after graduation, it is not always a guarantee. Some jobs are also seasonal. If you graduate carpentry school in the winter, you may have to wait until spring before employers are looking for new hires.
Benefits of Associate Degrees
Getting an associates degree takes longer than vocational school, but it is still half the time of getting a bachelor’s degree. Graduating with an associate degree opens up more job opportunities, allowing you to bypass some of the lower entry level positions.
Many jobs will offer opportunities for employees with an associate degree to continue going to school, with financial assistance from work. In exchange, you must agree to work with the company for a set period of time after you graduate with a higher degree, but you typically get a promotion or other benefit after graduation.
Because associates degree programs are not as long as a bachelor’s degree, there is less risk of college burnout. Associate degrees also cover a wide range of subjects, which can help you plan your future. Many students start off with a general associate degree in business, then choose a specialty to get a bachelor’s in after their initial classes.
An associates degree also provides greater flexibility when looking for a job. An AA degree covers so many possible fields you can always find something relevant to your skillset, even if it is not your ideal job. This gives you time to save up and pay off your student loans while looking for your dream job.
Online associates degrees are also available for a number of professions. This provides more scheduling flexibility. Some classes still require you to attend lectures and participate in discussions at select times, so you typically do not have as much freedom as an online trade program.
Disadvantages of Associate Degrees
While an associates degree allows you to bypass certain entry level positions, there is still a threshold on how far your degree will take you. If a degree is required for a position, it is typically a bachelors. While you can always return to school to upgrade to a bachelor degree, transferring your credits is often complicated.
In some cases, your credits will not transfer and you are required to retake classes. Most of the highest paying careers will require you to get an advanced degree at some point, especially if you are interested in managerial positions.
Another disadvantage is associate degree holders have a harder time competing in the job field. If another applicant has a bachelors in the same field, he or she has a much greater chance of getting hired. Associate degree programs have many financial aid options, but many grants or scholarships provide fewer resources for a 2-year degree compared to a 4-year program.
