Concorde Programs: Are They Worth Considering?

I'm looking into specialized programs and came across Concorde. Does anyone have experience with Concorde programs? Are they worth the time and investment in terms of career opportunities after high school?

Sure! Concorde Career Colleges is a system of for-profit colleges that offer short-term training programs in the healthcare field. In their programs, you can study to become behavioral health technicians, dental assistants, vocational nurses, paramedics, and more. It’s important, however, to review your tuition costs, potential job placements, and certification rates before enrolling in any program.

Let's breakdown what Concorde brings to the table:

1. Specialized training: Concorde focuses specifically on healthcare programs, allowing for a very specialized curriculum.

2. Short-term programs: Many of Concorde's programs can be completed in less than two years. This means you can potentially enter the workforce more quickly than if you pursued a 4-year degree, saving on tuition and starting to earn sooner.

3. Career placement: Concorde often advertises high job placement rates, which indicate that its programs are respected by employers in the healthcare industry. However, you should individually research these rates for the specific program you are interested in.

There are also cons to consider:

1. Cost: Concorde, like many for-profit institutions, can be more costly than community colleges or public universities. It’s crucial that you compare the cost of Concorde's programs with those of similar programs at public institutions or even other for-profit schools.

2. For-profit status: There can be a stigma around for-profit schools because some have been found to inflate job placement rates or downplay the cost of attendance. While this is not true of every for-profit school, it’s something to keep in mind.

To sum up, Concorde could be worth considering if you're looking to quickly enter the healthcare field and if the costs line up with your budget. Be sure to do your research about outcomes of the program you're considering at Concorde or any similar programs at other non-profit or public institutions. This way, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the best fit for your career goals and financial situation.