If I decide to go for a vocational degree after high school, what jobs would this qualify me for? Just trying to figure out if it's a legit alternative to a bachelor's degree.
A vocational degree can definitely be a legitimate alternative to a four-year bachelor's degree, depending on your interests and career goals. Vocational or trade schools primarily focus on providing students with hands-on instruction, and they aim to prepare them directly for specific careers. Here are some career paths that a vocational degree might equip you for:
1. Medical and Health Occupations: Careers in this category can include dental hygienists, paramedics, physical therapy assistants, or licensed practical nurses (LPN). The healthcare sector often has a robust demand for these positions.
2. Skilled Trades: This can encompass a wide range of careers from electricians and plumbers to HVAC technicians and auto mechanics. These are jobs that need specific skills and are often high in demand.
3. IT and Computer Technology: Vocational degrees in computer network support or web development can lead to careers in IT support or development. As an IT support specialist, you could work in a wide variety of industries.
4. Culinary Arts: You could work as a chef, baker or caterer.
5. Cosmetology: You could work as a hair stylist, barber, or esthetician. This is a field where hands-on training is critically important.
6. Paralegal and Legal Occupations: You could work as a paralegal or a court reporter.
7. Early Childhood Education: You could work in daycare or as a preschool teacher.
Please note, some of these career paths might require you to take licensing exams after you've completed your vocation degree. It's also important to remember different professions hold varying earning potentials and job outlooks, so I would encourage you to do more research into the specific field that interests you. I hope this helps you get started!
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