How do you know if college is a trade school?

I'm exploring options and heard about trade schools. How can I tell if a college I'm considering is a trade school? Is there a list of trade schools, or do I need to look for specific programs?

Differentiating between a traditional college and a trade school can be a bit tricky if you're not sure what to look for. Here's a basic rule of thumb you can use: a trade school, also known as a vocational school or technical school, focuses on teaching students specific skills necessary for particular jobs, such as welding, plumbing, cosmetology, or culinary arts. Students typically graduate with a certificate or diploma.

On the other hand, a traditional college or university offers a broader and more generalized education. These institutions typically offer degree programs such as Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees in a wide array of fields. They cover a broad curriculum in addition to major-specific classes.

So, if you're trying to identify if a school is a trade school, look at the programs it offers. If it primarily offers vocational programs with specific job training, it's likely a trade school. If it offers degrees in a variety of subjects across the arts, sciences, humanities, etc., it's more likely a traditional college or university.

There isn't a universal list of trade schools because new ones are continuously being accredited, but an online search for "trade schools" should provide numerous results. Be sure to consider crucial factors like accreditation, reputation, programs offered, and graduates' job placement rates. You might find some traditional colleges also offer vocational degrees, blending the line slightly between traditional and trade schooling.

Remember, there's no 'better' or 'worse' between a trade school and a traditional college - it depends on your personal career goals and educational needs. Both can lead to rewarding and successful careers. Just make sure to do thorough research to find the best fit for your goals!