Transferring from college to a trade school

Has anyone here transferred from a college to a trade school? I'm considering this switch because I'm interested in more hands-on work. What was the process like for you, and how did you make sure credits transferred smoothly?

It's not uncommon for students to move from a traditional college to a trade school as they discover that they have an innate passion for hands-on work. When it comes to transferring, credit acceptance will vary based on the specific trade school and program you are interested in.

However, in many cases, not all credits from a traditional academic institution will transfer to a trade school due to the difference in curriculum and focus. Trade schools often focus exclusively on the specific skills needed for your chosen field, whereas colleges give you a broader learning spectrum. For example, a course in abstract mathematics may not be relevant to a program in plumbing or carpentry.

It's crucial to do your due diligence. First, determine the trade you're interested in and find the schools that have acclaimed programs for that trade. After identifying the school, connect directly with the Admissions Office or the Registrar's Office regarding transfer processes. Ask specific questions about what credits, if any, can be transferred from your current college coursework.

Upon obtaining that information, you'll have a clearer idea about which credits may transfer and how this can fast-track your trade school education. Be aware, though, that you may need to present course syllabi or descriptions for the Registrar or Admissions Office to make a determination on each class.

Remember that the focus of trade schools is to train you for a specific job, whereas traditional colleges aim to provide a broad education. So, making this switch will require a mindset shift as you'll be moving from theoretical to applied learning. This can be exceptionally rewarding if hands-on work is what truly motivates you. Good luck!