What it is: Trade schools are typically private schools — many are for-profit — that prepare students to enter a particular career directly after completing training.
Also known as: Technical, career or vocational school.
Typical length: One to two years or less.
Credentials: Certificate.
What’s offered: Trade schools are available in fields including welding, auto mechanics and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). In addition, many community colleges have similar, and likely more affordable, programs.
How to compare programs: Take extra care to research trade schools before enrolling. For-profit schools tend to be more expensive, requiring students to take on more debt, and lead to poorer outcomes compared with public or not-for-profit schools. Instead, look for a school accredited for federal financial aid programs. Use the Department of Education’s College Scorecard to compare schools’ typical costs, graduation rates and the median salary of former students.
