Ohio Trade Schools

Trade schools, sometimes known as vocational or technical schools, provide students with the opportunity to earn a certificate, diploma or degree in two years or less. Students who graduate from trade school enter the workforce with a marketable skill that may allow them to begin earning a paycheck immediately.

Getting a trade school education

Most trade school programs range from six months to two years and culminate in a certificate, diploma or associate degree. Programs generally consist of courses that teach students a skilled trade, as well as the science behind the job. Though most trade schools require hands-on education, some programs, such as that of paralegal or medical coder, might be available in an online-only format.

Contrary to some widely-held beliefs, trade school is not the "alternative" for those who couldn't get into the college of their choice. Trade schools are often the first choice for students who want to move into the workforce quickly, and it is often the best choice for those who have a career goal that doesn't require a four-year degree, such as that of hair stylist or interior designer.

Ohio trade schools

Ohio is home to many industries, including those that produce rubber products, steel, machines and tools, processed foods and other manufactured goods. Industry powerhouses Eaton, Proctor and Gamble and Sherwin-Williams are located in the Buckeye State. As the home of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is also known for producing military aircraft. Health care is a booming business as well, with several major health care employers in the state, including the storied Cleveland Clinic.

Trade schools, sometimes known as vocational or technical schools, provide students with the opportunity to earn a certificate, diploma or degree in two years or less. Students who graduate from trade school enter the workforce with a marketable skill that may allow them to begin earning a paycheck immediately.

Getting a trade school education

Most trade school programs range from six months to two years and culminate in a certificate, diploma or associate degree. Programs generally consist of courses that teach students a skilled trade, as well as the science behind the job. Though most trade schools require hands-on education, some programs, such as that of paralegal or medical coder, might be available in an online-only format.

Contrary to some widely-held beliefs, trade school is not the "alternative" for those who couldn't get into the college of their choice. Trade schools are often the first choice for students who want to move into the workforce quickly, and it is often the best choice for those who have a career goal that doesn't require a four-year degree, such as that of hair stylist or interior designer.

Ohio trade schools

Ohio is home to many industries, including those that produce rubber products, steel, machines and tools, processed foods and other manufactured goods. Industry powerhouses Eaton, Proctor and Gamble and Sherwin-Williams are located in the Buckeye State. As the home of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is also known for producing military aircraft. Health care is a booming business as well, with several major health care employers in the state, including the storied Cleveland Clinic.

Trade schools in Ohio reflect this variety of industry opportunities with several programs geared toward those who want to enter the workforce quickly. Some state-specific trade schools, such as the Buckeye Career Center, the Apollo Career Center and the Easton-Fairfield career and technical schools cater to local students, while national trade schools such as Kaplan Career Institute, Lincoln College of Technology and ITT Technical Institute offer online trade schools and on-campus programs in the state.

Before choosing among the many trade schools in Ohio, students should consider which programs are right for their career goals. Students should look into program completion rates, facilities and resources available, the quality of the faculty, the total cost, available financial aid and whether the school is licensed and accredited.

Job options for trade school graduates

Trade schools in Ohio may prepare students to enter the workforce with a particular skill set and knowledge that could allow them to be productive workers from their first day on the job. Job options for trade school graduates range from medical coder and paralegal to mechanic and truck driver. Here are a few other occupations that make good use of a trade school education:

• Heavy equipment operator
• Commercial truck driver
• HVACR technician
• Construction trades
• Diesel technology expert
• Welder
• Hair stylist
• Massage therapist
• Interior designer
• Medical coder
• Dental hygienist

Trade schools generally teach students the basics of these professions and prepare them for entry-level positions. To enroll in trade school, students must have earned their high school diploma or GED. They might also have to take an entrance exam. Financial aid might be available for those who qualify; to find out more, contact an admissions counselor at Ohio trade schools.

Sources and further reading:

Learn about your college and career school options • http://studentaid.ed.gov/prepare-for-college/choosing-schools/types

Ohio Career Centers and Joint Vocational Schools • http://www.exploreohio.org/node/11452?cat=1774&cty=

Choosing a Vocational School • http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0241-choosing-vocational-school

Ohio Vocational and Technical Schools • http://www.rwm.org/rwm/tf_ohi.html

Trade Schools Ohio-Pennsylvania “List Of Programs Available At New Castle School Of Trades • http://www.ncstrades.edu/trade-schools-ohio-pa-training-programs/