What are some of the specializations within this degree program?

There are more vocational career specializations than there are vocational industries. The following, however, are a few examples of popular career tracks. Massage therapists or estheticians (skin care specialists) may work in spas or private salons that provide therapeutic or relaxation services and education for clients on a daily basis. Massage therapist specialize in many different types of massage and help their clients to overcome some type of injury or ailment, or simply to relax. Estheticians perform different procedures such as chemical peels, facials, and even the administration of botox injections. These individuals work full time as well.

Welding is a popular vocational program which prepares students for work in an array of manufacturing industries. As an essential component of construction for all metal-based applications, from cars to school buildings, welding careers can provide stability and a sense of pride. If you choose to pursue this rigorous career, however, be prepared to go above and beyond course requirements in order to be sure you are qualified to work. The welding industry is in a unique situation because employers are struggling to find sufficiently skilled applicants, and vocational graduates report difficulty finding work.

The job outlook is good for individuals who complete automotive mechanic vocational programs. Increasing complexity and lifespan of vehicles calls for more repair services, and employers report a need for qualified or certified candidates. Overall, individuals who graduate successfully from vocational programs become essential contributors to their respective industries. In most or all cases, there are entire industries that rely heavily on infrastructure or services provided by vocational employees in other industries. Individuals who take advantage of vocational programs in order to meet their career goals not only give themselves the opportunity to be employed in the near future, they don't spend as much money on school as people who choose to pursue four year or graduate programs.

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What degree levels are available?

Most vocational programs take anywhere from four weeks to two years to complete. Diplomas are available either as certifications or in the form of associate degrees from community or technical colleges.

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What are the educational and certification requirements?

Before attempting to complete the requirements necessary for a certification or vocational degree, students should develop an understanding of the skills that employers will expect of them. By entering a program with a set of vocational goals in mind, the student is more likely to adequately prepare his or her self for that first interview.

By nature, vocational programs are the only requirement needed for employment in the respective field. This means, however, that students cannot approach vocational coursework as if it were high school work. Competition in most vocational fields is fierce, as automation and increasing productivity stifles growth in employment numbers. A student who only meets the minimum requirements in vocational coursework is not likely to find employment easily.

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What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?

Classes in vocational training programs are highly specialized according to the trade that a student is studying. The associate degree program will allow students to study a very specific group of courses to train them in highly concentrated skills. For example, a vocational training program for medical assistants would include the following coursework:

• Medical documentation courses that instruct students how to create, read and organize medical records. Medical assistants used these skills to ensure that they can provide office support to doctors and nurses.
• Basic first aid and medical skills: Students learn to complete basic medical tasks such as assessing vital signs, height, weight, and completing patient intake during medical appointments
• Word processing: Medical assistants are required to master basic computer skills which will enable them to manage computerized records systems or scheduling programs. Students study skills such as typing, and accessing web-based programs
• Customer service skills: These courses include basic skills such as receiving patients, prioritizing customer needs and responded to patient concerns or complaints. Students also learn how to manage an crisis or emergency situations that may arise in e medical office setting.

Each vocational program will have a different set of course requirements that are specifically designed to teach skills needed for a certain trade. There is no general type of vocational program, and students rarely complete coursework for multiple trades because the studies are very specialized to each skill set.

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If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?

Vocational training programs typically require a good deal of hand-on training in a specific skill. A student who completes and online program will likely have to complete an apprenticeship or internship in his or her area of study. For example, programs such as word processing or court reporting require hands-on practice to prepare a student for the job market. Much of these many be completed through online study, but vocational work also requires practice of the vocational skills.

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What are some other degrees that are related to this program?

Nursing: Associate degree programs in nursing provide highly specialized degrees for entry-level nurses. Students learn general nursing skills and typically complete a bachelor's degree in order to work in more advanced or specialized nursing positions

Child Day Care: Students study basic theories of child development. This degree includes coursework in the management of day care settings as well as laws pertaining to the proper care of young children.

Telecommunications: Students learn how to manage, operate, and repair telecommunications systems such as telephones, computers, and other wireless technologies. Graduates work in telecommunications sales, service, and repair.

Culinary Arts: Culinary programs prepare students for work in restaurants and service settings such as hotels and catering companies. Graduates may work as line cooks, prep cooks, or as assistant chefs. Most programs require intensive hand-on training in a wide variety of culinary techniques. 

Tourism and Travel: Travel and tourism degrees are focused on client services related to individual and group travel. Students learn to schedule vacation and travel itineraries including air travel, rental cars, hotels, and leisure activities. These degrees focus in business travel and vacation planning.

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