If you're weighing your options after high school, there's a good chance you’ve asked: should I go to college, or consider trade school instead? It’s a big decision; while both paths can lead to rewarding careers, they offer very different experiences when it comes to cost, time, and long-term payoff.
So, which one helps you start earning faster? The answer depends on what you want from your education, and how soon you’re looking to enter the workforce.
Trade school offers a faster route into the workforce. Most programs take less than two years to complete, and some, like HVAC, welding, or CDL training, can be finished in a matter of months.
College takes longer. An associate degree requires about two years, while a bachelor’s degree usually takes four. Students who balance school with work may need even more time to graduate.
If your goal is to start earning quickly, trade programs offer a clear advantage. But if you’re aiming for a career that requires a degree, like teaching, engineering, or healthcare administration, college is the better fit.
Trade programs are typically shorter and more affordable, averaging $33,000 in total cost and around $10,000 in student debt. Four-year colleges often cost much more, with many graduates owing $30,000 or more, even after financial aid.
Two-year colleges offer a low-cost alternative, often with flexible options to enter the workforce or transfer to a university later.
Many skilled trades offer strong starting salaries and don’t require a four-year degree – just focused training and certification.
Here are several high-demand careers and their median annual salaries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
These roles require specialized training or certification, often through trade or technical programs, and can lead to stable, well-paying careers with room for growth.
College offers a different kind of value. For students who want more time to explore their interests, join student communities, or build toward a broader set of career options, college can be the right environment. Four-year schools also offer access to alumni networks, internships, and graduate programs, which may be essential for certain career paths.
Two-year colleges offer many of the same career-prep benefits as trade programs, often with the flexibility to transfer to a university later on. This path works well for students who want to keep their options open.
If your student is considering trade school, know that it’s not a “lesser” choice; it’s a different path to success. Encourage them to explore programs, visit campuses, and connect with professionals in the field. Help them compare costs, career outcomes, and learning styles so they feel confident in whichever path they choose.
Some students thrive in classrooms; others are at their best working with their hands or solving real-world problems. Understanding your student’s strengths and interests is key to helping them make a smart, supportive decision.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to trade school vs. college. Each has its own strengths, timelines, and long-term benefits. The best choice is the one that aligns with your goals, your budget, and the kind of work you want to do.
Level All can help you compare options, plan your next steps, and apply to programs that match your goals, whether that’s a trade certification, an associate degree, or a four-year college.
Start exploring your future today and sign up for your Level All account.
