Trades, Careers, Vocations

Professionals in the vocational education field must possess dexterity since much of their tasks involve using hand tools or repairing small devices. Technical and mechanical skills are also imperative since professionals are often using sophisticated diagnostic equipment or medical systems. Being able to manage one’s time is important since professionals often have a set amount of daily maintenance calls they must deal with.  
Vocational education courses are offered primarily by vocational schools, community colleges, and trade schools. The programs are commonly known as Vocational Education Training (VET) or Career and Technical Education (CTE).
Vocational Education Degree Levels Available

Industry Skills Certification

There are various organizations which offer certification in different fields. For example, the ETA (Electronics Technicians Association International) provides various certification programs in a number of electronics’ specialties for different levels of capability. To obtain certification in a specialized field, students must meet the prerequisites and then successfully pass a comprehensive examination. These certifications greatly benefit students as some employers actively seek out certified professionals in the field.

Associate’s Degree in Vocational Education

An associate’s degree in vocational education prepares students for entry-level as well as advanced positions in the vocational education field or for further advancement to a bachelor’s degree in vocational education. This two-year program offers practical and technical education in the student’s area of specialization. The associate’s degree also presents an opportunity for employees to advance their skills.

Bachelor’s Degree in Vocational Education (B.V.Ed.)

A bachelor’s degree in vocational education prepares students to become vocational educators in public schools, community colleges, or for private companies. This four-year program includes courses such as advanced instructional design, program evaluation and leadership, characteristics and management of education for adult students, and teaching diverse learners. There are a number of specific bachelor’s degrees in vocational education, each differing in the student’s area of focus such as agriculture, health occupations, computers, or business.

Admission Requirements

Although various colleges and vocational schools may vary slightly, students can expect fairly standard admission requirements when applying to obtain certification, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree in vocational education. Successful completion of high school or an academic equivalent (such as a GED) is generally the only requirement. The student must then fill out an application form from the college or vocational school and submit it along with an application fee, which of course varies depending on the institution. Volunteer and/or work experience relevant to the student’s desired major is always beneficial to the student.

Tuition and Accreditation

Testing fees to receive certification in different disciplines within the vocational education field may vary from $50 to $250 per exam. An associate’s degree in vocational education’s tuition fees may vary between $10 000 and $25 000. A bachelor’s degree in vocational education’s tuition fees may vary between $20 000 to $65 000.

Colleges and vocational schools which offer certification, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree in vocational education must be aligned with ACCST (the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology) standards. Most employers only hire students who graduated from an ACCST-accredited institution.

Annual Salary for Different Occupations in Vocational Education

A vocational education graduate’s salary is based on various factors which include (but are not limited to) their level of education, level of experience, and their field of specialization. Earnings may vary drastically from person to person. However, here are a few of the median annual earnings for the most common professions in the vocational education field (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics):
. vocational education teacher $52 770
. home health aide $21 830
. electrician $53 030
. construction trades worker $43 860
. carpenter $44 520
. painter $38 590

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