Are Vocational Degrees Worth It? (In-Depth Guide)
What Are Vocational Degrees?
Vocational degrees, also known as career and technical education degrees, provide training and education specifically designed to prepare students for work in a particular trade, occupation or vocation.
Some examples of vocational degrees include:
- Associate’s degrees, certificates and diplomas in fields like healthcare, business, technology, automotive trades, construction trades, hospitality, and more.
- Apprenticeship programs where students learn skills directly from experienced trade professionals.
The focus is on teaching students the exact hands-on skills and industry knowledge required for a specific job role.
Coursework has a practical, career-oriented emphasis rather than a theoretical focus.
Programs typically take 1-2 years to complete for certificates and diplomas, and 2 years for an associate’s degree.
Key Benefits of Earning a Vocational Degree
There are several compelling advantages to pursuing a vocational degree, including:
Develop In-Demand Job Skills
Vocational programs are tailored to teach you the precise abilities employers need. This makes vocational graduates highly employable.
For example, vocational nursing programs equip students with medical skills required to pass state licensing exams and meet healthcare industry standards.
Shorter Completion Times
Unlike 4-year bachelor’s degrees, vocational credentials can be earned quickly—allowing you to enter the workforce sooner.
The accelerated timelines also minimize education expenses.
Hands-On Training
Vocational curriculums blend classroom instruction with intensive practical training.
Automotive technology students spend time fixing engines. IT students configure computer networks. This experiential approach cements job abilities.
Strong ROI
The combination of focused career preparation, speedy timelines, less tuition debt, and high employability translates into excellent returns on investment for many vocational programs.
Higher Earning Potential
While vocational careers may offer lower maximum pay than some white-collar roles over decades, they provide strong initial and mid-career salaries with less education debt—creating the potential for higher lifetime earnings.
Key Downsides of Vocational Degrees
Vocational degrees also come with some potential limitations to consider:
Less Flexibility
The specialized skillsets make it harder to change careers. General education degrees provide more flexibility.
Potential Health/Safety Issues
Hands-on vocational fields like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare can involve physical demands and injury risks.
Possible Advancement Barriers
Some vocational roles offer limited advancement possibilities without additional education. For example, executive nursing roles usually require a BSN or higher.
Vulnerable to Economic Changes
Fields like construction and automotive technology see stronger demand shifts during recessions compared to healthcare or education.
Lower Pay Ceilings
While vocational graduates can earn excellent wages, the highest lifetime earnings potentials exist in some bachelor’s-level roles such as engineering, finance, etc.
Key Factors To Consider
Assessing whether a vocational degree makes sense requires weighing multiple key factors:
Career Goals
What industry and job role do you want? Some vocations like dental hygienist require defined education. For other roles, vocational vs. academic paths both work. Clarifying goals is essential.
Interests & Passions
Do you enjoy hands-on learning and working? Do you like fixing, building, or making things? Vocational careers suit those with practical interests.
Academic Strengths
Vocational programs emphasize concrete know-how rather than conceptual knowledge. If you excel at applied learning, vocational education plays to your strengths.
Financial Situation
Can you afford a 4-year degree or take on substantial student debt?
The lower tuition and accelerated timelines of vocational credentials provide affordable options.On the other hand, qualifying for more financial aid makes bachelor’s degrees feasible for some students.
Local Job Market
Research if local employers have high demand for the vocation you’re considering. Confirm what credentials or degrees they require or prefer when hiring.
Personality & Work Style
Vocational jobs often involve strong attention to detail, following strict protocols, and repeating tasks. If you want variety and autonomy, traditional academic paths presenting more options.
Top 10 High ROI Vocational Careers
The vocations below offer excellent returns on investment along with strong job prospects:
1. Registered Nursing
- Median Annual Salary: $75,330
- Typical Education: Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Job Growth Outlook (2019-2029): 7% (Much faster than average)
2. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Median Annual Salary: $75,920
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree or certificate
- Job Growth Outlook: 13% (Much faster than average)
3. Radiation Therapist
- Median Annual Salary: $86,850
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Job Growth Outlook: 9% (Faster than average)
4. Electrical Power-Line Installer
- Median Annual Salary: $74,600
- Typical Education: Technical certificate
- Job Growth Outlook: 4% (As fast as average)
5. Plumber
- Median Annual Salary: $56,450
- Typical Education: Apprenticeship/Technical certificate
- Job Growth Outlook: 5% (As fast as average)
6. Automotive Service Technician
- Median Annual Salary: $43,680
- Typical Education: Postsecondary certificate, industry certification
- Job Growth Outlook: 0% (Little or no change)
7. Computer Network Support Specialist
- Median Annual Salary: $71,150
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Job Growth Outlook: 8% (Much faster than average)
8. Respiratory Therapist
- Median Annual Salary: $61,830
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Job Growth Outlook: 19% (Much faster than average)
9. Web Developer
- Median Annual Salary: $77,200
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Job Growth Outlook: 13% (Much faster than average)
10. Paralegal
- Median Annual Salary: $56,610
- Typical Education: Associate’s degree
- Job Growth Outlook: 12% (Much faster than average)
Key Tips for Choosing & Succeeding in a Vocational Program
If a vocational degree interests you, the guidance below can help you select and excel in an excellent program:
Research Fields Thoroughly
Take time to deeply explore various vocational career options before committing. Understand typical salaries, growth forecasts, day-to-day responsibilities, etc. Talk to people working in roles that intrigue you.
Vet Schools Carefully
Look for vocational colleges and technical schools with strong reputations and proven job placement rates. Review curriculum, classes, instructors’ credentials, and hands-on training facilities. Visit campuses if possible.
Seek Affordable Options
Compare program costs across schools.
Consider completing general education prerequisites at community colleges before transferring into vocational bachelor’s degree programs to save money.
Apply for scholarships and financial aid.
Develop Specialized Skills
Enhance employability by learning ancillary abilities like computer, math, customer service, and communication skills. Consider adding certifications related to your vocation.
Network Early On
Attend industry events and join professional associations as a student. Make connections with working professionals to help ease the job search. Consider internships and externships for experience.
Prepare Thoroughly for Licensing Exams
If your vocational field requires certifications or licensing, begin studying early. Passing these tests is crucial for employability.
Continue Learning Post-Graduation
Lifelong learning is key for vocational careers.
Take continuing education courses and maintain industry awareness to advance and adapt as technologies, regulations, and employer needs evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are vocational degrees respected?
Yes, vocational degrees are absolutely respected for preparing graduates for essential skilled trade, healthcare, and technical roles.
Society depends on these occupations. Vocational programs have rigorous curriculums and standards ensuring graduates gain expertise.
Do you need math/science for a vocational degree?
Requirements differ by program, but vocational degrees emphasize career-specific applied knowledge rather than general academics. Basic math/science may be incorporated where directly relevant vocationally. Programs minimize unnecessary theory.
