Plan
College is any type of education after high school! College includes apprenticeships, certificates, or degrees from trade schools, community colleges, private colleges or public colleges/universities!
Today most jobs require education or training after high school. When you pick a career path, be sure to research what education or training you need to successfully land a job!
To find out which postsecondary path is right for your career goals, check out our Careers page!
Apprenticeship & Trades
Apprenticeships teach hands‑on skills in trades like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. You learn on the job with a mentor, often take low‑ or no‑cost classes, and earn wages while you train.
Apprenticeships can be competitive, employers look for motivated students with a strong work ethic.
Click Here to find our Skilled Trades Booklet – outlining educational pathways in 9 different trades.
Find out more about Apprenticeships!
Find a Trade School!
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are typically very specific to the field of study and there are generally very few if any general education requirements. This allows you to effectively learn a skill in a relatively short amount of time (usually about one year). Certificate programs can be found at community colleges or trade schools.
MCC has certificate programs ranging from Automotive Technicians to Mechatronics to Welding Technology.
WSCC offers a range of certificate programs such as Early Childhood Education, Law Enforcement, and Software Development
2 & 4 Year Degrees
Associate’s degrees (about 2 years) build on certificates with added general education courses. Offered at community colleges and some universities.
Bachelor’s degrees (about 4 years) expand on the associate’s level with more specialized coursework. You DO NOT NEED as associates to get a Bachelor’s.
A four‑year degree may open more career opportunities. For example, many nursing roles prefer or require a bachelor’s.
Talk with people working in your field of interest and connect with your college’s career services to decide which degree best fits your goals.
Explore the links below to learn how to choose a college, compare schools, or find programs that match your interests.
Military
Joining the military can lead to a successful career! Veterans receive many educational benefits when their service ends. Check out the resources below and get in contact with a recruiter if you are interested in the military!
- 10 things to know before joining the Military
- Which Service is right for you?
- ASVAB Requirements
- March 2 Success
GET IN CONTACT WITH A RECRUITER
What Is "College"?
College is all post-secondary education including certificate programs, trade schools, community colleges and 4 year colleges and universities. Learn More
