My Options

Not sure if you should go to a two-year or a four-year school? Thinking about learning a trade? Explore your choices.

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Your post-secondary (”after high school”) education can take place at colleges, universities, community colleges, trade or vocational schools.

There are many different factors to consider when deciding which school is best for you. It ranges from financial aid and location, to the student body and career specialization programs. For example, some jobs (like teacher, computer network administrator, auto mechanic) may require a certification test while others require a college degree and a master’s degree. But no matter what kind of school you choose, it is important to make sure the school is accredited.

Here’s a quick look at your educational options after high school:

Educational Opportunities After High School

Program/Degree Location Time
Technical, trade or vocational courses Career, technical, vocational, or trade schools; community and junior colleges 1-2 years of study
Associate Degree Community and junior colleges 2 years of study
Bachelor’s Degree Four-year colleges and universities 4 years of study
Master’s Degree Four-year colleges and universities Bachelor’s degree plus 1-2 years of additional study
Doctorate Degree Four-year colleges and universities Bachelor’s degree plus a Master’s degree and 2-3 years of additional study

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This Week's Q&A

Posted 09/03/2009

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Learn From Others

My advice to people that are going to college and trying to decide on a major is first and foremost do what you enjoy doing. And sometimes you’re going to realize that along the way it’s not what you enjoy doing. You know, it’s been glorified on television or through peer groups. And it’s not actually what you want to do. And don’t be afraid to change your major. One extra year, two extra years are going to payoff in the long run when you’re waking up in the morning and saying, you know, I love what I do, I love what I do.

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Jamal,
Louisiana State University

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