If you already know the career you want, and it does not need a bachelor’s degree, job training at a trade school is usually faster and cheaper than a four-year college. If you are not sure what you want to do yet, or your goal requires a bachelor’s or graduate degree, college is the better path. Most of the decision comes down to time, cost and how sure you are about the job you want.
Whether you are finishing high school, leaving the military or changing careers, here is how the two options compare.
Job training vs. college at a glance
| Job training (trade school) | Four-year college | |
|---|---|---|
| Time in school | Several months to about two years | Four years or more |
| What you study | Only the skills for one career | General education plus a major |
| How you learn | Hands-on labs, externships, small classes | Mostly lectures, some labs and internships |
| Credential | Certificate or associate degree | Bachelor’s degree |
| Best for | People who know the job they want | People exploring, or careers that require a bachelor’s |
What the earnings data says
Education still pays. In 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, full-time workers age 25 and over had these median weekly earnings:
| Highest education | Median weekly earnings | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | $1,578 | 2.8% |
| Associate degree | $1,135 | 3.0% |
| Some college, no degree | $1,062 | 3.8% |
| High school diploma | $966 | 4.3% |
A bachelor’s degree earns more on average over a career. But a trade program gets you working two or more years sooner, usually with far less debt, and an associate degree or certificate still earns more than a high school diploma alone. In healthcare, jobs like medical assistant and vet tech are projected to grow much faster than average.
When college makes more sense
- Your career requires a bachelor’s or graduate degree, like doctor, lawyer, teacher or registered nurse with a BSN
- You are not sure what you want to do and want time to explore
- You have the time and money for four years, or a scholarship that covers it
When job training makes more sense
- You know the career you want and it does not need a bachelor’s degree
- You want to start earning sooner
- You learn best by doing, not sitting in lectures
- You need to keep working, so evening or online blended classes matter
- You want to limit student loan debt
Common questions
Can I get financial aid for trade school?
Often, yes. Accredited trade schools can offer federal aid to students who qualify, and veterans may be able to use GI Bill benefits. See financial aid and veterans benefits at ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½.
Can I go to college later?
Yes. Many people start with a certificate or associate degree, work in the field and go back to school later. Some credits may transfer, depending on the school.
Is a trade school degree respected by employers?
In healthcare, employers care most that you have the right training and, where required, the right credential. Accreditation matters, so check that the school and program are accredited.
Healthcare job training at ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½
ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½ has trained healthcare workers in the St. Louis area since 1965 and is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Our programs at the Earth City campus:
| Program | Credential | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Assisting | Certificate | 35 weeks day, 51 weeks evening or online blended |
| Dental Assisting | Certificate | 35 weeks day, 51 weeks evening |
| Massage Therapy | Certificate | 35 weeks day, 51 weeks evening |
| Veterinary Technician | AOS degree | 64 weeks |
| Surgical Technology | AAS degree | 85 weeks |
See upcoming start dates or contact admissions to find the right program for you.
