5 Career Training Myths Busted
by Robyn Tellefsen

Are you considering career training? If so, separate fact from fiction and the opportunities up for grabs may surprise you.

Myth #1:  Career training is for students who couldn't make it in traditional schools.
There was a time when career training programs were viewed as intellectually inferior to traditional education, but times, they are a-changin'. Today's career school students are smart and savvy, and they know exactly what they want from their education experience. In a world where liberal arts students take six years to complete a degree and even then lack career direction, those who pursue career training programs are focused, practical, and driven -- not exactly dimwitted descriptors.

Myth #2: Anyone can get in to career training programs.
Career training may possess broad appeal, but that doesn't mean its doors are open to every student who applies. Most career training programs require a high school diploma or GED for entry. Some institutions even require high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and a passing score on an entrance exam. When you are accepted into a career education program, you know that you've demonstrated aptitude in your field and the school anticipates your success.

Myth #3: Career schools are akin to diploma mills, churning out ill-equipped graduates.
Just like traditional education, career training requires commitment, and those who are not committed will not succeed. Most students at career schools need to devote about two years to earn a diploma or degree. Two years is hardly a fly by night arrangement. You will not make it if you view career training as the route to an easy A.

Myth #4: A resume listing education from career schools is not impressive in the real world.
On the contrary, technical education offers plenty of hands-on, professional experience and internship opportunities, which is exactly what employers are looking for. After all, graduating from a big-name school won't make a difference if you don't know how to do your job. Relevant training and certification, trademarks of technical education, are high priorities for hiring managers. With this training, they'll know you have the tools necessary to make meaningful contributions to the company.

Myth #5: Those who enroll in career training programs are missing out on the traditional education experience.
It's true that students at career schools don't share all the experiences of traditional, four-year students. They don't sit through lecture classes with over 100 students, and they can't wear the cloak of anonymity. Within career training programs, classes are small, which translates into individualized attention and instructors' commitment to your success.