4 questions to ask before enrolling in a technical school

By Remington College Posted April 21, 2020

There are many options for continuing your education. But even after you've decided on enrolling in a technical school, you might still feel a little lost. With a variety of programs to pursue and schools across the country and online, the choices might feel overwhelming.

As you start your search, it can be helpful to sit down and consider a few key areas to help you find the school that is the best fit for you. Below are a few questions to ask as you look toward the next step in your career education:

1. Is it accredited?

Accreditation is meant to ensure that institutions of higher education meet certain acceptable levels of quality. Institutions are accredited by private regional or national agencies, and the Department of Education oversees the accreditation system. Attending an accredited school might give you piece of mind that your education is valuable. You can check a school's records with the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

2. Do they have the right program for you?

Choosing a career field can be as daunting as choosing a school to attend. You want to find something that not only uses your skills and can lead to success, but that also sparks your interest. Your first step might be to do some research into fields you like. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers plenty of tools to help you look into careers, from what those employed in that role do to what the job outlook is. Once you have an idea of what career you might like to pursue, choosing a college that not only offers your first-choice career path but also your second can be beneficial. About 28 percent of students enrolled in associate's degree programs changed their majors with three years of initial enrollment. Choosing a technical school with multiple programs you're interested in could help you find the right fit.

3. What options do they have for career services?

Of course, the goal of attending a technical school is not just to get an education'you also want to find employment.¹ This is where career services come in. A career services representative,  might meet with students about their resumes, discuss interview tactics, connect students with potential employers and more.¹ Knowing what resources a school offers before you even enroll can be a key factor in your decision.

4. Are the hours convenient for you?

School might not be the only thing you're focused on in life. You might be juggling a full- or part-time job or expanding your family. Because of this, it's important to ask about when classes are offered and how much time they take. If a school doesn't offer the classes you need at the times you're free, it might not be the school for you. Make sure to look for a school with convenient hours'or even research online technical schools or technical schools that offer online classes so you can find the right fit.

¹ Employment not guaranteed for students or graduates

Sources

• What is accreditation?
  • http://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home
• S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
  • http://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home
• Bureau of Labor Statistics
  • http://www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm
• 28 percent of those enrolled in associate's degree programs changed their major

http://nces.ed.gov/pubs2018/2018434.pdf