The decision to choose a trade school versus a traditional four-year degree has been on the minds of parents and students recently. With the ever-changing job market and the rising cost of university tuition, making the decision between learning a trade and pursuing a traditional four-year degree can be daunting.
What’s the right path? The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, but one approach has been invaluable insight into the decision: project-based learning.
While decisions like this should not be solely made on the basis of money. It, of course, matters, and the clear winner here would be the trade school. Here are some numbers to illustrate:
- 2023-24 College tuition annually averages $10,662 for a ranking public university (in-state) compared with $42,162 for private. (Source: US News)
- Trade schools range from $3,855 to $14,843 in tuition fees in total. (Source: U.S. Department of Education)
Money is, of course, not the only factor to consider; here is a quick snapshot of the pros and cons of these two options:
Pros in Favor of Trade Schools:
- Cheaper overall price tag
- Typically shorter time to complete
- Promote job readiness
- Less stringent admission requirements
Pros in Favor of Four-Year Degrees
- Promote overall critical thinking and expand learning beyond one subject
- Sense of community, network and social experience
- More career flexibility
- Mastery of soft skills like leadership, communication, time management, etc
Project-based Learning Makes Choosing Between a Trade and University Easier
The Traditional Route: A Four-Year Degree
For decades, the four-year college degree has been seen as the gold standard for career success. College offers a structured environment where students can dive deep into academic subjects, build personal networks, and develop critical thinking skills. For some career paths—like medicine, law, or engineering—a college degree is essential.
However, the cost of a degree is rising, and many graduates find themselves entering the workforce saddled with student loan debt and struggling to find jobs that align with their degrees. In 2024, the landscape of higher education is more complex, and many parents are questioning whether a college degree is still worth it.
The rising costs of college tuition, a 20-year lockback (adjusted for inflation):
- Tuition and fees at private national universities have increased by about 40%.
- Out-of-state tuition and fees at public national universities have risen by about 38%.
- In-state tuition and fees at public national universities have grown by about 56%.
(Source: US News & World Report)
The Trending Appeal of Learning a Trade
On the other hand, learning a trade has become an increasingly popular option for students for an array of reasons. Skilled workers in trades like plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, and welding offer high-paying jobs and can find stable career opportunities without the hefty price tag of a four-year degree - and they are in high demand.
Less academic-focused students also like that trade schools focus on hands-on learning and practical skills that they can apply directly to the job without all the other course requirements. The high demand can also mean that trade school graduates often step directly into secure, well-paying jobs.
Trade programs are also much shorter, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner. But, as with any career path, learning a trade has its challenges. Trades require physical labor, and while some students thrive in hands-on environments, others may prefer the academic or theoretical challenges found in a traditional college setting.
How Project-Based Learning Bridges the Gap
Whether your student is leaning toward a four-year degree or considering a trade, project-based learning (PBL) can be the key to making an informed decision. Project-based learning offers students the chance to dabble in potential career choices through real-world experience before even finishing high school. It allows them to work on actual projects, interact with professionals, and see firsthand what a day in the life of various career paths looks like.
For example, if your child is curious about starting their own business someday but unsure if that is the right path, project-based learning can offer them an immersive experience before the time comes for a long-term commitment to college. Similarly, if they’re considering a career in medicine or law, project-based learning programs can allow them to get hands-on experience and shadow a professional.
4 Key Benefits of Project-Based Learning
- Hands-On Experience: Project-based learning puts students in real-world environments, allowing them to "test-drive" different career options. This experience can be invaluable in helping them decide which career path is right for them.
- Skill Development: Employers are increasingly looking for candidates with practical skills in both trades and academic careers. Project-based learning teaches students how to problem-solve, collaborate, and complete projects—skills that are essential in any field.
- Building a Network: Project-based learning often involves working with industry professionals, giving students a chance to start building their career networks early. Having mentors and contacts in the field can open doors to future opportunities.
- Confidence in Decision-Making: For many students, the pressure to choose a career path can be overwhelming. Project-based learning allows them to explore different options, gain confidence in their abilities, and make informed decisions about their futures.
The Best of Both Worlds
It’s important to note that the choice between a trade and a four-year degree doesn’t have to be either/or. Many students may find that blending the two paths offers the best of both worlds. For example, a student might learn a trade in carpentry and then pursue a degree in construction management, using both skills to climb the career ladder.
Guiding Your Student’s Future
As a parent, you play a critical role in guiding your child as they make important decisions about their future. Encourage them to explore both options, keeping an open mind and considering their strengths and interests. By incorporating project-based learning into the decision-making process, your student can gain invaluable experience, clarity, and confidence in choosing the path that’s right for them.
In today’s dynamic job market, both trades and degrees offer viable career opportunities. The key is to give your student a chance to explore their options through project-based learning so they can build a future they’re excited about.
Envision by WorldStrides is passionate about guiding students each step of the way as they rise to their highest potential through transformative experiences. Our programs offer hands-on experiences that allow high schoolers to test the waters of possible career tracks in:
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