What is the Difference Between a 4-Year College and a Technical College?

Published - May 1, 2024

Are you considering your educational choices? Do you want to advance in your current career or seek a new career path? If so, you have options. So, do you choose a 4-year or technical college? The good news is that this article will define technical colleges and their differences. Then, you can make an informed decision about your future.

What is a Technical College?

A technical college, also known as a vocational or trade college, offers post-secondary education programs that provide you with specialized training in a specific technical skill. Job-focused, the curriculum emphasizes the hands-on skills that are directly related to your chosen profession. Plus, you graduate with a diploma or degree that prepares you for immediate employment.

What is the Difference Between a 4-Year College and a Technical College?

While both 4-year and technical colleges have advantages, there are many differences between them. These differences include:

Cost

Choosing a post-secondary education is an investment in your future. However, attending a technical college for 1 to 2 years will use less resources than a 4-year college. It can be costly to pay for tuition, commuting, and other expenses for four years.

Time

How much time can you be out of the workforce? One, two, four years? Attending a technical

college prepares you for a career in less time than a 4-year college. Plus, technical colleges offer flexible schedules so you can work while you learn. You can have the best of both worlds. With hybrid and online options, you can learn from the comfort of your own home and still take care of other responsibilities.

Another element of time and the difference between 4-year and technical colleges is that most 4-year colleges offer two semesters per year. Not ready to start in September or February? Then, you must wait another six months for your opportunity to attend a 4-year college. On the other hand, technical colleges offer programs that start every 12 weeks.

General Education

Technical college programs focus on the skills you need to succeed. You’ll leave the classroom faster, ready for a rewarding career. On the other hand, attending a 4-year college involves many general education courses. While you will complete classes in College Math and English at CBD College, there is no need for a 15th Century Art Appreciation course to make you a well-rounded student.

Class Size

At a technical college, you won’t get lost in a large lecture hall with hundreds of students, all vying for the attention of the faculty or teachers’ assistant. Class sizes are smaller, allowing for more personalized attention from instructors.

Job Availability

Learning technical skills prepares you for an in-demand job in many disciplines like healthcare. For example, diagnostic medical sonographers are in demand and their employment is projected to grow 10 percent through 2032. Plus, CBD College offers career services to help you find the right opportunity after graduation.

Career Services

Technical colleges, like CBD College, offer career services to help you find the jobs you are passionate about. They help you write an eye-catching resume, prepare you for interviews, and introduce you to employers in the community who are looking to fill open roles with highly trained individuals. Employers know CBD College graduates need less on-the-job training and are ready to start working on day one.

Hands-On Training

You’ll appreciate a technical college’s hands-on training if you learn best by doing. You’ll use the same industry-standard equipment as in your employment settings, familiarizing yourself with the instruments and equipment of the trade while building real-world skills. As a graduate, you’ll feel confident, capable, and ready to make a difference.

Want to Learn More?

At CBD College, we focus on teaching real-world skills and knowledge so that you are immediately prepared for a successful career. Embark on your fast-track path to a successful and rewarding career in healthcare through hybrid and fully online learning. New sessions start every 12 weeks. Don’t hesitate – launch your career today!