Speciality Schools

Specialty schools are unique in that they include private, for-profit institutions where students are enrolled to learn a practical skill that is required for entry into the U.S. workforce. Some of these schools, including trade schools and proprietary schools, even offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Since these institutions focus on teaching a practical and very select workforce-related skill, specialty schools often are confused with community and technical colleges. Differences are that they do not offer hardly any student activities, they do not provide residence halls, or any athletics for the students. The classes are much smaller than liberal arts colleges and other typically small education facilities. But because they are private, for-profit schools, however, tuition is usually much more expensive than community and technical colleges, and most of these institutions do not offer federal financial aid such as Pell Grants or Stafford Loans. You will also find it more difficult to transfer your credits to another school if you decide you want to earn a bachelor’s degree elsewhere. However, if you have decided that you want to go directly into the workforce, these schools might be right for you.

Selectivity

Specialty schools rarely turn students away, essentially, if you have the money to pay for the school, you can attend the specialty school of your choice.

Proprietary Schools

Proprietary schools tend to follow workforce trends and quickly put together educational programs to match them. With current hot topics including biotechnology and e-commerce. The bigger schools have more than 100 campuses in cities around the country.

Trade Schools

Trade schools focus on one specific field and offer training for that feild, that’s mostly hands-on. Good examples of trade schools include the culinary art schools, flight schools, and cosmetology schools. These schools usually offer certificates or licenses than degrees like other schools. Each state has very specific licensor requirements for members of certain trades, such as electricians or plunbers. If you feel a trade school is right for you, talk with the appropriate state licensing agency to make sure the school you choose offers a legitimate education.