More and more recent high school grads, and adult learners alike are choosing trade and vocational school over college. In fact, last year alone trade-based program enrollments grew by an estimated 16%.[1]
Here’s Why…
- 69% of students say colleges charge too much for an undergrad degree.[1]
- The cost of an undergrad degree has risen 158% over the past 20 years.[2]
- The average federal student loan debt (college) is now $37,853/borrower.[3]
- The average student loan (college) takes 20 years to pay off.[4]
- The average student loan debt (trade school) is about $10,000/borrower.[5]
- The average student loan (trade school) takes 10 years to pay off.[6]
- Only 64.6% of college students graduated within 6 years.
- Nearly 99% of trade school students graduated in 2 year or less.[7]
- An undergrad degree typically takes at least 4 years to complete.
- Many career-based educations take 2 years or less to complete.
- Trade/vocational school averages about 1/3 the cost of college.
- Salaries for some skilled trades rose 24% last year alone.[8]
There you have it. Many prospective students (especially the ones we speak with) believe a trade or career-based education offers a less expensive, faster pathway to a good-paying career. So, how can you attract them to your schools’ vocational programs? Partner with Conversion Media Group! See how we can help boost your enrollments.
[1] Cost of higher education not worth it to students
[2] 6 Huge Reasons Vocational Schools Are Outpacing College
[3] Average Student Loan Debt [2024]: by Year, Age & More
[4] 6 Huge Reasons Vocational Schools Are Outpacing College
[5] Should you go to trade school? – The Live Wire
[6] 5 Student Loans for Trade School | LendEDU
[7] Trade schools as a valuable alternative – The Feather
[8] Wages are up over 20% for some in-demand jobs; bosses on hiring sprees