College Degrees Online

What is the difference between a technical school and a liberal arts college?

by College Degrees Online


The first step in choosing the right college is to decide which type of college you should focus your search on. When most people think of college, they think of traditional four-year Bachelors' programs. However, an increasing trend today is for people to utilize community colleges and technical/trade schools to improve their prospects in the work force. Instead of Bachelors' degrees, technical or vocational school typically grant two year Associates' degrees. The differences between technical schools and four year colleges are many. First, at most technical or trade schools there is no housing available on campus for students. Rather than living in dorms, students live at home or often in nearby affordable apartments that tend to spring up near technical campuses. Another difference lays in the approach to education that liberal arts colleges take in comparison to trade schools. Liberal Arts Colleges tend to teach subjects in an abstract and theoretical manner, while a technical school focuses class time on teaching skills and methods of doing things. While Liberal Arts programs may require students to complete a large number of written assignments about theory, a technical school may require students to complete more hands on projects, such as designing an IT system for a company given certain parameters.

Three types of students typically use Technical and Trade Schools. The first type of student is one that has a specific idea of what he or she wants to do for a living after school. For such students, a technical or trade school is ideal because the curriculum is designed to teach real world job skills that will be demanded in specific jobs. Careers for which there are two year programs include paralegals, network systems engineers, mechanics and more. The second type of student that often utilizes the resources of technical or trade schools is a student who is just taking a class here or a class there to develop a particular skill or advance in their current job. This is usually referred to as adult or continuing education. Such individuals do not need to earn a full associate's degree, they simply need to complete a course to demonstrate that they have received training and show employers that they have sufficient knowledge in that area. The third type of student that typically attends a technical or vocational school is one that may want to eventually earn a Bachelors' degree from a four year college. Often times people are unsure of their education goals immediately upon leaving high school, and are not ready to commit to a four year education program. A technical school is an ideal alternative for many students because they can transfer the credits that they earn in their technical or vocational school curriculum to a bachelor's degree granting institution. Many students have found that excelling at a technical school allows them to gain admission to a much more selective group of colleges when the time comes to transfer.

Technical, Trade, and Vocational Colleges have long been the launch pads of many successful careers and educations in America. While many students utilize technical school programs to gain an edge in an increasingly competitive workplace, many others use technical schools as a springboard to an even higher degree at an alternate institution of higher learning.

Featured Technical Schools

AIU Online (American InterContinental University)
American InterContinental University's mission is to provide for the varying educational needs of a culturally diverse and geographically dispersed student body with the goal of preparing students academically, personally, and professionally for successful careers.
Strayer University
At Strayer University, we fit your life. Established in 1892 and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Strayer University is dedicated to providing quality higher education programs for working adults like you. Classes are designed to fit your busy schedule, meeting on evenings, weekends, and asynchronously on the web. Undergraduate and graduate programs are available in accounting, business and internet technology.
American InterContinental University - Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
American InterContinental University's mission is to provide for the varying educational needs of a culturally diverse and geographically dispersed student body with the goal of preparing students academically, personally, and professionally for successful careers.
Warren National University
Established in 1984, Warren National University offers self-paced degree programs designed specifically for the mid-career professional. Since there is no formal classroom attendance required, students can complete their coursework as their personal and professional commitments allow.
DeVry University
Earn your degree 100% online. DeVry University provides the flexibility you need to complete your degree whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you. Earn a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Information Technology, Computer Information Systems or Technical Management. Interact with faculty and students in a virtual classroom and take courses that are structured by week just like in a face-to-face course.
Colorado Technical University Online
Colorado Technical University Online offers Master's degrees in Business and IT in just 15 months. Students can concentrate in Business Management, Information Systems Security, IT Management, or Project Management. CTU Online allows you to earn your career-enhancing degree on a flexible schedule that fits your busy lifestyle. Instead of having to be on a campus, you just log into your virtual classroom - anywhere, anytime - 100% online. CTU Online is proud to be accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
ITT Technical Institutes
Online and Campus Locations: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KY, LA, MA, MI, MO, NE, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI
The ITT Technical Institutes offer programs in some of today's hottest technical areas. With over 85 locations nationwide and several online programs available, the ITT Techs are one of the leading providers of technology education. Each ITT Tech offers convenient class schedules, financial aid is available to those who qualify, and Career Services are offered to help you find a job. Click here to find out what programs of study are available online or at an ITT Tech near you.
Vatterott College - Tech Program
IA, IL, KS, MO, NE, OK, TN
Vatterott College's innovative, hands-on training helps you build the life you want. Everything we teach has practical, real-world value. Earn your certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree in Trade, Technology, Healthcare, Design, or Administrative fields and start your future. Our expert instructors and flexible schedules enable you to get the skills employers demand-fast. When can you start?
TechSkills - Multiple Locations
TechSkills builds the skills critical for success in the exciting IT industry. We provide proven IT education programs for Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, Linux, Java, CompTIA, Web Design, Security and others. TechSkills' innovative training combines personal attention from Industry Certified Instructors with hands-on labs, small group activities, convenient e-learning options and much more. As a TechSkills student, you'll control what you learn, how you learn and how you progress.
University of Louisville
Online and Campus Courses
The University of Louisville delivers IT certifications that fit your schedule…no matter what it is. Online courses, campus labs, and one-on-one sessions with learning managers provide maximized flexibility. Programs start every week, and you can compete your certification training in as little as 3 to 12 months.
Capella University - School of Technology
Capella University is an accredited online university designed to provide a quality education that fits the life of busy professionals like you. With a strong learner community built around motivated adult learners, real world faculty and a staff dedicated to your success, Capella helps you make an immediate impact on your life and career. Learn in small groups with expert faculty, study at your convenience, and meet your career goals faster. Click to learn more about bachelor's, master's, and PhD degree programs in the Schools of Technology, Business, Education, Psychology, and Human Services.
Saint Leo University Online - Computer Information Systems
Earn your online degree from one of the nation's pre-eminent universities. Saint Leo University has been providing quality degrees for over 110 years. Their Center for Online Learning now allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in Business, Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice or Liberal Arts. Online MBA degrees are also available. The flexible program allows you to study when and where it's convenient for you.
Computer Career Institute at Johns Hopkins University
Columbia, MD
Take the shortest path to a promising technology career. The rapid growth of Information Technology (IT) has created unprecedented career opportunities. The Computer Career Institute at Johns Hopkins University, located in Columbia, Maryland offers highly competitive certificate programs in Information Technology and Web Development. Choose from over 18 certificate programs - the largest variety available anywhere. Complete your program in as little as 7 weeks - less time than any other institution.
ECPI
NC, SC, VA, and Online
A tech degree from ECPI means success in the real world. For over 36 years, ECPI has taught courses that focus on the skills employers need. Accredited programs such as Networking, Software Development, or Electronics are available. ECPI has locations in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and online classes. Complete your Tech degree in as little as 16 months.
Clark University Computer Career Institute
Cambridge, Framingham, Braintree, and Woburn, MA
Take the fast track to a computer and technology career. The Clark University Computer Career Institute offers highly competitive certificate programs in IT, Web Development and Medical Information Technology. Choose from one of 4 convenient locations in the Boston area: Braintree, Cambridge, Framingham or Woburn. Choose from over 18 certificate programs - the largest variety available anywhere.
LA College International
Earn a degree at LA College International and benefit from a diverse learning environment that emphasizes both personal and professional skill development for career success.
College of Westchester
The College of Westchester delivers the practical knowledge you want and the skills employers demand. Earn your degree and start your new career in as little as 18 months or upgrade your present position with a professional certificate program.
Gibbs College - Norwalk
Norwalk, CT
Take control of your education and your career. Gibbs College in Norwalk, CT, prepares prospective graduates for rewarding professional careers. Get the education you need in Business, Design or Technology. Degree programs can be completed in only 18 months and day and evening classes are available to fit your schedule. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.
Lincoln Tech® - Multiple Locations
Lincoln Tech® is a career-focused training school that offers short-term Automotive, Skilled Trades, Healthcare and Computers programs designed to get you into the workforce quickly. Programs vary by campus so contact a location near you to see the training options available. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. With national accreditation, state licensing and nearly 60 years of career education and job placement experience, Lincoln Tech knows what it takes to help give you the competitive edge so you can establish yourself in a rewarding career. Get started today!
Pioneer Pacific College
Portland and Springfield, OR
Pioneer Pacific College is a nationally recognized college with locations in the greater Portland area and Springfield, OR. Degree programs are available in Business, Law, Computer Science and Health Services. Diplomas can be earned in as little as 10 months and weekday, Saturday and evening classes are available for total flexibility. Financial aid is available for students who qualify.