What Types of Education Exist?

When you think about pursuing postsecondary education, you might think that four-year colleges are your only option. People might be asking you “Are you going to college?” However, there are actually many different types of postsecondary education.

Technical Colleges

In Georgia, the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) offers two-year degrees, two-year vocational diplomas, and shorter-term Technical Certificates of Credit. TCSG includes 22 colleges, 88 campuses, and more than 600 programs. Similar to community colleges in other states, these are low-cost public schools, with tuition-free programs for 18 in-demand careers. Learn more by searching TCSG by campus, program, or semester.

Private Business and Technical Schools

Private trade and vocational schools (sometimes called proprietary schools) have programs that can teach you how to work in a variety of industries. They can cost a lot more than public programs, but dislocated workers, adults, and youth who need training might be able to get federal help paying for it. To find private schools that qualify for federal funding, search WorkSource Georgia for "Private Business and Technical Schools" that are "Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Eligible Training Providers").

On-the-Job Training

Technical school is one type of vocational training. Another type of vocational training is “on-the-job training.” With on-the-job training, you get a job and are taught what you have to do by your employer.

One common type of on-the job training is an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships provide a structured way to learn a skilled occupation, craft, or trade. During the apprenticeship, you gain skills through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. A registered apprenticeship is one that is validated by the U.S. Department of Labor or a state apprenticeship agency, like Georgia WorkSmart.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development explains what an apprenticeship is, and answers frequently asked questions about registered apprenticeships.

Four-Year Colleges and Universities

When most people think of “college,” they think of a school you go to full-time for four years or until you get a bachelor’s degree. At a college or university, you will take a diverse set of classes that may teach you about many different things including history, languages, math, and sciences. Eventually you will choose a major, which is a focus that lets you specialize in a certain field and prepares you for working in that field after you graduate. If you study full-time, you may finish in four years, though some students take longer.

Inclusive Postsecondary Programs

Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) lets students with intellectual disabilities attend college, taking classes for audit or credit, and earning a non-degree certificate or credential. These programs typically focus on employment experiences and developing independence. Think College offers A Resource Guide for Inclusive Postsecondary Education for Students with Intellectual Disability.

Resources About Higher Education for Students with Disabilities

• Going to College is a great website that explores ways to think about what you want to do, what college life is like, and how you can plan for college.
• The National Center for College Students With Disabilities lists a wide variety of resources for students with disabilities, including contact information for disability services programs at degree-granting colleges and universities throughout the U.S. and its territories.
• Think College has important information for students, families, and professionals about how people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can succeed in higher education.