8 Alternatives to College: What to Consider

Maybe the thought of four more years of school makes you want to crawl under a rock or perhaps the looming mountain of student debt gives you second thoughts. The good news? College isn’t the only ticket to success. Plenty of alternative routes can lead to a fulfilling and prosperous career. Let’s look at those alternatives and whether they might be the right fit for you.

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Is it possible to be successful without college?

Success is tricky to define – it’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. For some, success means landing a six-figure job right out of college; for others, it’s about finding fulfillment in their work or living a life of adventure. So, is college still worth it in 2024? Well, that depends on what you’re aiming for. A college degree can open doors, but it’s not the only way to break in. With the rise of online education, trade schools and entrepreneurial ventures, there are more paths to success than ever. The job market is also evolving and employers increasingly value skills and experience over a traditional degree.

8 Alternatives to college

If you’re ready to explore what’s out there beyond the ivy-covered walls of academia, here’s a look at some solid alternatives to college. Each option has its own perks and potential pitfalls, so keep an open mind and consider what aligns best with your goals.

1. Trade schools and vocational schools

If you have a clear career path – say, welding, plumbing, nursing or IT – trade and vocational schools might be your golden ticket. These programs are laser-focused on teaching the skills you need to jump straight into a specific job, often in less time and at a fraction of the cost of a four-year degree. Plus, skilled trades are in high demand, which means job security and good paychecks could be in your future. For more on trade schools, check out resources like CareerOneStop or TradeSchools.net.

2. Military enlistment

Joining the military isn’t just about serving your country – it’s also a way to gain valuable job training, education benefits and a potential career. The GI Bill, for example, can help fund your college education or a trade school program. Whether you’re interested in mechanics, health care, IT or leadership roles, the military offers training that can set you up for success in civilian life. And let’s not forget the discipline, teamwork and leadership skills you’ll develop – highly prized in any career field. Learn more about education benefits through the military at VA.gov.

3. Apprenticeships

Why sit in a classroom when you can earn while you learn? Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you’re interested in becoming an electrician, carpenter or chef, apprenticeships offer a direct path to a skilled trade career. You’ll get hands-on experience, a paycheck and often a job waiting for you at the end of the program. To explore apprenticeship opportunities, visit Apprenticeship.gov.

4. Coding Bootcamps

If you’ve got a knack for tech, coding bootcamps could be your fast track to a lucrative career in software development. These intensive programs focus on teaching you the skills employers want, like programming languages, web development and data science, all in a matter of months. And with the tech industry booming, coding skills are in high demand. While bootcamps can be pricey, they’re still cheaper and faster than a traditional degree and many offer job placement assistance. Check out popular bootcamps like General Assembly or Flatiron School.

5. Gap years

Sometimes, the best way to figure out your next step is to take a step back. A gap year can give you the time and space to explore your interests, travel, work or volunteer. It’s a chance to gain life experience, discover what excites you and return to school – or whatever comes next – with a clearer sense of purpose. Just be sure to use the time wisely – whether it’s building your resume, learning a new language, or volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about, make sure your gap year is more than an extended vacation.

6. Online learning

Who says you need to be on campus to get an education? Online learning platforms like Coursera, edX and Udemy offer a wealth of courses, often taught by professors from top universities, that you can take from the comfort of your home. Whether you want to earn a certification, learn a new skill or even complete a degree program, online learning offers the flexibility to study at your own pace and schedule. Plus, with courses ranging from coding to creative writing to business management, there’s something for everyone.

7. Entrepreneurship

If you’ve got a big idea and the drive to make it happen, why not start your own business? Entrepreneurship is about creating something from nothing, whether a tech startup, small business or side hustle. You’ll gain practical experience in everything from marketing to finance to customer service while being your own boss. And while the risks are real, so are the rewards – success in entrepreneurship can lead to financial independence and personal satisfaction like nothing else. Not sure where to start? Check out resources like SCORE for free mentoring and advice from seasoned entrepreneurs.

8. Internships and volunteer work

If you’re looking to build skills and make connections without committing to a full-time job or school, internships and volunteer work can be a great way to gain valuable experience. Internships can give you a taste of different industries and roles, helping you figure out what you like – and what you don’t – before diving into a career. Volunteering, on the other hand, gives you a chance to contribute to a cause you care about and allows you to develop skills and build a network of contacts. Both options can help you stand out to future employers and provide a clearer sense of direction for your career path.

Forging your path

In a world where the traditional college route isn’t the only option, it’s essential to consider what aligns best with your goals, interests and financial situation. Whether heading to a trade school, diving into the military or launching your own business, there’s no shortage of ways to build a successful and fulfilling career. Remember, the path to success isn’t one-size-fits-all – it’s about finding the route that works for you. So go ahead, explore your options and take control of your future.

Whatever path you take, it’s important to monitor your credit.  MoneyLion can help with that! Download the MoneyLion app and enroll in FREE Credit Monitoring to check your credit report with no impact on your credit score. 

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