Many students pursue a traditional degree but in today’s competitive world, there is another option for students which is a vocational degree. And thus, now the question arises of which one to pursue: A vocational degree or a traditional degree? Both the educational paths can lead to a successful career but their structure, focus and outcome is different.
In this blog you will explore what are vocational degrees, vocational degree meaning, the difference between a traditional and a vocational degree, and which one should you choose and which one suits you the best.
What is a vocational degree?
If you ever wonder ‘what is vocational degree’ then here is the simple meaning of a vocation degree. A vocational degree means a qualification that focuses on practical skills for specific careers.
These degrees are hands-on and career focused, preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce often into industries like healthcare, construction, IT, etc. A vocational degree ends in less time than a traditional degree i.e. between 6 months and 2 years. The examples of a vocation degree includes certificate in automotive technology, diploma in culinary arts, etc.
What is a Traditional Degree?
A traditional degree is a qualification done through a college or a university. It emphasizes on parameters like general education, theoretical learning and critical thinking. It leads to careers that require advanced knowledge like law, medicine, accountancy, etc.
It takes more time than a vocational degree i.e. three to four years for a bachelor’s degree. The examples of a traditional degree include bachelors of science (BSc), bachelors of commerce (BCom), Master of Business Administration (MBA), etc.)
What’s the difference between a Vocational Degree and Traditional Degree?
1. Vocational Degree:
a. Duration: Between 6 months to 2 years
b. Focus: On practical skills and career specific training.
c. Cost: The fees are generally low.
d. Learning Style: Hands-on-training, labs, etc
e. Career Path: Immediate entry into specific careers.
2. Traditional Degree:
a. Duration: Between 2 to 4 years and longer for advanced degrees
b. Focus: On General education and academic Theory
c. Cost: The fees are generally high.
d. Learning Style: Lectures, research and courseworks
e. Career Path: Broad career options, potential for advanced roles
Pros and Cons of Vocational Degrees:
1. Pros:
a. Focuses on hands-on-training related to a specific career.
b. Typically takes between 6 months to two years to complete the degree and thus gives quicker entry into the workforce.
c. Generally less expensive than a traditional degree.
d. Professions like plumbing, cosmetology, and medical assisting are always in demand.
e. The class sizes are generally small with more one-on-one training
f. You can often earn certifications which boosts employability.
2. Cons:
a. There is limited flexibility as the training is related to a specific career.
b. On average the earning potential is lower as compared to a traditional degree
c. The advancement opportunities are few as some management roles require bachelor’s or higher degrees.
d. Generally people view traditional degrees as more prestigious. So this creates a gap.
e. Some vocational careers have limited opportunities in certain areas.
Pros and Cons of a Traditional Degree:
1. Pros:
a. It has more career options and opens doors to diverse industries and roles.
b. On average, many degree holders earn higher as they advance in their career.
c. It contributes to an individual’s professional growth as it is easier to pursue graduate roles.
d. Includes a lot of different skills like soft skills, critical thinking, communication skills and many more.
e. Colleges often provide students with more networking opportunities where you can meet new people and connect with them.
f. Pursuing a degree from a prestigious university carries a strong reputation.
2. Cons:
a. Typically requires 3 to 4 years or even more which is a longer duration than a vocational degree.
b. The costs are generally higher than a vocation degree.
c. Many programs focus more on theories than practical application. Thus there is less hands-on experience.
d. The competition is very high which results in more job saturation and makes job finding more harder.
e. The entry into the workforce is much slower than vocational degrees.
f. There can be delayed ROI which is Return on Investments.
Which one is more suitable for you?
To find out which suits you more and which one to pursue, take the help of the following points:
1. Career goals: If you want to specialize in a particular career like nursing,electrician, etc. then a vocational degree is more suitable for you. But if you aim for research and leadership roles, then go for a traditional degree.
2. Budget: Vocational degrees are more affordable than traditional ones.
3. Duration: If you want to start working quickly and get into the workforce faster then go for a vocational degree and vice versa.
4. Learning Style: If you want more practical and hands-on training then go for vocational programs. But if you enjoy theory and research then a traditional degree can be the best one for you.
FAQ’s
1. Define vocational degree.
Ans: A vocational degree is a qualification that focuses on teaching practical skills for specific trades and careers.
2. What’s a vocational degree?
Ans: A vocational degree is a degree where practical knowledge and hands-on experience are given more priority and it gives you the chance to enter into the workforce quickly.
3. What’s the difference between a vocational degree and a traditional degree?
Ans: Vocational degree is a qualification for a specific career and a traditional degree involves many career options that can be included in the curriculum.
4. Can I earn good money with a vocational degree?
Ans: Yes. Many careers like nursing or HVAC technician, etc. offer good salaries.