There are many choices to consider when deciding what type of school to attend for secondary education. From private to public universities, community colleges and technical schools, let’s look at our options.
Different Schools Have Different Costs
Aspiring students face many challenges when choosing a college and seeking student loans. The type of school can have an impact on the different forms of funding available to you. With any major decision, it is always good to have as much information as possible about your choices. With secondary education there are several factors to consider.
Private vs. Public
Private colleges and public universities get their funding through different means. A private college receives funding primarily through tuition and private contributions. This means they need to have a high tuition, because that is how they pay their faculty and staff. You will end up spending the most money on your education at this type of school.
Public universities and colleges receive funds from state legislatures. Most of them were state founded so that its citizens would have a chance to go to college. This enables the tuition to be lower than at a private university. But this also means there will be more students and more majors offered.
Technical Schools vs. Community Colleges
The difference between public and private schools is great, but these are not your only options. You can find many of the same majors and classes at a community college that you would find at a public university. Tuition for one year at a community college can run as little as one third of the cost of a larger school.
Another great choice for aspiring students is technical school. These are also referred to as vocational colleges. A vocational school specializes in teaching specific trades, as opposed to broader education. You can find programs directed toward a wide variety of careers. These include jobs such as nursing, mechanics, electricians, and more.
The cost of a vocational school can be much lower than a typical college, and you can earn your degree faster as well. You can complete most of the programs in as little as two years. They design their courses to enable you to enter the workforce as soon as possible.
Online Courses
Students today also have an advantage not available to previous generations. Most schools these days offer online classes. This enables you to attend regardless of your physical location. This is true for all types of schools. Public and private universities, community colleges, and even trade schools offer classes you can take from home. Most of the time these are much more affordable than on campus learning.
Alternatives to Student Loans
The costs of attending school have increased a great deal throughout the years. Student loans can end up costing much more than expected by the time you get out of school. Fortunately there are a few alternatives. Most public universities offer grants to eligible applicants. This is money that you can use to pay tuition, and the best part is that you do not have to pay it back.
A scholarship is another great way to pay for school. These are merit based and usually require the aspiring student to have good grades and a good work ethic. This is also money that you never have to pay back!
Most schools have counselors dedicated to helping applicants search out grants and scholarships. Research online or talk to alumni from the schools that interest you. This can go a long way toward helping you get your education in the most cost effective way possible!