EDUCATION
Education
Students have a variety of options when planning for education after high school. In addition to traditional four-year colleges, there are now many diverse paths to gain valuable knowledge, technical skills, and certifications for a competitive advantage in the job market. Consider exploring options like apprenticeships, tech boot camps and short-term industry-specific training programs, as they are continuously evolving to offer new opportunities for success.
Educational Options
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships combine real-world experience, traditional classroom learning, full-time employment, and marketable skills in an in-demand occupation, all without student loan debt! While in high school, our students have access to participate in "Pre-apprenticeships" to get a jump-start on an apprenticeship. These count towards graduation requirements and can be used as a graduation alternative, too. Trade school is another adult education option for learning skilled trades!
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2 or 4 Year Degrees
Associate’s degrees offer the fastest and most cost-effective option in degrees. They can allow entrance into the workforce with a degree in just two years. Some students earn an associate’s degree at a small and affordable community college, then transfer to a large, well-known school to finish up a bachelor’s degree. (www.degreequery.com).
Bachelor's degrees often lead to higher-payer jobs and are required for some fields and for advanced positions. The College Board website (linked below) offers planning tools and guidance on 4 year degree options. Students can also search for programs related to their interests in SchooLinks!
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What Can I Do with an Associate's Degree?
College Credit Plus
(CCP) is Ohio’s dual enrollment program. It provides students in grades 7-12 the opportunity to take college classes from Ohio colleges/universities for free. This opportunity allows Ohio's students to earn these college credits and high school credits at the same time. DCS students have the options to participate in this program at Emerald Campus through Columbus State courses.
LEARN MORE: DCS CCP Information
Internships
Internships offer on-the-job learning and can be paid or unpaid. Young people can find internships through websites such as Indeed, in the Career Center on SchooLinks, or through their personal network of family and friends. Several Academy programs at Emerald Campus offer internship opportunities, including the Young Professionals Academy.
LEARN MORE: Emerald Campus Career Academies Website
College Scorecard
Search and compare colleges: their fields of study, costs, admissions, results, and more here.
Gap Year
A Gap Year is a carefully planned learning experience that can vary in length of time, type of learning, and may or may not offer credit. There are accredited providers who assist with planning these meaningful opportunities that often include global travel, service learning, and work. Students who complete a Gap Year do so for a variety of reasons ranging from wanting to travel, personally grow, volunteer, learn about other cultures, explore careers, or take a break from traditional learning.
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RESOURCES
More education doesn't always get you more money, report finds
