Choosing to attend college – or more specifically, complete a four-year degree program at a college – is one of life’s major decisions. It is a big investment of both time and money, while also being a place where you can gain invaluable knowledge to carry throughout your life. For many career paths, it is also a basic requirement for getting started. For others, it is the optimal source for building the skills you’ll need for success.  

But college is not the only gateway to success, nor does a degree guarantee it. Many career paths have no required educational prerequisite at all or at least require far less than a traditional four-year degree.  

The decision to pursue a college degree isn’t simple. Luckily, there are actions you can take that can help you move toward a career – or even the degree itself – without the commitment of a degree plan.    

1. Start at a Community College

Community colleges – sometimes called city colleges or junior colleges – provide a wide array of lower-division college work that could transfer to a four-year college, work toward a two-year associate’s degree, provide access to vocational programs or give you skills that you can apply to a job or otherwise enrich your life. Most community colleges don’t have a competitive admissions process, requiring only a high school diploma or equivalent. Tuition is also usually significantly more affordable at a community college.

2. Enter a Trade School or Certificate Programs

Many fields don’t require a degree at all or at least are available to those who pursue the right educational channels – usually at a lower cost and with a shorter time commitment. For example, if you want to work in the healthcare sector but are put off by the idea of a lengthy nursing program or medical school, some career options include medical billing specialists, dental assistants and paramedics. Careers in fields like cosmetology or massage therapy are also usually rooted in trade school. Many certificate programs can get you qualifiable skills in under a year.

3. Start a Business

If entrepreneurship appeals to you, going to college could take away from the time you may need to launch and grow your venture. While you could benefit from studying business or marketing, if you are resourceful, innovative-minded and have the necessary motivation that comes with start-up work, then skipping college may be a viable option. Much of what you need to run a successful business is available online through courses you can purchase.   

4. Take a Gap Year

A university campus does not have to be the backdrop of your soul-searching experience, and many would argue that it shouldn’t be either. If you have the means to take a year off from school to travel, why not do so before you become laden with commitments? On the other hand, perhaps you have a job opportunity or want to bolster your college savings account. Taking a gap year can also help students make more informed decisions about their futures by allowing them more time to consider their direction before plunging into an academic program.

“Learning is creation, not consumption. Knowledge is not something a learner absorbs, but something a learner creates.” – George Couros

© Jennifer Herrity. All Rights Reserved.