Know Your Options

BENEFITS

A 4-year college or university program lays the foundation for advanced studies and professional careers. Bachelor’s degrees (the B.A. and B.S.) are offered in most areas in the arts and sciences. Costs vary from less than $6,000 per year (public) to more than $30,000 per year (private)—but financial aid is available in many forms.

REQUIREMENTS

Admissions requirements include high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and an application that may include an essay.

BENEFITS

A two-year degree is a good idea if the goal is earning a college degree, or if one needs to save money or ease the transition to a university. Community colleges are usually close to home and work. Many community colleges offer low tuition and have an “open admissions” policy, which means anyone with a high school diploma or GED can be enrolled. For jobs requiring a 2-year degree, the time spent in school is shorter. A large percentage of students work full time, so community colleges strive to offer courses at convenient times.

REQUIREMENTS

Students are required to send an official high school transcript, take a placement test (Compass, ACT, SAT, college-specific), meet with a college advisor, and send transcripts from colleges previously attended if any.

BENEFITS

Certification programs are ideal for those seeking an affordable education that will lead to a new technical occupation, or for anyone seeking to improve skills related to their existing employment. There are at least six different types of certificates in Idaho. Rather than ending with a degree, Certifications impart technical skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for successful performance in the workplace. Certificate programs are typically offered in a vocational or technical area to prepare you for a job in a specific career (such as EMS or massage therapy).

REQUIREMENTS

Students are required to send an official high school transcript, take a placement test (Compass, ACT, SAT, college-specific), meet with a college advisor, and send transcripts from colleges previously attended if any.

BENEFITS

Apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and related instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a skilled occupation. During a apprenticeship, you can master a skilled trade on-the-job, with pay. On-the-job training is supplemented by classroom instruction relevant to the job skills required. Idaho’s apprenticeship programs may be one to six years in length, but usually last three to four years, depending on the occupation.

REQUIREMENTS

Requirements vary—please check with the Idaho Department of Labor—Job Service, or your school counselor for more information.

BENEFITS

The military offers an opportunity to learn new skills while earning a paycheck. There are also leadership opportunities in the military, and over 4,000 different jobs. Unlike college, the military is free. All five branches—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard—provide financial incentives to recruits. Those in the military can further their educational goals, earning college credit or attending college while in the service. They may also qualify for cash towards tuition.

REQUIREMENTS

New recruits must be at least 18 (or younger with parental consent) • Hold a high school diploma • Take the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Batter • Take a medical exam • Be in good general health, and pass drug tests and criminal back ground screenings. To learn more, please check the US Government Web site Portal — http://www.militarycareers.com