College may not be the best option or the right choice for everyone. There are many alternatives to college for high school graduates including trade schools, apprenticeship programs, entering the workforce, and joining the military. See below for some benefits of these options and more information.
Trade Programs (Including Trade Schools and Programs at Colleges or Universities)
Trade schools are focused on providing students with specific skills that can be directly applied to a career in certain fields, called the trades. Common trades include agriculture, repairs, automotive technology, and natural resources. Typically you would earn a certificate that can be used to get jobs in your field.
Trade schools have lower tuition costs, require less time in school, provide practical training, and have smaller class sizes. One of the downsides of trade schools is that it offers fewer career options afterward, but if college is not an option/you don’t want to go to college or there is a trade that you enjoy, trade school could be the right choice for you! Click here to learn more!
- Associate of Applied Science Degree in Construction Technologies (Finishing Trades Institute Upper Midwest) – The Associate of Applied Science in Construction Technologies is available to FTIUM apprentices and graduates, combining trade-specific training in five different concentrations: Commercial Painter, Coating Application Specialist, 3-year Drywall Finisher, Glazier, and Glassworker. These courses enhance skills in math, science, humanities, and business communication, following a flexible three-semester cycle with fall and spring start options.
- Automotive Services Technician (Northern Michigan University) – The NMU Automotive Technology program develops multi-disciplinary problem-solvers by combining mechanical engineering, electrical systems, and computer diagnostics with hands-on lab experience. Emphasizing critical thinking and real-world application, the program prepares students for diverse career opportunities beyond automotive service.
- Cosmetology (Northern Michigan University) – The cosmetology program at NMU teaches the artistic, scientific, and business aspects of the beauty industry. Students gain hands-on experience through classroom learning, lab work, and practice on mannequins and real clients in a campus salon while preparing for the Michigan State Board of Cosmetology licensing exam.
- Electrical Line Technician (Northern Michigan University) – The Electrical Line Technician (ELT) program, offered in partnership between NMU and the Lake Superior Community Partnership, provides students with both classroom instruction at NMU’s Jacobetti Complex and hands-on field training at the MSDC site in Gwinn, Michigan. The program covers electrical power transmission and distribution, safety procedures, equipment operation, and offers students the opportunity to earn a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL A).
- Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) (Nothern Michigan University) – Students receive hands-on training at NMU in HVAC/R installation, repair, and maintenance, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare for careers in residential, commercial, and energy-efficient industries. With expertise in electrical testing, sheet metal fabrication, and system design, graduates are highly employable and can specialize in various growing fields.
- Welding Technology (Northern Michigan University) – The NMU welding program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on training to prepare students for successful careers in this high-demand field. Beyond job stability, welding is an art form that shapes the world, offering opportunities for creativity, precision, and lasting impact across various industries.
Community College
A community college offers Associate’s degrees. They may offer programs similar to a trade school. Community colleges are typically cheaper than universities. Degrees offered at community colleges can be used to enter the workforce after graduation or to obtain a Bachelor’s degree at a later date.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships allow people to learn valuable skills in their area of interest while working and getting paid. Apprenticeships offer people structured training, supplemental education, and mentorship while getting paid and allowing for future career advancements and a competitive income. Click here to learn more!
- Finishing Trades Institute Upper Midwest – FTIUM Apprenticeship Programs, registered with multiple state labor departments, require an average of three years of training, 432 related training hours, and at least 6,000 on-the-job hours. Participation requires IUPAT membership, providing lifelong union benefits and career support. Programs include: Commercial Painter, Coating Application Specialist, Drywall Finisher, Glazier, Glassworker, and Sign Technician.
- Northeast Wisconsin Technical College – Search for apprenticeship options including Carpenter, Cement Mason, Electrical, Machinist, Millwright, Organic Vegetable Farm Manager, Plumber, and many more.
- Upper Peninsula Michigan Works – Each apprentice is supported by a UPMW case manager and a journey worker/supervisor, ensuring they receive the guidance needed to succeed. Additional assistance is available for essentials like gas money, work attire, and tools.
Enter the workforce
High school graduates may decide to enter the workforce post-graduation for many reasons such as being tired of school, not enjoying school, financial reasons, or they want to take a break before returning to school. Some benefits of entering the workforce include: earning money, gaining life experience and independence, and taking time to save money and put more thought into a future career. Click here to see some available jobs for you!
- Pure Michigan Talent Connect – Search for jobs based on the education required, position level, characteristics, and location.
Military
Some high school graduates may decide to join the military after graduation for various reasons. The military offers a lot of benefits, but it also requires sacrifice. The different branches of the military are vastly different and you can learn more about each of them on their websites. Click here to see the qualifications for joining the military.
- Air Force – More than 200 careers available in science & technology, healthcare, aviation & flight, and maintenance & repair.
- Army – Career path, college path, medical path, and specialized path options.
- Army National Guard – Roles include admin & relations, air defense, aviation, chaplain corps, cyber, engineer, ground forces, heavy weapons, mechanic & maintenance, medical, munitions, special forces, supply & logistics, transport, and more.
- Coast Guard – Career options include enlisted, officer, reserve, and civilian.
- Marine Corps – Roles include Military Occupational Specialty, Marine Corps Ranks, Musician Enlistment Option Program, and Marine Judge Advocates.
- Navy – Careers in arts & communications, aviation, business & logistics, construction, electronics & technology, first responder, industrial & mechanical, intelligence & information, medical, religious, science, engineering & nuclear, and special operations.
Study Abroad
Another option after college is to take a gap year and explore other parts of the world. This can help you learn more about yourself, broaden your experiences, and give you time to figure out the next step. A simple way to do this is by participating in a study abroad program. There are private organizations that are not affiliated with a university to facilitate this.