Despite the fact that traditional, as well as newer trades (such as jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry) do not require the extensive courses of college programs, professional training is essential, especially during the first years in the job, when the lack of experience is evident. The diversity of modern companies and institutions, such as hospitals and IT firms, rely on a high number of technical staff, who do not have leadership roles, but undertake simple, but imperative tasks for the smooth operation. Such professions offer many opportunities for employment, since technical staff outnumber graduates, but as technology progresses, more and more skills are required by technical staff.
The degrees vary from two- to three-year Associate in Applied Science (AAS) and Bachelor of Science programs, to Specialist of Education degrees (Ed.S.), which is above a master's degree on the academic ladder, but below doctoral level. Applicants for undergraduate technical education programs may need to meet specific requirements; for example, to enter the B.Sc. program of Ferris State University, you must present documented occupational competence, in case you are non AAS-qualified in your field.
The courses focus on technical expertise and the teaching profession. Undergraduate students need to undertake courses such as introduction to the teacher's profession, teaching principles, school and work and society, as well as instruction planning, in addition to their occupational major. In Ed.S. programs, students are introduced to subjects such as the impacts of technology, instrumentation of research and field study in professional education.
Upon graduation, you can seek for employment opportunities in schools and vocational education institutions, as well as become industry instructors (for holders of M.Sc. and Ed.S. degrees). In addition, a degree will improve your status as a qualified professional and seek for high-profile, better-paying technical jobs in your field. Be aware that technical education academic degrees are essential only for prospective teachers of a specific trade--it is not a prerequisite in order to reach the next level in your career.