A technical school is different from other post-secondary school options because it places greater emphasis on preparing a student for his particular career goal. At a technical school, the student focuses not on learning theories associated with his career, but actually how to apply what is learned. A student doesn't have to enroll in liberal arts electives such as sociology or art in order to earn a degree in administrative assisting or radio broadcasting.
Every technical school is different. This means that not every technical school offers the same programs. For example, an automotive technical school may only offer programs working with cars while another technical school provides many different programs. Typically a technical school offers many specific trades such as medical assisting, legal assisting, automotive technician, electronic technician or computer technology. Trades are hands-on jobs that require a person to have specific skills, knowledge and abilities needed to work. For instance, a student studying computer technology may be preparing for a career in graphic design or computer systems.
A technical school can be a private or public post-secondary institution. According to the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), an accreditation is a good basic indicator of the quality of education the technical school provides. Not every technical school is accredited. If a student transfers to another school from an unaccredited one, the courses taken may not transfer.
Usually, a technical school takes two years or less to complete. A student can receive a certificate or associate's degree in her area of study. The technical school may also assist with finding the student a job after graduation. If the student needs credentials such as a license, the technical school also may help her achieve that goal to enter the job market.