Some individuals operate under the misconception that applying to and studying at a technical school is a "dead-end" option, which will result in neither a reputable degree or a realistic chance of gainful employment. This is simply not the case; many technical schools offer true training in technical skills, varying from mechanics and plumbing to dog training. Many technical schools also offer programs that allow their students to continue at four-year colleges and universities if desired.
Another misconception about technical schools is that individuals who attend and graduate from them will be less likely to be employed and earn less money than someone who has a degree from a four-year college. The truth of the matter is that the U.S. Department of Labor places craft, precision metal, and specialized repair occupations -- essentially, those occupations taught at technical schools -- on the second-highest bracket in national earnings.
Many people wrongly believe that four-year colleges are more capable of providing necessary training than technical schools. Again, this claim is unfounded; in many large universities, general education classes are often taught by teaching or graduate assistants. Classes at technical colleges are often boiled-down programs taught by highly trained and professionally experienced instructors. Frequently, several years of work in the industry is a basic requirement of teaching in such institutions.
Finally, a major misconception is that technical schools are only for people who performed poorly in high school, or who may not perform well in college. Actually, many technical schools require math and reading levels easily on par with those at four-year institutions, and several even require classes in such areas alongside the vocational training provided.