Practical OVER Prestige: Why Short-Term Boot Camps Are
The New King of Career Launch
I’m fortunate. I attended Cornell University, and Georgetown Law.
I racked up more debt than I care to admit in doing so, but also was fortunate enough to attain partnership at a NY Firm, and ultimately become debt free.
I’m unique. This is not the normal path.
Despite my own pedigree, I thoroughly have come to believe that Higher Education is a luxury. One that many people can do without.
It’s all about measuring the Return on Investment (ROI) for a four- year degree.
In today's rapidly evolving job market, the traditional four-year college degree is no longer the golden ticket to success it once was. Employers are increasingly looking for practical skills and experience over prestigious degrees, and many graduates are finding themselves saddled with debt and unable to find jobs in their field.
That's where short-term practical certificate courses come in. These programs offer a more affordable and efficient way to gain the skills you need to start a successful career. They are typically focused on specific in-demand skills, such as coding, data analysis, and digital marketing, and can be completed in a matter of weeks or months.
Here are my top 4 Reasons why I advocate for Practical (training) over Prestige.
The Cost of Education
One of the biggest advantages of short-term certificate courses is their cost. Traditional four-year colleges can cost upwards of $250,000, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.
On the other hand, short-term certificate courses can cost as little as $5,000 to $30,000. This means that you can save tens of thousands of dollars by choosing a certificate course over a traditional college degree.
Starting Salaries
Despite the difference in cost, graduates of short-term certificate courses can often earn the same starting salaries as graduates of traditional college programs.
A recent study by Indeed found that the average starting salary for graduates of coding bootcamps is $86,000, which is on par with the average starting salary for computer science graduates.
Flexibility and Continuous Learning
Another advantage of short-term certificate courses is their flexibility. Many courses are offered online or in evenings and weekends, making them ideal for working professionals who want to upskill or make a career change.
Certificate courses are focused on specific skills, they can be easily combined with other courses or degrees to create a well-rounded education.
This fosters a path of continuous learning around one’s current employment, meaning people don’t need to make a trade off between (unemployed) student and (career-limited) worker. Today, it’s easier than ever to do both.
The Future of Education
The rise of short-term practical certificate courses is a sign of a changing educational landscape. As employers place more emphasis on skills over degrees, we can expect to see even more people choosing these programs as a way to get ahead in their careers.
Since Covid, there has been a surge of hybrid and remote based learning programs.
You’re simply no longer limited to your geographical region. Learning can happen anywhere these days. So, if you're looking for a more affordable, efficient, and flexible way to get the skills you need to start a successful career, a short-term practical certificate course may be the right option for you.
3 Tips for Success
Choose a reputable program: There are many short-term certificate courses available, so it's important to choose a program that is reputable and has a good track record of success.
Network with your classmates: The people you meet in your certificate course can be valuable resources throughout your career.
Never stop learning: The job market is constantly changing, so it's important to continue learning new skills throughout your career.
Short-term certificate courses can be a great way to test out a new career before committing to a traditional four-year degree program. They can also be a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your field.
Get Matched with Your Ideal Certificate Program and Unlock Affordable Financing Today with Meratas!
Navigating the vast landscape of certificate programs can be daunting. That's where Meratas comes in. Let us be your trusted guide and financial ally on your journey to career transformation.
Here's how we empower your success:
Personalized Matching: Take our quick, comprehensive assessment and let us match you with the perfect certificate program aligned with your goals, interests, and learning style.
Financing Made Easy: Access our multi-lender marketplace to compare and secure competitive financing options for your chosen program. No more struggling with student loans - we connect you with lenders who understand the value of skill development.
Don't let financial hurdles hold you back from pursuing your passions and shaping your dream career. Invest in yourself, invest in your future.
Take control of your destiny and unlock your full potential with the perfect certificate program and the financial backing you deserve.
Secure a rewarding career with Meratas today - we have self-administered quizzes to help students find the right career and/or school for their practical career training!
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