Post-secondary education, also known as higher education or tertiary education, is a level of education that is not required law in most places. One of the most common examples is university education, but community colleges, vocational schools, and trade programs also qualify. People typically pursue this type of education as a way to break into the workforce with career training that will improve their chances of advancement while also allowing them to work in a field that they are passionate about.
Nature of the Option
The fact that post-secondary education is optional is one of its most distinguishing features. Different countries have different school rules, but in most cases, children must attend classes for at least a certain amount of time. Most countries’ educational systems are divided into levels: nursery or elementary school for young children, middle school, grammar school, or junior high for those approaching adolescence. The majority of high school programs are classified as “secondary” education. Following that is post-secondary education. Many students in many places do not have a choice when it comes to high school, but university studies are always a matter of personal choice.
Why Do People Go After It?
One of the most compelling reasons for people to continue their education is to improve their job prospects. The majority of the highest-paying jobs necessitate advanced degrees or specialty certificates, which can only be obtained through extensive training. People sometimes enroll in specific courses in order to enter a particular field, such as someone who wants to go to law school or work as an electrician. Others see higher education as a gateway to more opportunities in general, and enroll in a variety of courses to improve their marketability as thinkers and workers in a variety of fields.
Undergraduate Studies
Undergraduate education is usually done on university campuses, either in person or online. The majority of countries support a small number of so-called “public” universities, which are usually large research institutions. Smaller private schools are also an option for students. There is usually a financial difference, with private schools being more costly; there may also be significant differences in student body size, quality of life, and campus culture. In either case, four years of study at a public or private university typically results in a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.
Students who aren’t sure what type of post-secondary education is right for them can start at a community college, which offers a two-year associate’s degree program. This degree can be applied toward a bachelor’s degree, but it also has value on its own. In order to demonstrate basic knowledge and some level of higher learning, many entry-level jobs require an associate’s degree.
Vocational and Trade Schools
Students who want to work in specific trade areas, such as car mechanics or plumbing, usually go to vocational school to learn the necessary skills. While most university programs focus on broad topics and encourage students to consider big ideas, trade and vocational programs are typically focused on specific areas and are therefore much shorter, taking only a year or two to complete. Degrees are uncommon in these situations, but graduates frequently receive certificates and, in some cases, local licenses.
Master’s Degrees
Many of the most prestigious career paths necessitate extensive postgraduate education. Doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, such as architects and business leaders, frequently require master’s or doctoral-level education. These programs are all part of a larger post-secondary educational environment. The length of time it takes varies field, but most require at least a year after completing an undergraduate degree — and in some cases, much longer.
Financial and other factors to consider
One of the most significant disadvantages of post-secondary education is its cost, which is closely followed the time required to truly commit to most programs. Some countries cover all or part of the costs of higher education for qualified students, but this is not the case everywhere. Tuition and fees at private schools are frequently very high. Most will position themselves as a long-term investment, claiming that graduates tend to land better-paying jobs, allowing high upfront costs to be amortized over time. While this may be true in some fields, students should carefully weigh their career goals against the costs of getting there before investing too heavily.
Many people choose to borrow money to fund their post-secondary education. Some students may be eligible for scholarships or grants if they are unable to cover all of their expenses up front. Students must pay interest on most loans and deferred payment plans, which can quickly add up to a significant amount of money owed.
Time management is also crucial, especially for students who have families or work obligations. Staying focused and committed to university-level coursework takes a lot of energy. Although the rise of Internet classes and evening and executive programs on many campuses has made it easier for people to take courses on a more flexible schedule, students must remain realistic about how long higher education will take.