THE BEGINNING OF YOUR FUTURE
STARTS HERE
Here at Rosedale Technical College, we have a staff of experienced instructors who are ready to provide hands-on training to prepare you for a successful career in the trades. With programs spanning a variety of industries, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests at our school.
A Guide to Trade Schools
FOR GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
You’re getting ready to graduate. One chapter is closing and an exciting new one is waiting to be written. But, how will it start? As exciting as graduating high school is, it can also be a time of uncertainty, as you weigh your different options for the future.
With so many options in front of you — four-year college, trade schools, community college, the list goes on and on — it can feel overwhelming to make a decision. While it may seem like there is a lot riding on your decision, remember that there is no “right” choice.
The most important thing is to find an educational path that aligns with your goals and interests. Rosedale Technical College is here to be a resource and offer support while students explore their options for post-secondary education. We offer several trade programs that have a high demand for skilled workers and we can help students navigate what path is right for them. Our admissions representatives are also available to answer any questions and help you make the best decision for your future.
If you’re looking for a career where you can work with your hands outside a traditional office setting, that provides challenging and fun projects, and offers the opportunity to make good money, then we suggest that you continue scrolling to learn more about trade schools and Rosedale Tech. If you’re more interested in sitting behind a desk and participating in online education, then we recommend looking somewhere else.
Why Should You
CHOOSE A TRADE SCHOOL?
As high school graduation approaches, you’ll have to decide whether or not to continue your education and if you’re going to do it right away or take what’s known as a “gap year”. The traditional college path can seem intimidating because of the four-year commitment (sometimes longer!) and high tuition costs. However, entering the workforce with no post-secondary training doesn’t offer many quality jobs with advancement opportunities.
A Different Path to Success
Trade school, also known as a vocational or technical school, can provide job-ready skills in the trades that can prepare graduates to enter good-paying jobs. Additionally, they take a fraction of the time to complete than traditional four-year colleges, resulting in less student debt.
America needs more skilled workers in the trades. One report showed 7.6 million unfilled jobs and only 6.5 million job seekers. These jobs can often pay equally if not more than jobs that require a traditional college degree.
It is a fact that America needs more skilled workers in the trades. One report showed 7.6 million unfilled jobs and only 6.5 million job seekers. These unfilled jobs often pay equally if not more than jobs that require a traditional college degree.
Trade School vs. Four-Year College
While the traditional four-year college is often promoted as the ultimate educational goal, many students find it expensive and have difficulty getting jobs even with a degree. However, students don’t need to get into deep debt as an adult to get the skills needed for a successful career.
Here is a comparison of attending a trade school versus a four-year college:
TRADE SCHOOL
On average, vocational schools cost about $33,000 total for a two-to-three-year program. An estimated cost of education can be determined with our price calculator. And, eligible students can also apply for grants, scholarships, and other financial aid to help pay for schooling.
Technical school can take 1 to 2 years to complete, with some programs even shorter.
There are many diverse job opportunities in the skilled trades -- including the potential to land a job at a company that services the entire world or to learn more about starting your own business so you can be your own boss.
While in school, students have the opportunity to access real equipment, hands-on training, and experienced instructors that help prepare them for employment. Typically, students who attend a traditional school need an internship or additional work to gain access to this type of training. While employment is not guaranteed, our graduates are in high demand.
Because of our caring staff and the demand for the types of students we train, Rosedale Tech continues to report high graduation and job placement rates.
Jobs in the trades are high in demand as they require those who are incredibly skilled to perform the tasks that make up the backbone of our workforce.
FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE
On average, the tuition and fees for a ranked 4-year colleges cost $38,185 for private, $22,698 for public out-of-state, and $10,338 for public in-state.
Students usually take four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, but oftentimes it might take 5-6 years to complete a degree depending on a student’s class schedule.
The competition for jobs is fierce after graduation. Students have to assume that every applicant they are up against has the same level of education and experience as they do -- if not more.
Students still need to earn real-world experience through internships or low-paying positions, but may have a higher lifetime earning potential if they get the necessary expertise.
U.S. colleges have a 60% average graduation rate.
It’s no secret that college is expensive. And for many students, the prospect of taking on tens of thousands of dollars in debt is scary. Fortunately, there are a number of alternative paths that can lead to successful careers.
For instance, many trade jobs such as electricians and plumbers, require less of a time commitment allowing graduates to enter their field of choice more readily. Not only that, but students at trade schools can receive real-world, hands-on experience while in school that only comes with additional job training or internships for careers that only a four-year college could prepare them for.
Additionally, many employers are now offering tuition reimbursement programs, which can help offset the cost of furthering a student’s education. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of college, know that there are other options available that can lead to a bright future.
How to choose THE BEST TRADE SCHOOL
Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you explore your trade school options after high school:
Trade schools vary in what programs they offer. Therefore, before you start looking for a school, first decide what your personal and career goals are so you can find a school that has programs that support those goals.
Also, look at the length of programs. You won’t always have to complete an entire two-year trade school program to achieve some of your goals. For example, CDL drivers can save time and money by finding a school that offers a program that teaches them CDL essentials in a few weeks.
Quality trade schools are out there that offer the whole college experience — like Rosedale Tech. Students can take advantage of the extracurricular activities that will introduce them to other students and provide an opportunity for meaningful connections. Some of the events and activities Rosedale Tech offers include, but are not limited to:
- Career fairs
- Annual summer picnic
- Alumni events
- Regularly scheduled student activities
- Holiday meals
- Women in Trades
- Rosedale Riveters
- Tech Vets
Trade schools are most effective when they are designed around small classes so that students can receive the attention they may need to help them understand complex concepts. The classrooms should also be equipped with equipment and technology that may be found in the workforce to prepare students for working in real-world scenarios.
For example, Rosedale Tech uses actual vehicles for automotive and diesel technician students to work with and a two-story structure that gives students studying electricity a chance to practice commercial and residential wiring techniques.
You should also ask, “What trade schools are near me?” as trade schools work best as an in-person experience rather than online. Only in-person trade schools can offer the hands-on experience needed to excel in the trades. However, if your desired trade school isn’t close by, it might be worth exploring student housing options.
When exploring trade schools, it’s important to find schools that are accredited, have recognized certifications, and employ experienced staff to ensure a degree carries weight when applying for jobs.
Why is accreditation important? Schools that are accredited means that an outside organization (accreditor) has recognized that a school has met specific standards and is qualified to operate.
Rosedale College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career School and Colleges (ACCSC) and is licensed by the Pennsylvania Board of Private Licensed Schools.
Additionally, our automotive and diesel technology programs have met the automotive service excellence standards of the ASE Education Foundation. The instructors of the courses are also ASE certified.
Before starting advanced educational training, it’s important to have an understanding of what you want to accomplish in life personally and professionally.If your education can’t help you achieve these goals, , then the school probably isn’t the right fit.
Trade schools can’t guarantee job placement since they aren’t a job board. However, they should have processes in place that will help network students with employers and set them up to find meaningful employment.
At Rosedale Tech, we believe in action and not just words. We are proud that our efforts in the classroom and our engagement with regional employers helps us to report high job placement rates each year.
Getting outside recommendations about schools from graduates and other affiliates of a school can help provide a clearer picture of what it’s like to attend a school. In addition, checking online ratings can provide an honest review of a trade school, some of their greatest strengths, and some of their weaknesses so that it can help make a decision about whether or not a school is right for you.
Bobby Rahal Automotive Group
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST TRADE SCHOOL PROGRAM
Have you made the decision to attend a trade school, but are unsure about which trade program is best for you? We have five steps you can take to help you make the best choice.
You can start your search by listing what skills and experience you already have. For example, are you detail oriented? Do you have a family member in the trades you shadowed in the past? These can give you valuable foundational knowledge that will help you do better in some programs.
Ask yourself what you enjoy doing. For example, do you like being around cars, or are you fascinated with solving complex engineering challenges? Perhaps you love to travel and want a career that can take you to many new places.
The first two steps will help you to start narrowing down programs. At this point, ask yourself where you see yourself in ten years. This could be a specific location, income level, family goals, or another driving factor. Some careers are more compatible than others with future goals. For example, certain careers offer a better work-life balance, like an HVAC installer that often works a regular weekly schedule, while a CDL driver may spend more time away from home depending on the type of position.
As you complete these steps, talk with people in the industry. First, see what they like most about their jobs and their most significant challenges. Then, ask them for their advice on the best programs based on their personal experience.
The most important step is seeing the trade programs for yourself. Before settling with any school or program, be sure you take the time to visit the school and speak with students and the instructors about the program experience. You might even be able to shadow another student through their classes, like we offer at Rosedale Tech.
OUR TRADE SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Our programs have a student-centric approach built around your needs, so you are fully prepared to enter the workforce. For example, our certified instructors work with small groups of students. In this way, each person gets a chance to receive help and perform hands-on projects with cutting-edge equipment and technology.
Schedules That Offer a Life Balance
Rosedale offers a four-day class schedule that accommodates different types of learners. Our daytime schedule is Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This schedule gives students the flexibility to work while in school if they desire as well as handle other personal responsibilities.
CAREER SERVICES
Our career services are ready to help students throughout their time at school and beyond, whether it be finding part-time or full-time work while in school, preparing to find a career upon graduation, or finding a new job as alumni. The team in the Student Success Center is ready to provide individualized service to help students find meaningful careers. Some of our career services include helping with resume writing, interview preparation, and connecting students with regional employers.
The Student Success Team at Rosedale Tech continually finds opportunities for students to engage with our regional employers. Some engagement opportunities include, but are not limited to:
- Bi-annual career fairs
- Mock interviews
- Employer classroom presentations
- Field trips
We don’t guarantee a job, but we have a high rate of employed graduates – many of whom had received job offers before they graduated.
STUDENT LIFE
When students enroll at Rosedale Tech, they become a member of our family. Our family-oriented atmosphere and skilled staff are continuously highlighted in student surveys. We strive to provide the most supportive environment so that students can focus on their education while also developing meaningful connections. Our diverse student body welcomes individuals of all ages and all walks of life, creating a unique learning environment.
For those students who live outside the Pittsburgh area, , we offer off-campus housing. Schedule a tour to see if you are eligible.
Career Outlook for the Trades
The trades need qualified, skilled workers in different industries, making it an ideal opportunity for you to jump into a top career in your field of choice. While the trades used to be more predominant, many workers shifted to soft-skill jobs after US companies went abroad to fulfill many of their manufacturing needs. Because of this, more workers left trade jobs at a faster rate than the jobs were outsourced, leaving a gaping need in the trade industry for more workers — and a massive opportunity for you.
We also help with your job placement through career fairs, “employment while you study” opportunities, and company partnerships.
Our Facebook and LinkedIn Alumni groups will help you stay connected with instructors and classmates after graduation. This network will be your support throughout your career and can help you find other positions if you choose to change jobs in the future.
Below are the number of jobs in each field in 2020 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Automotive Service Technician: 703,800 jobs
- Automotive Body and Glass Repairer: 173,400 jobs
- Diesel Technician: 275,400 jobs
- Electrical Engineer Technician: 117,00 jobs
- HVAC Mechanic: 380,400 jobs
- Welder: 418,200 jobs
- Industrial technician: 64,100 jobs
- CDL Driver: 1,951,600 jobs
Rosedale’s
FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS
The average cost of a trade school per year is $16,500 total for tuition and supplies. However, tuition often ranges between $3,674 and $15,923, depending on how long the program lasts and what you are studying. In addition, other materials you might need, such as books, raise the cost. At Rosedale Tech, students may be eligible to live in off-campus housing if you need a residence close to the school.
We understand that costs can quickly feel overwhelming when looking at higher education. That’s why we have a simple financial aid process. Our financial aid officers can examine a student’s situation and create a personal plan.
Are you unsure whether you can afford trade school? Our school is eligible for receiving financial aid.
Some of the loans, grants and awards our students are eligible for include:
- Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency Grant
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
- Student Educational Assistance Foundation Grant
- Federal Direct Loan Program
- Federal Direct PLUS Loans
- Veterans Benefits
- Workforce Investment Act
- Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
- Trade Readjustment Allowances
- Pittsburgh Promise
- Various 3rd party scholarships
- Rosedale Technical College Institutional Grants
While we can’t guarantee acceptance of these financial aid options, we have seen most of our students receive some type of financial aid.
Learn More
About Rosedale
What opportunities does Rosedale offer high school students to explore the different trade programs?
Shadow a Student at Rosedale as they attend class for an inside look at how a typical day might play out.
Attend a High School Field Trip to Rosedale Technical college to experience hands-on demonstrations, tours, and presentations. Talk to you high school counselors or instructors and see if there are any upcoming field trips scheduled.
Join Us for an Open House either in person or virtually to explore our programs, meet instructors, see the school, and learn about the financial aid process.