What Is Postsecondary Education?
Postsecondary education is the term used to describe any education obtained after high school. There are many different types of schools and training facilities that provide postsecondary education, including universities, community colleges, and vocational schools.
You've probably heard the term 'postsecondary education' but may not know what, exactly, it means. How is postsecondary education defined?
Postsecondary education is any type of education or training program you complete after high school or secondary school. This may include any degree program, certificate program, individual college course, or vocational training you pursue.
Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Postsecondary Education?
Postsecondary education is schooling that you complete after getting your high school diploma or GED. Students typically complete these training programs for the purpose of following a specific job or career path.
Other students complete certain postsecondary programs because they are required to complete more advanced degrees. For example, students hoping to get a master's or doctoral degree must first complete a bachelor's degree.
The education level you pursue will most likely depend on your career goals, as different types of careers may require vastly different types of training. The purpose of postsecondary schools is to help students learn more about the world, gain marketable skills, and prepare for various jobs.
Types of Postsecondary Education
There are many different types of postsecondary educational institutions. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common types and the education they offer.
Community Colleges
Community colleges, also known as junior colleges, typically provide associate degrees and certificate programs. Associate degrees often transfer to four-year colleges and universities, allowing students to complete a higher degree if desired.
Colleges and Universities
Colleges and universities typically provide bachelor's degrees and certificates. Depending on the institution, associate, master's, doctoral, and specialist degrees may also be available. Students often have the option to complete degrees in many different fields of study.
Trade and Technical schools
Trade and technical schools, also called vocational schools, provide highly specialized training in specific career paths. These training programs are usually shorter than degree programs, and they often involve a lot more hands-on training than classroom education.
What Is the Purpose of Postsecondary Education?
The primary purpose of postsecondary education is to prepare students for various career paths.
Some types of postsecondary degrees and programs lead to specific careers; for example, someone who gets a degree in nursing will likely become a nurse, and someone who pursues an HVAC degree or certification will probably work as an HVAC technician.
Other programs prepare students for a wide variety of careers; for example, someone who pursues a liberal arts degree will develop a wide variety of soft skills that will help them pursue jobs in almost any industry.
Finally, some postsecondary programs prepare students for other postsecondary programs. Bachelor's degrees commonly prepare students to pursue a master's degree, and master's degrees are often prerequisites for students hoping to get a doctoral degree.
Regardless of the postsecondary program you choose, the program will be designed to help you build skills that will prepare you to succeed in the workforce or in other educational programs.
Benefits of Receiving a Postsecondary Education
Completing higher education at a postsecondary school has many benefits. Some common ones include:
More Career Opportunities
Completing postsecondary education will either prepare you for a specialized career or give you the education you need to pursue a variety of careers. Postsecondary education may also improve your chances of landing any job you apply for, as those with a degree or certificate are generally seen as more desirable job candidates in every field.
Higher Earning Potential
Those who complete a postsecondary education program are more likely to earn more than those with only a high school diploma or GED. Furthering your education makes you more qualified for higher-paying jobs, giving you the potential to earn more money throughout your career.
Improved Skills and Confidence
Postsecondary education will teach you new skills and help you refine your existing skills, helping you gain confidence along the way. This will come in handy in whatever career you choose to pursue.