Online Vocational Training Programs
If you are looking for a great option to start your career in less time than it takes to complete a traditional degree, then an online vocational training program may be the perfect choice to jump start your future!
The focus of online vocational training programs is to help you learn the necessary skills that can be applied towards your specific occupation. This makes these programs an ideal choice for those who wish to pursue well-paying, skilled trades without a formal college education.
Types of Online Vocational Programs
There are many different forms of online vocational programs available in a variety of careers ranging from mechanics to veterinary assistant and electronics technician to certified wedding planner. Whether you want to work in the field of computing, healthcare, or somewhere in between, most online vocational programs can be completed at an accelerated pace allowing you to begin your new career quickly!
Online Vocational Training Programs:
- Computer Support Training
- PC Repair
- Electronics Technician
- Dental Assistant or Medical Assistant
- Physical Therapy Aide
- Pharmacy Technician
- Automotive Mechanics and Small Engine Repair
- Medical Billing and Coding
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Drafting with AutoCAD
- Veterinary Assistant
- Home Inspector
- Home Remodeling & Repair
- Fire Science
- HVAC
- Wedding Planner
- Caterer
- Floral Design
- Interior Decorator
- Jewelry Design & Repair
- Web Page Designer
- Gunsmith
- Certified Personal Trainer
- Freelance Writer
- Legal Transcriptionist
- Wildlife / Forestry Conservation
Several key factors set apart online vocational programs from traditional online degrees, and the biggest difference lies in the material that you will be learning. While a standard associate’s or bachelor’s degree program requires you to take several “general” courses as a foundation of your education, vocational programs are designed around the specific skills that you will need for on-the-job work.
If you learn best with skill-focused learning and don’t want to waste any time getting started in your career, then an online vocational training program may be the perfect fit for your busy life! Many reputable trade schools now offer online vocational programs that cater to adult students balancing a career and family obligations. Through the power of technology, you will be able to complete your program at a pace that suits your schedule while still gaining the knowledge you need to advance in your chosen field.
There are several online vocational training programs now available, and we have included some of our favorites in the information below.
Dental Assistant and Medical Assistant
When training to be a medical or dental assistant, you will be learning the basics of providing support for licensed healthcare professionals or dentists.
Online Medical and Dental Assistant Programs:
- Medical Assistant
- Dental Assistant
Through the course of this training program you will be taught several essential skills that include:
- Procedure assistance
- Laboratory tasks
- Emergency care and CPR training
- Medical law, billing, and insurance
- Fundamentals of clinic management
After you have finished this online vocational training program, you will likely be able to find employment in a variety of settings that include primary care clinics, specialized doctor’s offices, hospitals, and private medical or dental practices.
Physical Therapy Aide
Physical therapists play an important role in helping individuals with physical ailments or injuries achieve greater strength and independence in their lives. When entering into an online vocational training program to become a physical therapy aide, you will learn several important skills to assist physical and occupational therapists.
Online Physical Therapy Aide Programs:
- Physical Therapy Aide
- Occupational Therapy Aide
Typical skills acquired include:
- Basic knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy
- Understanding of common physical disorders
- Therapeutic exercises for strength and mobility
- Professional communication skills
In addition to the commonly used exercises that you will be performing with patients, your training may also cover additional treatment techniques including cryotherapy and deep heating.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in assisting licensed pharmacists in filling and distributing prescription medication.
Online Pharmacy Technician Program:
- Pharmacy Technician
The job responsibilities of a pharmacy technician include:
- Routine clerical work within the pharmacy setting
- Updating customer records
- Dispensing and filling prescriptions
- Working with the pharmacist to answer customer questions
The convenience of online training may allow you complete your pharmacy technician program at a faster pace than traditional schooling. Throughout your course of study, you can also expect to learn basic medical terminology and theory in order to best prepare you for working on the job.
Medical Billing and Coding
Online vocational training in medical billing and coding is a popular program choice that may even allow you the flexibility to work from home in your future career!
Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs:
- Medical Billing and Coding
You will be learning several skills within this online program to best prepare you for the job environment, and your courses may include the following:
- Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced ICD-10 coding courses
- Online simulations and virtual labs
- Record management courses
- Training in billing for clinics, doctor’s offices, and private services
A high quality online vocational program in medical billing and coding will help prepare you to take several certification examinations to help bolster your resume, including the CPC, CCA, and CBCS credential exams.
Electronics Technician
The field of electronics continues to grow exponentially due to the increased use of technology across all residential and commercial factors.
Online Electronics Technician Programs:
- Electronics Technician
- Basic Electronics
- Residential Electrician
The courses that you can expect to be covered throughout the course of your online electronics training program include:
- Basic electronic procedures
- Integrated circuit techniques
- Linear and digital technology
There are many paths that you can take once you have completed your online training program, and you may find a job within the sub-fields of installation, repair, maintenance, or the sale of high-end electronic equipment.
Automotive Mechanics & Small Engine Repair
One of the more traditional vocational training programs involves automotive and small engine repair.
Online Mechanic and Small Engineer Repair Programs:
- Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance
- Motorcycle Repair Technician
- Small Engine Repair
- Appliance Repair
This in-demand career path is unique in that it requires training across a variety of sub-fields, and there are many additional certifications that you can take to increase your expertise. A few of the topics you can expect to cover in your training include:
A few of the topics you can expect to cover in your training include:
- Automatic and manual transmissions
- Suspension and steering
- Diagnostics
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Engine performance and repair
If you are passionate about the automotive industry and have a mechanically-inclined mind, then completing an online vocational training program in automotive repair is an excellent starting point for a diverse career.
Carpenter
Online vocational training in the field of carpentry does more than just teach you how to frame and build projects out of lumber.
Online Carpentry and Furniture Programs:
- Carpenter
- Furniture & Cabinet Maker
You will also learn a variety of specialized skills to help you in the field, including:
- Blueprint reading
- Site preparation
- Understanding of various building materials and fasteners
- Proper usage of hand and power tools
Additionally, reputable online vocational training programs will also cover building layouts and codes to help you build your professional career.
Plumbing
Plumbers do more than unclog drains, they are also highly trained professionals that have mastered the ins and outs of a building’s essential piping systems.
Online Plumbing Programs:
- Plumber
During your online vocational training, you can expect to learn the following skills unique to the trade:
- Assembly, installation, and testing of plumbing systems
- Maintenance of plumbing systems
- Installation and troubleshooting for a variety of appliances
- Building codes for piping and plumbing
The field of plumbing is growing at a much faster rate than the average across all occupations, and graduates of the program may find work in a variety of settings that include residential plumbing, plant and water treatment centers, and entrepreneurship.
Drafting with AutoCAD
AutoCAD is an essential software tool used in a variety of professional industries, including engineering, automotive, construction, and governmental occupations.
Online Drafting Programs:
- Drafting with AutoCAD
When completing your training in AutoCAD drafting, you will learn the following aspects of the program:
- AutoCAD commands and drafting equipment
- Dimensioning
- Geometric construction and tolerancing
- Electronic schematic drafting through AutoCAD
In addition to the AutoCAD specific skills that you will be learning, you can also expect your training program to cover the basic sketching techniques and mathematical skills necessary to effectively use the program.
Computer Training & Microsoft Office Training
Computer-based industries are continually expanding due to the technological advances within business and society.
Online Computer Training (and related fields):
- Computer Support Technician
- PC Maintenance and Repair
- Web Page Designer
- Microsoft Office
Having strong computer training is a highly desirable job skill across a variety of occupational fields. By pursuing an online vocational training program in computer training, you have the chance to open up the door to a variety of educational and career opportunities in the future.
Caterer
Do you love cooking but need the flexibility of online schooling in order to master your trade? Then an online vocational training program in catering is an excellent choice to bring out your natural culinary talent.
Online Caterer Program:
- Caterer
There are several skills that you can master through this virtual program, including:
- Kitchen techniques
- Catering preparations
- Food styles
- Training in culinary professionalism
- Basics of baking and pastry-making
In addition, you can also expect your online training to cover the basics of starting your own culinary business endeavor!
Floral Design
If you have an eye for creativity and aesthetics, then floral design may be the perfect choice for a unique and interesting career.
Online Floral Design Program:
- Floral Design
The courses covered through this vocational training program may include:
- Principals and elements of design
- Special occasion floral arrangements
- Business management
- Basics of floral materials
There are several career paths that you can explore once completing your training in floral design, from working for a flower shop or event planner to managing you own floral business.
Veterinary Assistant
If you love animals but don’t want to commit to the lengthy time frame of veterinary school, then working towards certification as a veterinary assistant is a great option to pursue your passion.
Online Veterinary Assistant (and related) Programs:
- Veterinary Assistant
- Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor
Students in this training program will learn several essential skills to assist veterinarians, including:
- First aid
- Post-surgical care
- Basic clinic hygiene and instrument sterilization
- Crisis management and compassionate care
To be successful as a veterinary technician, you must possess a strong attention to detail and deep compassion for animals. Having strong communication skills is also necessary when working with pet owners that may be experiencing illness or trauma with their family pet.
Home Inspectors
Home inspectors play an essential role in the real estate market, and they are responsible for helping potential home buyers identify structural problems before purchasing a property.
Online Home Inspector Program:
- Home Inspector
Training in home inspection focuses on the following topics:
- Inspection standards
- Structural design
- Exterior and interior inspections
- Electrical and mechanical structure
Those who work in home inspection must also possess strong written and oral communication skills to work with clients and develop detailed reports of their property findings.
Fire Science
Online vocational training in Fire Science contains specialized courses that teach students the basics of fire safety, inspection, and firefighting skills.
Online Fire Science Programs:
- Associate’s in Fire Science
- Bachelor’s in Fire Science
A few of the essential skills that you will learn throughout the course of this program include:
- Interagency coordination for fire prevention
- Life-safety education
- Arson investigation
- Successful fire incident command
While some students may complete this program to advance their skills for a career in firefighting, you can also find career path opportunities in fire and safety management and inspection.
HVAC
As an HVAC and Refrigeration technician, you will be able to efficiently and safely service a variety of home appliances and heating or cooling units.
Online HVAC Program:
- HVACR Technician
Over the course of the several month training, you will take courses that include:
- Refrigeration and electrical systems
- Fundamentals of HVACR
- HVACR design and installation
- Commercial unit maintenance
After successful completion of the program, you will be ready to sit for the EPA certification exam in order to begin working in the HVACR field.
Certified Wedding Planner
If you have a knack for organization and eye for detail, then you may be able to build a profitable career out of planning weddings!
Online Wedding Planner Program:
- Wedding Planner
As you begin your online vocational training to become a certified wedding planner, you can expect to take the following courses:
- Wedding etiquette
- Multimedia marketing
- Basics of home-based businesses
- Organization and communication courses
To become a certified wedding planner, you will need to pass the ABC’s Professional Wedding Planner Certification Exam at the end of your training program.
Comparing Online Vocational Training Programs
Choosing the right online vocational training program is vital to ensuring your success within your chosen field. Most states have specific qualifications that must be met when working within a skilled trade, and it is always a good idea to look into your state’s requirements before committing to an educational program.
There are several other factors that are important to research when choosing an online school that best suits your needs, including:
- Accreditation to ensure that your program meets or exceeds the standards of quality for training within the industry.
- Student to Faculty Ratio is an important aspect to consider when choosing a program that will provide you with the individualized educational experience that you need to succeed.
- Student Services and Advising Programs are available at many reputable schools to support their virtual students with the services they need to successfully complete their program.
Regardless of the trade you are interested in pursuing, it is important to check into the reputation of the institution and faculty that you will be working with during your program. By taking the extra steps now in researching online vocational trade schools, you may be able to save yourself a great deal of time and hassle in the future!
Online Vocational Career Outlook and Salary Information
The career outlook and average annual salary of skilled workers vary widely based on the specific trade in which they are employed. It is always a good idea to check reputable sources, such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), for specific occupational information on the career path that interests you.
ZipRecruiter states that skilled laborers with vocational certificates can expect to earn anywhere from a little over $21,500 to as much as $43,500 annually. More specifically, the BLS reports that careers related to maintenance, repair, and installation are expected to earn a median wage of $46,630 and experience an occupational growth of 3 percent between 2019 and 2029.
Additionally, jobs for those with office support skills, such as auditing clerks, have an annual median wage of $41,230, while those related to automotive are around $42,090 and electrical know-how are paid about $59,080 annually, based on the BLS data.
If you are interested in pursuing an online vocational training program for a career as a medical assistant, dental assistant, or pharmacy technician, you can expect to see an average salary from $33,000-$40,000 per year.
Working towards a certification through online vocational schooling is an excellent choice for many students ready to enter directly into the workforce. Not only can you save time and money in your educational journey, you are also given the opportunity to learn the specific skills necessary for you to advance within your chosen field.
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