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CTE vs College Degrees : Why Today’s Students Are Choosing CTE Over College Degrees

CTE vs College Degrees: Why Today's Students Are Choosing CTE Over College Degrees

In the landscape of education, a significant shift is underway. 

As the cost of traditional college degrees spirals out of reach for many, a growing number of young people are turning to Career and Technical Education. Among these, trade skills such as carpentry and construction are seeing a resurgence in interest. This trend is not a fleeting change but a movement towards practical, hands-on learning. CTE presents a direct path to employment, potentially high incomes, and, importantly, freedom from the debt associated with college education.

Cost of College Tuition

The rising cost of college tuition is a well-documented phenomenon. With figures reaching daunting heights, it leaves many prospective students questioning the value of a four-year degree. Coupled with student loans, which can linger long into one’s career, the financial implications of college are prompting a reassessment of its worth. In contrast, CTE programs offer a more affordable education pathway. Often, CTE can lead to immediate job opportunities upon graduation. This practical approach is increasingly appealing in today’s economy, where skilled tradespeople are in high demand.

How to become a carpenter

Competitive Earnings

The allure of earning a good living shortly after high school is strong. Trades like carpentry and construction not only offer the satisfaction of impactful work but also the potential for lucrative careers. This economic reality is reshaping perceptions among young people, many of whom now view the pursuit of trade skills as a smarter investment in their future.

Diverse Pathways

The changing tide reflects a broader questioning of the traditional college degree’s value. With success stories from the trades becoming more common, the narrative that a four-year degree is the only path to a prosperous career is losing its grip. Young individuals are increasingly seeking alternatives that align more closely with their personal and financial goals.

A carpentry teacher and student using the VIVED Carpentry course on a tablet

VIVED Carpentry

For those intrigued by the possibilities of a career in carpentry or construction, VIVED offers an innovative solution. Our comprehensive carpentry course is meticulously designed to meet industry standards, including NOCTI key skills, ensuring that students receive a top-tier education in this field. Crafted by experts with deep knowledge and experience in carpentry and construction, our course leverages cutting-edge 3D models, engaging videos, informative text, and interactive quizzes to provide a rich, immersive learning experience. With VIVED, students can master the fundamentals of carpentry at home or remotely, maximizing their lab time for hands-on practice.

Conclusion: Why Today's Students Are Choosing CTE Over College Degrees

In conclusion, as the educational landscape evolves, so too do the opportunities for young people to carve out fulfilling, prosperous careers with or without college degrees. Through CTE programs and resources like VIVED’s carpentry course, the future of education is becoming more accessible, practical, and aligned with the realities of today’s job market.

 At VIVED Learning, we empower students and teachers with innovative, interactive STEM resources. Our platform contains over 1000+ fully dissectible 3D models, across STEM subjects such as Anatomy, Chemistry, Engineering, Biology and more.

Book a call with our expert team today to learn how VIVED can boost your students engagement and learning outcomes!

Like this blog? Check out our blogs on the best STEAM learning resources and study apps!

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VIVED Interactive 3D Learning

Vived Learning partners with top educators, schools, and industry professionals to deliver cutting-edge carpentry training. Our interactive 3D course is used by thousands of students and institutions nationwide, ensuring that learners receive high-quality, real-world skills that align with industry standards. Whether you’re an individual looking to start a career or an educator seeking engaging, hands-on training for your students, Vived Learning provides a proven, trusted solution for carpentry education.

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VIVED Learning offers a range of interactive 3D learning courses designed to enhance education in various fields.

  • VIVED Anatomy: Explore a fully dissectible 3D model of the human body, allowing students to delve into anatomical structures layer by layer.

  • VIVED Science: Engage with interactive 3D models across subjects such as Astronomy, Biology, Botany, Earth Science, and more, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.

  • VIVED Chemistry: Visualize chemical reactions and explore the periodic table through immersive 3D simulations, bringing abstract chemistry concepts to life.

  • VIVED Carpentry: Learn essential carpentry skills through interactive 3D training, covering blueprint reading, framing, construction techniques, and safety protocols—perfect for beginners and vocational training programs.

Each course is designed to provide an immersive learning experience, combining traditional educational principles with cutting-edge digital tools to prepare students for success in their respective fields.

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