Online education has exploded in recent years, but when it comes to trade schools, do employers value online trade school graduates as traditional in-person graduates? It’s a legitimate concern, but generally, yes. In fact, over 80% of employers now consider online credentials during hiring decisions. But the big question is: will they value yours?
Today, we’re going to explore just that: Do employers value online trade school graduates? What factors influence their perceptions?
We will discuss accreditation’s importance and what employers think when they see that an applicant has an online certification. We’ll also discuss the key factors that can improve your chances, even if you’re up against skepticism about online learning.
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Understanding Online Trade School Accreditation
Do employers value online trade school graduates? Yes, but only if the program or vocational and trade schools have received proper accreditation.
Accreditation means that an educational institution or program has been reviewed. These bodies assess the program’s quality, curriculum, and whether it meets industry standards. For you, as a graduate, attending accredited online trade school programs is very important. It signals that your education is credible, legitimate, and up to par with the latest industry trends.
Accreditation ensures that you’ve been trained properly, that the program follows a certain set of standards, and that it’s not just a “diploma mill” handing out certificates with little substance.
Today, regional and national accreditation are the two primary types:
- Regional accreditation is the gold standard. However, this accreditation is often associated with universities and colleges offering degree programs.
- National accreditation is typically given to more specialized institutions, including trade schools. Accreditation doesn’t guarantee a job, but it does give you a much better shot at being taken seriously.
Here are a few tips on evaluating online vocational training credibility and accreditation:
- Verify the Accrediting Body. Make sure the school is accredited by a recognized agency, such as ACCSC or COE.
- Research Reviews. Look for student feedback about the program’s quality and reputation.
- Check Job Placement Support. Good programs offer career services and job placement help.
- Ensure State Authorization. Some states require schools to be authorized to operate there.
Employer Perception of Online Trade School Graduates
Employer perception of online trade degrees will greatly vary from industry to industry.
Online degrees and certifications are generally well-accepted in fields like tech and digital marketing. These industries tend to focus more on skills than on the traditional classroom experience. In fact, employers often care more about your hands-on experience and a strong portfolio than where or how you got your degree.
On the other hand, in more traditional trades like plumbing, electricity, or construction, employers might be a bit more hesitant about online education. They often prefer candidates who’ve had in-person, hands-on training. An accredited online program can teach you the necessary skills. Yet, many employers in these fields still lean towards apprenticeships or local vocational schools.
In industries like healthcare and education, there are specific requirements for in-person training, clinical hours, or internships. Online learning is becoming more common in these fields. Yet, employers usually value programs that include real-world experience alongside online coursework.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Tech & IT: Online degrees and certifications are increasingly respected.
- Skilled Trades (e.g., plumbing, HVAC): Hands-on experience is key, but online training can still add value.
- Healthcare & Education: Employers often want a mix of online learning and real-world experience.
Don’t worry—things are changing for the better! A rising number of employers now accept online degrees, especially if they’re from reputable, accredited schools. In fact, a survey by the Learning House found that 70% of employers now see online degrees as just as credible as in-person ones, as long as they come from an accredited institution. This shows that attitudes toward online learning are shifting.
Whether an online degree is valued depends on the industry and the employer. Researching your field to understand how online education is viewed is important. Make sure the program you choose fits the expectations of the industry you’re aiming to work in.
Benefits of Accredited Online Trade School Graduates
There are several benefits of online trade school education:
Job Readiness
Trade schools are all about getting you ready for the job market. Unlike traditional academic programs that focus more on theory, trade schools teach you practical, hands-on skills employers need. As long as you do your research on online trade school accreditation, the training you get will align with what employers are looking for.
Certifications That Matter
Certifications are a big deal. Many online trade school programs offer industry-recognized certifications that employers really value. These credentials show you have the skills needed for the job; sometimes, they’re even required. For example, certifications like CompTIA for IT support or AAPC for medical coding are often a must.
In some cases, career success after trade school can be much faster. Certifications prove you meet the specific standards set by industry experts.
Flexibility and Accessibility
One of the best things about online trade schools is their flexibility. If you’re working full-time, raising a family, or just want to learn at your own pace, online trade schools let you do that. You can study while still working, avoid commuting, and save money on relocation costs. This is especially helpful if you don’t live near a physical school or university.
Diverse Career Pathways
When most people think of trade schools, they picture blue-collar jobs like construction or mechanics. But trade schools today offer training in all kinds of industries. You can find programs in
- Healthcare:
- Medical coding
- Dental assisting
- Phlebotomy
- Medical billing
- Pharmacy technician
- IT:
- Cybersecurity
- Web development
- Network administration
- Software development
- IT support
- Business:
- Accounting
- Project management
- Human resources
- Marketing
- Business administration
- Creative Fields:
- Graphic design
- Digital marketing
- Video editing
- Animation
- Skilled Trades:
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Logistics and Supply Chain:
- Logistics management
- Supply chain coordination
- Warehouse management
- Construction Management:
- Construction project management
- Site management
- Building inspection
AND MANY MORE! Whatever your interests, there’s likely a trade school program for them—and with online options, these opportunities are now accessible to students across the country (and even globally).
Challenges and Opportunities for Online Trade School Graduates
One of the biggest challenges in graduating from an online trade school is how employers view online education. Some employers may still doubt online credentials, particularly in fields where physical skills are a central component. Furthermore, certain online programs may not provide as much hands-on experience as traditional in-person training. This can make the competition more difficult, especially in industries where practical experience is essential.
However, there are ways to overcome these challenges. One effective strategy is supplementing online education with internships, apprenticeships, or additional certifications.
You should look for online programs collaborating with employers or offering specialized workshops. By helping you gain hands-on experience, trade programs are bridging the gap between theoretical and practical know-how.
Additionally, focusing on high-demand industries, such as technology and healthcare, can provide further opportunities. These sectors have a growing need for skilled professionals. With the right certifications and a commitment to gaining real-world experience, you can stand out in any trade school graduate hiring trends.
How to Improve Employer Perception of Online Trade School Credentials
There are several ways you can improve how employers view your online trade school credentials:
Focus on accreditation.
The first step is to make sure you’ve completed a program accredited by a recognized agency. Employers will base their decisions on this foundation.
Highlight skills and certifications.
When applying for jobs, emphasize the skills and certifications you gained during your training. These are often more important than where you went to school, so make them stand out on your resume and in interviews.
Gain hands-on experience.
Try to gain hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or workshops where possible. Many employers will overlook online training if you can show them you’ve mastered practical skills.
Communicate your value.
When interviewing, highlight the value of your training. Explain how the skills and certifications you’ve earned are directly applicable to the job. Be ready to showcase your work ethic, adaptability, and eagerness to learn.
Conclusion
Do employers value online trade school graduates? Yes!
While some employers may still have reservations about online trade school graduates, the tides are turning. As online education becomes more mainstream, especially when it’s accredited, employers are recognizing its value. Graduates of accredited online trade schools are well-equipped for job readiness, have relevant certifications, and can access flexible career paths in a variety of industries.
Do your research, choose the right program, focus on building skills employers seek, and evaluate online trade school job placement rates before enrolling in a program. You’ve got what it takes to succeed—just show employers why your online credentials matter!