Step 2: Look at Your Education Options

Here are education options for you to think about. You can ask at a library about local options. You can also talk about your options with a career coach.

Education Options	Description
Adult Basic Education	Adult Basic Education classes are free. They help people who are 16 and older and who are not in school. Students can improve their basic skills such as reading, math, listening, and speaking. Some classes help prepare people for better jobs or for getting ready for more education.
Apprenticeship Programs	An apprenticeship program is a training plan based on employers’ needs. It helps potential employees learn the skills of an occupation or trade. Students learn the standard skills in a classroom. Also, they learn on the job and sometimes get paid. Sometimes they are supported by trade or labor groups.
Certifications	Certifications are tests that measure your work knowledge. Some employers like hiring people with these skills. Interested students should ask if their school will prepare them for certifications. Many certifications require a degree. Here is a list of certifications. www.iseek.org/education/educationSearch#tab-search-certs
Degrees	A degree is given by a college or university. It means that you completed a course of study. An associate’s degree usually lasts 2 years or less. A bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 or more years. You may need to take classes to get ready for college. Here is short-term training in Minnesota that lasts less than two years: www.iseek.org/education/educationSearch#tab-search-sttx Here is Minnesota training that is two years or more: www.iseek.org/education/educationSearch#tab-search-programs You can find training programs in other states here: www.careerinfonet.org/edutraining
Licenses	Licenses are the required knowledge and skills for some jobs. Licenses often vary by state. It is against the law to work in these jobs without a license. These workers need to keep going to school to keep up their license. Interested students should ask if a school will prepare them for a license. Find which careers are licensed in Minnesota.
Online Learning	Online learning is a great option for many students. You learn by doing. To learn, you read, write and perform other activities. You can take one course. Or you can earn a certificate or a degree. For the right students, online learning makes it easier to go to school.
U.S. Military	The military offers hundreds of jobs to help you get skills and meet your goals.