Let's Begin!
What email address is best to use when applying for colleges/trade schools?
A personal email address. Appropriately named is best!
Do trade schools have job-specific educational format?
Yes! All classes are designed to support specific job outcomes.
Do traditional college degree courses have job-specific educational format?
No. Colleges require a variety of courses for degrees, which are often broader than the scope of a specific job.
Do you need to register for DSPS services every semester?
Yes. Students need to register every semester to continue to receive services.
Do adult schools charge out-of-state fees?
No. Unlike colleges, adult schools have only one fee structure. All students (from other states or countries alike) pay the same fees.
How do I know what jobs might pay?
Search jobs online. Not only will you find up-to-date pay information, it will also show qualifications required.
Do trade schools have a lower cost of tuition than traditional colleges?
Yes. Although private schools may cost more, and don't always accept financial aid.
Are Career Technical Education (CTE) certificates offered at community colleges?
Yes. Community colleges offer certificates, associate degrees, and transfer programs.
Is an Ed Plan a class schedule?
No. An Ed Plan only shows the classes you need. You still need to register for those class days/times, which will create your class schedule.
Are apprenticeships paid?
Yes. Apprenticeships can either be part or full time. Most pay 40-50% of what skilled workers earn, and typically take 1-6 years to complete.
How do I tour a school?
Go to the school's website and schedule accordingly. Some schools have virtual tours available online.
Are trade school programs typically faster than traditional college programs?
Yes. Certificates often require fewer courses than traditional degrees, and are therefore faster to complete. Although there are exceptions.
Can some apprenticeships earn college credits?
Yes. Apprenticeships are often union jobs that combine classroom learning with on-the-job training. Some apprenticeships do earn college credits.
Do DSPS counselors need a recent copy of your IEP and Psychoeducational Report?
Yes. IEP and Psychoeducational Reports are an important part of eligibility and accommodations.
Do private schools typically cost more than public schools?
Yes. And funding sources such as the Department of Rehabilitation only pay for public programs because they are more economical.
Where's a good place in high school to research colleges/trade schools/careers?
College and Career Center
Do trade schools teach skill-based learning to match current labor markets?
Yes. Trade school classes are very focused on specific job outcomes.
Do college degrees guarantee that you will make more money than trade school certificates?
No. Many factors contribute to earnings yielded, such as location, job, experience, etc.
Are DSPS students eligible for priority registration?
Yes!
What GPA is needed to qualify for a second year of California College Promise Grant funding?
2.0 GPA
What's a good website to research careers?
There are lots of websites for career research online! cacareerzone.org and careeronestop.org are a great place to start!
What are some examples of trade school programs?
There are a variety of certificates available at trade schools, such as: cosmetology, automotive, culinary arts, construction, veterinary technician, design, and many more!
What are some examples of college programs?
Degrees are typically what is pursued at the college level. Examples may include: Associate of Art or Science degrees, Bachelor of Art or Science degrees, Master's degrees, Doctoral degrees, etc.
Are there accommodations available for DSPS students who qualify?
Yes!
Can the Department of Rehabilitation provide additional funding for education?
Yes. Funding needs to be requested by students in advance. Only public programs qualify for funding.