How to Earn a Vocational Training Degree

Students can earn vocation degrees in a variety of ways. Adult learners can take on-site courses at a community college or vocational training center or earn credits with online courses. traditional classroom setting with hands-on components or through online courses. Career experience can translate into college credits through programs at community colleges and four-year universities.

Online Degree Programs

Online degree programs allow non-traditional students -- who may have a full-time job or family commitments that prevent them from taking daytime classes -- to earn a college degree. In addition to two-year associate degree programs, professional diploma and technical certificate courses are also available. Web-based courses typically use video and audio components to instruct students during the learning process, along with hardcover or online textbooks. Online learners communicate with the instructor via email, course bulletin boards and live chats. Courses are student guided, allowing learners to sign into the program and work at will. A deadline for course completion is noted during the registration process.

Community Colleges

Community colleges offer Associates Degree programs, which typically take two years to complete. Students can typically take both on-campus and online courses to earn a degree. Most vocational programs require a hands-on component, lab, practicum or internship as a part of the curriculum. Community colleges often partner with local or regional four year universities so students can transfer credits and degrees earned for a Bachelors Degree. Community colleges also continuing education workshops. Typical degree titles include early childhood education, public safety services, massage therapy, natural resources and hospitality. Financial aid for qualifying students is available.

Vocational Career Centers

Adult vocational career centers provide graduates with professional certification for specific technical careers, and may also prepare students for state testing required for licensure. Students may be able to transfer credits to a community college for a two-year degree. Speak with an academic counselor about the center's transfer policy prior to registration. Common course offerings at vocational centers include automotive, aviation, electrician, plumbing and welding programs.

Life Experience Degrees

Students who have professional certificates, extensive on-the-job skills or some college credit can earn a non-traditional or vocational degree at some four-year colleges and universities. Each institution determines both admission requirements and college credit acceptance, often setting a maximum amount of credits allowed for professional certificates and career experience. After enrollment students take a portfolio course to learn how to document their non-college experience and apply for credit transfers. Speak with a academic counselor prior to registration for insight into how many credits your can hope to earn through a portfolio course. The counselor guides students through the credit accumulation process and helps design a degree that best matches specific professional backgrounds.