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Technical / Trades of Success -

Technical / Trades Defined

What is a "Certificate Program"?

Definition	Program designed for individuals to learn the skills necessary to be successful in a specific occupation
Requirements	Typically, the TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) is required; some programs require a high school diploma or GED (Graduate Equivalency Diploma)
Length of Program	Varied – generally, between one year (4 quarters) and two years
Cost	Varied – however, financial assistance is available
Location	Charlotte County Vocational Technical Center Lee County High Tech Center - North Lee County High Tech Center - Central Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology (Collier County) Edison State College Florida Gulf Coast University (limited) Hodges University (limited)
Outcome	Earning a certificate in a specific program offers diverse career possibilities and future potential earnings ranging from $14,000 to $45,000+
Check the chart for some sample programs.

Start thinking about the possibilities!

Facts, Facts...and nothing but the facts

A certificate is a benchmark for assuring that a graduate has the qualifications required for a given occupation.
Certification is not required (as opposed to State Licensure, which is required and identifies who can and cannot practice in a specific field)
Earnings: studies show that for each year of education beyond high school, earnings increase in the 5-15% range; dependent on the certificate, employees often earn more than their peers with 2-year degrees
Employment: professional specialty and service occupations (requiring Associate Degrees or certificates) are targeted as the fastest growing occupations and offer the most employment opportunities

View matrix chart to see complete listing of programs available within region.

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