Four-Year Colleges and Universities: Offer bachelor’s degrees in a wide range of subjects.
Community Colleges: Offer associate degrees and certificates with transfer pathways to four-year colleges.
Trade and Technical Schools: Provide hands-on training for specific careers (Examples: auto repair, plumbing, cosmetology, HVAC).
Certificate Programs: Short-term programs focused on developing specific skills for immediate entry into the workforce.
Apprenticeships: Paid, hands-on training programs that combine work experience with classroom instruction, often in skilled trades.
Workforce / Full-Time Employment
Service Programs (e.g., AmeriCorps): Opportunities to engage in community service, gain work experience, and often earn education benefits.
Gap Year: Taking a year to work, travel, volunteer, or explore interests before continuing education or entering the workforce.

Many students end up combining a few of these paths throughout their journey.