The road to a career can be a long and winding highway with lots of dead ends and wrong turns. Perhaps you've hit some of these occupational detours--unnecessary coursework, scattered employment opportunities, and wandering around the Internet, looking for just the right profession. But with a career college, you can be on the fast track to rewarding vocation in a respected field. "I received training in exactly what employers are looking for," said one vocational school student. "I didn't waste time taking classes that you don't really need for the job market."

If you're thinking about earning a certificate from a career college that trains you for a specific niche, such as health care support staff positions--pharmacy technician, medical assistant, or health claims examiner/medical biller, and other challenging positions--it's important to ask questions before enrolling. You'll want to feel confident about your decision before embarking on your studies. According to educational experts, here are some criteria to guide you as you evaluate the pros and cons of a career college:

1. INTERESTS AND GOALS:

• What kind of career and technical training do you want to receive? If you're interested in medical support careers, you'll want to consider a career college that specializes in that type of preparation. Look for an established college with a good reputation.

• Will the education you receive be adequate training for your job? If you're interested in being a pharmacy technician, for example, you will want to gain technical knowledge and practical skills such as dosage calculations, drug distribution systems, and product recognition.

2. CHOOSING A SCHOOL:

• Is the school fully accredited and will you receive a certificate of completion? An accredited school means that the institution's programs and policies have been reviewed and meet the criteria set by an outside agency. This ensures that you'll receive a quality education with high standards. Your certificate of completion will be recognized and valued by potential employers.

• Does the school have convenient locations?

Look for a career college that has campuses in different counties and is accessible by public transportation as well as freeways. Check to make sure parking is available.

• Are the facilities clean and up-to-date?

Modern classrooms and labs with advanced equipment mean that you'll have the tools you'll need to learn up-to-date technology and clinical skills.

• What are the requirements for admission?

Typically, applicants are required to complete an application form and participate in a personal interview with admissions representatives, as well as visit the campus. If you need a GED, some schools will pay for you to take this high-school equivalency test if you have been approved for testing by the school administration. If you don't have a high school diploma or GED, some programs only require that you pass a nationally recognized ability-to-benefit test.

3. FINANCIAL AID:

• How will you pay for your training or program?

Career colleges are very affordable, and the financial aid office can help qualifying students find the funds they need. You'll also have several options for tuition payment. Grants and low-interest loans can help those with financial needs.

4. OTHER SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:

• Does the career college offer job placement assistance?

You'll want to rely on the help of a career services department to help you find employment after you graduate. For both students and alumni, this can include interviewing techniques and resume preparation; job leads and networking workshops; and time management planning. You'll be well on your way to a rewarding and successful career in the health support professions.

To request free information about healthcare career training programs offered in south California, visit our website.

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Cindy Atoji is a freelance writer who specializes in career education articles and healthcare opportunities.