WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT

Workforce Development License and Certification

Certificate Programs

Certificate programs at community colleges are an excellent way to get specialized training in a shorter amount of time than it takes to earn a degree (about one year as opposed to two). Many certificates programs meet professional and government standards. Courses focus on the basic knowledge that a student needs in order to train for an entry-level position in a particular field. Community colleges in Maryland offer certificate programs for a variety of careers including:

Continuing Studies

Another option for training is the continuing studies program offered at the community colleges. Courses in this program are designed with the mature and focused student in mind. Continuing studies courses are shorter in length than certificate programs and usually have fewer prerequisites and admissions requirements. Many are designed to prepare individuals to enter a specific career, earn a certification, or prepare for licensure in a particular profession.

At most community colleges throughout the state, training courses are offered in Business and Management, Child Care, Health Care, Computers, Commercial Drawing, Real Estate and Personal Enrichment.

Continuing studies courses vary among the community colleges. For more information on what's available at the community college that interests you, call the college or an MEOC counselor/specialist.

Vocational/Technical Schools

There are over 125 private career schools in Maryland. Students who are certain about their career choice and want focused training in a short amount of time usually seek these schools. Some of these schools may require English or Mathematics. Many only offer classes related to a specific job, such as Barbering, Cosmetology/Manicurist, Computer-Aided Drafting, Electronics, Mechanics and Truck Driving.

Vocational/technical schools can be quite expensive. Careful research should be done before enrolling. The Student Guide to Higher Education & Financial Aid in Maryland offers the following checklist to help select the right program for you:

Federal and State financial aid may be available.

For a list of Maryland State approved private career schools visit www.mhec.state.md.us

Apprenticeship

If you want to learn a skill and the idea of on the job training appeals to you, consider an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship provides paid training under the supervision of a qualified craftsperson, technician or professional combined with related classroom instruction. Apprenticeship training is open to anyone 16 or older; however, employers may set a higher entry age. Training usually takes two-to-five years.

To become an apprentice you must be assessed and selected by a program sponsor approved by the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council, the registration agency for apprenticeship programs. Training is available in trades such as:

• Carpentry
• Construction
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Sheet Metal
• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
• Sprinkler Fitter
• Insulation

For more information on apprenticeship programs in Maryland contact the Division of Labor and Industry: Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (410) 767-2229.

Military

Enlisting in the military is another way to get training after graduating from high school. Enlisted personnel are assigned training and then a job in a skill or trade that may later be used in civilian life in such fields as:

• Human Service
• Media and Public Affairs
• Health Care
• Engineering, Science and Technical
• Administration
• Vehicle and Machinery Mechanic
• Electronic and Electrical Equipment Repair
• Construction
• Machine Operator and Precision Work
• Transportation and Material Handling