Apprenticeship Pathway

Explore Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship Overview

An apprenticeship provides on-the-job paid training and therefore participants usually will not have other employment. Apprenticeships prepare individuals to become skilled in a trade or profession. For example, apprenticeships are most common for Plumbing, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Electrical, Construction, Accounting, Film & Television, Teaching, Energy, Transportation, Telecommunications, etc. Apprenticeships typically combine classroom learning with hands-on work. Apprentices often spend their time shadowing and working closely with a mentor, often completing relevant tasks both independently and under the supervision of their mentor. Those fields that require a certification may also provide structured time for studying and provide practice tests to prepare one for the certification exams. Some apprenticeships may help you pay for classes at a community college or vocational school. Apprenticeships can often take between 2-5 years to complete. Apprenticeships could require you to complete a specific number of hours or require you to prove that you have learned the specific skills needed for the job, or a combination of both. Some apprenticeships may transition into permanent employment. Apprenticeships offer important work experience, insights from individuals working in the industry, and unique networking opportunities with employers, but do not typically offer assistance with the job application process.

Apprenticeship

This short video gives an overview of what this pathway is all about.

Specifics

Cost

No cost, paid opportunity

Typical Format

Mix of Online & In-Person, In-Person Only

Typical Length

2-5 years

Time Commitments

Full-Time

Typical Schedule

Scheduled

Payment Options

Earn while you learn

Possible Outcomes

Skill, credential, and/or networking with potential employers

Financial Aid Options

N/A--Paid Opportunity

Best For You If...

You are

Sure of the exact career you are training for.
Pursuing practical, on-the-job paid training and experience for a specific career any time after completing high school or earning a high school equivalency (such as the GED).
Looking for significant support to find employment.

You are able to

Meet expectations when there are clear and specific responsibilities and deadlines.
Be reliable, teachable, and able to devote some time to homework and studying.
Begin & participate in work & training at any time throughout the year

You like

Attending class or work in person
Learning a concept and then completing problem sets
Reading on your own and then completing an online assessment
Skill assessments
Practicing a skill hands-on
Working on a team

Enrollment Information

Apprenticeships typically offer various enrollment options throughout the year depending on the apprenticeship provider. The application process for an apprenticeship can be much like an application for a job or college. Each apprenticeship program has their own requirements and is largely dependent on the industry. Once you find an apprenticeship program near you, look at their website or contact the apprenticeship provider to find the specific requirements and application process.

Application Type

Selective Application

Entry Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED or HiSET)

Academic Record

High School GPA Does Not Impact Enrollment

Compare Pathways

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Compare Pathways

Learn how this pathway compares with the other pathways you could take to reach the career of your dreams.

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