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WHAT ARE PRIVATE CAREER COLLEGES AND INSTITUTES REALLY LIKE?

Private career colleges are like people--each is unique. Yet, some generalizations can be made.

1. Private career colleges often specialize in several training areas.

2. Most colleges are located in the main business district of a city or town or in a nearby business area. Sometimes, these colleges are in a building with other businesses.

3. Carpeting, a receptionist, and a pleasant waiting area combine to make these schools look more like businesses than university and community college campuses.

4. These colleges fit a lot into a little space, and some have additional classroom space in other buildings within a couple of miles of the main building.

5. These colleges are student oriented. The majority of private colleges are relatively small in total student body as compared to their local community college, although in many cases the enrollment in a specific career training area at a career college might be considerably larger than the same career training area in the local public college. When you first visit these colleges, they will seem friendly and relaxed. But once you have made the commitment to your training, the college becomes as concerned with your success as you are.

6. Students and/or graduates of a private college are considered, and consider themselves, as clients. The private career college is "student centred" rather than "teacher centred". The college and the students are on the same side of the fence: the college's ultimate success depends on the students' ultimate success. Since the ultimate goal is placement of graduates in related careers, all resources of the college are focused in that direction.

7. Programs may be as short as three months for some careers or as long as two years for other careers. Programs attended full-time can take up to 35 hours per week. Several shifts may be available, offering classes in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

8. Tuition costs depend on the length of training and the level of skills taught. Training can cost from $1,000 to $10,000 per year.

9. The staff is small and made up of people you will see often. Usually, the college's staff includes a director, admissions personnel, financial aid counsellors, student services personnel, a job search coordinator, and teachers.

10. Private career colleges are skills and job oriented. Their main interest is in teaching the specific skills that are needed in today's marketplace.

11. Improving your marketability and training you for a job are the most important concerns of any private career college. Colleges continue to succeed because people like you leave as satisfied customers.

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