Paths After High School
There are many ways to build a future after the teen years. A young person might pursue a degree, trade or apprenticeship, and develop career skills. But they may also enter the workforce, start a business, continue learning, or take time to explore different possibilities. For most paths, a graduation credential won’t be required.
Higher Education
Higher education includes universities, colleges, institutes, and other post-secondary institutions offering degrees, diplomas, certificates, and other credentials. Young people can choose from many different programs and routes depending on their interests and goals. Some may enter a program directly, while others may begin at one institution and transfer to another, take individual courses, or continue their education later. Admission requirements for homeschoolers vary by institution and program, so it is important to find out what is required for the particular path being considered.
Trades and Apprenticeships
Skilled trades are occupations that involve specialized practical skills and training. Trades are found in many areas, including construction, automotive and transportation, manufacturing, electrical and technical work, food services, personal services, natural resources, and more.
Many trades offer apprenticeship programs that combine paid, supervised work experience with technical training. A young person can also explore a trade through a foundation program or other introductory training before deciding whether to pursue an apprenticeship.
Trades can lead to a wide range of careers, from electricians, carpenters, and plumbers to automotive technicians, cooks, hairstylists, machinists, welders, and many others. Requirements and training pathways vary by trade.
Career Training and Certificates
Short-term and specialized training programs can provide training for specific occupations or help build skills for employment. Industry certifications and career-specific programs can also provide opportunities to develop and demonstrate specialized skills.
Training is available through colleges, institutes, private training providers, professional organizations, and other programs, and may lead to certificates, diplomas, or other credentials.
Programs can prepare young people for careers in areas such as health care, technology, business, design, hospitality, early childhood education, and many other fields. Some occupations require specific training or certification, while others have a range of possible pathways.
Employment
Entering the workforce can be a path in itself and can also be a way to explore possible careers. A first job can provide valuable workplace experience while helping young people learn more about what they enjoy and where they may want to go next.
Internships, work-based learning, and other employment opportunities can help young people build experience while exploring their interests.
Entrepreneurship
Starting a business, freelancing or becoming self-employed can provide another way to put skills and interests to work. Entrepreneurship can involve developing a product or service, finding customers, managing finances and learning how to run a business.
Young people can develop practical business skills through their own projects, small businesses and other entrepreneurial experiences.
Taking Time to Explore
The time after the teen years can be an opportunity to explore interests, gain experience, and consider different possibilities before choosing a particular direction. Travelling, volunteering, developing new skills, or trying different activities can help a young person discover what they enjoy and what they may want to pursue next. Plans can take shape over time.
Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
Learning does not have to end when high school is finished. People can continue developing their interests and skills, return to education or training later, or take individual high school courses when needed. In BC, high school courses are available for a life-time, free of charge to BC residents.
There is no need to have a complete plan for the rest of your life. Education, training, work, and learning can take many forms, and people can change direction as their interests and circumstances change.