Despite mounting student debt and a shifting job market, apprenticeships vs college remains an overlooked debate. College is still seen as the default path to success. Why? Money, sports, and history.
Apprenticeships vs. College: Why the Playing Field Isn’t Level
Universities have spent decades building massive endowments, securing alum loyalty, and leveraging the power of college athletics. As of 2023, according to Investopedia.com, Harvard University had an endowment of $53.1 billion, more than any other university in the nation. These assets are used for various new academic programs, research, scholarships, and fellowships, attracting notable speakers and faculty, funding athletic programs and teams, building sports facilities, libraries, and student housing, and recruiting new students. Yet, while apprenticeship programs receive millions of dollars annually, the nation’s apprenticeship programs cannot match any of the top university endowments. Colleges also generate a lot of exposure and familiarity because of their sports programs.
Consider how many college football or basketball games you will find on television during fall and winter. And no, you won’t find any gridiron games between apprenticeship programs. Unlike collegiate sports, apprenticeship programs focus solely on career training and development without the extracurricular activities associated with college life. Apprenticeships may not have stadiums, but they offer more value: financial stability and a guaranteed career path.
Many colleges also have long histories, notable alumni, expansive campuses, and, for some students, a family history. While not as common as it once was, legacy enrollment is still a thing at some schools.
Yes, fun and socialization at college are part of the overall experience, and we are not trying to diminish the college experience for those who wish to attend. However, according to the
However, according to the Education Data Initiative (EDI), more than 23 percent of students drop out yearly. This is typically because of the financial burden, poor academic performance, lack of engagement or interest, family issues, or mental issues such as anxiety, depression, or fatigue.
The point is that there are other legitimate options when it comes to career training and preparation. Apprenticeships offer a secure learning environment in which individuals can follow their own path… and have fun and socialize while doing so. The reality is that these are two different approaches with potentially the same very rewarding outcome: a successful, engaging career.
The Cost of College vs. Apprenticeships
College tuition has skyrocketed over the past few decades. In 1974, the average annual tuition at a four-year public college was just $512—by 2023, that number had jumped to $9,750. Private colleges are even steeper, averaging $ 35,248 per year. Meanwhile, apprenticeships come with little to no cost since employers typically cover training expenses. Instead of accumulating debt, apprentices earn a paycheck from day one. And while college students may enjoy social clubs and activities, one group no one wants to join is the $1.74 trillion student loan debt club—a reality for many graduates, according to the Education Data Initiative.
A Faster, More Direct Path to Employment
Many students take five or even six years to complete a four-year degree, only to enter a competitive job market. Apprenticeships, on the other hand, typically take one to four years, with 91% of apprentices finding employment right after completion—often with the company that trained them, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. That means no frantic job hunting, endless resume submissions, just a clear pathway to a well-paying career.
For too long, the apprenticeships vs college debate has been one-sided. College has been the career superhighway, and apprenticeships just an off-ramp. It’s time we recognize them as a direct route to success—not a detour.