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careeronestop
your source for career exploration, training & jobs
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.
A proud partner of the american job center network.

What's right for me?

Find the training option that best meets your needs.

What kind of training will help you most? That may depend on your goals or experience, how much the training costs, or how much time you have available.

Get started making your training decision with the chart below. To learn more or locate local programs, click on any of the training options.

Education/Training What’s this? How long will it take? How will it help me?
High school equivalency An alternative to a high school diploma, usually earned by taking the GED or another approved exam Test: usually 1 day
Prep: as long as you need
  • Qualify for many jobs
  • Qualify to enter college or training program
Adult Basic Education Usually free classes in basic skills, English as a second language, life skills, and more 1 month to ongoing
  • Learn English or improve literacy
  • Brush up math, computer, work readiness
  • Improve entry-level job prospects
Short-term training Short classes offered through community organizations or programs at schools that last two years or less 1 session to 2 years
  • Learn or refresh skills such as software, business, language, or others
  • Qualify for many jobs
  • Advance in a career
College Degree A credential you earn by completing a 2-or 4-year program at a public or private college or university 2 to 4 years
  • Required for many professional careers
  • Advance in a career
Certification A credential that you earn by taking a test to prove your knowledge or skills Test: 1 day
May require work experience and/or training
  • Meet job requirements or preferences
  • Stay competitive in your field
Apprenticeship A formal combination of training and full-time paid job. Offered for hundreds of occupations through employers, unions and associations. 1 to 6 years
  • Enter a high-skills, high-pay field
  • Train while earning wages
Internship Formal on-the-job training, usually unpaid 1 month to 1 year
  • Gain work experience and contacts to help break into a field
  • Explore a career of interest
Professional development Any learning activity that helps you keep up-to-date in your field 1 day to ongoing
  • Keep job skills up-to-date
  • Increase your marketability