Training for a new career doesn’t have to be forever. Whether you're coming to college for the first time or returning after some time away, Louisiana’s Community and Technical Colleges offer short-term career training designed to get you into high-demand jobs quickly.
And if you haven’t earned your high school diploma yet, you don’t have to wait. Through dual enrollment you can earn your high school diploma or equivalency while taking college-level courses and workforce training — all at the same time.
Many career training programs can be completed in 6 to12 months - or less! For example, you could earn a basic Construction or Welding Certification in 6-8 weeks, or become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in 8-12 weeks. Louisiana community colleges offer short-term trainings to get you employed in a new career path, and the opportunity to continue building your skills with more classes and credentials, to earn more money!
No! Through dual enrollment, you can earn your high school diploma or high school equivalency while taking college classes. High school students can work on college classes and career training while still in school (talk to your high school counselor to find out more), and learners 18 and up can also be dually enrolled in workforce training or college classes while taking FREE Adult Education classes through WorkReady U. A few programs, like Nursing, may require a high school diploma for admission - but WorkReady U can help you earn your high school equivalency (HSE) diploma through one of our five approved pathways and then be ready to apply for any college program!
That’s okay! Our community colleges' programs and classes are designed for adult learners and include wrap-around support services (like free tutoring or on-campus food pantries) as well as connections to local services and agencies to help you succeed. We understand there are so many things to balance in your life along with being in school. Life can be overwhelming, and you may not know where to go for assistance. The good news is you don't have to figure it out all by yourself, or feel guilty for saying, "I need help".
Yes! Some classes and programs are low or no cost because they are grant-funded. Most of our high-demand workforce and career or technical classes also qualify for WIOA funds through your local Louisiana Workforce Commission office, the Louisiana M.J. Foster Promise fund, or Pell grants through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some scholarships and grants are also eligible for students who are still working on completing their High School Equivalency (HSE) through our WorkReady U/Adult Education network.
Choose the Louisiana community college nearest you and check our their career training programs as well as an example pathway below. You can also complete this ONLINE FORM so we can help you find the career training you need.
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