Not all kids are cut out for college,despite the expectations of their parents or teachers. And especially in thebrave new world of the 21st century, not all kids need to go to college rightafter high school or ever to succeed, says J. Michael Farr, author of America'sTop Jobs for People Without a Four-Year Degree. And chances are, you will need trainingafter high school through some form of alternative career education. Only fourof the fastest growing occupations in the United States require a four-yeardegree or more, says Unger, author of But What if I Don't Want to Go toCollege? But many of the others-home health aides, building maintenance,teaching aides-require post-high-school training. Which vocational education and trainingyou'll need-and the cost-depends upon the vocation you choose Public communitycolleges offer some of the best vocational training, often specializing inareas such as the graphic arts, hotel and restaurant management, and buildingtrades, according to Unger. Fulltime tuition averages $1,200 a year, althoughthe range from state-to-state is $600 to $3,500. Vocational training attechnical institutes will be costlier. Private junior colleges average $7000 ayear, according to Unger. Tuition for private-for-profit trade schools thatusually specialize in one field, such as hair-styling or auto mechanics, varieswidely, and Unger warns students to be wary of unethical operators. Not just any vocational education ortraining will do. The trick is to find reputable, high-quality programs and toavoid con artists and dead-end programs, advises Unger. Look for programs thatare accredited, offer in-depth academic and vocational instruction, teach realskills for real jobs, provide hands-on work experience, help students injob-hunting, and are linked to potential employers. Too often, Unger argues, parents pushtheir reluctant children to go to college. Many drop out. "We are forcinghundreds of thousands of kids to go to college and they clearly do not want tobe there," he says. What about high school graduates whodon't want college and don't know what to do next? Start by visiting yourschool guidance office or library to thumb through The Occupational OutlookHandbook published every two years by the U.S. Labor Department. It offersnuts-and-bolts descriptions of jobs and the training required. Think about what interests you-sportsmusic, gardening, whatever-and what jobs let you pursue that interest, advisesUnger. Visit people who do these jobs. Ask questions.
an academic qualification conferred by a college or university(Para. 2)
【正确答案】：degree
