Whether you're fresh out of high school or switching careers - discover the faster, most cost-effective path that tech employers actually prefer.

You've probably heard it a hundred times: "Go to college, get a degree, land a good job." But what if that advice is outdated - especially when it comes to tech? The reality is, hiring managers in IT (Information Technology) care far more about what you can do than which school you went to.

Before you sign off on that student loan, read this.

If you’re mapping out your future or helping someone else do the same, it’s time to rethink the college-first mindset. The truth is that the traditional four-year route may be the slowest and most expensive way into tech.

Certifications are becoming the new gold standard, and they’re opening doors faster than ever. Let’s break down why.

The Misconception: "You need a degree to work in IT."

Many students are advised to pursue a four-year degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Information Systems if they want a career in technology. While these degrees can certainly be valuable, they are not the only — or even the most direct — path to a career in IT.

In fact, many employers in the IT field prioritize industry certifications over academic credentials, especially for entry-level roles. College graduates often still end up needing certifications before they can land their first job.

So, rather than go right back to school after you finish your degree – why not start with what employers are asking for?

What is certification training - and why does it matter?

Certification training prepares students for specific, industry-recognized credentials that validate practical skills in areas like networking, cybersecurity, hardware support, and cloud computing. These include certifications such as:

CompTIA A+ – Computer hardware and software fundamentals.
CompTIA Network+ – A solid introduction to device communication (networking).
CompTIA Security+ – A foundation for threat recognition and response.

These classes may take as little as two – three weeks each, though beware of programs that try to shorten class time even further – too much compression can lead to information overload.

Certification Exams

You should expect to take your certification exams in a proctored test environment offered by a Pearson-Vue approved testing center. Typically, exams have a voucher fee that must be paid directly to the vendor (like Microsoft, CompTIA, etc.) to attempt them. This is why certification training is valuable – so that you do not find yourself paying to retake a test that you didn’t pass on the first try.

Exam fees will vary from test to test – but generally will range around $200 – $500. Some programs that provide tuition assistance may cover the cost of exam vouchers for classes if enrolled in an accredited program.

Certifications require renewal – typically, every three years to reflect the ever-changing landscape of advancing technologies, while degrees don’t require updates.

The Advantages of Certification Training

✅ Accelerated entry into the Workforce - Most certification programs can be completed in a few months — not years. Students have the opportunity to begin working in IT while continuing to learn and grow.

✅ Affordable and Accessible - Certification training is significantly less expensive than a traditional college education. For students from lower-income families or those unsure about college, this is a game-changing option.

✅ Directly Aligned with Industry Needs - Certifications are created by technology organizations to meet real-world job requirements. They focus on the skills employers are hiring for right now, and require renewal to reflect the changes in tech.

✅ Ideal for Hands-On Learners - Not every student thrives in lecture halls or theory-based instruction. Many do better with hands-on, applied learning — and IT certification training is built for exactly that.

When Numbers Mislead: The Risk of Inflated Placement Rates

“Recent investigative reporting shows that college-reported success metrics—like job placement and salary—often come from selective alumni surveys or misleading data sources. One college’s internal data showed graduates earning $17,300, yet they advertised averages closer to $68,600 using broader state data—numbers that may not accurately reflect actual student outcomes. Experts warn that self-regulated placement reporting invites ‘gaming the numbers’ for favorable appeal.”
Source: The Hechinger Report

Research-Based Evidence Favoring IT Certification

A 2025 academic study entitled “Skill‑Driven Certification Pathways: Measuring Industry Training Impact on Graduate Employability” provides further clarity:

The study highlights that in Australia—and similarly in the US and UK—only 1% of technology degree graduates are considered immediately work-ready.
Candidates with non-technical degrees who added relevant IT certifications saw up to 9,296% improvement in job-skill alignment toward tech jobs. Source: arXiv

Certificates vs. Certifications

It’s important to note: many institutions offer certificate programs for comparable tuition rates as certification programs. A certification is distinct from a certificate in that it is an employable credential that is standardized throughout the industry it belongs to. A certificate is only evidence that a student attended the training program.

Caution should be advised when considering certificate-only programs.

FINAL THOUGHTS...

As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approach to career readiness. The IT industry is full of opportunities not just for degree-holders, but for doers, learners, and those who are ready to jump in and grow.

We’re not saying that college isn’t valuable. It’s simply important to recognize that not every tech career requires a degree upfront — and that committing to four-year programs without exploring your options may result in considerable opportunity costs.

The best advice you can share with anyone that wants to go into Tech: Prioritize certifications!

Author: Robert P. Saunders Jr., Admissions Manager at Training Concepts since 2019.

Have questions? Email Robert.saunders@trainingconcepts.com