Whether you're looking to break into the tech industry, a creative field or a business-oriented role, fast-track courses provide a streamlined alternative to traditional postgraduate education. They are a strategic investment in your future, helping you bypass the lengthy process of gaining experience and jumpstart your professional life with a clear advantage.
This guide will explore some quick qualifications and certifications that post-grads can get to help them get into the working world. Continue reading to find out more.
Fast-Track Training Programs for Post-Grads
HGV Driver
Fast-track eighteen-wheeler or HGV training courses are one of the most underrated programs for post-graduate students that can help them gain full time employment. LIFFT offers various types of training packages that allow people to become fully-qualified for driving specific types of HGVs within hours. The core training takes around 20 hours to complete and after this, you’ll be completely road ready for driving a HGV.
These are Heavy Goods Vehicles that can carry large loads with a gross weight exceeding 3,500 kilograms (3.5 tonnes). They can be a great quick term job solution for those who have graduated College, no matter their grades or qualifications.
Cybersecurity Technician
With the rise in cyber threats, companies are desperate for people who can protect their data from hackers and scammers. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ are great for getting started with this and can set you up for further qualifications that can make you well adverse in cybersecurity. You'll learn skills like threat management and risk mitigation, which are very sought-after for businesses who handle a lot of private information.
If you already have some experience with online data,you can achieve relevant certifications in a few months and this can give you a platform to further build your expertise for a long-term career. It’s not just a summer job, but one you can have a future in.
First Aid Specialist
Earning a certification from a well-known organization like the American Red Cross can often be completed in just a single day. This is a valuable skill in any workplace, especially in healthcare, education or office environments. It demonstrates to potential employers that you are a responsible and prepared employee who is willing to go the extra mile, making you a more attractive candidate for job opportunities.
For those needing to refresh or update their skills, requalification or annual refresher courses are available, with requalification taking a minimum of two days and refresher courses taking a half day. This is one of the quickest types of certifications that post-graduate employees can get to improve their chances of getting hired.
Phlebotomy Technician
These are healthcare professionals who specialize in drawing blood from patients for a variety of purposes, including laboratory testing and research. The training for this role is highly practical and designed to be completed in a few weeks. The curriculum focuses on the essential skills needed to perform the blood drawing safely and efficiently.
You'll also need to pass a certification exam to become a Certified Phlebotomist. While not all states require certification, it is highly recommended as it demonstrates your competency and can make you a more attractive employee. As the population ages and doctors rely more on blood analysis for diagnosis in the US, the demand for skilled phlebotomists is expected to remain high for the next few decades.
Commercial Driver
Fast-track commercial driver's license training program can get you qualified to drive commercial vehicles in three to four weeks. This is a very popular option for new graduates who want to quickly enter a stable career. These programs are designed to get you the necessary skills and certifications to get on the road and start earning a salary as quickly as possible.
Entry-level salaries for commercial truck drivers are competitive, with the median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers being around $50,000 in the US. This can increase significantly with experience and with specific endorsements, making it a very worthwhile career option for post-graduate college students.
Bookkeeper
A career as a bookkeeper offers a direct path into the financial industry, and you can become job-ready quickly with a short training course. Bookkeepers are essential to any business, as they are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records. While some roles may prefer a degree, a professional certification is a powerful way to demonstrate your skills and land an entry-level position.
Earning a certificate from a recognized body like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) proves to employers that you have the necessary skills and are committed to the profession.
Real Estate Agent
You can complete a state-mandated pre-licensing course, pass a state exam and then join a brokerage to become a real estate agent soon after graduating from college. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working with people, have strong communication skills and are motivated by a commission-based income, which can give you a huge boost to your wage.
These courses cover the fundamentals of real estate law, ethics, contracts and property valuation. The required hours vary by state, but can often be completed in as little as 2-3 weeks through intensive online or in-person programs. The career outlook is strong, with demand driven by population growth and the need for professionals to navigate complex real estate transactions.
Welding
While becoming a master welder can take years, you can get a basic certification and be ready for an entry-level job within weeks. The demand for skilled welders is high in various industries, from manufacturing and construction to shipbuilding and aerospace. This makes it a great technical career choice for post-grads who enjoy hands-on work.
An entry-level welder in the US with less than three years of experience can expect to earn an average of $40,000 per year, but this can increase significantly with experience.
Final Thoughts
Getting straight into training courses that can be completed within a few days or weeks can give you an advantage when looking for work after graduating college. These programs equip you with the skills that can accelerate your entry into the job market and prepares you for a rewarding career. Fast-track training programs can help turn your academic achievements into immediate professional success. This enables a smooth transition from graduation to full-time work.
