Many of these careers offer competitive wages and shorter training timelines than bachelor’s degree programs. Short-term certificate programs in cybersecurity, networking, software support and data management can provide pathways into rapidly growing industries. As a result, many students are evaluating their career pathways based on return on investment, earning potential and job availability. Students pursuing career training often cite affordability as a major advantage. Many certificate and apprenticeship programs cost significantly less than four-year degree programs while providing direct connections to employment opportunities.