Should I study trades instead of university?

It depends on your goals, learning style, and finances. Trades are a smart choice if you like hands-on work, want to start earning sooner, and want to keep debt lower. University makes more sense if your target job requires a degree, you want more career flexibility, or you enjoy academic work.

A simple rule:

• Choose trades if you want practical work and faster entry into the workforce.
• Choose university if your career goal clearly needs a degree.

Before deciding, ask:

1. How do I learn best: by doing or by studying?
2. What lifestyle do I want long term?
3. How much debt am I comfortable with?
4. What job do I want in 5–10 years?

If you’re unsure, try apprenticeships, community college, job shadowing, or short training first.