What majors are akin to studying trades but still in a traditional college setting?

Hey everyone, I'm pretty hands-on and have been considering going into a trade, but I also want the college experience. Are there majors that are similar to learning a trade in terms of practical skills but offered at typical four-year colleges? Looking for something that provides a balance between hands-on learning and academic theory.

Hello there! It's great that you're exploring options that cater to your hands-on skillset within a traditional college environment. There are several majors that offer a blend of practical skills and academic theory. For instance, consider programs in Engineering Technology, where you have majors like Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering Technology. They focus more on application and implementation than pure engineering programs, which tend to be more theoretical. Another area to consider is Applied Sciences, such as Agriculture, Forestry, or Environmental Science. These fields provide opportunities to work outside and directly with the materials you're studying. Allied Health programs are also very hands-on, with majors like Nursing, Radiology, and Physical Therapy. Each of these provides a blend of practical training and academic coursework. When looking at programs, research the curriculum to ensure there's a good balance of lab work, internships, or cooperative education components to align with your desire for hands-on learning. Best of luck in finding a program that's a perfect fit for you!