Accreditation and Certification: important?

Hello,

I apologize if there is already a thread about this. There are just too many threads to go through.

I have talked to several different schools in my area (NY). Some of them are accredited and certified, some are not. The one school, that I've had my eye on for quite some time, told me that accreditation and certifications are not too big of a deal in the industry; moreover, they cost the school more money, thus, driving up the price for the student (this school is PTDI certified, and is licensed in both NY and PA). Yes, I have noticed that schools who are accredited and certified do cost more money. This school, my cousin went to not too long ago (like a month or two ago). I know how their curriculum is, and if what they say and advertised is really true or not. The course runs 4-6 weeks. There are a total of 150 hours. There is 44 hours worth of driving time, and the student:trainer ratio in the truck is 1:1. The price of the school is $4995; this, is not too bad of a deal, in my eyes. So, my question now is:

Does going to a school who is accredited and certified really do much for you, other than make it more pricey to attend?

I'm just doing research on schools and am wondering this one basic question, that seems to allude most people who I have spoken with/to.

Any and all insight/opinions are greatly accepted...as long as they are logical, of course. Well, thanks for your time!

 

Thanks, goblue. I agree with you there more than 100%! That is, basically, what the director at one of the schools I'm looking at told me, in so many words. So far, I feel as though I haven't been BSed, which is making my decision of going with that school more probable. I guess I'm just fishing for others' opinions on the matter. Thanks!

 

For some odd reason, I have not even considered that, really. There are a few companies who I need to contact, to see if the school I wanna go to will accept me. Solid advice, Beau3210. Be safe out there!

 

I know you get 44 hours, because my cousin attended the same school, a month ago. So, I asked him if what the director told me was correct, and he said "yes." I agree with the writing part. You cannot trust many people anymore. It's a shame.

 

I see your point and logic, which all makes sense. I prefer to go the cheapest, but best route if that makes sense. I guess I'm comparing it to community colleges. Yes, it basically is 13th grade, but the professors are generally just as good. I, still, need to call on a few companies, to see if they will accept my school of choice. If not, I may need to make further adjustments. Personally, I don't see the point in spending extra money for a logo on a piece of paper on it with my name on it, if it's not going to be beneficial; however, I am NOT saying that I don't respect your opinion, which I do!