College Tech Prep:  Why and How

Here's why

You can prepare for a high skill, high demand career.

College Tech Prep focuses on the fastest growing career areas. More than 75% of future jobs will require education beyond high school. A majority of these jobs will be in a technical area, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Graduates are prepared for the challenges of a highly competitive, high skilled workforce.

You can get a head start on college and career.

College Tech Prep is a formal course of study linking high school and college. A typical College Tech Prep student begins the program in 11th grade and continues an educational pathway to an associate college degree or higher. While mastering academics required for college, students develop advanced technology skills valued by employers.

You'll learn by doing and use what you learn.

College Tech Prep learning is relevant and interesting. Programs emphasize real world working experiences involving teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving. Business partners support educational pathways.

You can ease the college financial burden.

Students can enter college with credit earned for College Tech Prep coursework. Students may also be eligible for scholarships, advanced standing, co-op, and internship opportunities.

Here's how

While some students explore College Tech Prep in 9th and 10th grade foundation classes, most students begin a pathway in the junior year of high school. Program registration for this value-added program generally begins during the second semester of your sophomore year.

Because Tech Prep is a college prep program, you must meet eligibility requirements established to ensure a smooth transition to college. Since these standards vary depending on school and program, early academic planning is advised. In general, College Tech Prep-eligible students have:

• Passed with a "C" or better in college prep algebra
• Earned at least a 2.0 grade point average
• Achieved junior standing with no academic deficiencies
• Maintained good school attendance

For College Tech Prep engineering technologies, information technologies, or health technologies

Be prepared to take algebra II, geometry, chemistry and physics, along with other required academic courses.

For business technologies pathways

Take algebra I and II, geometry and at least one higher science course, in addition to required academic courses.

Some programs are offered in your home school while others are available at career centers.  While you might be able to spend half-day at a career center and half-day at your home high school, most students are full-day career center students.

Considering College Tech Prep program enrollment?

• Take advantage of open houses, careers days, and summer camps hosted by partner colleges and high schools.

• Find out more about College Tech Prep scheduling and eligibility requirements by contacting your high school guidance counselor.  Your counselor can help you select an available program and complete the necessary paperwork. 

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