CTE TERMS TO KNOW

Endorsement

An endorsement is a series of courses that students choose based on their interests or skills. Endorsements help students gain in-depth knowledge of a subject or career. Students can earn multiple endorsements as part of their high school diploma. The five endorsement areas include: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Business and Industry, Public Service, Arts and Humanities, and Multidisciplinary Studies.

Program of Study

A Program of Study is a sequence of courses that prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in their chosen career. These courses integrate relevant, real-world experiences, culminating in the attainment of a recognized postsecondary credential or a valuable work-based learning opportunity, such as an internship.

A student is designated as a CTE Program of Study Completer by successfully completing three or more CTE high school credit courses, totaling at least four credits within the same CTE Program of Study. This sequence must include at least one Level 3 or Level 4 course to ensure a comprehensive educational experience.

Work-Based Learning (WBL)

Work-Based Learning encompasses a variety of experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world work environments. This can include guest speakers, field trips, job shadowing internships and more, providing students with valuable insights into their chosen careers and helping them develop essential professional skills.

CTE Completer

A CTE Completer is a student who has successfully completed and passed 3 or more courses for a total of 4 or more credits within a Program of Study, including at least one advanced course. Being a CTE completer recognizes a student's deep engagement with a particular career pathway and prepares them for college, careers, and further education.