South Carolina Career and Technical Education Programs: Shaping Future Success

Career and Technical Education (CTE) in South Carolina plays a vital role in preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce and higher education. Serving students in grades 6-12, CTE programs offer state-approved courses designed to cultivate career concentrations, facilitate work-based learning experiences, and enable students to earn industry credentials.

The Importance of CTE in South Carolina

South Carolina is actively working to strengthen the connection between high-quality education and workforce development programs. This alignment aims to equip future job seekers with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in high-demand, high-wage careers. By linking education to specific career pathways, CTE enhances students' options and provides valuable opportunities for all students in grades 6-12.

CTE Pathways and Programs of Study

CTE programs are designed to provide students with knowledge and skills related to professions identified in the National Career Clusters. All courses align with South Carolina’s Programs of Study, ensuring that students receive relevant and up-to-date training. Students may also have the opportunity to earn early college credits through Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment programs.

CTE in Action: Examples from South Carolina

Beaufort County

In Beaufort County, students can explore STEM and Career Awareness courses in middle school. At the high school level and at the career center, the focus shifts to Technical Career Pathways.

Lexington One

Lexington One offers CTE classes in all five high schools, all eight middle schools, and at the Lexington Technology Center. The district's CTE programs benefit from strong support from businesses, industries, and the community.

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Work-Based Learning Opportunities

A key component of CTE is work-based learning, which provides students with real-world experience and valuable skills. These opportunities may include:

Clinical rotations
School stores
Internships
Externships
Co-ops
Job shadowing
Field studies
The Michelin Partners Program

Dual Enrollment Opportunities

In Lexington One, students can earn honors credit for upper-level CTE courses. Dual enrollment courses are also available through USC-Sumter Engineering and Midlands Technical College (MTC) for Engineering, Health Science, and Business and Marketing.

Zero Tuition Opportunities

Financial aid, including opportunities for zero tuition, may be available through government, state, college, and other organizations.

Special Populations in CTE

Special populations are learner groups identified in the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. Data related to these populations reflects intersectional categories that are not mutually exclusive.

College and Career Readiness

South Carolina has identified nine criteria for its college- and career-ready Indicator, which is one of two School Quality Survey System (SQSS) metrics at the high school level. CTE prepares students with the academic and technical skills, knowledge, and training necessary to succeed in a future career. CTE is designed for ALL students: those who will be employed in the workforce, those who enlist in the military, and/or those who will enroll in a college or technical school after graduation.

Read also: Supporting South High Students

The Value of a Technical College Education

With rising tuition costs, many are asking if college is worth the cost. Technical colleges like HGTC are transforming what it means to be a 21st-century technical college.

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