Career Technical Education (CTE)

Career Technical Education (CTE) provides learners with the knowledge and skills they need to be prepared for college and careers. CTE gives purpose to learning by emphasizing real-world skills and practical knowledge within a selected career focus.

CTE Works for High School Students

High school students involved in CTE are more engaged, graduate at higher rates and typically go on to postsecondary education.

• Participating in CTE is associated with a lower chance of dropping out and a higher chance of graduating on time.
• The average high school graduation rate for students concentrating in CTE programs is 94%, compared to an overall graduation rate of 85%.
• High school graduates who earn CTE credits are about as likely to enroll in postsecondary education as the overall student population.

CTE Works for College Students and Adults 

Postsecondary CTE prepares students and adults for in-demand careers, and allows them to take on less debt.

• Students can attend public community and technical colleges for a fraction of the cost of tuition at other institutions: $3,770, on average, in 2020-2021.
• For workers with associate degrees, the percentage of “good jobs”— jobs that pay a median annual income of $55,000 or higher without a bachelor’s degree—grew by 83% between 1991 and 2016.
• Individuals with associate degrees in CTE fields of study can earn $10,000 more per year than those with associate degrees in other fields.