CAREER CLUSTERS

what are career clusters?

Career Clusters are groups of occupations and industries that have in common a set of foundational knowledge and skills.  There are 16 nationally recognized clusters within which are multiple Career Pathways.  To view the 16 Career Clusters, click here.

WHAT ARE CAREER PATHWAYS?

Career Pathways are multi-year programs of academic and technical study that prepare students for a full range of postsecondary options within each one of the 16 clusters.  Currently, there are 81 nationally recognized pathways, each with specific pathway knowledge and skills.  These pathways provide a context for exploring career options at all levels of education and a framework for linking learning to the skills and knowledge needed for future education and employment.

WHAT ARE PROGRAMS OF STUDY?

Programs of Study (POS) are sequences of courses that incorporate a non-duplicative progression of secondary and postsecondary elements which include both academic and CTE content.  Effective Programs of Study should start no later than the ninth grade and continue through at least two years of postsecondary education.  Programs of Study include opportunities to earn college credit (dual credit) in high school, an industry-recognized credential or certificate at the secondary/postsecondary level, and an associate or baccalaureate degree.

Dunlap High School Programs of Study includes the following:

• Accounting

• Agriculture Business management

• Architectural Construction

• Child Development

• Computer Programming

• Culinary Arts

• Drafting

• Electronics

• Graphic Design

• Horticulture

• Office Specialist/Web Design

• Marketing

WHY DO WE NEED THE CAREER CLUSTERS FRAMEWORK?

Career Pathways, Career Clusters, and POS allow students to get more involved and perform better in school by combining rigorous academics with career education so that students have a clear path to their future.  Students who understand the relevance of what they are learning and how it aligns with a pathway to their educational and occupational goals achieve great success in high school and beyond  Career Clusters:

• Create clear educational pathways students can follow from secondary to postsecondary education to the workplace

• Create smooth transitions in the educational pipeline

• Empower students through information and experiences they need to make educational choices

• Help design individual plans of study

• Comprise a key element in enhancing economic development by connecting schools with business and industry.

Take a look at the Career Clusters:  Career Clusters

WHO BENEFITS FROM CAREER PATHWAYS AND PROGRAMS OF STUDY?

• Students benefit as POS provide a link between education and careers.  Pathways provide career guidance and a framework for students to plan their future.  Students are more motivated when they can see the relevance of their education and are provided with smooth transitions to college and careers.

• Educators benefit as POS provide support to integrate academic and CTE curricula, partake in professional development, align with school reform, and receive administrative support.  POS also connect educators with local business and industry to ensure that what students learn connects to careers.

• Employer benefit as POS provide the opportunity to partner with educators to prepare future employees by determining the necessary skills, certification, and current knowledge to succeed in the workforce.

• Communities benefit as POS provide an opportunity for business and industry to partner with education for local economic development and educational planning.  Higher levels of educational attainment contribute to a healthier local economy.

HOW CAN CAREER CLUSTERS, CAREER PATHWAYS, AND PROGRAMS OF STUDY BE USED?

One use for Career Clusters, Career Pathways, and POS is as a tool for career exploration or career development.  Introducing students to broad Career Clusters, and the numerous Career Pathways and occupations within, expands the list of career possibilities for all students to consider.

At the secondary and postsecondary levels, Career Pathways provide curriculum standards that meet business and industry requirements.  Implementing these standards helps to ensure student attainment of a high level of academic and technical skills and a seamless transition from secondary to postsecondary education as well as a satisfying career.

For more information, please visit the Career Cluster website or speak with your Guidance Counselor about Career Clusters.