Do CTE programs affect my high school diploma?

You bet! CTE courses satisfy the diploma requirement for practical arts and for elective credits.

The Standard Diploma requires

• one credit in fine arts or practical arts and
• six elective credits

The Advanced Studies Diploma requires

• one credit in fine arts or practical arts and
• two elective credits

Plus

• Certain licensure exams or industry certifications, taken as part of the CTE program, may be counted as student-selected VERIFIED CREDITS needed to graduate from high school. If the CTE program sequence is completed, the student may earn an additional VERIFIED CREDIT.  (link opens a PDF document)
• You may qualify for a CTE seal on your Virginia high school diploma. (link opens a PDF document).

Who really benefits from CTE programs?

In many CTE programs, students also receive:

• First-hand experience in a career area while still in high school
• A "leg-up" in college programs

• ALL STUDENTS interested in:

  • Learning academic content through practical applications
  • Life skills that apply to all careers
  • Workplace readiness skills
  • Focused high school studies that lead to a career
  • Courses and programs that use industry-standard technology
  • Great jobs with good pay and employee satisfaction