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Overview
Career education programs are helping thousands of junior and senior high Alberta students get a head start on post-secondary studies or a rewarding career right after graduation. Read on for information about career education programs and talk to your school about programs in your community.
Career and technology studies
Career and technology studies (CTS) give you a head start on building career skills that set you up for your next steps after high school.
Courses are offered in 5 areas:
- business, administration, finance and information technology
- health, recreation and human services
- media, design and communication arts
- natural resources
- trades, manufacturing and transport
Explore the CTS curriculum and then talk to your school to learn about programs offered.
Search career education courses
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For a listing of all approved courses, view the CTS course catalogue (course availability varies).
Career and technology foundations
Optional career and technology foundations programming prepares grades 5 to 9 students to transition into high school CTS. Read more about career and technology foundations.
Dual credit programs
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Dual credit programs are offered in partnership with public post-secondary institutions and industry. With courses covering everything from skilled trades to psychology, these programs give you a head start by allowing you to earn post-secondary and high school credits at the same time. Talk to your school about their dual credit course offerings.
Dual credit programs include but are not limited to:
- Registered Apprenticeship Program – earn dual credit toward your high school diploma and journeyperson certification.
- Career and technology studies apprenticeship programs – learn skills in a variety of apprenticeship areas and get ready to write your first period apprenticeship exam (optional).
For additional information on dual credit opportunities, see Dual credit – Planning and programming.
Collegiate schools
With programs ranging from aviation to engineering to technology and trades, collegiate schools connect classroom learning with real-world careers by offering you hands-on experience and direct pathways to post-secondary education and employment.
Starting in the 2025/26 school year there will be 28 collegiate schools in the province.
More career opportunities
- Internships – Test drive careers and find paid-internship opportunities supported by our partner CAREERS.
- Green Certificate Program – Earn credits towards your diploma and a credential that could lead to a career in agriculture or agri-business.
- Work experience – Earn credits towards your diploma while getting work hands-on experience supervised by an off-campus supervisor or employer. Talk to your school for details.
Industry partners
By partnering on dual credit programs, apprenticeships, internships and more, industry partners play a vital role in supporting career-education programs for Alberta students. When industry partners with schools and post-secondary institutions, students gain mentors and organizations make connections with emerging talent.
To get involved, talk to your local school board or contact us for information:
- CAREERS – Find information about hiring an intern.
- Collegiate schools – Read up on collegiate school programming and industry involvement.
- Dual credit – Planning and programming – Learn about dual credit programs and requirements to sponsor a program.
- Registered Apprenticeship Program – Learn about sponsoring or employing an apprentice.