18 Chapter 1 Exploring Careers
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
will need to determine what further education is needed. There are a
number of ways to acquire the education and training.
Work-Based Learning Programs
Work-based learning programs offer students an opportunity for job
placement while still taking classes. A program coordinator works with the
students and their worksites to make these work experiences successful.
Cooperative education prepares high school students for an
occupation right after school through a paid job experience. Students
generally go to school for at least half the day and hold a part-time
position for the rest of the day.
Supervised learning opportunities at the postsecondary or college
level are called internships. They offer paid or unpaid supervised
practical work experience. Students enroll in internship programs much
like they enroll in courses. They may work several days per week with
a reduced class load, or work during the summer. Students generally
receive college credit while gaining valuable work skills.
Occupational Training
Various types of occupational training can help you prepare for a
career in a specifi c fi eld.
Career and technical education (CTE) programs provide training at
both the high school and postsecondary levels. CTE programs involve
training for careers that require hands-on experience. Health science,
automotive repair, and culinary arts are examples of CTE programs.
These programs are usually available through high schools, career
centers, community and technical colleges, and four-year universities.
Students who attend CTE classes during high school often receive
a certifi cate for a specifi c job skill with their high school diplomas.
Students who complete postsecondary training often receive a two-year
degree or a certifi cate.
Another option for occupational training is an apprenticeship
program. An apprenticeship is learning a trade or skill on the job under
the supervision of a skilled worker, 1-7. These programs may last several
months or many years. Requirements for entering the programs vary
among the states and different trades. Students usually must enter a
legal agreement to work for the employer for a specifi ed length of time in
exchange for the training and instruction.
Colleges and Universities
You can obtain degrees from two-year colleges and four-year
colleges or universities. Attending a community or junior (two-year)
college leads to earning an associate’s degree. Completing a program at a
four-year college or university results in a bachelor’s degree. For careers
that require a higher level of education, students can study for another
year or two to earn a master’s degree. A doctoral degree, also called a
21st
Century
Skills
Negotiation. David feels as
if he has reached a plateau
in his career. He meets with
his supervisor to negotiate a
career track. His supervisor
advises him to further his
education to increase his
chances of being promoted.
Happy Workplaces
Employers are adding
workplace features and
benefi ts to help improve
employees’ social and
emotional well-being. Some
employers have a generous
vacation policy. Others pay
for training and education
to develop personal and
professional interests. A few
employers even have onsite
bowling alleys and rock-
climbing walls for challenge,
relaxation, and socializing.
Mental
Health
Awareness