Career & Technical Education (CTE) is a two to four-year program of study in a specific industry area that prepares high school students for a seamless transition into two-year or four-year college programs and/or entry-level jobs. The mission of the NYC Public Schools CTE programs is to ensure all New York City students who graduate from CTE programs will be positioned to pursue competitive postsecondary credentials, degrees, and pathways.
Students in a CTE program fulfill rigorous and integrated instruction of academic and industry-specific content as well as work-based learning experiences like internships. Students who enroll in a CTE program of study take a minimum of 7 credits in technical courses. CTE teachers prepare students for life after high school, introduce students to career opportunities and requirements, provide hands-on learning experiences, and help develop skills that are applicable to personal and career roles necessary for employment in specific career areas.