Career Pathways
VCHS has 15 Career Pathways
WSU Tech, our primary partner institution, offers 17 Jumpstart Academies
Click on the links below to learn more about our career pathway and program opportunities!
VCHS's Career Pathway's page is designed to provide parents and students with a comprehensive overview of the classes offered by the school to help students make informed decisions regarding their future and the creation of their independent plans of study. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, engineering, business, automotive, or any other field, our Career Pathways page offers a list of courses, clubs, and postsecondary classes that can help students achieve their goals. By providing this information, we aim to empower students to take charge of their education and explore their interests. Our goal is to help students not only graduate from high school but also to succeed in college, in a career, and in life.
Career Pathways
- Business
- Design, Production, & Repair
- Family & Consumer Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Media, Art & Technology
- Public Services
Business
Business Entrepreneurship & Management
The Business Cluster prepares learners for careers and/or continuing education opportunities planning, organizing, directing and evaluating business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations. Career opportunities are available in every sector of the economy and require specific skills in organization, time management, customer service and communication.
Introduction Level
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Business Essentials, .5cr (recommended 9-10th gr)
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Microsoft Certification Academy, .5cr (recommended 10-12th gr)
Technical Level
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Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Advanced Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Business Management, optional dual credit, .5cr
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Consumer and Personal Finance, .5cr
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Entrepreneurship, 1cr
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Marketing, optional dual credit, 1cr
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Business Internship, VCHS Internship Program, .5-2 credits
Business Finance
The Finance Cluster prepares learners for careers and/or continuing education opportunities in financial and investment planning, banking, insurance and business financial management. Career opportunities are available in every sector of the economy and require specific skills in organization, time management, customer service and communication.
Introduction Level
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Business Essentials, .5cr (recommended 9-10th gr)
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Microsoft Certification Academy, .5cr (recommended 10-12th gr)
Technical Level
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Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Advanced Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Consumer and Personal Finance, .5
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Entrepreneurship, 1cr
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Business Internship, VCHS Internship Program, .5-2 credits
Business Finance
The Finance Cluster prepares learners for careers and/or continuing education opportunities in financial and investment planning, banking, insurance and business financial management. Career opportunities are available in every sector of the economy and require specific skills in organization, time management, customer service and communication.
Introduction Level
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Business Essentials, .5cr (recommended 9-10th gr)
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Microsoft Certification Academy, .5cr (recommended 10-12th gr)
Technical Level
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Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Advanced Accounting, optional dual credit, 1cr
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Consumer and Personal Finance, .5
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Entrepreneurship, 1cr
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Business Internship, VCHS Internship Program, .5-2 credits
Design, Production, & Repair
Automotive Technology
The focus of this pathway is to prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary for continued education and, ultimately, a successful career in Facility & Mobile Equipment Maintenance or Aviation Maintenance occupations.
These Pathways of Study enable students:
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To obtain necessary skills through high quality classroom, laboratory, and field instruction
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To earn professional certifications required for employment
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To transition to postsecondary level institutions for additional education opportunities
Introduction Level Courses
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Intro to Industrial Arts, middle school course
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Business Essentials (recommended 9-10th gr)
Technical Level Courses
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General Services I (recommended 9-10th gr)
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Entrepreneurship
Application Level Courses
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General Services II**/^, optional dual credit
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General Services III**, optional dual credit
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Emerging Trends in Transportation Tech Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Also Recommended:
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Business courses depending on area of interest
Construction & Design
The focus of this pathway is to enable students:
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To obtain necessary skills through high quality classroom, laboratory, and field instruction
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To earn professional certifications required for employment
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To transition to postsecondary level institutions for additional education opportunities
Introduction Level Courses
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Intro to Industrial Arts, middle school course
Technical Level Courses
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Woodworking Principles^^
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Architectural Design I
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Architectural Design II
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Carpentry I
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Drafting/CAD I
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3D Modeling Software-CATIA (recommended for 10 gr and up)
Application Level Courses
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Furniture Cabinetry & Fabrication*, optional dual credit, prerequisite Woodworking
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Carpentry II
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Advanced Materials Technology Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Also Recommended:
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Algebra II or College Algebra
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Trigonometry
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Business courses depending on area of interest
Engineering
The engineering and technology pathway includes workers who apply mathematics, science and technology concepts to solve problems quantitatively in engineering projects involving design, development or production in various technologies.
Introduction Level Courses
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STEM, middle school course
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Intro to Engineering Design (Level I)
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Chemistry I
Technical Level Courses
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Principles of Engineering (Level 2)
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Drafting/CAD I
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3D Modeling Software-CATIA (recommended for 10 gr and up)
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Robotics
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Computer Integrated Manufacturing
Application Level Courses
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Engineering Design & Development (Level 3)
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Engineering Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Also Recommended:
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Precalculus
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Calculus
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Trigonometry
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Chemistry II
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Physics
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Others based on field of interest
Aviation
Introduction Level
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Intro to Industrial Arts, middle school course
Technical Level
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Hand & Power Tools, optional dual credit, recommended 10th gr and up
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Drafting/CAD I
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Drafting/ CAD II
Application Level
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Engineering Internship, VCHS Internship Program
Also Recommended:
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Algebra II or College Algebra
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Trigonometry
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Physics
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Others based on field of interest
**See WSU Tech's Aviation Maintenance Program below for additional opportunities.
These programs are available for juniors and seniors, all are located in Wichita at various WSU Tech campuses. Tuition is free (as of Feb 2021), books/software/materials are the students' responsibility. USD262 will provide transportation, or the students may drive themselves. WSU Tech determines the courses that will be offered in each of the half day blocks. Various certifications/credentials are available within these programs. Acceptance and testing criteria for enrollment is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. WSU Tech High School Page
- Automotive Technology
- Composite Technology
- Aviation Maintenance Technology
- CATIA
- Construction
- Climate & Energy Control Technology
- Heating Ventilations Air Conditioning
- Interior Design
- Machining
- Drones
- More information coming
- Welding
Pratt Community College Block Program
This program is unique in that there are only four spots for HS students, with priority given to USD259 Wichita Public Schools. Additionally, it requires that students dedicate four semesters (half days each semester), starting with the junior year. USD262 will provide transportation, or the students may drive themselves. Acceptance and testing criteria for enrollment is subject to change at the college's discretion
Electrical Power Technology-Lineman/Journeyman
Located in Wichita, connected to East High School
Pathway Credentials:
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OSHA10* (optional dual credit)
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Ford***
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Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)^
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NCCER Core & Carpentry^^
Student Organizations:
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SkillsUSA, Mr LeDuc, Sponsor
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Auto Club, Mr. LeDuc, Sponsor
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Robotics Club, Mr. Allyn, Sponsor
Woodworking Principles and Furniture & Cabinetry Fabrications will cost students $50 for the materials used for the projects. Students in these classes are required to pass OSHA10 to remain in the class and advance to second semester.
All college courses are considered dual credit, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to apply. Application submission does not guarantee admission into the class/program.
Family & Consumer Sciences
Family, Community & Consumer Services
Introduction Level
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Family & Consumer Sciences, .5 cr, middle school class
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Career & Life Planning, .5 cr (recommended 8-9th gr)
Technical Level
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Human Growth & Development, .5 cr
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Family Studies, .5 cr
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Nutrition & Wellness, .5 cr
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*Culinary Essentials, .5 cr
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Consumer & Personal Finance, .5 cr (recommended 11-12th gr)
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Community Connections Internship, VCHS Internship Program, .5-2 credits
Restaurant & Event Management
Introduction Level
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Family & Consumer Sciences, .5 cr, middle school class
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Career & Life Planning, .5 cr (recommended 8-9th gr)
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Business Essentials, .5 cr (recommended 9-10th gr)
Technical Level
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Nutrition & Wellness .5 cr
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*Culinary Essentials, .5 cr
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*Culinary Arts I, 5 cr (prerequisite Culinary Essentials)
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Entrepreneurship.5 cr
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Marketing, .5 cr, optional dual credit
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Community Connections Internship, VCHS Internship Program
2022-23-These block have been put on hold for this school year.
This program is available for juniors and seniors, and is located in Wichita at the South Campus (Harry Street). Tuition is free (as of Feb 2021), books/software/materials are the students' responsibility. USD262 will provide transportation, or the students may drive themselves. WSU Tech determines the courses that will be offered in each of the half day blocks. Various certifications/credentials are available within these programs. Acceptance and testing criteria for enrollment is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. WSU Tech High School Page
Pathway Credentials: *ServSafe Food Handlers
Career & Technical Student Organizations:
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FCCLA, Ms Eck, Sponsor
Health Sciences
BioMedical
Introduction Level
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STEM, middle school class
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Biology I
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Chemistry I
Technical Level
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Human Anatomy & Physiology, optional dual credit
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Robotics
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Biology II, optional DC
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Nutrition & Wellness
Application Level, Senior Year Only
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BioMedical Internship, VCHS Internship Program
Depending on specific career interest, these courses are also recommended:
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Certified Nurse Aide/EKG**, dual credit only-taught at VCHS
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Intro to Pharmacy or Pharmacology, optional for DC
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College Algebra, optional DC
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Precalculus, optional DC
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Calculus, optional DC
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Statistics, optional DC
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Chemistry II or AP Chemistry, optional DC
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Physics, optional DC
Healthcare
Introduction Level
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Biology I
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Health Science Exploration
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Chemistry I
Technical Level
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Biology II
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Care of Athletes*
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Medical Terminology, online and dual credit only
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Human Anatomy & Physiology, optional dual credit
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Nutrition and Wellness
Application Level
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Certified Nurse Aide/EKG**, dual credit only-taught at VCHS
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Health Science Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Depending on specific career interest, these courses are also recommended:
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College Algebra, optional DC
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Precalculus, optional DC
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Calculus, optional DC
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Statistics, optional DC
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Chemistry II or AP Chemistry, optional DC
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Physics, optional DC
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Intro to Pharmacy or Pharmacology, optional for DC
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Various healthcare/medical courses are available online through our partner colleges
This program is available for juniors and seniors, and is located in Wichita at the South Campus (Harry Street). Tuition is free (as of Feb 2021), books/software/materials are the students' responsibility. USD262 will provide transportation, or the students may drive themselves. WSU Tech determines the courses that will be offered in each of the half day blocks. Various certifications/credentials are available within these programs. Acceptance and testing criteria for enrollment is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. WSU Tech High School Page
Healthcare
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One semester only, half day, 15 credits
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Includes the following classes: (subject to change, per WSU Tech)
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Medical Terminology
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Phlebotomy
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Emergency Preparedness for the Health Professionals
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Diseases, Disorders, & Diagnostic Procedures
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Certified Nurse Aide***
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The above classes are subject to change per WSU Tech
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WSU Tech has several other healthcare opportunities that are held in the evenings and during the summer. Many of these are FREE! Programs include Certified Medication Aide, Phlebotomy, Surgical Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, Patient Care Technician, Practical Nurse, Vet Nurse. Frequently there are prerequisite classes, test scores, and age requirements.
Pathway Credentials: *CPR, AED, First Aid and **CNA/HHA, CNA***
Student Organizations:
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HOSA, Mr. Emig Sponsor
Media, Art & Technology
Graphic Arts
Introduction Level
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Intro to Drawing, Middle School course
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Microsoft Certification Academy* (recommended 10 gr and up)
Technical Level
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Design Fundamentals
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Intermediate 2D Design
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Advanced 2D Design
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Intermediate Computer Graphics
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Advanced Computer Graphics
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Photo Imaging
Application Level
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Hornet Print & Design
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Graphic Design Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Digital Media
Introduction Level
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Business Essentials
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Microsoft Certification Academy* (recommended 10 gr and up)
Technical Level
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21st Century Journalism
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Design Fundamentals
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Intermediate 2D Design
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Advanced 2D Design
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AV Production Fundamentals
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Photo Imaging
Application Level
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Digital Publications
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Video Production-Hornet Studios
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Digital Media Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
Web & Digital Communication
Introduction Level
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Microsoft Certification Academy* (recommended 10 gr and up)
Technical Level
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Intermediate 2D Design
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Advanced 2D Design
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Intermediate Computer Graphics
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Advanced Computer Graphics
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Computer Programming
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Interactive Media
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Web Page Design
Application Level
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Web & Digital Internship, VCHS Internship Program, Senior Year Only
These programs are available for juniors and seniors, all are located in Wichita at various WSU Tech campuses. Tuition is free (as of Feb 2021), books/software/materials are the students' responsibility. USD262 will provide transportation to all of the WSU Tech campuses. WSU Tech determines the courses that will be offered in each of the half day blocks. Various certifications/credentials are available (for testing into) within these programs. Acceptance into the programs and the testing criteria is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. WSU Tech High School Page
Computer Support Specialist and Cyber Security
Student Organizations:
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Art Club, Ms. Arzola, Sponsor
Additional classes can be taken with WSU Tech or BCC Early Academies
Public Services
Teacher Education
This career cluster covers the basics of teaching which can be applied to a range of education careers from elementary and middle level, to specific disciplines to community education and workforce training across the lifespan.
Introduction Level
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Intro to FACS, .5 cr (middle school course)
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Career & Life Planning, .5 cr
Technical Level
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Family Studies, .5 cr
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Human Growth & Development, .5 cr
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Teaching as a Career I, .5 cr
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Teaching as a Career II, .5 cr
Application Level-Senior Year Only
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Teaching Internship, VCHS Internship Program
Other Recommended Courses:
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Psychology or Sociology, College Algebra, Senior English College Credit, other courses in the content area you are interested in
College Partnerships-Public Service Programs
All college courses are considered dual credit, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to apply. Application submission does not guarantee admission into the class/program. Testing criteria is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. These programs are available for juniors and seniors, all are located in Wichita at various WSU Tech campuses. The Hutchinson CC campus, that we partner with, are located in Newton. Tuition is free (as of Feb 2021), books/software and materials/supplies are the students' responsibility. USD262 will provide transportation, or the students may drive themselves. The colleges determine the courses that will be offered in each of the half day blocks. Various certifications/credentials are available within these programs. Acceptance and testing criteria for enrollment is dependent upon each program/course/college and is subject to change at the college's discretion. WSU Tech High School Page and HCC/Newton CTE Page
Emergency Medical Technician, HCC at Newton: Senior year, prerequisite Human Anatomy & Physiology, recommended CNA, Biology II, Chemistry
Fire Science, HCC at Newton: Frequently combined with EMT. EMT is much more rigorous than Fire Science when these are paired together.
Police Science, WSU Tech
Quick Links
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Kansas CTE Scholar Booklet and Application (updated doc is released each Feb)