The College Now/Tech Prep program offers high school students the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school. These competency based courses are steps in a Career Pathway and Program of Study leading to a certificate, Associate of Applied Science degree, or possible baccalaureate degree. High school teachers teach College Now/Tech Prep courses in their classroom during regular high school hours. Students complete COCC’s competency requirements, portfolio/and or exam to complete the requirements for each course. At $10 per class, options include courses in allied health, automotive, aviation, biology, business administration, computer information systems, criminal justice, culinary, dental assisting, drafting, early childhood education, emergency medical technician, forestry, manufacturing and nursing.
Upon completion of course requirements, a grade is issued and a COCC transcript is created. Students receive dual credit that may be applied to the student’s high school graduation requirements as well as a COCC certificate or degree. College bound students are ready to take higher level courses and advance through their program requirements much faster saving time and money. Students may present transcripts to employers as verification of course completion. Additionally, credits may transfer to other community colleges, providing a foundation for an associate or bachelor’s degree!
ADVANTAGES TO THE STUDENT
- Saves Money: At only $10 per course, students save money based on COCC’s current tuition rate, $63 per credit.
- Saves Time:
Eliminates duplication of courses taken in high school and community college.
Creates a Transcript: Each credit earned is entered on a COCC transcript for students to use at COCC, job applications or transfer to other colleges.
Provides a Career Focus: Provides students with a Career Pathway and Program of Study that leads from education to employment.
Job Readiness: Prepares students with essential job skills needed in today’s highly skilled job market.
College Preparation: Helps students become familiar with the college process, providing a smooth transition from high school to college.
REGIONAL COLLABORATION
Collaboration is the hub of Tech Prep. A partnership with Central Oregon Community College and the regional high schools has created this innovative program bridging high school and college education. Career Pathways and Programs of Study are developed in response to the educational, workforce and technical demands of Central Oregon. Curriculum teams comprised of regional high school and college instructors and representatives from the industry work collaboratively to set standards, competencies and outcomes for programs. Partnerships have provided equipment donations, finances and technical instruction to meet the demands for highly skilled jobs in Central Oregon.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information contact Lonna Carnahan, the program coordinator, at (541) 383-7782 or email lcarnahan@cocc.edu.