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Career Programs of Study

Welcome to Career Programs of Study

Global competition and advances in technology have changed the very nature of work.  Today’s knowledge-based economy requires innovation and lifelong learning. It requires a workforce that is highly skilled yet flexible enough to work in diverse cross-functional teams in environments that are constantly changing.   To help students prepare for college and careers, many school systems have embraced smaller learning communities, where instruction is organized around career–focused themes called Career Clusters

Career Clusters give students the ability to relate the information they are learning in school to real-world applications in an area of interest.  Business and industry, educational, governmental and community partners work together to provide opportunities for internships, conferences, and other professional development for students.  This creates a learning environment where students stay motivated because they are engaged in learning that makes the high school experience relevant (see diagram below).  Career Clusters allow students to explore career choices before completing high school and help them transition to postsecondary education.  Career Programs of Study are specific courses that concentrate on one career option, or pathway, within a Career Cluster.  

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Montgomery College

Montgomery County, MD


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