What are Career Clusters?

            There are 16 nationally recognized Career Clusters and CTE has categorized them into six career fields.  The Career Cluster model  prepares students for a full range of occupations/career specialties, focusing on technical, academic and employability skills.  The Career Cluster model verifies that the division between preparation for college and preparation for work no longer applies.  The model also helps to solidify the theory that rigor and relevance are the necessary elements to create meaningful learning experiences and motivate today’s students to learn for tomorrow’s economy. 

   North Carolina/CMS Career Clusters

            The Career Clusters Model and Future Ready Core graduation requirements were implemented beginning with the freshman class of 2009-2010 in North Carolina.  Students choose at least three technical credits from the Foundational courses within a Career Cluster.  The fourth technical credit can be either a Foundational or Enhancement course.  Students will select courses that work together to prepare them for careers or further education.  These selected courses include CTE courses, academic courses, and other elective courses.

Career Cluster Resources
           School Chart | Terms to Know | Career Fields Chart | CTE Course Progression Chart | Career Cluster Booklet