Post-Secondary Options

Youth Apprenticeship programs are great options for rising junior and senior high-school students. An apprenticeship allows you to jump-start your career while still in high school by working with industry partners who offer real-world business experiences as well as mentorship, ongoing education, specialized training and, in some cases, employment. Examples of where Cherry Creek District students have completed apprenticeship experiences are:

• Micron
• CareerWise
• Oakwood Homes
• Intertech Plastics
• Reata

Check out this resource on Youth Apprenticeships!

Colorado has a comprehensive list of community colleges and junior colleges in our state. At two-year colleges, you can earn an Associate’s degree, an industry certificate or take general education courses in preparation for transfer to a four-year institution. Here is a link to the Colorado Community College System.

A gap year is a year off between high school graduation and enrollment in a higher education institution. The gap year should be a time for you to stay engaged in learning while making a plan for your future education.  Check out this site for Gap Year resources.

The United States Armed Services offer multiple branches and pathways within those branches. Depending upon your interests and skills, you can apply to enlist directly into the service following graduation or you may opt to apply for admission to a selective military academy. Students interested in a military career will take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) exam. At a selective military academy, you will complete your four-year bachelor’s degree, simultaneously earning a higher rank as an Officer as you enlist following the bachelor’s degree. Students who have an interest in applying to a selective military academy should speak to their school counselor early in their high school career, specifically about course selection and the timeline of the application process.

Trade schools offer students an opportunity to focus on a specific skill that creates access to immediate employment in the workforce. As part of your trade program, you may be provided with on-the-job training. Trade programs vary in length and certificate. Examples of trade certificates are:

• Cosmetology
• Auto Mechanics
• Veterinarian Technician

Colorado has approximately forty, four-year public and private colleges/universities in the state. Ranging from small to large and rural to urban, these higher education institutions vary in their educational offerings. Students who complete a set curriculum at a four-year institution will have earned a bachelor’s degree. Following a bachelor’s degree, students can opt to continue their education to a master’s or doctorate level by completing additional course/program requirements. Log into Naviance Student to complete college search today!

Joining the workforce directly following graduation from high school is another option for students. Choosing to enter the workforce is an option for students who may need to save money to help finance their future education goals or for those who have a specific desire to begin working in an area of interest. For free resources regarding employment, visit one of the local Colorado Workforce Centers.