A student attending fashion design classes.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Overview

Career and College Readiness for the Workforce of Tomorrow

Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Fairfax County Public Schools includes:

  • Business and Information Technology
    • Accounting
    • Information Systems
    • Business
  • Family and Consumer Sciences
    • Child Development
    • Culinary Arts
    • Fashion Design
  • Health and Medical Sciences
    • Animal Science
    • Dental Careers
    • Emergency Response
    • Medical assisting
    • Nursing
    • Pharmacy
    • Rehabilitation
    • Marketing
  • Technology Education and Engineering
  • Trade and Industrial Education

By enrolling in a CTE course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core, or standard, program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered.

Video Playlist Career Pathways through to CTE Splash Page!

Success Stories

Malcolm Vernem working with a dog.
Malcolm Vernem credits his success as a veterinary technician to his coursework in high school.

Malcolm Vernem

High School: Edison Academy

CTE Programs of Study: Health and Medical Sciences; Animal Science

Additional Studies and Training: Northern Virginia Community College, associate degree in applied science with veterinary medicine focus, graduation: 2014. Veterinary Technician License, 2014 Industry Certifications Available: Career Safe, 10-hour card certification by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; Workplace Readiness Skills for the Commonwealth.

A Career That is Nothing to Bark At…

Malcolm Vernem credits his success as a veterinary technician to his coursework in high school. “I feel with the knowledge I obtained from the animal science program, I was well prepared for the fast paced field of veterinary medicine. The class not only allowed me to gain knowledge about the career, but also gave me great confidence in both the workplace and in school.” The animal science program is a two-year program that enables students to study animals and gain experience in the field of veterinary science. Topics include animal anatomy, animal behavior, handling techniques, nutrition, disease pathology, sanitation, and disease control.

Annual Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy Statement

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to a learning and working environment free from all forms of discrimination. No person shall on the basis of, race, sex, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, pregnancy status, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, veteran status, and disability be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any FCPS sponsored educational program or activity. Retaliation against any person who reports or participates as a witness in the investigation of a discrimination and/or harassment complaint is strictly prohibited.

FCPS provides career pathway opportunities that include study in the areas of:

  • Business Education and Information Technology
  • Family and Consumer Science
  • Health and Medical
  • JROTC
  • Marketing
  • Technology and Engineering Education
  • Trade and Industry

Annual Legal Notice

This is an annual notice of the availability of the postsecondary education and employment data published by the State Council of Higher Education (SCHEV) on its website pursuant to § 23.1-204.1.