What’s CTE?

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is powered by passionate educators who specialize in career field program areas, facilitate career development, and support students with unique needs. We are focused on expanding student’s career and college options and smoothing the transition from high school to adulthood. Our mission? Every Rockingham County Schools graduate has a plan for their future and is CHOICE READY with the skills, knowledge, and aptitudes to make it a reality.

CTE Course Guide 2026-2027

Explore Your Future with Career & Technical Education (CTE)

The Career & Technical Education (CTE) Course Guide is your gateway to discovering exciting, career-focused opportunities designed to prepare you for life beyond high school.

CTE programs in North Carolina provide hands-on, real-world learning experiences across a wide range of high-demand fields within the state’s Career Clusters and corresponding pathways, including:

Building & Moving:
Advanced Manufacturing: Technology Engineering and Design
Construction: Carpentry, Drafting - Architectural, Electrical Trades
Supply Chain and Transportation: Automotive Services

Caring for Communities:
Education: Early Childhood Development
Healthcare and Human Services: Biomedical Technology, Healthcare Professional, Food & Nutrition
Public Service and Safety: JROTC, Law & Justice, Public Safety

Connecting & Supporting Success:
Digital Technology and Computer Science: Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science, Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Management and Entrepreneurship: Business Ethics and Law, Entrepreneurship, General Management
Marketing and Sales: Sports and Event Marketing

Creating & Experiencing:
Arts, Entertainment and Design: Adobe Graphic Design, Adobe Video Design, Interior Design
Hospitality, Events and Tourism: Hospitality, Events and Tourism

Cultivating Resources:
Agriculture: Animal Science, Plant Systems, Power, Structural and Technical Systems
Energy and Natural Resources: Natural Resources

Within each cluster, students can explore specific CTE pathways that offer a sequence of courses designed to build knowledge, technical skills, and career readiness. Many pathways also provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials, dual enrollment/college credit, and work-based learning experiences, such as internships (in-person and virtual) and apprenticeships.

Inside this guide, you’ll discover how the pieces of the puzzle come together through:
✔ Career pathways aligned to your interests
✔ Detailed course descriptions
✔ Industry-recognized credentials aligned to courses
✔ Options for college credit while still in high school
✔ Courses that provide honors credit options

Whether your goal is to enter the workforce, continue your education, or both, CTE empowers you with the knowledge, skills, and credentials to succeed.

Start exploring your future today—your pathway begins here.