Career and Technical Education
Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses give students hands-on, real-world learning experiences aligned to high-demand careers. Explore the overview of our programs below, then dive into detailed course descriptions by pathway to see how students can build skills, earn credentials, and prepare for college and careers.
If you have any questions, please contact the Director of CTE and Career Readiness, Karen Malsbury.
- Business
- Computer Programming
- Design and Technology
- Education Careers
- Health Sciences
- Work Based Learning
Business
Business Administration, Management and Operations
COMPUTER OPERATIONS IN BUSINESS - #00532 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
This course is intended for any student desiring exposure to business applications using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access). Students will develop proficiency in word processing, creating spreadsheets, multimedia presentations, and databases. Skills will be taught and practiced using business scenarios and training tools to allow students to prepare for future college and career plans. Students are prepared to earn Microsoft Office Specialist certification through the industry-standard test.
BUSINESS FUNCTIONS AND OPERATION #00332 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-10 - PREREQUISITE: None
Business Functions and Operations is a business course that provides the framework for pursuing additional business courses. This course acquaints students with the five functions of business: Production, Merchandising, Operations, Accounting and Finance, and Management. Students will also explore concepts in economics, entrepreneurship, human resources, risk management, credit, and careers in business. Business skills, including communication, interpersonal dynamics, presentation, and critical thinking skills, are emphasized.
SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP - #00172 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
This course provides students the opportunity to build a solid foundation of knowledge of established business principles and practices that form the groundwork for all business operations. Students take a close look at established businesses, e-commerce, marketing products and services, financing operations, managing and developing employees, and making difficult business decisions in a dynamic and competitive atmosphere. In addition, this course introduces the student to the world of business ownership and provides the student with realistic concepts for starting his or her own business by developing an operational business plan.
VIRTUAL ENTERPRISE CAPSTONE - #00954 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: CTE Completer & Instructor Approval
Virtual Enterprise is a year-long simulated business that is set up and run by students to prepare them for working in a real business environment. The students determine the nature of their business, its products and services, its management and structure, and learn the daily operations of a business. Students will work alongside business mentors and student-led virtual corporations on a global scale. Opportunities will become available throughout the course for students to participate in trade shows, leadership conferences, and regional, state, and international competitions. Students will learn personal finances skills. This capstone course is designed to utilize prior knowledge and skills from previously taken classes in the business department. This class can be repeated for credit with instructor approval.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT BUSINESS WITH PERSONAL FINANCE #00732/77732 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
AP Business with Personal Finance is a yearlong high school course aligned with a college-level introduction to business, guiding students through core disciplines such as entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, accounting, and management using real-world applications, case studies, and project-based learning. The course framework emphasizes both business skills and professional and leadership skills essential for understanding and applying business and personal finance concepts. Throughout the year, students engage in authentic, hands-on learning experiences—including project-based activities, case studies, and work-based learning—that connect classroom instruction to real business challenges, while also having opportunities to participate in Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) to further develop leadership and management skills in competitive and professional environments. Successful completion of this course is considered a CTE Completer

Finance
ACCOUNTING 1 - #00012 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Did you realize there are 3,520 projected job openings annually in Accounting, in Michigan alone, over the next 6 years? Or that college business majors must take Principles of Accounting, no matter what area of business they pursue? This course is recommended for students with an interest in business/finance, being a business major in college, or planning to own their own business. This one-semester course introduces students to fundamental accounting principles and procedures providing a sound foundation for further study. Students will analyze financial transactions and prepare financial statements. Students may utilize computer software to apply concepts to real-life situations. At the end of the semester, students will complete the accounting practices for a simulated company, which ties all units of study together. May be taken for a 4th-year math credit
ACCOUNTING 2 - #00022 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Accounting 1
By taking Accounting 2, students will build a better foundation of understanding of accounting for use in college or for owning a business. Students reinforce accounting procedures covered in Accounting 1, as well as analyze accounts, prepare business statements, and close accounting books and records for corporations. Students use automated accounting software, which utilizes 21st-century teaching techniques with immediate feedback. As an enrichment activity to facilitate the processing of accounting data, the course culminates with a real-world accounting project using actual business forms to reinforce basic concepts of the accounting cycle and procedures. May be taken for a 4th-year math credit
ACCOUNTING 3 - #00062 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Accounting 2
In Accounting 3, students focus on corporate accounting. This course is excellent preparation for the accounting courses students will take in college. Students completing this course gain a deeper understanding of accounting practices used to plan, organize, interpret and analyze financial systems. Students learn how to set up an automated accounting system for those starting their own businesses or working for other entrepreneurs. Banking systems and procedures are emphasized, giving students a better understanding of the use of credit, the effects of paying/receiving interest, and preparing for one’s financial future. The issue of ethics in the field of accounting is examined. The computer is used extensively to analyze transactions and financial statements. May be taken for a 4th-year math credit
ACCOUNTING 4 #00072 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Accounting 3
This course is excellent preparation for the accounting courses students will take in college. In Accounting 4, students focus on interpreting and analyzing a corporation’s financial information. Students examine a variety of financial tools including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Organizing a corporation, acquiring capital, and financial analysis of a corporation are studied.
Managerial and cost accounting are emphasized. Students identify how a background in accounting prepares professionals for administrative career opportunities. Job requirements for Certified Public Accountants and Chief Financial Officers are studied and explored through field trips and speakers. Professional accounting organizations are also explored. May be taken for a 4th-year math credit

Digital Multimedia
WEB DESIGN AND SOCIAL MEDIA - #00112 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Designed for students with an interest in the web, graphic editing, animation, and social media, this class allows students to learn how to create and manage the elements of a fully functioning website. Graphic design principles, website development, design strategies, and animation techniques will be used. Students will create graphical images, edit photos, develop websites, and make animations utilizing Adobe programs such as Photoshop. Students will also examine the impact of social media and how businesses utilize social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.

Marketing
MARKETING AND ADVERTISING - #00162 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Marketing and Advertising educates students on the important role that Marketing plays in our economic system. Emphasis is on the functions of marketing, including the product, research and development, pricing, promotion, purchasing, selling, risk management, and distribution. This class engages students in real-world marketing and advertising simulations, which provide a hands-on approach, incorporating the latest technology for marketing plans and other teamwork projects.
ADVANCED MARKETING - #00192 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Marketing and Advertising
Advanced Marketing prepares students for an advanced level of understanding in the dynamic field of marketing. Students will develop professional communications skills, human relations skills, and marketing career acquisition aptitudes. Students will demonstrate an application level of marketing knowledge through case studies, projects, and presentations. Students will assume a managerial perspective on concepts taught in Marketing and Advertising and develop a deeper understanding of strategic market planning, differences between consumer and organizational markets, and financial analysis.
MERCHANDISING LAB / STORE - #00232 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Marketing and Advertising and Instructor Approval
A lab class set in a real-world retail business environment. Students will learn and utilize the skills of marketing, merchandising, and operations management. Using a theory-into-practice approach, students examine the operations of an efficiently run retail enterprise and assume authentic on-the-job responsibilities. Students are taught the importance of quality customer service and the professional selling cycle. Students also learn how to operate a cash register, make sales, create displays, maintain the store, order inventory, and keep financial records. This class may be repeated for credit with instructor approval.

Computer Programming
Computer Programming
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING 1 - #04422 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
This course is an introduction to structured programming languages. A problem-solving approach is emphasized. Topics include decision-making, loops, arrays, graphics, strings, files, sound, functions, subroutines, and special topics. The course is taught through a combination of individual programming problems, reports, lectures, videos, and projects. Students use Scratch, Visual BASIC, and one higher-level programming language.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING 2 - #04432 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: Programming 1
This course is a continuation of object-oriented programming. Topics include using variables, controlling program flow, functions, using classes and objects, arrays, files, and graphics. Students work individually at the beginning and in groups toward the end of the course. Applications from the following areas are included: business, mathematics, science and game theory, and mobile app development. Students use Python and Java as their programming languages.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES - #04444 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory computing course. Students cultivate their understanding of computer science through working with data, collaborating to solve problems, and developing computer programs as they explore concepts like creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programming, the internet, and the global impact of computing. It also allows students the opportunity to investigate the innovations in other fields that computing has made possible and examines the ethical implications of new computing technologies.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT COMPUTER SCIENCE A - #04434 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Computer Programming 1, 2, or AP Computer Science Principles
AP Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer science course. Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. Students use the standard Java library from the AP Java subset delineated by College Board. The responsible use of these systems is reinforced throughout the course.

Computer and Information Systems Security - Cybersecurity
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CYBERSECURITY - #04544/74544 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
This program integrates computer science, information technology, and real-world cybersecurity applications, covering cybersecurity principles, ethical hacking, digital forensics, network defense, and risk management. Students build foundational skills in programming, system administration, encryption, and data protection while learning to identify and mitigate threats across multiple platforms. Through hands-on labs, simulated cyber incidents, and industry-aligned challenges, the course fosters technical proficiency, critical thinking, digital citizenship, and an understanding of legal and ethical practices. By the end, students are equipped with the knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical mindset needed for success in the rapidly growing cybersecurity field and future college or certification opportunities. Successful completion of this course is considered a CTE Completer.

Design and Technology
Engineering
ENGINEERING DESIGN 1 - #08532 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Engineering Design 1 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education class that will engage students in activities, projects, problem-based learning, and hands-on classroom experiences. Students create, design, build, discover, collaborate, and solve problems while applying what they learn in math and science. Students acquire the computer skills necessary to create two-dimensional geometry and solid models that are the foundation of engineering graphic communication.
ENGINEERING DESIGN 2- #08542 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: Engineering Design 1
Engineering Design 2 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education class that will engage students in activities, projects, problem-based learning, and hands-on classroom experiences. Students create, design, build, discover, collaborate, and solve problems while applying what they learn in math and science. Students apply the computer skills learned in Engineering Design 1 to create projects and more advanced two-dimensional geometry and solid models that are the foundation of engineering graphic communication.
ENGINEERING DESIGN 3 - #08552 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Engineering Design 1 & 2
Engineering Design 3 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education class that is a continuation of Engineering Design 2. Students will learn the fundamentals of converting ideas, sketches, pictorials, and three-dimensional objects into working drawings. Students will use prototyping methods to create functional projects. Students learn nomenclature and techniques to develop assembly and presentation drawings. Students discover the importance of speed, neatness, and accuracy. As a result of this course, students understand possible careers in engineering and design.
ENGINEERING DESIGN 4 - #08562 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10–12 - PREREQUISITE: Engineering Design 3
Engineering Design 4 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education class that is a continuation of Engineering Design 3. Students will apply the learned fundamentals to brainstorm more complex ideas, sketches, pictorials, and three-dimensional objects into complete working drawings. Students will use prototyping methods to create functional projects. Students learn nomenclature and techniques to develop assembly and presentation drawings. Students discover the importance of speed, neatness, and accuracy. As a result of this course, students understand possible careers in engineering and design.

Drafting and Design Technology
ARCHITECTURE 1 - #08732 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Architecture 1 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education course. This course is designed to give students the basic skills of using industry-standard software as applied to architectural topics. Students will learn the fundamentals of architecture, including industry nomenclature. Students will create two-dimensional drawings, including a first floor plan, foundation and roof plan, as well as additional plans or detail drawings.
ARCHITECTURE 2 - #08742 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: Architecture 1
Architecture 2 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education course. This course is designed to allow students to apply the skills learned in Architecture 1 while advancing their skills using industry-standard software as applied to architectural topics. Students will advance their knowledge of the fundamentals of architecture, including industry nomenclature. The student will continue to create additional plans and detailed drawings. Students will be introduced to parametric architectural models.
ARCHITECTURE 3 - #08752 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Architecture 2
Architecture 3 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education course. This course allows students to combine artistic expression with intellectual challenge. Students apply concepts and skills learned in previous Architecture classes to more sophisticated computer applications. Students work independently at their own rate to solve architectural problems requiring more advanced computer skills. Students learn and apply computer-generated three-dimensional software to create renderings and walkthroughs. Using the internet, students furnish buildings.
ARCHITECTURE 4 - #08762 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Architecture 3
Architecture 4 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education course. Students apply concepts and skills learned in previous Architecture classes to more sophisticated computer applications. Students will be exposed to more advanced architecture projects, including commercial and residential buildings.

Mechanical Drafting
MECHANICAL DRAFTING/DESIGN 1 - #08572 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
This semester's course allows students an opportunity to advance their engineering training. Students will apply advanced functions in parametric modeling, assembling, and presentation drawings. Students will continue to apply the learned fundamentals to create more challenging projects.
MECHANICAL DRAFTING/DESIGN 2 - #08582 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: Mechanical Drafting/Design 1
Mechanical Drafting/Design 2 is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education class that is a continuation of Mechanical Drafting/Design 1. This semester's course allows students an opportunity to advance their engineering training. Students will apply advanced functions in parametric modeling, assembling, and presentation drawings. Students will continue to apply the learned fundamentals to create more challenging projects.
COMPUTER MODELING and ANIMATION - #08702 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Computer Modeling and Animation is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education course. Students are introduced to animation techniques, including hand drawing, digital 3-D modeling, and digital animation. Students use computer programs to create digital models, render 3-D objects, and generate scenes. Students will be exposed to basic game design. Basic personal computer knowledge is recommended.

Mechatronics
ROBOTICS I - #08602
20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9 – 12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Students will learn and apply the design process while learning fundamental skills in order to build mechanical systems and small programmable robots. Students will learn and apply Safety, Procedures, Programming, Teamwork, Communication, and Collaboration while solving various problems. This project-based course will enhance a student’s twenty-first-century STEM skills.
ROBOTICS II - #08612 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9 – 12 - PREREQUISITE: Robotics 1
Students will continue learning and applying their skills. Students will advance their learning from semester 1, including programming, advertising, and budgeting, while competing to solve various challenges. This project-based course will give students the opportunity to continue to enhance and apply their twenty-first-century STEM skills learned in the first semester.

Woodworking
WOODWORKING 1 - #08402 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Course content includes instruction on safety procedures, measurement and layout, as well as the use of portable power and hand tools and stationary power tools. Students will use their new skills to design and create project(s). All RCS students are eligible to take this course, but it is taught at RHS.
WOODWORKING 2 - #08412 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 9-12 - PREREQUISITE: Woodworking I
This course features the construction of furniture and furniture accessories. Portable power tools and stationary power tools are primarily used in the construction of project(s). The project(s) chosen will challenge the skill level of the student and expand their knowledge and skills. All RCS students are eligible to take this course, but it is taught at RHS.
WOODWORKING 3 #08422 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Woodworking 1 and 2
Construction of furniture and millwork is featured. Students elect to build or continue a large project from Woodworking 2 or have the option to build a number of small projects. Projects are chosen to challenge the skill level of the student and expand their knowledge and skills. This course may be repeated for credit. All RCS students are eligible to take this course, but it is taught at RHS.
WOODWORKING 4 #08432 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 10-12 - PREREQUISITE: Woodworking 1, 2, 3
Construction of furniture, millwork, and industrial processes is featured. Students may choose to build a large project or a number of smaller projects of their choice and design. Projects are chosen to challenge the skill level of the student and expand their knowledge and skills. This course may be repeated for credit. All RCS students are eligible to take this course, but it is taught at RHS.

Education Careers
EDUCATIONAL CAREERS #EdCareS1/EdCareS2 40 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: None
Educational Careers is a one-year course designed for students interested in pursuing a career in an educational field and/or getting an inside glimpse at the world of teaching. Students will examine and research the topics of educational history, schooling options, and the certification process. Students will also study and practice teaching methodologies and strategies, lesson planning, equity in the classroom, and classroom management. Under the supervision of a cooperating teacher, students will participate in classroom observations and assist in Rochester classrooms, including in special education, elementary, or possibly middle school placements. Students will need to provide their own transportation to their placement school(s). Successful completion of this course is considered a CTE Completer. This class may be repeated for credit.

Health Sciences
MEDICAL CAREERS #MedCareS1/MedCareS2 40 WEEKS - GRADE: 12 - PREREQUISITE: Anatomy and Physiology
This comprehensive year-long program uniquely incorporates the medical sciences, pathology, and real work experiences into the curriculum. Throughout the course, students will engage in immersive work-based learning experiences, opportunities to participate in a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO), such as HOSA (Health Occupation Students Association) and develop essential employability skills. The curriculum covers a wide spectrum, including medical terminology, Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR, first aid, and medical mathematics relevant to the medical field. The course is designed to provide a co-educational setting that fosters a robust foundation in pathology, complemented by practical skills and ancillary certifications. Students will delve into personnel and workplace safety protocols, legal and ethical considerations, and cultural competence. Students will also gain expertise in communication, teamwork, and the application of health-related mathematics. By the end of this program, students will be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills essential for success in the dynamic and rewarding field of medicine. May be required to travel to another building or medical location.

Work Based Learning
WORK-BASED LEARNING 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 11-12 - PREREQUISITE: 1 or 2-hour block class
Work Based Learning S1 , 6th Hour - #00984
Work Based Learning S1, 5th and 6th Hour - #00984B
Work Based Learning S2 , 6th Hour - #70984
Work Based Learning S2, 5th and 6th Hour - #70984B
Work-Based Learning is an opportunity for all RCS students who have taken several classes related to their program of study to use their skills and knowledge in a paid or unpaid on-the-job training site. Job placements are determined by the needs of the student, the work-based learning coordinators, business contacts, and the jobs the students have had in the past. Students are released one or two class periods each day to allow for 48 hours of combined school and work. Students work a minimum of 10 hours a week, including Saturdays and Sundays. Students report to class bi–weekly and maintain timesheets that the employers sign to verify hours spent at work. Students take program-related academic courses during the concurrent school year. Students are required to have the coordinating teacher visit the job site a minimum of two times a semester, and the employers evaluate students according to job duties and skills listed on the individual training plan.
Aspiring First Responders
All of these opportunities are offered through work-based learning. Please contact your counselor if you are interested, so we can organize an interview. Placements in these areas are limited and determined by March 1st.
POLICE CADET PROGRAM 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 12 - PREREQUISITE: Practical Law, Psychology, Sociology, and Government
The Police Cadet Program introduces students to the foundations of law enforcement, criminal justice, and community policing. Through scenario-based activities, hands-on skill development, and exposure to modern policing strategies, students gain insight into the expectations, responsibilities, and professionalism required of police officers.
Police Application and Requirements: https://tinyurl.com/2026policecadet
Before filling in this form, make sure you have the following:
- You are a junior applying for your Senior Year
- GPA of 2.8 or above
- On track to graduate - no credit recovery classes senior year
- Have room in your schedule to take work-based learning for a 2-hour block.
- Have taken or will be concurrently taking Health/PE, Forensic Science, Practical Law, Psychology or Sociology
- Your EDP shows an interest in Criminal justice, Policing, and social care.
- Willing to adhere to the dress code policy
- Provide your own transportation
FIRE CADET PROGRAM 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 12 - PREREQUISITE: Anatomy and Physiology
The Fire Cadet Program provides students with an introduction to fire science, emergency response, and basic firefighting skills. Students learn about fire behavior, safety protocols, rescue techniques, and the teamwork essential to careers in fire service through practical and classroom-based instruction.
EMT PROGRAM – DUAL ENROLLMENT AT OCC 20 WEEKS - GRADES: 12 - PREREQUISITE: Anatomy and Physiology
The EMT Program allows students to begin formal Emergency Medical Technician training through dual enrollment at Oakland Community College. Students learn foundational emergency medical skills, patient assessment techniques, and the principles of pre-hospital care while gaining exposure to real-world EMS environments.
Fire and EMT Application and Requirements: https://tinyurl.com/2026FireEMT
Before filling in this form, make sure you have the following:
- A senior in high school
- GPA of 2.8 or above
- On track to graduate - no credit recovery classes senior year
- Have room in your schedule to take Work-based learning for a 2-hour block.
- Have taken or will be concurrently taking Anatomy and Physiology.
- Your EDP shows an interest in Paramedic, Fire, or EMT
- Willing to adhere to the dress code policy
- Provide your own transportation
Please note that the Fire Academy and EMT school are separate programs - they do not have to be taken together.