FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
What is a career pathway?
A career pathway is a series of connected education and work-based learning (WBL) or training programs that offer clear, step-by-step guidance to help high school students, recent graduates, and adult learners build skills, earn credentials, certificates, and degrees, and secure opportunities in high-demand industries.
Is a career pathway different from a job?
A career pathway is not a job, but an opportunity to explore potential jobs. It’s a guided journey toward discovering a fulfilling and sustainable career in a field you love.
Why should I consider a career pathway program?
Career pathway programs provide a roadmap to help you understand the steps needed to enter and advance in your chosen career, making the process less overwhelming. We’ve mapped out in-demand, high-paying career pathways in Business, Education, Engineering, and Health for high school students, college seekers, and adult learners to explore. See your regional high schools, community colleges or 4-year universities for additional career pathways or check out ICanGoToCollege.com/careers.
Are career pathway programs only for specific careers?
Career pathways cover various industries, including business, education, engineering, and health. However, there are many career pathways in additional industry sectors. See your regional high schools, community colleges or 4-year universities for additional career pathways or check out ICanGoToCollege.com/careers.
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
When should I start exploring career pathways?
You are never too young or old to explore career pathways! However, many career pathways start in your freshman year of high school. Find out which regional high schools offer Business, Education, Engineering, and Health programs, and check with your guidance counselors for more information.
Can I earn college credit while still in high school?
Yes! Many high schools offer dual enrollment programs which allow you to earn early college credits during the colleges’ Open Enrollment.
Dual enrollment courses taught on a high school campus during school hours are generally cohorted classes referred to as College and Career Access Pathways or CCAP courses. Early college credit courses can also be taken in-person or online at your local community college.
Students within the service areas of Clovis Community College, Fresno City College, Madera Community College, and Reedley College have an opportunity to access online, CSU/UC transferable dual enrollment courses through the Virtual Early College Credit Hub (VECCH). Talk to your high school counselor to see what option is best for you.
What is dual enrollment?
Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college courses and earn college credits that can provide a valuable head start on further education goals. Participation in dual enrollment decreases the time needed to complete a college certificate or degree and saves on tuition costs. Learn more about dual enrollment here.
Watch our videos to learn about the benefits of dual enrollment from students and teachers.
Are dual enrollment classes free?
Yes, dual enrollment classes are free in California to high school students and adult learners working towards their GED. CCAP courses also provide students with free textbooks.
Am I considered a college student if I take a dual enrollment college course at a community college?
Yes, you are simultaneously a high school student and a college student. As a college student, you have access to college tutors and counselors, access to libraries and so much more.
What else should I know about if I want to be a future college student?
Fresno State offers a guaranteed admissions program called Bulldog Bound. High school students from partnering school districts who meet the minimum California State University requirements are guaranteed a spot at Fresno State after they graduate.
Fresno State Bulldog Bound ensures that qualified students have a clear, tangible path to a college degree. Fresno State will support students and their families with admission preparation as early as 9th grade. By participating, students even receive a Fresno State ID card, email and library access!
COLLEGE SEEKERS
How can I find regional community colleges and 4-year universities that offer career pathway programs in business, education, engineering, and health?
Click here for regional Business programs.
Click here for regional Education programs.
Click here for regional Engineering programs.
Click here for regional Health programs.
How do I decide between a two-year and a four-year degree?
It depends on your career goals. Some careers require only a two-year associate degree or certification, while others may require a four-year bachelor’s degree or beyond. Research what is typical for your chosen field and review our suggested resources to get started:
Click here for Business resources.
Click here for Education resources.
Click here for Engineering resources.
Click here for Health resources.
Can I start at a community college and transfer to a 4-year university?
Yes! Many community colleges have transfer agreements with universities, allowing you to complete introductory major and/or general education (GE) requirements affordably before transferring to a four-year program. Consult with your high school counselor and/or community college counselor to plan for this path.
ADULT LEARNERS
Can I change careers later in life?
Absolutely! Career pathways are designed for all ages, offering flexible programs that allow you to gain the skills needed to transition into a new career or upskill and reskill for your current job or potential promotion.
Can I work and pursue a career pathway at the same time?
Many career pathways are designed to accommodate working adults with part-time, evening, or online classes.
How do I know which career pathway is right for me?
Start by assessing your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. We’ve mapped out in-demand, high-paying career pathways in Business, Education, Engineering, and Health for you to explore. Career advisors, workforce development centers, and online resources can also guide you in selecting a pathway.
How can I find regional community colleges and 4-year universities that offer career pathway programs in business, education, engineering, and health?
Click here for regional Business programs.
Click here for regional Education programs.
Click here for regional Engineering programs.
Click here for regional Health programs.
Are career pathways affordable for adult learners?
Many programs offer financial aid, scholarships, or employer-sponsored training to make career pathways accessible. Some certifications and community college programs are also low-cost or free, such as the Good Jobs Challenge.
Career Pathway Roadmap
Scroll to the right
to reveal the roadmap
High School
Pathway programs and dual enrollment allow students to explore different career fields, earn college credits, and gain practical skills while still in high school. Dual enrollment also shortens your time to certificates or degrees, saving you money.
Community College
College seekers and adult learners returning to education mid-career can pursue an affordable education with flexible degrees and certificates to prepare for work, reskill, upskill, or transfer to a 4-year university.
4-Year University
Deepen your expertise with a bachelor’s degree. Build skills, networks, and career readiness through specialized programs.
Workforce
Enter your career or return to your job confidently, backed by education, work-based learning, and real-world experience.