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High School CTE Programs of Study

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CTE & PTECH Programs

In the Syracuse City School District, our mission is to make sure every student has the opportunity, the support, and the encouragement to thrive. Whether you see yourself continuing to college, serving in the military, or stepping directly into the workforce, we are committed to equipping you with the tools you’ll need for success.

To make that possible, the SCSD provides a wide range of opportunities, including Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, Pathways in Technology Early College High School (PTECH) programs, and High School Choice Programs. Each of these options offers hands-on experiences, mentoring, and skill-building that extend well beyond the classroom. Learn more about all of these options here!

CTE Programs

  • Study in this area can lead to jobs in Graphic Design, Video Game Design, Art Director, Advertising, Computer Animation, Film and video production, Illustration, Photography and Web design and applications.

    Students will learn skills in both visual art concepts as well as new and emerging digital processes in multiple types of media for multiple applications, including digital photography, digital image editing, graphic design, website design, video and audio production and post-production, 2D and 3D computer animation, and innovative video game designing.

  • It takes more than the turn of a key to make a car run. Working on today’s cars requires an understanding of the science and technology utilized in the design of modern automobiles. In the Automotive Technology program at ITC, students spend time in the classroom and then apply what they’ve learned on real cars in our state-of-the art facilities.

    Training includes diagnosis and repair of all automotive systems using modern tools and diagnostic equipment.

  • Are you a creative, artistic person? Do you like working and socializing with others? Would you like to own your own business someday? If so, the Barbering program at PSLA at Fowler might be for you.

    Barbering students can work and learn in our barbershop at PSLA at Fowler while gaining hands-on experiences in this exciting field. Students learn how to deal with clients, maintain a professional work environment and provide professional services to real customers.

    Mixing classroom instruction with practical experience, barbering students learn the important skills necessary to prepare for the New York State written and practical examinations. Students completing the program can apply for their temporary New York State license.

  • Whether you’re interested in medicine,biotechnology, nursing or any of the hundreds of other career fields in the areas of science or math, the Biotechnology Program at ITC may be for you!

    In this STEM pathway, students will be exposed to several different levels of science and math courses. Students will begin earning college credits as early as their 9th grade year at ITC. As seniors, students will be on the OCC campus taking college classes in the morning and returning to ITC in the afternoon to finish their high school requirements.

  • The Business Entrepreneurship program will prepare students for careers and further education and training in the world of business. Students will learn concepts and techniques for planning entrepreneurial ventures, using design thinking and business model development. Students will learn about financial statements, marketing principles, sales and customer service, and basic economic principles for successful operation. Students will balance individual skills with group development skills including collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity, problem solving, perseverance, information literacy, technology skills, and digital literacy. They will develop awareness of motivating and supporting others including an awareness of diversity, ethical business practices and social responsibility. 

  • SCSD CTE Business Technology programs offer students the skills necessary to pursue business or finance degrees in college and learn about running a successful business. Students will have opportunities to earn college credits, participate in work-based learning experiences and receive industry credentials.

  • This program prepares students for careers in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. Students will be trained on state- of-the-art industry standard equipment and work in a simulated clean room. The program is orientated for students to learn monitoring, sustaining, and improving equipment. During hands-on projects, students will perform technical tests and experiments in the simulated wafer fabrication area and set-up and master the use of semiconductor processing equipment.

  • There are secrets and hidden details locked inside every computer. It takes a skilled Computer Forensics professional to find them and bring a criminal to justice.

    From auction fraud to social engineering, from email scams to phishing — in Computer Forensics at PSLA at Fowler, you’ll learn techniques to search for, preserve and analyze information on computer systems to find potential evidence for a trial.

  • Students in our program are prepared for careers and further education and training in the construction industry, especially the management of construction projects, such as construction manager, construction engineer, cost estimator, construction superintendent, scheduler, and construction inspector. It provides a balanced focus on technical construction knowledge, such as methods, materials, systems, and layouts, as well as managerial, financial, and planning skills necessary to complete construction projects successfully.

  • The Construction Technology program teaches students the essential skills needed to begin a career in the building and construction trades. Students will gain knowledge and hands-on experience in the basics of carpentry, drywall, painting, framing, roofing, floor installation, door and window installation, blueprint reading, siding, electrical wiring, plumbing, proper tool use, and OSHA safety training.

    Students will learn through class activities, projects, and community service. Construction Technology students at Nottingham High School can earn OSHA safety certification and the opportunity to receive the Core Laborer 1 and Laborer 2 credentials.

  • Have you ever dreamed of owning your own salon? Are you interested in skin and nail care? Our Cosmetology program can prepare you for many careers in these interesting fields.

    Cosmetology students can work in our real salon at PSLA at Fowler to gain handson experiences in many aspects of these professions. Students receive lessons on everything from proper people skills to nail, skin and hair care while providing services to students, staff and community members.

    Through class instruction and working in the salon, students will be immersed in the field and gain practical experience as well as preparation for the New York State written and practical examinations. Upon completing the program, students will be issued an application for their temporary NYS license.

  • Designers work in a variety of industries such as fashion, graphics, architecture, computer, industrial, and communications. This program teaches students the essential skills needed to begin a career in design. The Creative Expression and Design program has a unique partnership with the Syracuse University School of Design.

  • Whether you just love to cook or want to own your own restaurant, students in our Culinary Arts program at ITC can learn classical culinary techniques and restaurant management essentials through lecture, hands-on experience and project-based learning.

  • We live in a digital world. Whether it’s keeping in touch with friends, operating a city’s energy grid or strengthening national security, it happens online. The need to secure our networks has never been greater.

    The number of cyber-attacks increase dramatically every year, and people with technical skills are needed to ensure online security. As a student in the Cybersecurity program at PSLA at Fowler, you’ll learn how to make online information more secure and protect users from the growing threat of cyber-attacks. This program teaches the core concepts needed to understand, assess and protect information security systems.

  • Students in our Data Analytics program will learn the fundamentals of data science, its currency in the job market, and its applicability to everyday life through hands-on projects with real- world datasets. Students will learn about the reasons why data is collected and the questions data analytics is used to answer. Students will be introduced to various ways of collecting data and the effect that data collection has on the interpretation of the patterns they discover. Students will learn methods to ensure that their data is accurate and reliable and will use various analytics and display tools to understand the data they have collected. Students will be introduced to fundamental mathematical and statistical models to analyze and predict future results.

  • With rapid advancements in our technology, electricians are in high demand and will continue to be far into the future. From designing lighting systems to installing streetlights and intercom systems to learning about the latest renewable energy concepts including solar, wind and geothermal technologies — this PSLA at Fowler program provides the hands-on skill development and technical training you need to secure entry-level employment (or higher) in the electrical trades field.

  • When the situation is at its worst and every second counts, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are at their best! EMTs are first responders, assessing dangerous situations and stabilizing the sick or injured — all while maintaining patience, understanding and compassion.

    The EMT program at PSLA at Fowler trains students to function independently in a medical emergency and provide pre-hospital care at the scene or during transport. Students can earn the NYS Emergency Medical Technician Certification.

  • It takes a special set of skills to become a firefighter: courage, strong communication and the ability to make quick decisions, not to mention physical strength and stamina. Firefighters are required to enter burning buildings to extinguish a fire and rescue individuals and operate a variety of specialized equipment while doing so. In addition, one of the major roles of the job doesn’t involve fire at all and that’s responding to medical emergencies and providing emergency medical care.

    Students in the Fire/Rescue program at PSLA at Fowler learn about fire prevention and develop critical skills necessary to handle the challenges and demands of fire protection.

  • Forensic Science applies science to crime, the law, and the courtroom. Recent advances in science and technology have significantly influenced law enforcement and the entire criminal justice system. The course focuses on the science of crime detection.

    As a student in the Forensic Science Pathway at the Public Service Leadership Academy at Fowler, you will learn to gather and examine evidence used in a court of law. You will learn to collect and document physical evidence, conduct laboratory analysis, and present results during testimony in a court of law.

  • Geospatial Technology affects almost every aspect of life, from navigating an unfamilar neighborhood, to mapping wildfires, to making business decisions, to tracking diseases, to locating the world's most wanter terrorists. The Geospatial Technology program at SCSD focuses on using information and technology to understand people, places, and processes of the earth. Geospatial Technologies are being used in academia, business, and government to manage large datasets of spatially-linked information, and provide users with powerful analytic tools. The primary focus of Geospatial Technology is to help make more informed decisions within any discipline or industry.

    In this program students will learn how to use and apply Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Postioning Systems (GPS), remote sensing and data visualization tools. Students will learn key methodologies used by Geospatial specialists and particpate in hands-on activities and lessons that use industry-standard software analyses and display mapping data. This program teacges students to employ Geospatial tools, and conduct complex analyses, using a wide variety of spatial statistics and data interpretation skills, through real-world, project based learning. This course is desinged to promote valuable career and college-ready practices, including analytical thinking, critical evalutaion and problem solving skills.

  • With advances in technology and the ongoing threat of terrorism, homeland security and the demand for highly skilled law enforcement professionals has never been more apparent. A highly trained law enforcement workforce must be equipped to meet the challenges of today's national security.

    Students in our Law Enforcement pathway at the Public Service Leadership Academy at Fowler will learn to react appropriately and professionally to situations where the public might be at risk by manmade or natural emergencies. They will learn the tactics, theory and skills required of today's law enforcement professionals.

  • Whether you dream of anchoring a news desk, covering sports or working behind the scenes as a camera operator/programmer, you’ll be on the right path with the Media Communications program at ITC.

    Students in our program learn to work in a professional television studio while being involved in operating the school’s news and communication network including announcements, social media, news magazines and web presence. The class structure is project-based and hands-on. Projects are supplemented with reading, writing, lectures, demonstrations, videos, online research and critiques.

  • You’re a caring and compassionate person who loves to help others. As a student in the Certified Medical Assisting program your compassionate nature will be enhanced by the essential knowledge you need to become a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), as well as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).

    The Medical Assisting pathway is offered at Henninger High School for any student interested in obtaining a Medical Assistant Certification upon graduation from high school. The program provides information and skills common to all medical assistants.

  • Entertainment engineering is a pathway that ties together fine arts and technical skills; a hybrid of art/ design and engineering. Study in this area can lead to jobs in a variety of environments and venues such as theater, recording studio, theme parks and cruise lines. A sample of possible careers include: set design, set construction, lighting design and technician, audio technician, theater production manager, house manager, stage manager, stage carpenter, costume designer, prop manager, drapers, scenic artists.

    Students will learn techniques used by industry professionals through a project-based approach to instruction which incorporates direct experiences with technical theater skills and professionals. Key areas of instruction and experience include: elements of design; set design/ dressing and construction; wardrobe and costume design and production; audio and lighting design and implementation; production, stage and front of house management; analysis of technical requirements.

  • The Earth is more than just the ground underneath us; it’s our greatest natural resource. The study of Natural Resources is an interdisciplinary pathway offered at Nottingham High School. In this program, you’ll develop an integrated view of the biological, ecological and social dimensions of the environment.

    In addition to academic course work, students have the opportunity to learn about careers through guest lectures and field trips to businesses, industry and government agency partners.

  • The mission of NNDCC is to instill in students the values of citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment. Some of our students are interested in serving our country in the U.S. Navy or attending the Naval Academy, but our program can benefit any student.

    As a NNDCC cadet at PSLA at Fowler, students can participate in their education and learn to be better citizens. The program provides them with the tools and skills needed to succeed in high school and, more importantly, help them be successful in life.

  • Students in our program will work in a professional environment and have opportunities to perform in the historic, fully renovated Lincoln Auditorium. Students will build their technical and expressive skills in the elements of music as applied to a band or orchestra instrument. They will develop their skills in both small group lessons and ensemble rehearsals. Students will learn the Eight Elements of Theater: participants, scenario, time, place, movement, costumes, sound and purpose. Through this framework, students explore theater through games improvisations, acting, design and playwriting. Students can focus on Dance. This will include modern dance, jazz, African, tap, Flamenco, ballet, hip hop and the basic elements of choreography. Choral music will be offered to students. These performing ensembles allow students to create, perform, respond to and connect with the variety of vocal.

  • Students will learn the fundamentals of robotic technologies, its currency in the job market, and its applicability to everyday life. Students will gain an understanding of how robotic technologies impact the environment, society, and the economy. Students will explore the manufacturing industry and the various activities that are required to create a product as a context for their work with robotics and automation. There will be an ongoing focus on workplace safety and essential skills in math and measurement. Students will learn the basics of how to design, program, and interface robotic and automated devices with computer systems. Students will study mechanical and electrical concepts, including sources of energy, electrical safety, identification and use of basic mechanical and electronic components, such as sensors, actuators, and effectors, and engineering design concepts, including computer-aided design, design testing, programming, and proper documentation of projects.

  • Are you interested in a career making a difference in the lives of young people and working in an urban environment? Do you want to help students achieve their dreams? If so, the Urban Teacher Prep pathway at Corcoran High School may be for you.

    The Urban Teacher Prep pathway provides students with the opportunity to prepare for a career in urban education and earn no-cost transferable college credits. The program helps provide students with the unique skills required to be a successful educator in a diverse urban environment.

    Students will develop an understanding of teaching and learning through handson lessons, work-based experiences, and specialized coursework. Urban Teacher Prep graduates will have a head start for the next phase of their career in urban education from two-year college programs to four-year college and graduate programs.

  • A degree in Visual Arts can lead you to a thrilling career and life as an artist. Throughout your studies, you will be exposed to classroom courses in art history, theory and criticism alongside intensive studio experiences in drawing, print media, photography, time-based media, painting and sculpture.

    Students in our Visual Arts program learn skills in 2 Dimensional and 3 Dimensional art. They will explore development of various mediums, concepts, and philosophies which include drawing, painting and other creative 2D media, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking and other 3D media. Students will develop a portfolio highlighting their signature body of art work for college/career. Students will explore Art History learning about artists and artworks in all four artistic processes; Creating, Presenting, Responding, and Connecting.

  • Welders build and repair metal structures, machines and equipment using specialized equipment that produces intense heat to fuse metal parts together. The Welding program at Corcoran High School delivers a combination of classroom theory and practical experience within our weld shop over a period of four years.

    The program is designed to prepare students for extended study in an apprenticeship, twoyear college or employment. The skills taught are based on the Standards of the American Welding Society (AWS). The society and its standards are recognized worldwide as a benchmark for skilled welders.

PTECH Programs

The Syracuse City School District offers P-TECH programs in several high-demand industries. The P-TECH program is designed to motivate and enable students to earn a college degree and successfully transition into the workplace, with the preparation and skills needed by employers.

  • This program prepares students for careers in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. Students will be trained on state-of-the-art industry standard equipment and work in a simulated clean room. The program is orientated for students to learn monitoring, sustaining, and improving equipment. During hands-on projects, students will perform technical tests and experiments in the simulated wafer fabrication area and set-up and master the use of semiconductor processing equipment.

  • Are you the “go to” person among your friends and family when their computer gives them a hard time? Are you the one they call when their printer isn’t working? Do you enjoy using technology and learning how it works? If so, the Computer Information Systems program might be for you.

    Students in the CIS program at PSLA at Fowler will learn about information processing, networks, hardware, software applications, and web publishing through hands-on activities. They will learn the basic skills necessary to pursue careers in networking, information technology support, programming and web technology. Students will also have the opportunity to earn a no cost college degree while still in high school.

  • If you’re the kind of person who likes to tinker or take something apart, study it and put it back together — not always because it’s broken, but sometimes just for fun — then you may be interested in a career in Electrical Engineering.

    In this program, students will learn the skills they need to tinker on a professional scale. They’ll construct, test, analyze, trouble-shoot and repair modern systems and sub-systems using real world engineering tools and the technologies of today.

    Students will also learn fundamental engineering concepts such as electronics, industrial control, instrumentation, communications, power distribution and electronic hardware while taking their problem solving skills to the next level.

  • HIT students learn to use the most current information systems for collecting, analyzing, disseminating and maintaining health care and patient data. Students will also learn to understand medical information through coursework in anatomy and physiology as well as medical terminology.

    Health Information Technology professionals work with and/or for health care providers to better manage patient care through secure use and sharing of health information.

  • Healthcare Professions are the fastest growing occupations in the United States.

    The Health Professions program at Henninger provides an edge for students with a desire to enter a variety of health careers. Our program will introduce students to infection control, medical terminology, human growth and development, anatomy and physiology, structure and function of body systems, the study of diseases and the disease process, healthcare technology, medical ethics and jurisprudence, standards of professional conduct, patient communication and the fundamentals of patient care.

  • Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems. HVACR technicians work mostly in homes, schools, hospitals, office buildings, or factories. Their worksites may be very hot or cold because the heating and cooling systems they must repair may not be working properly and because some parts of these systems are located outdoors. Working in cramped spaces and during irregular hours is common.

  • Working in a medical laboratory environment, students in the Laboratory Science program can acquire the knowledge and technical skills that will prepare them for positions as entry-level laboratory assistants or advanced placement in college.

    Students will gain practical learning experience through scientific investigations and experiments, as well as the collection and testing of samples, writing reports and presenting information in a state-of-the-art laboratory setting.

    As a career link, established partnerships with many local businesses and medical facilities provide students with internships and potential future employment opportunities. In addition, students have the opportunity to earn a CTE Technical Endorsement on their diploma by successfully passing an industry-standard technical assessment.

  • Well-paying manufacturing jobs are growing at the fastest rate in 23 years. Employers are eager to hire people with the right skills. The Pre-Apprenticeship pathway at Corcoran will prepare students to be first in line for a Registered Apprenticeship as an Industrial Manufacturing Technician.

  • Behind the scenes, behind the machines, behind the technology you use every day — there’s a mechanical technician inventing, reinventing and perfecting the machines that enable our modern lives.

    As a student in the Mechanical Technology program, you’ll learn about the latest technological advancements in computer drafting, computeraided design and manufacturing. In addition, you’ll gain hands-on experience in using computer software to analyze and design mechanical systems and automated manufacturing systems. With this experience, you’ll have the basis to create, build and shape the way we live for generations to come.

  • Have you ever had an interest in remote controlled planes or cars? Do you like making things work or designing new things? Do you like math and science? If so, you may be interested in a career in Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). The use of drones, or RPAS is becoming one of the fastest growing technologies in the country. No longer simply for military use, drones will soon be used in hundreds of businesses and industries around the world.

    The RPAS program at PSLA at Fowler prepares students to enter this fast growing field. Students will participate in hands-on learning, working with both simulators and real drones. They will learn the basic skills necessary for piloting, engineering, and repairing RPAS.

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