Program Description
In 1993-94, 152 high school and 48 postsecondary students were enrolled in 14 tech prep programs offered through the Cooperative. Each program consists of a series of required and recommended courses at the high school and community college level with an internship following high school and the first year of college. Other worksite learning experiences available include student and parent orientation meetings, career days, career overviews, extended campus courses, and work-study programs. Some of the high school courses are taught at the community college. Completion of this 2 + 2 model of tech prep results in an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in the program area. High school students apply to participate in the program and must have a C average, good attendance, and a positive attitude. Ninety businesses and industries are partners in the program.
Anticipated Student Outcomes
Anticipated outcomes include hiring preference for full-time employment in a job with an upwardly mobile career path; opportunity to pursue a related bachelor's degree while working full-time with a partner company, which may offer tuition reimbursement; involvement with a large, well-known employer; possible paid internships; and the opportunity to explore chosen career directions before investing a lot of time and money taking courses to prepare for them.
For more information, contact:
Pam Block
Northwest Career Cooperative
1750 S. Roselle Road
Palatine, IL 60067
(847) 359-3300