OFY/OFL Programs · Career & College Readiness

Career Technical Education (CTE) & College Prep

Explore your future and build real skills. Career pathways, college prep, and dual enrollment, so whatever comes after graduation, students leave ready for it.

  • 6 Career Pathways
  • Dual Enrollment Options
  • Tuition-Free

Offerings vary by location. See your local school for available programs, services, and resources.

Three students holding their certificates Student assembling a small robot Students practicing CPR on a training mannequin
Built For Enrolled OFY/OFL students
When Year-round opportunities
Cost 100% free for enrolled families
Personalized experiences

Not ready for a full pathway? Start smaller.

Get a schedule that works for you and move at a pace that feels right.

American Sign Language

Asynchronous Only

Learn American Sign Language on your own time, at your own pace.

Career Exploration

Explore various career paths through our Career Technical Education courses.

Micro-Certifications

In-demand skills with real-world certifications and experience.

The benefits of CTE

Why career pathways change how students show up

By blending rigorous academics with practical skills and career exploration, CTE turns classrooms into launchpads for success in college, career, and beyond.

Increased Student Engagement

  • Real-world relevance. Learning connects directly to future careers, making education meaningful and motivating.
  • Hands-on learning. Labs, projects, and industry simulations keep students active and inspired.
  • Career focus. Students gain purpose and direction as they explore real career paths.

Improved Attendance & Retention

  • Higher persistence. CTE students are significantly less likely to drop out than their peers.
  • Stronger connections. Cohort-based pathways build belonging and keep students invested in school.

Positive Culture & Career Alignment

  • Schoolwide impact. Engaged CTE learners uplift overall morale and engagement.
  • Community partnerships. Industry connections give students authentic experiences and lasting opportunities.

Academic & Skills Growth

  • Applied academics. Core subjects come to life through practical, career-based applications.
  • Future-ready. CTE students graduate on time and continue to college, certifications, or the workforce.
Learning through experience

Hands-on, not just textbooks

We believe true comprehension happens when students step away from theoretical worksheets and construct real solutions. Our modern on-campus learning workshops mirror genuine professional workspaces.

  • Culinary workshops with professional chefs
  • Healthcare and nursing experiences
  • Crime scene investigation and forensics activities
  • Engineering, robotics, and design challenges
  • Veterinary and animal science exploration
  • Cosmetology and beauty industry experiences
  • STEM and career-focused field experiences
College prep pathways

Preparing students for what comes next

OFY and OFL offer flexible college-prep pathways built to support graduation, higher education, career readiness, and future success, so students can explore life after high school, whether that is college, trade school, military service, or the workforce. Students get:

  • Postsecondary and career counseling
  • Financial aid and scholarship resources
  • College readiness support
  • Personalized graduation and future planning
Dual Enrollment

Earn college credit before you graduate

Eligible students can take dual enrollment courses and earn high school and college credit at the same time, at no cost. It is a chance to experience college-level academics, accelerate goals, and explore career paths while still in high school. Dual enrollment can be a fit for students who:

  • Plan to attend a four-year college or university
  • Want to challenge themselves with college-level coursework
  • Want to earn college credits while finishing high school
  • Are exploring career paths and want a head start on skills
  • Cal Poly Pomona
  • UC Irvine
  • UCLA
  • USC
  • Cal State LA
  • Yale
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • Loyola Marymount
  • Cal State Long Beach
College Acceptance

Our graduates have been accepted to

Academic excellence and career-focused experiences help students build a strong foundation for college and beyond.

Experiential Learning & Trips

Two programs that make college feel possible

"C.R.E.W" College Readiness Experience the World

A college readiness program that builds confidence, leadership, and college awareness.

  • College readiness workshops
  • Team-building activities
  • Community service opportunities
  • Leadership development
  • Scholarship and postsecondary planning

College Tours & Campus Visits

Walk real campuses and see what college life actually looks like.

  • Majors and career pathways
  • Campus life and student resources
  • Financial aid and admissions process
  • Student organizations and activities

Testimonials

Student Reviews

“When I told my new counselor about my dream, he completely supported my goal and started helping me with research and scholarships.”
Eva 2025 OFY Grad
“OFY was the start of me changing my story. They gave me no excuse to fail. They pushed me to do my best with lots of encouragement and high hopes.”
Erick M. OFY Student
“As a student at Options for Youth, I was able to work at my own pace, which allowed me to work ahead and finish high school at a faster pace than I would have at traditional public school.”
Husna 2025 OFY Grad
Frequently asked questions

CTE and college prep, explained

ONE STEP FROM STARTING

A school built for how
students actually learn

Flexible schedules, personalized support, and multiple pathways designed to help students stay on track toward graduation and future goals.