College Tech Prep programs are different. People who work every day in the field that you've chosen have helped to design the best, most up-to-date, real-world high school and college curriculum. College Tech Prep programs begin with business partners collaborating with educators to determine workplace and academic skills needed for success. Each program follows the same stages of development. Before a College Tech Prep program is offered:

• It is determined that there is a local need for a program. Such factors as future job availability and educational requirements are considered.
• Business and industry professionals convene at the state level to define and describe the emerging technical career.
• A Technical Competency Profile (TCP) is developed by employers and educators. Employers determine essential and recommended skills. Educators decide when the skills will be taught. A pathway from high school to college is created. Both groups collaboratively refine the document.
• The curriculum pathway is locally reviewed by employers and educators.
• A course of study is developed including all of the info from the TCP. Hallmarks of effective Tech Prep instruction include project-based learning, hands on activities, and integrated units.
• Educators jointly determine classroom activities and professional development requirements.