Career Pathways
Career Pathways in Jeffco
Jeffco Career Pathways follows the Colorado Community College System Career and Technical Education (CTE). CTE ensures a thriving Colorado economy by providing relevant and rigorous education that is connected, responsive and real. CTE engages students and prepares them with the skills they need for fulfilling careers in vital, in-demand, industries and occupations.
Jeffco CTE's mission is to prepare all students for successful careers through the real-world application of core and durable academic skills by partnering classrooms with businesses, industries and communities that positively impact the future workforce. All CTE programs offer academic, elective or college credit.
Career & Technical Education at Golden High School
Career and Technical Education (CTE) at Golden High School is more than classroom instruction – it gives students hands-on, real-world knowledge and skills in a variety of exciting, high-demand areas.
CTE Course Pathways
- Business
- Engineering/STEM
- Family & Consumer Sciences - Hospitality & Food Production
- Family & Consumer Sciences - Human Services/Education Training
- Information Technology
- Manufacturing
- Theatre - Performance
- Theatre - Technical Theatre
- Visual Arts & Design
Business
Business leadership and entrepreneurship are two of the fastest growing career paths in current market trends. Students learn fundamental business principles including management, entrepreneurship, accounting, business law, customer service, and marketing. The program teaches students both technical and essential skills to be applied with a wide range of industries.
| Business Courses | Level | Grade |
| Intro to Business | 1 | 9-12 |
| Principles of Marketing | 2 | 9-12 |
| Principles of Acctg/Finance | 2 | 9-12 |
| Event Marketing/Communications | 3 | 9-12 |
| Principles of Finance | 3 | 9-12 |
| Entrepreneurship | 4 | 9-12 |
| School Based Enterprise Retail (Demon Pit) | 4 | 9-12 |
| Business & Marketing Capstone | 4 | 9-12 |
| WBL: Business & Marketing | 4 | 9-12 |
Certifications Offered:
-
PMI Project Management Ready OR
Level 1
Intro to Business
Level 2
Principles of Marketing
Principles of Acctg/Finance
Principles of Accounting & Finance introduces accounting fundamentals with emphasis on the procedures and practices used in business organizations. Major topics include the accounting cycle for service and merchandising companies, including end-of-period reporting.
Level 3
Event Marketing/Communications
Principles of Finance
Level 4
Entrepreneurship
School Based Enterprise Retail (Demon Pit)
Business and Marketing Capstone
WBL: Business and Marketing
Engineering/STEM
Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to solve problems. Engineers figure out how things work and find practical uses for scientific discoveries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the employment of engineers is projected to grow 6% from 2020 to 2030.
The areas with most projected job growth are sectors experiencing an increase in demand such as renewable energy, oil and gas extractions and robotics. The program’s courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers.
Students will need to take four semesters to be ready for postsecondary training or the workforce.
| Engineering/STEM Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering 1 | 1 | 9-12 |
| Intro Drafting/Design Concepts | 1 | 9-12 |
| Engineering 2 | 2 | 9-12 |
| AP Computer Science Principles | 2 | 10-12 |
| Digital Electronics (Robotics) | 2 | 10-12 |
| Engineering 3: Aerospace | 3 | 10-12 |
| Engineering 3: Mechanical | 3 | 10-12 |
| WBL: Engineering | 4 | 11-12 |
| Capstone: STEM | 4 | 12 |
Certifications Offered:
- Solidworks Certified Associate (CSWA)
- Solidworks Certified Associate - Additive Manufacturing (CSWA-AM)
- Onshape Associate
- FAA 107
Level 1 Courses
Engineering 1
Intro Drafting and Design Concepts (3D Printing and CAD)
Introduction to Drafting and Design Concepts offers students the opportunity to combine design principles with technology to produce authentic projects. The initial focus will be on developing an understanding of the visual elements and the principles of design. Students will study both two and three-dimensional applications and problems. Students will explore areas such as: graphic design, architectural design, landscaping design, manufacturing design and interior design. Students will use drafting skills to produce detailed working drawings, sectionals, auxiliary, fasteners, and simple architectural floor plans. Students will also work in design teams to create pattern development and design and produce prototypes. They will be introduced to computer design software such as Google Sketch, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and ArchiCad.
Level 2 Courses
Engineering 2
AP Computer Sciences
Digital Electronics (Robotics)
Level 3 Courses
Engineering 3: Aerospace
Engineering 3: Mechanical
Level 4 Courses
Capstone: STEM
The STEM Capstone is a student driven culminating project in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics pathway. Students will work with professional STEM mentors as they define and navigate an investigation or design solution related to a STEM discipline of their choosing. Through the STEM Capstone students will demonstrate mastery in the following STEM skills (as defined by the Jeffco STEM Capstone Rubric): asking questions and defining problems, applying scientific and mathematical models to explain complex ideas, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematics and computational thinking, constructing explanations or designing solutions, engaging in argument from evidence, collaboration and leading by influence, and self-direction and personal responsibility. Students will demonstrate mastery through a portfolio of work linking their capstone project to the defined STEM skills and a public presentation of their solution and/or findings. The STEM Capstone is a required component of the STEM Endorsed Diploma. **This course may be applied towards a STEM Endorsed Diploma.
WBL: Engineering
Family & Consumer Sciences - Hospitality & Food Production
A Hospitality and Food Production Pathway is designed to prepare students for careers in the hospitality and food service industry. Students progress through courses that focus on culinary skills and techniques. They learn about food preparation, cooking methods, knife skills, and flavor profiles.
The program also covers proper food handling, storage, and hygiene to ensure the safety of both themselves and their customers. A well-structured pathway equips students with a strong foundation to pursue careers as chefs, bakers, caterers, and more within the dynamic and diverse field of hospitality.
| Hospitality & Food Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition & Wellness | 1 | 9-12 |
| Culinary Essentials 1 | 1 | 9-12 |
| Culinary Essentials 2 | 1 | 10-12 |
| Catering I & II (Offered 27-28 school year) | 2 | 10-12 |
| Baking & Pastry | 3 | 10-12 |
| FCS Capstone | 4 | 11-12 |
| WBL: Hospitality | 4 | 11-12 |
Certification Offered:
- Servsafe Manager
Level 1 Courses
Nutrition and Wellness
The purpose of Nutrition and Wellness is to develop lifelong, healthy individuals with an understanding and academic knowledge of wellness as a lifestyle, exercise and fitness, nutrition, and consumer products and services. Emphasis is placed on implementing healthy nutritional choices, developing a fitness/wellness plan, integrating science principles as related to nutrition, and practicing wise consumer decisions.
Culinary Essentials 1
Culinary Essentials 1 is designed to introduce students to a variety of culinary skills and food preparation. Through instruction and culinary lab practice, this class will provide an opportunity for students to learn food preparation and demonstrate food safety. Some topics include introductory culinary skills and preparation of items such as quick breads, yeast breads, and eggs; as well as meal and menu planning, nutrition, and food borne illnesses. Students will be able to:
- Demonstrate the correct procedures’ and techniques in introductory culinary labs.
- Analyze nutritional guidelines and plan menus that are nutritionally balanced.
- Demonstrate food safety standards.
Culinary Essentials 2
Culinary Essentials 2 is an intermediate culinary course designed for students interested in exploring culinary careers, and to advance them to the next level of food preparation. The students will have the opportunity to prepare menu items that involve more detailed procedures, and practice techniques used in the culinary field. They will:
- Classify pasta types and create fresh pasta dishes.
- Prepare and evaluate nutritional value of various types of meats.
- Select herbs and spices to enhance flavors of foods.
- Apply techniques used in cake and cookie decorating.
- Develop skills in preparing advanced yeast breads and pastries.
- Identify the origins and prepare foods from different regions and cultures.
- Emphasize presentation throughout the course.
Level 2 Course
Catering I & II (offered 27-27 school year)
Level 3 Course
Baking and Pastry
Level 4 Courses
FCS Capstone
This course allows for advanced work in any Family and Consumer Sciences Program of Study. This advanced work can be individualized to the specific program of study to allow for specialized study for the student. It may include project based learning or preparation for end of program industry certification. Specific content and course design will be determined by the instructor in collaboration with the individual student.
WBL: Hospitality
The Work-based Learning (WBL) experience allows for the application of the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities that are delivered through the coursework of the Program of Study (POS). Students build on prior knowledge and skills in the program of study to further develop and apply employability and technical skills that prepare them for success in future career and postsecondary education. 60 hours of internships is equivalent to .5 elective credit. Work-based Learning must follow Board Policy.
Family & Consumer Sciences - Human Services/Education Training
An Education Pathway is designed to prepare students for careers in the field of education, with a focus on teaching, training, and supporting learners of various ages. This pathway combines academic learning with practical training to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in educational settings. This pathway covers the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children and adolescents.
| Human Services/Education Training Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition & Wellness | 1 | 9-12 |
| Child & Adolescent Development | 1 | 9-12 |
| Education Exploration | 2 | 9-12 |
| EDU2211 Intro to Education | 3-4 | 10-12 |
| EDU2215 Intro Educ Techniques | 3-4 | 10-12 |
| WBL: Education | 3-4 | 11-12 |
Level 1 Courses
Nutrition & Wellness
Child & Adolescent Development
Level 2 Course
Education Exploration
Level 3 - 4 Courses
EDU2211 Intro to Education
EDU2215 Intro Educ Techniques
WBL: Education
Information Technology
Computer Science is more than building computers or coding. Computer Science is about solving problems using computers. Demand is strong for people who can design, install, and maintain networks and administer computer systems. Computer user support professionals work in a variety of industries and can command great pay and benefits. IT certifications help increase marketability and salary. In cybersecurity, perform key defense activities to Implement, test and administer solutions to defend IT systems and networks, while using defensive measures to respond to and mitigate security threats.
| Information Technology Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science Foundations | 1 | 9-12 |
| Computer Systems | 2 | 9-12 |
| AP Computer Science Principles | 2 | 10-12 |
| Networking | 3 | 10-12 |
| WBL: Information Technology | 4 | 10-12 |
Certifications Offered:
- CompTIA ITF+
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
Level 1 Course
Computer Science Foundations
Computer Science Foundations (CSF) A is a course intended to provide students with exposure to various information technology occupations and pathways such as Networking Systems, Coding, Web Design, and Cybersecurity. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to describe various information technology (IT) occupations and professional organizations. Moreover, they will be able to demonstrate logical thought processes and discuss the social, legal, and ethical issues encountered in the IT profession. Depending on the focus area, proficient students will also demonstrate an understanding of electronics and basic digital theory; project management and teamwork; client relations; causes and prevention of Internet security breaches; and writing styles appropriate for web publication. Upon completion of the CSF course, students will be prepared to make an informed decision about which Information Technology program of study to pursue. **This course may be applied towards a STEM Endorsed Diploma.
Level 2 Courses
Computer Systems
Computer Systems is an intermediate course designed to prepare students with work-related skills and aligned certification in the information technology industry. Content provides students the opportunity to acquire knowledge in both theory and practical applications pertaining to hardware, operating systems, safe mode, command prompt, security, networking, printers, peripheral devices, laptops, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and customer service management. Upon completion of the course, proficient students will have acquired skills and knowledge to install, configure, and maintain computer systems. Students who are proficient in this course will be eligible to pursue the IT industry-standard credential, CompTIA’s A+ certification.
AP Computer Science Principles
Level 3 Course
Networking
Level 4 Course
WBL: Information Technology (Cyber Crew School Based Enterprise)
Manufacturing
Students learn a range of skills, used in the proper application of principles of manufacturing. The study of manufacturing technology allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant activities. Students will gain an understanding of what employers require to gain and maintain employment in manufacturing careers.
| Manufacturing Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Principles of Manufacturing (A) | 1 | 9-12 |
| Principles of Manufacturing (B) | 1 | 9-12 |
| Manufacturing Technology I (A) | 2 | 10-12 |
| Manufacturing Technology I (B) | 2 | 10-12 |
| Manufacturing Technology II (A) | 3 | 11-12 |
| Manufacturing Technology II (B) | 3 | 11-12 |
| Capstone: CTE | 4 | 12 |
Certification Offered:
- OnShape
Level 1 Course
Principles of Manufacturing (A & B - Introduction to Wood & Metalworking)
Level 2 Course
Manufacturing Technology I (A & B - Advanced Wood & Metalworking)
Level 3 Course
Manufacturing Technology II
Level 4 Course
Capstone: CTE
The CTE Capstone is a one semester course that satisfies both the RWC/English and Math PWR demonstration requirements for graduation. The CTE Capstone is a multifaceted project that delves deeper into Colorado's six (6) career clusters such as health sciences, skilled trades & technical sciences, or business and marketing. Students engage in academic and technical skills necessary to succeed in future careers connected to the Colorado Career Cluster Model.
Theatre - Performance
The theatre and entertainment job market is growing with a focus on new technologies. Students learn a range of skills, from acting to digital production, for diverse industry demands. Professionals work in various settings from live theatre productions, television and news shows, films, to online videos, and concerts to bring stories to life using creativity and technical skills, making creative decisions that entertain and inform audiences.
| Theatre - Performance Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations of Theatre Arts | 1 | 9-12 |
| Intermediate Theatre | 2 | 10-12 |
| Theatrical Production & Management | 3 | 11-12 |
| Unified Theatre | 3 | 10-12 |
| Capstone Theatre (Competition) | 4 | 11-12 |
| WBL: Theatre Production | 4 | 11-12 |
Level 1 Course
Foundations of Theatre Arts
In Foundations Theatre Arts, students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio/video technology, and production. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
Level 2 Course
Theatre Inter
Theatre Intermediate introduces students to methods of performance and performance-dependent careers. Though performance is a significant part of this course, further topics include financial awareness, promotion and marketing, and management and leadership.
Level 3 Course
Theatrical Prod & Management
Theatre: Unified Theatre
Unified Theatre is designed to partner students with and without significant disabilities through the lens of theatre. The mentor student model will be used so that students will collaborate throughout the Semester to develop theatrical skills, social-emotional expression, and creative problem solving. The course will culminate in an evening performance of a Unified Theatre production. All students can expect to build skills in improvisation, characterization, working as an ensemble, and more. Mentor students can also expect to develop skills in leadership, project management, marketing, and direction. This course prepares students to manage the planning, design, preparation, and production of plays and other theatrical performances. Course content may include instruction in theatrical design, program management, dramatic production, rehearsal management, personnel management and casting, actor coaching, directing concepts and techniques, dramaturgy, script interpretation, business management, marketing, public relations, and communications skills. This course will be paired with the Unified Mentor course.
Level 4 Courses
Capstone Theatre (Theater Competition Class - Tech and Performance Combined)
WBL: Theatre Production
The Work-based Learning (WBL) experience allows for the application of the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities that are delivered through the coursework of the Program of Study (POS). Students build on prior knowledge and skills in the program of study to further develop and apply employability and technical skills that prepare them for success in future career and postsecondary education. 60 hours of internships is equivalent to .5 elective credit. Work-based Learning must follow Board Policy.
Theatre - Technical Theatre
| Theatre - Technical Theatre Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations of Theatre Arts | 1 | 9-12 |
| Tech Theatre Inter | 2 | 10-12 |
| Technical Theatre Adv | 3 | 10-12 |
| Theatrical Production & Management | 3 | 11-12 |
| Unified Theatre | 3 | 10-12 |
| Capstone Theatre (Competition) | 4 | 11-12 |
| WBL: Theatre Production | 4 | 11-12 |
Level 1 Course
Foundations of Theatre Arts
In Foundations Theatre Arts, students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio/video technology, and production. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
Level 2 Course
Technical Theatre Inter
Technical Theatre Intermediate introduces/builds on methods of constructing and painting scenery and properties, operating stage lighting and sound equipment, and implementing costumes and multimedia. This course explores the proper procedures of serving on stage crews.
Level 3 Courses
Technical Theatre Adv
Technical Theatre Advanced emphasizes two- and three-dimensional drawing and designs and color theory, science and programming of lighting/sound etc. This course involves individualized focus areas incorporating the elements and principles of design. Examples include: Set Design, Sound Design, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Prop Design and more. ie: Students construct 3-D models and a theatrical stage set.
Theatrical Prod & Management
Theatre: Unified Theatre
Unified Theatre is designed to partner students with and without significant disabilities through the lens of theatre. The mentor student model will be used so that students will collaborate throughout the Semester to develop theatrical skills, social-emotional expression, and creative problem solving. The course will culminate in an evening performance of a Unified Theatre production. All students can expect to build skills in improvisation, characterization, working as an ensemble, and more. Mentor students can also expect to develop skills in leadership, project management, marketing, and direction. This course prepares students to manage the planning, design, preparation, and production of plays and other theatrical performances. Course content may include instruction in theatrical design, program management, dramatic production, rehearsal management, personnel management and casting, actor coaching, directing concepts and techniques, dramaturgy, script interpretation, business management, marketing, public relations, and communications skills. This course will be paired with the Unified Mentor course.
Level 4 Courses
Capstone Theatre (Theater Competition Class - Tech and Performance Combined)
WBL: Theatre Production
Visual Arts & Design
Careers in Visual Arts and Design influence and span many industries. Students will explore materials, focus on a chosen specialty medium, maintain a portfolio, and market themselves as an artist. Visual Arts and Design professionals are the creative thinkers and problem solvers who make use of design principles to communicate ideas with visual images and products.
| Visual Arts & Design Courses | Level | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design & Illustr Beg | 1 | 9-12 |
| Digital Photography Beg | 1 | 9-12 |
| Graphic Design & Illustr Inter | 2 | 9-12 |
| Digital Photography Inter | 2 | 9-12 |
| Photography Adv | 3 | 9-12 |
| Graphic Design and Illustration Adv | 3 | 9-12 |
Certification Offered:
- Adobe Photoshop
Level 1 Courses
Graphic Design & Illustration Beg
IIn Graphic Design and Illustration Beginning, students build on their knowledge of the variety of media, skills, and processes in the Graphic Design and Illustration arts. Course work incorporates deepening study of specific and specialized media, skills, and processes. Additionally, studio work incorporates adequate time to experiment with the course work, develop personal expressions, and reflect on artwork and their processes. Within this context, students will be expected to deepen their understanding of various career opportunities in the Graphic Design and Illustration arts and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities. This course may explore Digital Photography, Graphic Design Arts, Multi-Media Arts, and Story Boarding.
Digital Photography Beg
Digital Photography Beginning will introduce students to the use of digital cameras and digital image-editing software, primarily using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. The roles of scanning processes and equipment, image picture-taking modes and printing preparation, and various out-put devices will be explored in producing the photographic image. Exposure techniques such as pre-visualizing and the application of visual elements and lighting techniques will be stressed. Additionally, this course incorporates the study of photography from a historical, social, and cultural viewpoint as a source of knowledge and inspiration, as well as an exploration of possible photography careers.
Level 2 Courses
Graphic Design & Illustr Inter
In Graphic Design and Illustration Intermediate, students deepen their knowledge of the variety of media, skills, and processes in the Graphic Design and Illustration arts. Course work incorporates specific, specialized, and self-initiated study of media, skills, and processes. Additionally, studio work incorporates adequate time to experiment with the course work, develop personal expressions, reflect on artwork and their processes, and begin to transfer skills to other opportunities. Within this context, students will be expected to develop a body of work surrounding a common theme. This course may explore more complex processes in Digital Photography, Graphic Design Arts, Multi-Media Arts, and Story Boarding.
Digital Photography Inter
Level 3 Courses
Photography Adv (Commercial Photography II)
Graphic Design & Illustr Adv
In Graphic Design and Illustration Adv, students deepen their knowledge of the variety of media, skills, and processes in the Graphic Design and Illustration arts. Course work incorporates specific, specialized, and self-initiated study of media, skills, and processes. Additionally, studio work incorporates adequate time to experiment with the course work, develop personal expressions, reflect on artwork and their processes, recieve expert feedback through critique, and transfer skills to other opportunities. Within this context, students will be expected to develop a body of work surrounding a common theme and explore various career opportunities in the Graphic Design and Illustration arts, as well as the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities. This course may support student led investigations of specialized processes in Digital Photography, Graphic Design Arts, Multi-Media Arts, and Story Boarding.
