GCCCD CTE Programs

CTE Programs and Credit by Examination Pathways

Career Technical Education (CTE) provides students with the academic, technical, and career-readiness skills needed to prepare for employment, advance in a current field, continue their education, and become lifelong learners. Through Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges, students may earn short-term certificates, Certificates of Achievement, and Associate Degrees in a variety of high-demand career pathways.

CTE programs at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges offer certificate programs and Associate Degrees with an occupational emphasis. These programs provide education and hands-on training that can lead directly to employment, help current workers update or expand their skills, and support continued academic growth, including transfer to four-year colleges and universities.

Associate Degree programs generally require completion of at least 60 units of credit. Certificate programs vary in the number of units required, and many certificates can be completed in a shorter timeframe or may be applied toward an Associate Degree.

Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District also supports high school and adult school students through the Credit by Exam process. Approved Credit by Examination Agreements allow eligible students to earn college credit for approved high school or adult school coursework when they successfully complete the required course, meet the competency criteria, complete the CCCApply application process, and submit the required Student Petition for College Credit by Examination.

The CTE programs at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges are designed to stay current with San Diego’s regional labor market needs and industry trends. By bringing together local employers, faculty, staff, students, community-based organizations, public agencies, and private industry partners, our programs continue to evolve to meet the needs of students and an increasingly competitive workforce.

Many CTE programs include opportunities for career exploration, internships, work-based learning, industry engagement, and hands-on experience. These opportunities help students connect classroom learning to real-world career pathways and build the skills needed for future success.

Explore CTE Program Offerings

Cuyamaca College Career Education

Grossmont College Career Technical Education / Workforce Development / Career Services

For questions about Credit by Exam, approved agreements, or the college credit process, please email ctecollegecredit@gcccd.edu.