DoDEA has conducted an extensive review, and updating of the traditional career and vocational program areas. The existing DoDEA course offerings have been aligned with the United States Department of Education’s (DOE) Career Clusters and Career Pathways.

DoDEA has organized the existing courses under the curriculum area title of Professional Technical Studies (PTS) and those courses have been grouped to allow a student to pursue an in-depth area of study in one of the Career Clusters and associated Career Pathways. A student’s in-depth study in the body of knowledge related to a pathway will provide the student a rich experience of challenging subjects with relevant contextual learning experiences.

Significant evidence supports the need for all students to have these types of experiences before they enter college, the workforce, or the military. The DoDEA PTS courses have been structured to prepare all students with the necessary knowledge and skills for success in college, technical schools, apprenticeships, and careers.

The PTS courses are structured to provide a rigorous study of content that is aligned with standards identified by educational, business, and industry leaders. The course must have increased relevance to core academics, and provide problem solving and contextual learning experiences. All courses will emphasize educational collaboration with other students and adults, mentorships and internships, and transitions to post secondary educational programs. Many of the courses also provide an opportunity for the student to earn a nationally recognized certification for their understanding of the course content, and skill development.

Answers to the following frequently asked questions can be found by clicking on the question link.

What is a PTS Pathway?
What Does a PTS Pathway Look Like?
What is a PTS Pathway Endorsement?
What is a PTS Course Certification?