As a Seattle-based senior photographer, I love celebrating the achievements and milestones of young adults preparing to step into their futures. Senior year is full of big decisions, from choosing the perfect senior photo location to planning for what comes next. For students looking to get a head start on college or career training, the CTE Dual Credit program through Seattle Colleges offers an incredible opportunity.
CTE Dual Credit allows high school students to take career-focused courses that count for both high school and college credit. This means that by the time you graduate, you could already have credits toward a college degree or technical certification. Seattle Colleges partners with many local high schools, giving students a chance to gain real-world skills while earning credit at North Seattle College, Seattle Central College, or South Seattle College. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, business, IT, or the trades, there’s a course designed to help you get a jump start on your goals.
What is CTE Dual Credit?
CTE Dual Credit is a program that allows high school students to take specialized courses that apply toward both their high school diploma and a college degree or certification. These courses focus on career and technical education, giving students practical, hands-on experience in fields such as healthcare, business, information technology, and skilled trades.
Seattle Colleges has partnered with multiple high schools across the region to make these opportunities accessible. Through this program, students can earn credits at North Seattle College, Seattle Central College, or South Seattle College, allowing them to make progress toward their future careers while still in high school.
Why Does It Matter?
High school seniors who take advantage of CTE Dual Credit benefit in multiple ways. College tuition can be expensive, but earning credits in high school can significantly reduce the cost of a degree. These courses also give students the chance to explore different career paths before committing to a college major or technical certification program.
Another key benefit is real-world experience. Many CTE courses involve hands-on learning that prepares students for the workforce. Whether it’s learning industry-specific software, developing technical skills, or working on problem-solving and teamwork, these experiences help students gain confidence and prepare for life after high school.
Additionally, experiencing college-level coursework early helps students transition more smoothly into higher education. Since these courses follow college-level expectations, students develop better study habits, time management skills, and an understanding of what college classes will require.
Get A Head Start On College With The CTE Dual Credit Program
Senior year is such an exciting time, full of possibility and planning for the future. It’s a time to celebrate achievements, look ahead to what’s next, and capture the moment before everything changes. With a program like CTE Dual Credit, it becomes so much easier to take the stress away from transitioning into college.
As a Seattle-based photographer passionate about working with high school seniors, I love helping students mark this transition with photos that reflect their personality, interests, and excitement for the future. If you’re a senior ready to commemorate this milestone, let’s make it happen. Explore my website and schedule your session today—together, we’ll create beautiful images that celebrate this incredible chapter in your life.
