Academics

Career & College Prep

High school is more than just about earning a diploma. It’s about discovering who you are and gaining the confidence and skills to prepare for your next step. Whether your student is college-bound, eager to start a career, or still exploring their options, Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) helps them graduate ready for their future.

Graduated student smiling at the camera

We know planning for life after high school can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer support early and often. At Arizona Virtual Academy, we help students use their middle and high school years to figure out where they want to go and plan how to get there.

In middle school, our 6–8th graders can take career exploration courses to discover their interests early, find their strengths, and start thinking about the career pathways they’ll take in high school.

In high school, 9–12th graders can take a deeper dive into a career-focused concentration of their choice. Career pathways are an excellent way for students to get a jump-start on a career right after high school or to help them make the right decision about their college major.

Your student won’t just read about career skills—they’ll learn to apply them. With in-person, on-the-job training opportunities like CPR training, vet tech practice, and culinary arts, students explore their passions while gaining skills that last a lifetime.

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At AZVA, students can discover their strengths and take important steps toward their future—whatever that future may look like for them. AZVA students can:

  • Get guidance from dedicated counselors on colleges, scholarships, and career goals
  • Earn college credit on select courses with dual enrollment at our partner institution
  • Prep to take industry-recognized certification exams after graduating1
  • Participate in career clubs
  • Develop marketable skills through hands-on and project-based learning
  • Get assistance with resumes, interview prep, and more!
Career and College Prep helps students explore their interests and build real-world skills through hands-on learning. Whether you’re drawn to working with people, solving problems, creating things, or serving your community, there’s a pathway that fits. It’s a great way to discover what you’re good at and where you want to go.

Shawn Garrelts , CRE administrator*

Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) extend classroom learning into the real world. By joining, students gain access to industry networking, competitive events, and leadership scholarships.

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HOSA – Future Health Professionals

An international student organization, HOSA works to promote career opportunities in the healthcare industry and enhance the delivery of quality healthcare to all people. HOSA empowers students to become leaders in the global healthcare community. Participating students are encouraged to:

  • Develop effective leadership qualities and skills tailored to the medical field.
  • Learn and identify current health care issues, environmental concerns, and community needs.
  • Compete in health-related events that test clinical skills and medical knowledge.

Pathways: Medical Assisting, Nursing Assisting, Mental & Social Health, Pharmacy Tech, Sports Medicine, Veterinary Assistant, Dental Science, & Emergency Medical Technician

FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America)

FBLA helps students explore the high-energy world of business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. By bridging the gap between the classroom and the business world, members gain a competitive edge in the global job market through professional development and community involvement. FBLA provides students with the opportunity to:

  • Gain practical experience in communication, management, finance, and technology.
  • Participate in competitive events and workshops led by industry professionals.
  • Develop a portfolio of business-related projects and achievements.
  • Network with like-minded peers and local business leaders to jumpstart their careers.

Pathways: Business & Marketing, Graphic Design, Software & App Design, Accounting & Finance, Entrepreneurship, & Digital Media.

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SkillsUSA

With curriculum that covers 130 job categories and more than 600 national partners—businesses, trade associations, and unions—SkillsUSA supports students preparing for careers in skilled trades and technical fields. Members are given the opportunity to:

  • Practically apply what they learn in the classroom through hands-on technical training.
  • Take courses in addition to those offered by the standard course catalog.
  • Participate in academic competitions and community service activities.
  • Connect with industry partners and earn scholarships offered exclusively through SkillsUSA.

Pathways: Cybersecurity, Engineering, Law Enforcement, Automotive Technology, Construction Trades, Welding, & Audio/Video Technology.

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1Many Microsoft®️ Office certificates can be earned after completing one course. Other certificates require more classes to be better prepared, and students who participate in the program for at least two years will have further preparation for certification testing.
*Statements were made by Arizona Virtual Academy students, parents, Learning Coaches, and/or teachers, and reflect their personal experiences at AZVA during the times noted.