Curriculum

Secondary CTE Curricula
Developing a Sustainable Workforce

The driving force behind Career and Technical Education is to equip students with the skills needed to secure high-wage, high-demand, and high-skill careers. Mississippi's career pathways are strategically aligned with the 2024 revision of Advance CTE's National Career Clusters Framework, ensuring our students are prepared to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy. At Mississippi State University’s Research and Curriculum Unit, we are dedicated to developing content that combines academic rigor and real-world relevance. Our nationally recognized, highly qualified team of experts designs the CTE curricula used in high school programs across Mississippi, empowering all students to thrive as citizens, workers, and leaders.

Mississippi Career Clusters and Pathways

Advanced Manufacturing Logo

 

Students develop foundational and advanced skills in automated manufacturing, including safety, hand and power tools, fabrication, welding, precision measurement, circuits and electronics, hydraulics and pneumatics, PLCs, robotics, and additive and subtractive manufacturing systems.

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Students explore the history, fundamentals, and design processes of engineering, including 3-D sketching, CAD modeling, robotics, and various engineering specializations. The curriculum provides a comprehensive study of electrical, fluid, mechanical, and thermal systems, flexible manufacturing, and workforce readiness skills to prepare students for careers in engineering

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Students develop skills in safety, tool use, measurement, and furniture frame construction, advancing into upholstery techniques including padding, hardware, support systems, fabric cutting and layout, sewing, and finishing procedures.

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This program covers safety, tools, math, blueprint reading, fasteners, oxy-fuel cutting, and the National Electrical Code, along with advanced topics including pumps, valves, lubrication, hydraulic and pneumatic controls, welding, electrical theory, and rigging.

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Students learn safety, communication, hand tools, instrumentation materials, and tubing, progressing through an in-depth study of electrical systems, steel piping, gaskets, O-rings, instrumentation math, and technical drawings.

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This program covers safety, math, blueprints, lathe and milling machine operation, and welding fundamentals, alongside advanced precision machining, grinding, and specialized welding processes including GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, SMAW, oxy-fuel cutting, and plasma arc cutting.

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Students are introduced to computer applications, chemistry concepts, polymer structures, and plastics recycling, advancing into polymer synthesis, surface coatings, composite materials, and career preparation including job shadowing opportunities.

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This program covers safety, math, blueprints, hand tools, lathe and milling machine operation, and grinding, culminating in computer numerical control (CNC) and advanced precision machining techniques in lathing and vertical milling.

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Students build skills in safety, tool knowledge, oxyfuel cutting, and SMAW, advancing to specialized welding symbols, PAC, CAC, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, and other advanced techniques.

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Agriculture Career Cluster Logo

 

This program introduces students to careers, plant and animal science, soil science, and basic mechanical technologies, along with natural resource conservation and management, agricultural business practices, water quality, forestry, wildlife, and basic construction techniques.

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Students learn safety, measurements, fasteners, and basic cutting and welding, advancing into specialized diesel engine systems, hydraulics, and advanced cutting and welding techniques.

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The aquaculture program is designed to introduce basic concepts used in aquaculture farm production and maintenance.

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Principles of Agriscience

Diversified Agriculture— Agribusiness Core

Diversified Agriculture— Animals Core

Diversified Agriculture— Environment Core

Diversified Agriculture— Mechanization Core

Diversified Agriculture— Plants Core

Diversified Agriculture— Agricultural Communications

Diversified Agriculture— Agricultural Leadership

Diversified Agriculture— Food Science

Diversified Agriculture— Poultry Science

Content in this course explores how modern technology affects the agriculture industry. Students will learn how farming has become more site-specific because of the data collected by modern technologies. This course provides an opportunity for students to survey precision agriculture and how it benefits farmers and the agriculture industry.

Content in this course is centered on turfgrass and how it is managed within multiple settings and climates. The course provides an opportunity for students to go in-depth regarding turfgrass management and the career opportunities it provides.

Diversified Agriculture— Veterinary Science

Content in this course provides a foundation of knowledge to prepare students for employment or continued education in several occupations related to the agriculture industry. The course is focused on embedded work-based learning with a global agriculture lens.

 

 

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Students explore the forest industry, career opportunities, tree growth, dendrology, surveying, and measurement, then advance into forest management, timber cruising, harvesting methods, reforestation, fire management, and forest pest control.

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This program covers plant and soil science, horticulture structures, plant propagation, pest management, and greenhouse and vegetable crop production, expanding into landscape design and maintenance, turfgrass, container and field crops, floristry, and business practices.

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Students learn meat processing careers, safety, sanitation, equipment, slaughter procedures, and meat marketing, advancing into meat cutting, automated processing, quality and yield grading, and curing, smoking, and sausage making.

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Arts, Entertainment, Design Career Cluster Logo

 

Students develop game design skills in illustration, level design, character development, and animation, then advance into audio design, programming, and full video game production, culminating in a completed game project and professional portfolio.

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Multimedia— Core

The multimedia core course offers a robust introduction to the multimedia production realm, equipping students with key principles of design, digital citizenship, and 21st-century skills crucial for industry success. Students engage in practical learning through photo and video editing, camera operations, and targeted content creation, culminating in the publication of their work on diverse multimedia platforms. This course lays a strong foundation for digital literacy, ethical media production, and career readiness, fostering both technical proficiency and adaptability to the ever-changing multimedia landscape.

Multimedia— Broadcast Foundations

The Broadcast Foundations course is a one-credit offering within the Multimedia pathway that provides a comprehensive introduction to the broadcasting industry, emphasizing practical skills and understanding of media's evolution. Students learn the intricacies of scriptwriting, the nuances of on-air performance, and the technical aspects of television editing and studio control. With an emphasis on safety, leadership, and legal compliance, this pathway prepares students for the demands of the field, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to ensure they are well-equipped for various roles in broadcasting and media production.

Multimedia— Advanced Broadcast and Production

The Advanced Broadcast and Production course provides a comprehensive dive into the broadcasting world, equipping students with critical skills from foundational safety and legal knowledge to advanced production techniques. Emphasizing employability, the curriculum covers résumé development, interview practices, and workplace ethics, alongside hands-on experience in social media influence, nontraditional media, and sound design. Students emerge with a professional portfolio, demonstrating proficiency in creating diverse content for today's multimedia-driven landscape.

Multimedia— Digital Design

The Digital Design course offers a comprehensive journey through multimedia and graphic design principles, aimed at equipping students with essential skills for the digital age. Beginning with safety, legalities, and digital citizenship, the curriculum progresses through photo editing, layout, and typography, emphasizing practical applications and copyright awareness. Students engage in branding and logo design, exploring audience-targeted communication. The program culminates with creating impactful digital content for diverse media platforms, preparing students for a future in the dynamic field of digital design.

Multimedia— Digital Video Production

The Digital Video Production is a one-credit course within the Arts, A/V Technology & Communications pathway that equips students with hands-on experience in the video production process, from initial concept to final broadcast. Covering camera techniques, audio, and lighting, and post-production editing, the curriculum prepares students for the technical and creative aspects of video creation, while learning to refine visuals and sound, manage production stages, and finalize content for various platforms. The program culminates with skills in live and digital broadcasting, ensuring students are ready to engage audiences and meet industry standards in the multimedia landscape.

Multimedia— Digital Audio Production

The Digital Audio Production course within the Multimedia pathway provides students with comprehensive training in digital audio techniques, covering foundational safety and legal knowledge to advanced audio production skills. Emphasizing creativity and technical proficiency, the curriculum includes hands-on experience in recording, editing, mixing, and mastering audio projects for various applications. Students develop a professional portfolio, showcasing their ability to produce high-quality audio content for music, film, broadcasting, and multimedia productions.

Multimedia— Sports Journalism and Broadcasting

The Sports Journalism and Broadcasting course within the Multimedia pathway offers students an in-depth exploration of the sports media industry, equipping them with essential skills from foundational safety and legal knowledge to advanced production techniques. Emphasizing employability, the curriculum covers résumé development, interview practices, workplace ethics, and hands-on experience in sports reporting, play-by-play commentary, multimedia production, and digital storytelling. Students emerge with a professional portfolio, demonstrating proficiency in creating engaging sports content for today’s multimedia-driven landscape.

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Construction Career Cluster Logo

This program builds foundational drafting and CAD skills alongside safety and leadership development, advancing into architectural drafting including floor plans, elevations, foundations, and sections.

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Students gain broad construction knowledge in safety, tools, math, blueprint reading, and basic trade skills, then advance into an in-depth study of construction math, materials, framing, windows, doors, and construction essentials.

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Students begin with broad construction fundamentals including safety, tools, math, blueprints, and basic trade skills, then advance into electrical theory, wiring, devices, hand bending, conductors, cables, and electrical drawings.

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This program covers safety, construction math, drawings, copper piping, soldering, brazing, and basic electricity, advancing into carbon steel piping, cooling and heating systems, air distribution, leak detection, evacuation and charging, and basic electronics.

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Digital Technology Career Cluster Logo

 

Students cover computer hardware, compatibility, software, security, and preventive maintenance in preparation for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam, then advance into networking concepts, operating systems, standards, and data transmission in preparation for the Microsoft Technology Associate Networking Fundamentals exam.

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Students develop drone flight skills and data processing capabilities, covering flight characteristics, navigation, autonomous mission planning, remote sensing, GIS data collection, and electronics and avionics maintenance. Airspace regulation and compliance at the local, national, and international level are emphasized, preparing students for careers in aerial photography, infrastructure inspection, package delivery, and land surveying.

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Education Career Cluster Logo

 

This program covers the history of early childhood education, child development from birth through age 5, health and safety guidelines, child observation, and guidance techniques, advancing into curriculum planning, age-appropriate lesson development, child care facility administration, state licensing, and personnel management, with ongoing work toward the CDA credential.

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Students develop foundational and advanced skills as learners, planners, assessors, and communicators, with hands-on field experiences throughout the program.

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Energy Natural Resources Career Cluster Logo

This STEM pathway teaches students how energy flows from generation through distribution, covering electrical leadership, power generation, transmission, and distribution operations including emerging Smart Grid technologies, preparing students for entry-level employment in energy-related fields.

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The Business, Marketing, and Finance pathway covers all three of these Career Clusters.

 

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Healthcare and Human Services Career Cluster Logo

 

Students learn barbering history, safety, infection control, anatomy, chemistry, electricity, and basic skin and facial hair care, advancing into haircutting, thermal styling, chemical services, women's hair care, hair coloring, and the business practices needed to operate a successful barbershop.

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This program introduces cosmetology trends, safety, infection control, nail care, and hair and scalp properties, advancing into licensing requirements, skin histology, anatomy, chemistry, hair design principles, braids, extensions, and hair enhancements.

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Students are introduced to workplace safety, infection control, healthcare systems, and human anatomy, advancing into human growth and development, health informatics, information technology, rehabilitative services, mental health, pharmacology, and medical emergency services.

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Students are introduced to the history and context of natural hair care and develop practical skills in grooming, styling, and the use of tools and equipment to achieve client outcomes.

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Students begin with foundational health science content including safety, infection control, and anatomy, advancing into sports medicine administration, emergency response, CPR, protective equipment, taping, therapeutic modalities, rehabilitation, and sport-specific injury management.

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Hospitality Events Tourism Career Cluster Logo

Students learn food safety, sanitation, kitchen equipment, culinary math, and hands-on food preparation techniques, advancing into more complex preparations including desserts, baked goods, meats, and stocks and soups, alongside an internship experience in customer service and business management. Students prepare for the ServSafe Food Safety certification.

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This program introduces the hospitality and tourism industry, career opportunities, and the importance of exceptional customer service, advancing into emerging industry technologies, management, leadership, and security and risk management.

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Public Service Safety Career Cluster Logo

Fire science is an instructional program to develop future leaders and officers in the fire and emergency service field. The classroom concepts include hands-on experiences and projects intended to equip students to enter occupations such as emergency/disaster management, firefighting, fire inspection/investigation, and the medical field. Upon completion of the program, graduates may obtain entry-level employment or further pursue the field within a postsecondary program.

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Students explore the history of U.S. legal systems, emergency services, and Mississippi corrections, advancing into specialized areas including the military, emergency management, workplace skills, and job-shadowing experiences with public safety professionals.

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This program introduces the principles of law enforcement, criminal and civil law, patrol operations, and basic policing methods, advancing into statutory law, the juvenile justice system, use of force, firearm safety, citizens' rights, conflict resolution, ethics, CERT training, and counterterrorism.

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Supply Chain Transportation Career Cluster Logo

 

Students cover shop operations, engine repair, drive train fundamentals, electrical systems, and brake systems, advancing into lighting, gauges, engine performance, steering and suspension, wheel alignment, fuel and exhaust systems, emission controls, and automotive HVAC service.

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Students learn safety, estimating, paint mixing, measurement, body component inspection and repair, and introductory welding, advancing into metal finishing, body filling, movable and fixed glass, and advanced welding and unibody repair techniques.

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Students cover safety, tool use, estimating, and electrical and electronic systems, advancing into diesel engine theory, computerized engine control, hydraulics, truck brake systems, agriculture and construction power train components, and welding and cutting.

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This program provides a broad overview of transportation logistics — including receiving, storage, and safety — advancing into materials handling, intermodal transportation, tracking and shipping technology, and the full integration of supply chain principles.

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Teacher Resource Guides for career pathways are located on Canvas. If you have not been added to the correct Canvas, please send a request to helpdesk@rcu.msstate.edu to be added.

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Cluster Mini-Fliers Downloads
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Cluster Social Media Graphics Downloads
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Agriculture and Natural Resources Download
Architecture and Construction Download
Arts, Audio-Video Technology and Communications Download
Business Management and Administration Download
Education and Training Download
Finance Download
Health Science Download
Hospitality and Tourism Download
Human Services Download
Information Technology Download
Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security Download
Manufacturing Download
Marketing Download
STEM Download
Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Download
Pathways to Success Downloads
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Pathways to Success Download
The 16 Clusters Downloads
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The 16 Clusters Download
Pathway to Success Booklet Downloads
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Pathway to Success Booklet Download

The Proposed Revision Cycle document contains the proposed revision cycle for all Secondary Curricula. This document is fluid in nature and can be revised or updated at any time. If you require more information about a proposed revision, the timing of the revision, or other curriculum related questions, please contact the RCU Helpdesk at helpdesk@rcu.msstate.edu.

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The CTE Advisory Handbook document outlines Advisory (craft) Committee establishment, selection processes, leadership, and techniques to maximize the impact of Advisory Committees for local program areas.

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The MDE/RCU Contact Information document contains the most recent MDE/RCU contact information for Career and Technical Education. Last Updated: August 8, 2025

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