The NCAA initial-eligibility rules have changed.
If you plan to enroll in any Division I or Division II college or university please read this information carefully.

For students entering any college or university on or after August 1, 2008, your NCAA initial eligibility will be evaluated under the 16 core-course rule as described below.

THE NEW RULE:

• INCREASES the number of core courses from 13 to 14 for division II and 16 core courses for division I.  This additional core course may be in any area: English, mathematics, natural/physical science, social science, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy.  The breakdown of core-course requirements is listed below.
• CHANGES the Division I initial-eligibility index, or sliding scale.  See the reverse side of your application for the Core GPA/test scores sliding-scale index.
• The 16 core-course rule INCREASES the number of core courses from 14 to 16 for Division I only.  Students must complete three years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher), and four years of additional core courses.  The additional core course may be taken in any area:  English, mathematics, natural/physical science, social science, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy.  The breakdown of the requirements is listed below.

Division I - 16 core-course rule 2008 and after
16 Core Courses:
• 4 years of English
• 3 year of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
• 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school)
• 1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science
• 2 years of social science
• 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy)

Division 2
14 Core Courses:
• 3 years of English
• 2 year of mathematics (Algebra I or higher)
• 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school)
• 2 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science
• 2 years of social science
• 3 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy

Today’s high school graduates have the choice of many apprenticeships.  These may include construction, plumbing, electrical, musical, fashion, landscaping, auto, and more.  This is another option to prepare students for a career that will allow them to work while attending classes.  It is ideal for students who need a steady income immediately after completing high school or have a desire to go directly to work.

Apprenticeships provide:

• Challenging curriculum for individuals 16 years of age or older.
• A planned training entry-level position on a career pathway.
• A combination of on-the-job training and related classroom training.
• Certification of competency measured by industrial standards.

Apprenticeship programs require:

• You to complete certain course work.
• A high school diploma or currently attending high school.
• That you pass an aptitude test.
• Proof of physical ability to perform the duties of the trade.
• Proof of a valid driver’s license.

Apprenticeship programs are looking for people who have the mechanical and mental abilities to master a skill.  Requirements emphasize four qualifications:

• Age
• Education and solid background in reading, writing and basic mathematics
• Physical condition
• Aptitude

The best sources for assistance and information in apprenticeships are vocational and career counselors at local, state and national employment agencies.  Students can also get information from their high school career center or offices of the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training.

The purpose of a career or vocational-technical education is to prepare a high school graduate to obtain and hold a job.  The relationship between education and work is important.  The more you invest in your education, the more valuable you are to your employer and the more you will earn!

I. A good high school education is critical to whatever field you wish to enter.  Employers want you to:

• Be able to read and write well
• Communicate effectively with other people
• Get along with other people and your co-workers
• Be able to think and reason in safe, acceptable, creative ways

II. Career educators state that high school graduates really need to continue their education and get a degree.  It is no longer an option to not have a degree.

III. Vocational-technical schools provide:

• Hands-on educational experience
• Classrooms that represent actual job experiences
• Instructors who are experienced in the subject area
• Assistance when entering the workforce once your training and education are complete

IV. Visit the vocational or trade school of your choice and take time to:

• Speak to students who are attending classes
• Visit during class time
• Ask students why they chose that institution
• Ask students their opinion of the education they are receiving

V. Continuing education throughout your lifetime will become more and more necessary as the job market becomes more competitive.

VI. Students with a vocational-technical education will have the advantage when the time comes to learn new skills.  Their training will provide them with basic problem-solving skills that make it possible to absorb new technologies.

Seniors
For those of you who did not apply for 4-year colleges and universities here is some community college information.  Community Colleges, also known as 2-year or junior colleges are regionally accredited post-secondary institutions at which the AS or AA (associates of art or science) is the highest credential awarded.  A Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) is awarded from 4-year colleges or universities.  Community colleges offer technical, transferable and continuing education and specialized curriculums.

Community Colleges are:
• community based institutions that establish links and partnerships with high schools and the community;
• institutions that deliver high quality programs at various times and places for the convenience of the student;
• institutions with open admissions to those with a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Some of the wonderful features that attract most students are:
• Annual tuition and fees
• Ability to live at home and save on room and board
• Advisement on class scheduling
• Smaller classes
• Greater accessibility to instructors

Most community colleges offer a full range of counseling and career services designed to help students make the most of the educational opportunities.

Community Colleges offer:
• general education curriculum that is a 2-year curriculum which is transferable to a 4-year bachelors program.  Specific in regards to business, medical, liberal arts, education, etc.;
• occupational-technical programs that prepare students for employment;
• programs that will assist those students already employed to upgrade their skills;
• developmental education programs that help students improve their basic academic skills.

Community colleges offer the associate degree as well as certificates in specific programs that require varying amounts of study.  Some certificates take a few weeks to earn, while associate degrees may take two or more years to complete.

Contact the community college in your area or one of interest to you to find out about specific programs and degrees they offer.  You can also find community college information on our college and career website at http://www.egusd.net/collegeandcareer/.