Thank you for your interest in trying the trades at CPTC!
Summer classes start July 1
Running Start is for everyone, from students who want to see if a hands-on career field is for them, to students who need to catch up on general education credits to stay on track for graduation.
CPTC's summer programs provide an introduction to the skills and concepts for jobs related to that trade. For information about general education course availability, please contact a Running Start advisor. runningstart@cptc.edu
- Automotive Technician
- Automotive Collision Technician
- Construction Technology
- Culinary Arts
- Electrician Low Voltage Fire/Security
- Heating & Air Conditioning Refrigeration/Service Technician (HVAC)
- Mechatronics
- Network Operations & Systems Security
- Nursing Assistant Certificate (Students must be over age 16 to earn these credits.)
- Pastry Arts
- Retail Business Management (100% online)
- Upholstery
- Welding
See our Running Start list of programs available year-round at www.cptc.edu/running-start.
Eligibility
- Be between ages 15 and 21
- As of Spring 2024, have completed their sophomore or junior year in high school. These may also be referred to "rising juniors" and "rising seniors."
Running Start students are held to the same expectations as all other college students. Attendance, participation, behavior, and quality of work must meet college standards.
Tuition and costs
- Tuition is covered by Running Start funding.
- Non-tuition costs - such as books, tools, laboratory fees, and classroom consumables - vary by program.
- Transportation to/from campus is up to the student. Parking on campus is free.
- Waivers are available. If you qualify for free or reduced-price lunch (or meet other income requirements), many of these costs could be waived.
Admission Steps
The first step in enrolling for Running Start is meeting with the Running Start advisor to begin the paperwork.
STEP 1: Contact our Running Start Advisors
Send an email with the following information to runningstart@cptc.edu:
- Type of appointment (phone, online, in-person)
- Name of your high school
- Phone number
- When you want to start
See the Advising & Counseling Office hours at www.cptc.edu/hours.
STEP 2: Meet with a Program Counselor
Meet with a Program Counselor to discuss your options and receive your Program Map.
STEP 3: Complete CPTC admissions application
STEP 4: Complete Running Start paperwork
Plan to meet with your high school counselor for their signature.
Running Start Disclaimer Form
Running Start Enrollment Verification Form Digital Signature Summer 2025
Running Start Highschool Equivalency Guides
STEP 5: Register for classes
- Activate your cTcLink account
- Watch the Registration Video
- Add classes to Cart and register