About Articulation

If you have a Tech Prep program at your school, you've likely heard of articulation. However, unless you participated in the articulation process, you may not be aware of the benefits to your students and why they should be a part of Tech Prep.

The Tech Prep articulation process is the way a high school career and technical program is linked to a post-secondary certificate or degree program to become a streamlined 2+2 program. The Ferris State University articulation process can be found at http://www.ferris.edu/admissions/articulation/

The purpose of articulation is to increase academic rigor within the high school program, reduce duplication of course work at the post-secondary level, and recognize the accomplishments and advanced skills gained during the student's high school training through college credit and/or advanced placement in the post-secondary portion of the program when applicable. During the articulation process, secondary and post-secondary instructors review standards and competencies taught during the program and align curriculum. Even assignments, labs and other skill activities are discussed to ensure that students meet or exceed the requirements for college.

The award of articulated credit varies from program to program. However, all articulated programs, when credit is given, must have a signed articulation agreement outlining the agreed-upon sequence of courses and provisions for granting credit to participating students.

Credit is awarded at the post-secondary institution following the completion of the articulation requirements, although the student does not actually enroll at the college during high school. The credit earned in an articulated program is generally provided by the post-secondary institution to students and is generally transferable to other post-secondary institutions within the state. Assessment costs are the student's responsibility.

See "Elements of an Articulated Program" for additional information.

For more information on articulated programs in your area, contact Gretchen Spedowske, Region 7 Tech Prep Consortium Coordinator.