KICKSTART YOUR CAREER
College and Career Focus at TCD
Most of our programs offer options to earn college credit, which means that many TCD students are actually college students as well.
If you are enrolled in a Dual Credit course, you are able to use that college’s facilities, including their library, study resources, fitness center, and much more.
Dual Credit Courses
Dual Credit courses are offered in collaboration with the College of DuPage, Joliet Junior College, and other select institutions. Students who participate in a Dual Credit course will receive a grade on both their high school and college transcript. These courses are taught by high school instructors who are qualified and approved by the college. The curriculum, syllabi, and textbooks also align with the college guidelines.
Courses with credit that are designated as a part of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) are transferable for college credit to more than 100 participating colleges and universities in Illinois. Students should visit www.transferology.com to determine how Dual Credit courses transfer to colleges and universities.
Full Program Catalog
AUTO BODY REPAIR & REFINISHING
(1 or 2 Years)
Metal straightening/sheet metal work, welding techniques, body panel repair, and alignment. Cost/time estimating, plastic/fiberglass repairs, refinishing techniques, detailing, vinyl and striping. State of the art equipment including spray bake paint curing system, computerized paint lab, spray booth, and welding stations.
Possible Certification: I-CAR Certification
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
(1 or 2 Years)
Skill building in the following areas: engines, tune-up/ lubrication, brakes, wheels, steering and alignment, electrical, fuel, and exhaust systems. 2nd year students perform diagnostics and participate in supervised repairs.
Possible Certification: ASE - Automotive Service Excellence Accreditation
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 9 (Year 1 = 3, Year 2 = 6)
COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS/GAME DESIGN
(1 Year)
Learn the fundamentals of programming, problem-solving, networking, and web development, using game development as a creative outlet. Build a well-rounded skillset while discovering how coding can be fun and rewarding. Programming languages include: GML, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Blockly, Python, C++.
Possible Certification: Responsive Web Design
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 10
CONSTRUCTION TRADES
(1 or 2 Years)
Learn job site safety, proper use of hand/power tools, construction math; and carpentry skills which include framing walls, ceilings, and floors. Gain skills with drywall installation/finishing, trim work, and blueprint reading. 2nd year students learn roofing, window/door installation, flooring/stairs and more.
Possible Certifications: OSHA 10 (Year 1)
HBI Homebuilders Pack Core - Pre-certification for carpenter’s apprentice school (union) (Year 2)
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 4 (Year 1 = 2, Year 2 = 2)
Program Pathways for In-Demand Career Fields
COSMETOLOGY
(1 or 2 Years, Full Licensure Takes 2 Years)
Follows the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Cosmetology curriculum (1500 hrs. req). Students develop skills in haircutting, coloring, perming, nail care, aesthetics, and more. Minimum 450 hours needed to advance from Phase 1 to Phase 2. Social Security number required for licensure exam. Additional fees apply for professional kits and Summer School.
Possible Certification: Illinois Cosmetology License
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 50 hours of college credit and full licensure with successful completion of Phase 1, summer school (required after Phase 1), and Phase 2.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
(1 or 2 Years)
Study the development and principles of the American criminal justice system. We cover the basics of traffic law/traffic enforcement; criminal and juvenile law; crime prevention; the court and correction systems; and crime scene investigation in relation to criminal justice in the US. Simulations & guest presenters enhance curriculum.
Possible Certification: Teen CERT Emergency Training FEMA
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 6 (3 credit hours of an IAI course)
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN
(1 Year - Seniors Only)
Development of skills to assess illness, injuries, and perform proper emergency care. Clinical rotations are included. Students are eligible to take the National EMT licensing exam with successful completion of course and a grade of 80%+. Must be 18 and have social security number to sit for the exam. Must have GPA of 2.6 or meet COD’s Reading Category One Requirement, with an option to take a placement exam. Maximum of 20 total absences.
Possible Certifications: EMT Certification and CPR/AED
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 11
FIRE SCIENCE
(1 Year)
Covers Introduction to Fire Science and Fire Fighting Strategies. Program includes hands-on experiences; such as vehicle extrication, live fire exercises, and ride-alongs with local fire departments. Students will study key topics such as safety, ladders, hoses, SCBA, and search/rescue techniques using the IFSTA Essentials textbook.
Possible Certifications: CPR/AED, NIMS 100, 200, 700, 800
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 7
INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL PROFESSIONS
(1 Year)
Gain a solid foundation in biomedical terminology while exploring careers in the healthcare field. This course is a prerequisite for further healthcare studies and offers a deep dive into medical language as it relates to each body system. Learn through multimedia assignments, interactive Smartboard lessons, realworld lab activities, word games, case studies, and guest speaker presentations. Must have GPA of 2.6 or meet COD’s Reading Category One Requirement, with an option to take a placement exam.
Possible Certifications: CPR/AED Certification
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 8
HVACR/RESIDENTIAL WIRING
(1 or 2 Years)
Safety, mechanical, and electrical fundamentals. Electrical skills including single circuits, parallel circuits, and motor controls. Gas fired/forced-air heating systems, installation, testing, and service. Air-conditioning fundamentals, and proper refrigerant handling.
Possible Certifications: OSHA 10, EPA 608 Refrigerant Certification
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 3 or 4 (1 Credit for EPA 608 Refrigerant Certification)
MANUFACTURING, CNC, AND MACHINING TECHNOLOGY
(1 or 2 Years)
A comprehensive introduction to CNC machining, blending theory with practical skills. Covers the principles of CNC machines, OSHA shop safety certification and key math skills like decimal-to fraction conversions. Students will use precision measurement tools, learn to read blueprints; write and edit CNC programs. The course introduces CAD/CAM software for designing and generating CNC programs using tools like Mastercam or Fusion 360.
Possible Certifications: OSHA 10 (Year 1), NIMS Certification
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 4 (Year 1 = 2, Year 2 = 2)
Program Pathways for In-Demand Career Fields
MEDICAL ASSISTING
(1 Year - Seniors Only)
You will be trained to work in ambulatory settings such as a physicians office. Learn skills like billing, coding, maintaining medical records, conducting clinical assessments, recording vital signs, and preparing patients for examination. You will also learn how to collect blood specimens, perform basic laboratory tests, prepare/administer medications, and even assist with minor procedures. Clinical rotations are included.
Possible Certifications: Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (NHA) and CPR/AED
MULTIMEDIA & TELEVISION PRODUCTION (1 or 2 Years)
Develop valuable skills in TV production, filming, and editing digital media, as well as creative set design, lighting techniques, and cinematic storytelling. You’ll collaborate with dynamic teams while using cutting-edge software and industry-standard equipment. Gain extensive hands-on experience that will empower you to thrive in the exciting world of media production.
Possible Certification: Adobe Certification (If 18+)
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 12 (Year 1 = 9, Year 2 = 3)
NURSING ASSISTANT TRAINING PROGRAM (1 Year)
Based on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s CNA Instruction Model. Students learn essential skills for delivering safe and effective patient care, including lifting and transporting patients, recording vital signs, and assisting with personal care and observations. Clinical rotations are included. Students also gain expertise in surgical instrument sterilization and preparation, along with being introduced to the ethical aspects of healthcare. Must have GPA of 2.6 or meet COD’s Reading Category One Requirement, with an option to take a placement exam.
Possible Certifications: Nurse Aide (CNA), Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician, American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider CPR
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 12
PROFESSIONAL COOKING, BAKING, & SERVICE (PRO-CBS)
(1 or 2 Years)
Learn culinary, baking, and service essentials such as cooking, baking, knife skills, and food service management. Earn industry certifications and the opportunity to compete in culinary and management based events through Pro-Start. TCD is the only high school in Illinois with ACF Certification.
Possible Certifications: ServeSafe Food Handler, Managers, Allergens, and ACF Certification. Possible Dual Credit Hours: 10
ROBOTICS, AUTOMATION, & ENGINEERING
(1 or 2 Years)
Learn the different aspects of electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering through robotics technology. Our program equips future engineers, technicians, and innovators with the skillset and confidence to thrive in robotics, automation, and entrepreneurship. Topics include: industrial robotic arms, hydraulics and pneumatics systems, motors, sensors, embedded systems, Linux OS, coding, CAD, and AI.
Possible Certifications: FANUC Certified Robot Operator with ROBOGUIDE Certification. Festo Certifications (NC3), OnShape Certification
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 9 (Year 1 = 3, Year 2 = 6)
WELDING TECHNOLOGY
(1 or 2 Years)
Work with the four major processes of welding: SMAW (shielded metal arc welding), GMAW (gas metal arc welding), GTAW (gas tungsten arc welding) and oxyacetylene. Discover how all these are utilized in welding, cutting, and brazing. Develop skills conforming to American Welding Society standards.
Possible Certifications: OSHA 10 (Year 1), AWS Learning Certifications
Possible Dual Credit Hours: 18 (Year 1 = 6, Year 2 = 12)
SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information or to schedule a tour of TCD (individual or group), please scan the QR code or contact our main school number and ask to speak with a counselor.
TECHNOLOGY CENTER OF DUPAGE (TCD)
TCD offers Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to DuPage County high school juniors and seniors as part of their regular curriculum. Students gain handson experience, earn high school credit, and may qualify for free dual college credit through College of DuPage or Joliet Junior College (program dependent; placement tests and GPA requirements may apply).
TCD’s 250,000 sq. ft. campus features cutting-edge technology and instruction aligned with today’s high-demand careers. Tuition and transportation are covered by partner school districts through local, state, and federal funding. Some districts may charge a small enrollment fee; otherwise, students only pay a modest fee for books and supplies.
Governing Board: DAOES (DuPage Area Occupational Education System)
14 Appointed Voting Members, One From Each Member District
Hinsdale Township
H.S. Dist. 86
• Hinsdale Central H.S.
• Hinsdale South H.S.
• Hinsdale Transitions
Glenbard Township
H.S. District 87
• Glenbard East H.S.
• Glenbard North H.S.
• Glenbard South H.S.
• Glenbard West H.S.
• Directions Program
DuPage H.S. Dist. 88
• Addison Trail H.S.
• Willowbrook H.S.
• D88 Transitions
Fenton CHSD 100
• Fenton H.S.
For more
Community H.S. Dist. 94
• West Chicago Community H.S.
Community H.S. Dist. 99
• Downers Grove North H.S.
• Downers Grove South H.S.
Lake Park CHSD 108
• Lake Park West H.S.
Wheaton-Warrenville
CUSD 200
• Wheaton North H.S.
• Wheaton Warrenville
South H.S.
• Wheaton Transitions
Westmont CUSD 201
• Westmont H.S.
Lisle CUSD 202
• Lisle H.S.
Naperville CUSD 203
• Naperville Central H.S.
• Naperville North H.S.
Indian Prairie School Dist. 204
• Metea Valley H.S.
• Neuqua Valley H.S.
• Waubonsie Valley H.S.
Lyons Township H.S. Dist. 204
• Lyons Township H.S.
• LADSE
Elmhurst CUSD 205
• York Community H.S.