PLAnning YOuR CAREER
WH

AT

A

RE
Career Clusters
& Programs of Study
?
in Texas, TAPs (Texas Achievement Plans) will guide students’ high school and college
experiences (see next page). As part of this process, students focus their studies within
a chosen career cluster and program of study.
A
career cluster is a group of Related Occupations Review Your TAP Each Year
occupations and broad industries Each program of study in a particular Don’t get locked into a cluster and program
that share certain features. The cluster includes a range of related of study you don’t like. You should
Hospitality & Tourism cluster, for occupations; chef and head cook is reexamine your TAP at least once a year
example, includes chef and tour guide. an example of an occupation that and change programs or clusters if your
Texas has adopted 16 career clusters falls within Restaurants and Food/ interests have changed. Choosing a cluster
(see back cover), the same ones designated Beverage Services. and program of study, even if it changes later,
and developed by the U.S. Department Choosing a career cluster and means that you’ll have a direction in life.
of Education. program of study will help you The idea is to be aware of what’s going on
As the graphic below shows, within acquire the knowledge and skills you’ll in your life and take control of your future.
each cluster are programs of study, need to enter your chosen career. It When you know where your education is
which are more specific groupings of will allow you to follow a seamless going and why, your classes will become
similar occupations. Think of a program course of study from high school more meaningful. You’ll make contact with
of study as being like a college major. into college or other postsecondary students, teachers, and employers who share
In Hospitality & Tourism, you might education or training. The electives your interest in a particular career area.
choose to focus on Restaurants and you choose can complement your core You’ll have experiences that are fun and
Food/Beverage Services in high school academic classes to prepare you for the exciting. You’ll be on your way to success in
and college. challenges of the real world of work. school, in a career, and in life.
P R O G R A M S O F S T U D Y E X A M P L E O C C U P A T I O N S
Lodging Lodging Manager
C L U S T E R Recreation, Amusements & Attractions Recreation Worker
Hospitality
& Tourism Restaurants & Food/Beverage Services Chef & Head Cook
Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism Director
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