To learn more about the Career Online High School (COHS), please review these questions and answers:

• What is Career Online High School (COHS)?

  COHS is an online private high school diploma and career certification program available through the public library. This program offers free enrollment to a limited number of qualified adult students.

  The percentage of total costs for the PPLC-COHS-2021-22 project financed with federal money is 100%; the federal dollar amount spent on the project is $221,400. This project did not receive any state, local or nongovernmental funding. This project was funded under the provisions of the DLIS Florida American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Florida’s DLIS Florida ARPA program is administered by the Department of State’s Division of Library and Information Services.

• Who can apply to COHS?

  Residents who are at least 19-years-old and wish to earn their high school diploma. It is recommended that the applicant have attended the 9th grade. Minors should pursue their high school education through existing high school programs.

  Program applicants must have a public library card in good standing or be willing to apply for a library card.

  Program applicants who have already received a standard high school diploma, or a high school equivalency diploma, are not eligible for this program. Program applicants who have already received a certificate of completion are eligible.

• Will COHS students receive their GEDs?

  No. This is not a GED® (General Educational Development) program. Graduates earn a private high school diploma and a career certificate through an accredited private high school.

• What is the difference between a GED and a high school diploma?

  While both the GED and the high school diploma are important, there are several differences between them: among the most significant is the fact that some colleges, institutions, and organizations require a high school diploma and may not accept the GED.  In addition to a high school diploma, with COHS, you can also earn a career certificate and complete additional job preparation documents and training.

• What type of career certification will be offered?

  The high school program includes a career certificate in the following areas:

  • Child care  (CDA)*
  • Commercial driving (CDL)*
  • Food and hospitality (CPFM)*
  • General career preparation
  • Home care professional
  • Hospitality and leisure
  • Manufacturing
  • Office management
  • Security professional
  • Retail customer service

  *Prepares students to pursue the industry credential

• What is the career portfolio?

  To prepare you with the tools you need to find a job, you will learn how to create important documents, such as your resume and a cover letter.

• Is all coursework web-based?

  Yes. The courses are 100% online.

• What device(s) can I use to access my coursework?

  You can use a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or iPad for all coursework. You can access your courses using smartphones, but we recommend the previous devices for the best learning experience.

• Is all coursework in English?

  Yes. Currently, all coursework is available in English only.

• Will I need to purchase textbooks?

  No.

• How long will it take for students to complete the program?

  You have up to 18 months to complete the program. With transfer credit, many students graduate sooner. Also, the more time you can dedicate to your studies, the faster you will finish.

   

• What is the history of COHS?

  COHS was founded in early 2010 and accredited as the world’s first online private school district in February 2011.

• Is COHS accredited?

  Yes. The school is accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED), the national commission that confers the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) accreditation seal. This means that the Smart Horizons Career Online Education district and all of its schools are accredited and that SHCOE is recognized across the nation as a quality school system, delivering a SACS accredited online private high school diploma.

  Students and community members can learn more about the district accreditation process at https://www.cognia.org/.

• Will my local community colleges and universities accept a Career Online High School diploma?

  Because the high school diploma is Cognia/SACS/NCA/NWAC accredited, it should be accepted by many colleges and universities. However, admissions requirements are always up to an individual college. Also, if you are interested in pursuing post-secondary education within your state you should check with your state to understand the requirements. States may impose requirements for receiving state financial aid. For example, an online private high school diploma may not be recognized by some colleges and universities within your state to receive financial aid. We recommend you check with the institution for any specific restrictions—this is particularly important for residents of New York and New Jersey.

• What if I need help with the admissions process following graduation?

  We are committed to the success of our graduates as they advance into the workplace or pursue postsecondary education and training. COHS alumni who have questions about their transcripts or meeting college admissions requirements can call 1-866-999-7853 or email enrollment@shcoe.org for support.

• Is COHS staff credentialed? When are they available to assist students?

  Yes, all COHS instructors and academic coaches are state certified. Staff have regular office hours from 9:00am­–5:00pm CT as well as evening hours at least one day a week.

• Does the Library offer other resources for education and job preparation?

  The library is committed to helping people meet their education and job preparation needs. The library encourages you to visit your nearest branch and speak to the staff to help you find a local agency or resource that will best fit your needs.

• How do I get started?

  Complete the short online “Are You Ready?” survey. After you have successfully finished the survey, you will be contacted by the library within 5 business days to discuss the prerequisite course. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be contacted by the library within 5 days to schedule an interview and discuss your application into the program.