The National Center for Education Statistics defines a vocational program as an instructional program in personal interest and leisure categories. The purpose of these courses and programs is not obtaining postsecondary credits or an academic degree. Vocational education also includes short-term, nonacademic career and technical education where courses provide knowledge and specific skills in a trade or occupation. Recent trends in vocational education have shifted toward an increased emphasis on academic education.
The Office of Vocational and Adult Education (OVAE) within the U.S. Department of Education administers and coordinates programs that are related to career and technical education, as well as programs in community colleges and adult education and literacy programs. The OVAE administers state formula and discretionary grant programs under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, and provides assistance to states to improve program quality, implementation and accountability.
Vocational, or career and technical education, programs provide individuals with skills and knowledge to prepare for further education or specific careers. Programs include applied learning to enhance academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills. Courses familiarize students with work attitudes and provide general employable, technical and occupation-specific skills. Programs can be offered in middle schools, high schools, community and technical colleges, and other postsecondary educational institutions.
Vocational programs exist for many skilled occupations, including transportation, information technology, manufacturing, human resource services, communication and media, health care, hospitality and tourism, agriculture, natural resource management, construction and business. Courses can include computer literacy education, such as instruction designed to increase proficiency or knowledge of specific computer software--for example, Microsoft Office applications.