The History:
The foundation of career cluster development dates back over 25 years, initiated by the U.S. Department of Education and Advance CTE. The goal was to establish a standardized framework for Career and Technical Education (CTE) across 16 career clusters, driven by collaboration between states and industries. This initiative, though voluntary, set the stage for a shared structure recognized nationwide.
The National Model:
The National Consortium for Health Science Education (NCHSE), founded in 1991, has played a pivotal role in advancing health science education. Serving as the advisory body for the Health Science Career Cluster, NCHSE brought together educators, healthcare professionals, and industry partners. Its mission remains to foster high-quality health science programs through collaboration.
One of its key achievements was creating the National Health Science Standards (NHSS). These standards, developed with funding from the Departments of Labor and Education, offer a unified approach to equipping high school students with foundational skills for postsecondary health science education. Updated as recently as August 2022, the NHSS meet industry expectations and were reviewed by 38 career specialties across 21 states.
The Need:
The healthcare industry faces a workforce crisis, underscoring the need for more students in the health science education pipeline. However, many students lack foundational knowledge when entering this pathway, which hinders their ability to meet the demands of postsecondary programs or make informed career choices. Broad adoption of the NHSS ensures consistency and prepares students for a seamless transition into healthcare careers.
The Solution: A Common System
Nearly all health professions require certification, licensure, or registration, necessitating standardized preparation programs. The NHSS fulfill this need at the high school level by creating a consistent framework across states. The NCHSE Certificate Program further validates students’ competencies and readiness for postsecondary education and the workforce through online exams.
Recognition and Support
The NHSS have garnered recognition from key organizations, including the:
- Tri-Council for Nursing (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, American Nursing Association, American Organization of Nurse Leadership, National Council of State Boards of Nursing and National League for Nursing)
- Health Professions Network (HPN) representing allied health profession
- American Association of Respiratory Care
Advancing the Framework: A Modernized Career Cluster
In December 2022, Advance CTE launched the "Advancing the Framework" initiative to update the National Career Clusters® Framework. This modernization reflects shifts in labor markets, technology, and the evolving nature of work. This project offered NCHSE and several of its members an invaluable opportunity to collaborate with industry and educational advisory groups, contributing feedback to help shape the new Framework.
As part of this effort, the Health Science Career Cluster was renamed the Healthcare & Human Services Career Cluster. This expanded focus integrates health services with social determinants of health and emphasizes holistic well-being for individuals and communities.
Take a look at G-W's updated Career Navigator to explore the Healthcare & Human Services Career Cluster and the other clusters. You’ll find the corresponding G-W resources for a variety of careers. Request digital previews here.
Conclusion:
The transformation from the Health Science Career Cluster to the Healthcare & Human Services Career Cluster represents a forward-looking approach to health science education. By fostering consistency, collaboration, and adaptability, NCHSE and its partners ensure that students and educators are equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic healthcare landscape. The National Consortium for Health Science Education remains committed to advancing health science education by supporting curriculum aligned with the National Health Science Standards, recognized by the healthcare industry and postsecondary partners. The organization will continue to develop resources, offer professional development for educators, and ensure a steady pipeline of well-prepared students ready to enter the workforce.
For more information, visit:
G-W is proud to be an official partner of NCHSE. Take a look at these G-W/NCHSE webinars that support the Healthcare and Human Services cluster:
Learn more about the Clinical and Employability Skills for Health Care Professions program and request a free digital preview here.
Learn more about the Counseling and Mental Health Services program and request a free digital preview here.
