High School Diploma: El Paso Public Library - Career Online High School

Career Online High School (COHS) is an accredited high school diploma program offered by the El Paso Public Libraries Literacy Center, allowing adults to earn their diploma online while gaining a career certificate in fields like customer service, home care, and more.

• Be 19 years of age or older.

• Live in El Paso or surrounding areas served by the El Paso Public Library.

• Have a valid El Paso Public Library card in good standing.

• Have regular access to a computer and reliable internet, either at home or through the library.

• Be comfortable reading, writing, and speaking English.

For consideration in getting a full scholarship you need the following additional requirements:

Scholarships are currently prioritized for applicants between the ages of 19 and 26.

Due to limited funding and high demand, our program focuses on serving this age group to align with career development, opportunity youth and workforce readiness goals. Individuals outside this age range may still be considered on a case-by-case basis, if additional scholarships become available. Scholarships are not guaranteed, even if all additional requirements are met, as they are subject to available funding for the fiscal year.

To ensure the best chance of success in the program, scholarship applicants must also:

• Not have a bachelor's degree or higher, High school diploma, or GED certification.

• Not be currently enrolled in high school or another high school equivalency program (such as GED).

• Complete an online self-assessment and prerequisite course with a passing score of 70% or higher.

• Attend an in-person interview with library staff to discuss your goals and readiness.

• Commit to 8–10 hours minimum per week of online coursework.

• Submit a short personal statement (250–500 words) explaining why you want your diploma and how it fits your goals. (The use of AI will disqualify you from scholarship)

• Provide one letter of recommendation from an employer, teacher, or community leader (no family members).

• Attend a mandatory orientation session to understand the program structure and expectations.

• Complete assigned courses during the 30-day probationary period.

• Demonstrate basic digital literacy through a short tech-readiness quiz or workshop.

• Sign a scholarship commitment agreement outlining responsibilities and check-in expectations (one weekly check in during the 30-day probationary period)

The program is free for eligible participants thanks to funding through the El Paso Public Libraries and its partners. However, space is limited, and scholarships are awarded based on readiness and commitment.No. All workshops, resources, and one-on-one sessions are free of charge.

Most students finish the program in 12 to 18 months, depending on their pace, transferred credits, and time commitment. It's designed to be flexible to meet students’ schedules.

Yes. After enrollment, your previous transcripts will be evaluated. Accepted credits will count toward your diploma and shorten the time needed to graduate.

Each student is assigned an academic coach who provides guidance, motivation, and help with coursework. Library staff also assist with digital access and offer study resources.

COHS students can choose from several career tracks including:

• Childcare (CDA)*

• Commercial driving (CDL)*

• Food and hospitality (CPFM)*

• General career preparation

• Home care professional

• Hospitality and leisure

• Manufacturing

• Office management

• Retail customer service

• Security professional

*Prepares students to pursue the industry credential.

Students need reliable internet access and a computer or tablet. The library may provide access to computers and internet during library hours, and staff can assist with digital literacy if needed.Yes! The program supports all types of businesses, including online stores, food vendors, service-based businesses, and more.

Yes. COHS is accredited by Cognia (formerly AdvancED), making its diploma accepted by most employers and colleges in the U.S. However, students should verify with specific institutions or employers.

Interested individuals can visit the Literacy Center in person, call the library, or go to the El Paso Public Libraries website to complete the self-assessment and begin the application process.

There is no strict deadline, but scholarships are limited and awarded on a rolling basis. Interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure a spot.

Life happens! If you need a short break, you should contact your academic coach immediately. Extended absences may affect your scholarship status or ability to complete the program.

No. The program is fully online. However, students are encouraged to use the library’s resources and may attend optional in-person orientations, tech help sessions, or study groups. If you are applying for the scholarship you may be required to attend orientation, workshops and interview in person.

Yes. The program is designed for adults with busy schedules. You can complete coursework on your own time, making it possible to work and study simultaneously.

Students are expected to commit at least 8–10 hours per week to coursework in order to stay on track for graduation within 12–18 months. If applying for th esciolaship you will need to commit to attend orientation, workshop, interview and weekly check in during probationary period to qualify for scholarship.

Upon graduation, you'll receive your accredited high school diploma and career certificate. Library staff and partners can also help connect you with job opportunities or college options.

No. This is not a GED program. You earn an accredited high school diploma through coursework and assessments—no final exam or standardized test is required.

COHS offers an actual high school diploma, not a certificate of equivalency. It also includes a career certificate and academic coaching for a more well-rounded educational experience. The Literacy center and Centre future will also help you with wrap around services depending on your needs.

Applicants do not need to provide proof of citizenship. However, they must live in the El Paso area and hold a valid El Paso Public Library card to qualify.

Yes! Family encouragement is highly valued. Families can support students by helping with schedules, creating study space, and celebrating progress and milestones.