Press Release: Adult High School Diploma+

New Adult High School Diploma+ Program Enables Adults to Earn a Diploma While Gaining Workforce Training
Emily Griffith Technical College launches Colorado’s only program combining a high school diploma with workforce training

DENVER, April 21, 2026 – Emily Griffith Technical College (Emily Griffith) now offers an Adult High School Diploma+, a first-of-its-kind program in Colorado designed for adults seeking a high school diploma and  valuable workforce training. It is currently the only program in the state that integrates a workforce credential, including a Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificate, into a diploma pathway. Through this model, students earn CTE credit by completing an approved professional certificate, training, or course aligned with high-demand career pathways.    

“Over 300,000 adults in Colorado don’t have a high school diploma – nearly half of whom live in the metro Denver area,” said Ryan Yates, dean of English and Adult Education at Emily Griffith Technical College. “This program creates a direct pathway for adults to earn their high school credential while building real-world skills, equipping them for college and career success.” 

Students in the program progress through competency-based coursework in English, mathematics, and civics, while also completing hands-on, career-focused training. Options to earn a CTE credit may include industry-recognized certifications such as OSHA, other approved workforce training, or an Emily Griffith CTE program like Nurse Assisting, Medical Assisting, and Dental Assisting in the health sciences field; Computer Networking; or skilled trades programs such as HVAC, Welding, and Automotive Service.

The Adult High School Diploma+ program is authorized under Colorado Senate Bill 23-007, which grants technical colleges the authority to issue high school diplomas for adult learners. The program costs $150 and can be completed in as little as eight weeks through a combination of in-person and remote instruction. Adults age 17 and older who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent are eligible to enroll.

Registration for the new program will take place May 4-14, with the first cohort starting on May 27. Additional cohorts and part-time schedules will be offered later in the year to better serve working adults.

For more information about the Adult High School Diploma+ program, visit emilygriffith.edu and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts

Jamie Winter
Winter Public Relations