Sign up for Career Online High School Information Session January 8, 2026.

Santa Clara City Library’s Career Online High School (COHS) offers adults the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and a career certificate for free. You can advance in your career or take the next step in your education once you graduate. We support you from enrollment to graduation so that you can achieve your goals. 

“Earning my diploma and career certificate will open doors to new opportunities, enhancing my skills and qualifications. They will give me the confidence to pursue a fulfilling career and increase my earning potential, ultimately contributing to my long-term personal and professional growth.”
- A.C., A Career Online High School Graduate 

Watch an inspiring virtual graduation ceremony!

COHS has to be completed within 18 months, but you can graduate sooner. It’s online, flexible, and free! 

You can choose one of the following career options:

You will be assigned a personal academic coach to help you succeed. You will have 24/7 access to your online classroom.

Applicant Requirements

• Be 19 or older and not currently enrolled in school
• Live or work in Santa Clara
• Have a Santa Clara City Library card in good standing
• Spend at least 10 hours a week on coursework
• Be comfortable reading, writing, and speaking in English
• Be comfortable using technology
• Have completed at least the 8th grade but do not have a high school diploma

Quick Facts

• It may be possible for you to transfer credits from previously completed accredited high school courses, shortening your completion time. If you have passed some subject tests as part of the GED/HiSET, you may be eligible to transfer credits for the subject tests you have already passed.
• You will earn both a high school diploma and a certificate in your chosen career field
• You will create a career portfolio including your resume, a cover letter, and business letters

How It Works

Step 1: Read the Frequently Asked Questions about COHS.

Step 2: Take an online Are You Ready Survey. Note: Check the Santa Clara City Library from the list if you live or work in the City of Santa Clara. Once completed, you will be contacted by a Santa Clara City Library staff member to proceed. 

Step 3: Choose a career field. 

Step 4: Enroll in and complete a prerequisite course in two weeks or sooner.

Step 5: A Santa Clara City Library staff member will contact you for an interview. Successful candidates will be notified if they have been awarded a free Library scholarship valued at over $1,000.

Email cohs@santaclaraca.gov for any questions. 

COHS is made possible through grants awarded by the California State Library.