Running Start

Whether you’re still deciding if Running Start at CPTC is right for you or you’ve already applied to the college, your first step is to let us know of your interest so we can email you more information and/or your next steps to do Running Start at CPTC.

Complete the Running Start Interest Survey, which will include gathering information such as your high school, grade level, contact information, and more.

Attending an Information Session is highly encouraged but not required; however, it is mandatory for the following programs: Cosmetology, Esthetic Sciences, Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, Professional Pilot, Aviation Maintenance Technician*, and Human Services. [*requires joining a waitlist due to popularity of the program.] 

Program Information Sessions are led by instructors, who will highlight specifics about the program you may be interested in, and are a great way to see if it’s the right fit for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and see the classroom space (when attending an in-person session).

We also offer a couple of options to learn more about Running Start itself:

• Watch the Running Start Information Video [coming soon!].
• Join a Q&A session on Zoom to get general questions answered.
  • Both students and parents are encouraged to attend.
  • Please see the “Join our Q&A Session” section of this webpage for upcoming dates and times.

The application is free and does not obligate you to attend. It can take 3-5 business days to process, so it’s good to get this process started if you are at all considering attending CPTC. You will not be able schedule an appointment with the Running Start Counselor until you have been admitted to the school and have a Student ID Number.

• Apply to CPTC: https://apply.ctc.edu/user.
  • Make sure to use the same email you used when you completed the Running Start Interest Survey.
• Look for a welcome email admitting you to the college within 3-5 business days of applying.

When filling out the application, be sure to select "Running Start" from the "I will be enrolling as a..." drop-down menu. Then select "Professional Technical" as your program, the term you wish to begin Running Start classes at CPTC, and the degree or certificate you are seeking. See the example below.

If you are pursing Pre-Nursing studies, you'll select "Academic" for your program:

After completing Steps 1 and 3 (must have received the welcome email admitting you to the college), you will automatically receive an email with a link to watch the virtual Running Start Onboarding Session. Then you will complete the Onboarding Session Completion form also sent in the email. Both are required.

If you have completed the Running Start Interest Survey and received your welcome email admitting you to the college, but have not received the email with the Onboarding Session links (and remaining steps), be sure to check your spam folder. If more than two days have passed and you still have not received the email, please reach out to us at runningstart@cptc.edu to request the Onboarding Session.

After the session, you should activate your ctcLink account and watch the Registration Video.

Review a Program Map online for your program of interest to see possible classes.

You must meet with your High School Counselor to discuss your interest in doing Running Start at CPTC. They will help you understand your remaining high school requirements and which classes will be eligible for dual credit. They will also fill out the “Counselor/Administrator” portions of your Enrollment Verification Form (EVF) and their signature is required.

• CPTC Running Start Dual Enrollment Disclaimer Form (PDF) [does not require high school counselor's signature]
• Running Start Enrollment Verification Form Digital Signature 2026-2027 (PDF) [requires high school counselor, student, and parent/guardian signatures]
• Program Maps – For use in guiding your intended class selection.
• CPTC Course Equivalency Guide – This planning sheet can be used as a reference tool if your high school doesn't have their own course equivalency guide, but remember that you'll still need to verify course equivalency with your high school counselor.

Email completed Running Start paperwork to runningstart@cptc.edu, or drop it off in person at the Advising & Counseling office in Building 17, Room 150 on the Lakewood campus.

You must submit all paperwork (and complete the virtual Running Start Onboarding Session and Completion form) before the Enrollment Hold can be removed from your account.

Before submitting your paperwork, be sure that:

• You are using the correct form for the year and term you wish to attend.
• You have completed the entire “Student” section at the top left of the form.
• All signatures are present on the form: high school counselor/administrator, student, and parent/guardian (if the student is under age 18).
• You have included both sides of each form in your files/printouts.

Required Forms:

• CPTC Running Start Dual Enrollment Disclaimer Form (PDF) [does not require high school counselor's signature]
• Running Start Enrollment Verification Form Digital Signature 2026-2027 (PDF) [requires high school counselor, student, and parent/guardian signatures]

Email completed Running Start paperwork to runningstart@cptc.edu, or drop it off in person at the Advising & Counseling office in Building 17, Room 150 on the Lakewood campus. Please allow 3-5 business days for processing.

• Schedule a new student appointment with the Running Start Counselor to complete your Program Map (can include help with registering for classes)
  • Call the Advising & Counseling office at 253-589-5548 to schedule 
• Confirm Registration date & time
• Add classes to Shopping Cart and register for classes
• Make a plan to pay for fees & books (Running Start only covers the cost of tuition)
• Register for New Student Orientation
• Set up CPTC Email account (must wait 24 hours after registering for classes)
• Set up Canvas account (requires CPTC email)
• Know your first day of classes