Career Online High School
Now is the time to get your high school diploma! Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) offers a free, flexible diploma program that makes the decision to go back to school easier than ever. Since 2016, over 160 students have graduated through LBPL's Career Online High School (COHS).
Worried about finding the time to go back to school? Most students tell us time is the biggest question for them. When will they find the time to go back to school? Career Online High School has solved that! Coursework is available 24/7, making it convenient for you. You have 18 months to complete the program, with the option to transfer credits from past schools, GED, or HiSET scores to graduate faster. Plus, get personalized support from an academic coach and certified instructors throughout the program.
"I just want to say 'thank you' to everyone who has made this possible for us to be able to achieve our goals, and dreams. It's never too late to accomplish them and be very proud of yourself." —R. Arellano, 2026 COHS Graduate
"It's never too late to accomplish what you want in life." —M. Marroquin Jauregui, 2026 COHS Graduate
"I’d just like to thank everyone involved in helping make this graduation possible. I’d like to sincerely thank the Long Beach Public Library for creating this program and providing an opportunity for people to continue their education, expand their knowledge, and pursue their dreams and aspirations." —A. Supaul, 2026 COHS Graduate
"Nothing is impossible, impossible doesn’t exist…I’m possible! You can do anything that you put your mind to!" —T. Thomas Lundy, 2026 COHS Graduate
Eligibility Requirements
- Be 19 years or older
- Live in the City of Long Beach
- Have a Full Access Long Beach Public Library card. Don't have a library card? Getting one is free and easy!
Steps to Apply
- Take the COHS Readiness Survey.
- The survey takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
- Within a week, you will receive an email from the COHS Coordinator.
- Check your spam or junk folder (if you haven't received an email) before contacting the Library.
- Complete the prerequisite course to qualify for a full-ride scholarship.
- The prerequisite course is a sample of the program's workload for prospective students to see if they can manage the pace of the program in their daily routine.
- Earn a score of 80% or higher within the 2 week time frame.
- You can retake the course as many times as needed.
- Once you pass the prerequisite course, the Library will contact you to schedule a scholarship interview.
Have you already completed high school classes? You may be able to transfer your previous high school credits and finish your diploma faster. After your scholarship interview and in-person orientation, you can request your official high school records.
The COHS Registrar only accepts official transcripts sent directly from your school. Most transcripts can be requested through Parchment or your school’s website. If your school doesn’t offer online requests, you can email, mail, or fax a Transcript Request Form (PDF) to your high school.
Important: Do not order or send transcripts without program acceptance. Otherwise, you may have to order them again.
For questions about transcripts, students can email transcripts@shcoe.org.
Choose from 10 career areas build job-ready skills, and earn a career certificate along with your high school diploma.
Once awarded your COHS scholarship:
- Attend an in-person orientation.
- Complete coursework at the recommended pace.
- Communicate with your academic coach and the COHS coordinator when you need support.
- Graduate in 18 months or less!
Contact
Viviana Garcia
Viviana.Garcia@longbeach.gov
(562) 570-6226
This phone line only accepts phone calls. Please do not send text messages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
COHS is open enrollment, so students can apply throughout the year. However, scholarships are limited, so we encourage interested students to apply as soon as possible.
Students have up to 18 months to complete the program, but many finish sooner. Completion time depends on transferred credits, course load, and the amount of time dedicated to coursework.
It’s recommended to use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet for the best learning experience. Run a System Check to see if your device meets the Technology Requirements.
Participants who don’t have a personal computer or internet can check out a library laptop and Wi-Fi hotspot for 3 weeks at a time. All Long Beach Public Library locations offer public computers and free Wi-Fi.
No, it is not a requirement, but highly recommended to use previous transcripts, GED scores, or HiSET scores. You can use your previous credits to help you graduate faster.
There may be other options available to you. Contact the COHS coordinator for more information.
International transcripts may need to be evaluated by a credential evaluation agency. Students can find approved agencies through NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services). Your previous school or the evaluation agency may charge a fee.
COHS coursework is in English and is compatible with many translation tools. A basic understanding of English is required to apply and enroll.
Program content is accessible and can be read aloud, ensuring support for learners with accommodations. Once enrolled, you can connect with an academic coach for additional information and support.
We strongly recommend adult literacy or English as a Second Language (ESL) services to help strengthen your reading and writing skills before or while completing COHS.
Long Beach Public Library’s Adult Literacy and ESL services are free and open to adults of all skill levels.
The Long Beach Public Library is committed to helping people meet their education and job preparation needs. We encourage you to visit any of the 12 branches and explore our online digital resources.
