4-H Next Chapter | Tennessee 4-H Youth Development

Next Chapter is a college and career readiness program offered through Tennessee 4-H in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Open to youth in all 95 counties, the program helps high school students explore future opportunities and prepare for life after graduation—whether that means college, technical training, or entering the workforce.

Through interactive lessons, hands-on projects, and career exploration, students build skills in leadership, community engagement, workforce development, and financial literacy. Participants progress at their own pace, gaining the confidence and knowledge needed to take their next step with success.

Next Chapter Overview

Next Chapter is a program that helps you get ready for life after high school. Whether you want to go to college, learn a trade, join the military, or start working, this program gives you the skills and confidence to succeed.

Figure Out Your Path: Discover your strengths, interests, and career options

Get Ready for College or a Job: Learn about goal-setting, financial basics, and what colleges and employers look for

Build Real Skills: Practice leadership, build a resume, and learn how to apply for jobs and scholarships

Plan Your Future: Create a personal plan for after high school, including applying to college or training programs and earning digital badges to show your skills

You can work at your own pace and finish levels whenever you are ready

You will be more prepared for college, careers, and life

Scholarship Opportunities:

Students who complete all four years of Next Chapter qualify for a $1,500 scholarship per year at UTK (up to $6,000 total)

One student each year is recognized as Next Chapter Member of the Year, earning a full scholarship to UTK

Step 1: Create a Professional Email

Details can be found here: Email Etiquette

Step 2: Contact your County 4-H agent to sign up

Accessing Canvas Catalog

4-H Portfolio Webpage (The resources found on this webpage will assist in creating a 4-H e-portfolio and may help you become eligible to receive college credits in Tennessee 4-H Clover Credit. More information is available from the 4-H agent in your county.)

Next Chapter is a college and career readiness program created in partnership with Tennessee 4-H and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). It helps high school students across Tennessee prepare for life after graduation, whether that means college, technical training, the military, or entering the workforce.

Key Features:

Flexible Mastery Levels: Students progress at their own pace throughout high school

Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes workforce development, leadership, financial education, and college readiness

Hands-On Learning: Interactive lessons, career exploration, and real-world projects

Program Goals:

Help students explore careers that fit their intrests and strenghts

Provide college prepration and financial literacy training

Create a supportive statewide network of students, educators, and parents

Offer students the chance to earn digital credentials that strengthen college applications and resumes

Program Goals

Help students explore careers that fit their interests and strengths

Help students explore careers that fit their interests and strengths

Provide college preparation and financial literacy training

Create a supportive statewide network of students, educators, and parents

Offer students the chance to earn digital credentials that strengthen college applications and resumes

Want Next Chapter in Your School?

Contact your local Extension office and talk to your 4-H agent about how to start Next Chapter!