The discipline dealing with the art or science of applying scientific knowledge to practical problems. (wordwebonline.com)

• To give students specific skills needed for job-entry positions now and broad transferable skills allowing students further employment/education flexibility;

• To acquire an awareness of structure and future trends within high skill, high wage industries to increase students' options for occupational choice in the pursuit of a career;

• To provide both school and work-based learning experiences;

• To bridge the gap between education and the world of work.

Up until the end of the 20th century, applied sciences focused on trades such as auto mechanics or welding and was associated with lower social classes.

However, as the labor market becomes more specialized and economies demand higher levels of skill, governments and businesses are increasingly investing in the future of applied sciences thru publicly funded training programs.

Applied sciences has diversified over the 20th century and now exists in many industries such as retail and information technology. Initially it was referred to as vocational education, then occupational education, then applied sciences.  Now it is more commonly referred to as Career Technical Education (CTE).