Programming and Software Development

Honors Computer Science I	Computer Science II	Computer Science III	Practicum in Information Technology or Independent Study in Technology Applications
*Computer Science I, II, and III satisfy state requirements for Languages other than English (LOTE).

Course Descriptions

Honors Computer Science I

This course will foster students’ creativity and innovation by presenting opportunities to design, implement, and present meaningful programs through a variety of media. Students will understand Computer Science through the study of technology operations, systems and concepts using TechSmart Curriculum. Course studies include the coding language Python, analyzing and designing algorithms, and demonstrating proficiency in digital citizenship. Professional skills, like collaboration and communication, portfolio building are key elements. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Technology Associate- Intro to Programming Using Python and can be earned as Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP).
 

Computer Science II

This course includes exploration into creating, modifying, and testing the codes, forms and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Students will use the programming language Python and TechSmart Curriculum to work both individually and collaboratively to solve problems. Course studies will include locating, analyzing, processing and organizing data, comparing operating systems, software applications, hardware platforms and programming languages. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Excel and Certified Associate in Python Programming (PCAP).

Honors Computer science III

Students will build on previous knowledge and skills in this advanced computer science course. Course studies include comparing and contrasting high-level programming languages, model ethical acquisition and use of digital information, developing algorithms to solve problems. Curriculum includes TechSmart and incorporate HTML/CSS. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Office and industry based certifications. This course may be used as a Language Other Than English credit and will be included in the calculation of the weighted GPA. Please note, not all colleges/universities accept Computer Science to fulfill world language requirements. This course does not meet NCAA eligibility for student athletes. For more information, visit eligiblitycenter.org.

Practicum in Information Technology

Professional skills, like critical thinking and problem solving, combined with IT experience and knowledge will be a key part of this course. The course could include an on-campus internship, off-campus internship or mentorship with an industry professional. Students will work with their mentor to identify a problem in the IT field, conduct research, create a solution, develop a strategy to address the problem, then design a product or service that solves the problem. A project portfolio will be presented to a panel of professionals using formal presentation skills. Students will also continue to develop a professional portfolio showcasing their accomplishments, knowledge and skills, certifications and artifacts. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Excel Expert and Advanced Industry Based Certification. Students will work with their teacher, mentor and coordinator to plan their year.
 

Independent Study in Technology Applications

In Independent Study in Technology Applications, students will work in a simulated work environment in the field of IT to complete large scale projects designed by the teacher and mentor. Students will identify a problem in IT
and work to research, create solutions and design a product or service that solves the problem. The final presentation will include a project portfolio presented to a panel of professionals using formal presentation skills. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Excel Expert and advanced industry based certifications. Students will work with their teacher, mentor and coordinator to plan their year.

Careers Listed in Career Tree

Entry-Level Careers

(with Program Completion)

• Tech Support
• Data Entry
• Computer Software Installer
• Video Game Tester
• Social Media Manager
• Technical Sales Associate
• Coder
• Website Maintenance
• Computer Technician
• Telecommunications Specialist
• Computer Operator
• Email Engagement Manager
   

Technical Careers

(Apprenticeship, Associate’s Degree, Advanced Certification, Experience, etc.)

• Website Developer 
• Virtual Reality Designer
• Junior Computer Programmer
• E-Commerce Analyst
• Test Engineer
• Mobile Application Developer
• Data Analyst
• Computer Forensic Specialist
• Video Game Designer
• Java Developer
• Geodetic Computator
• Aerospace Technician
   

Professional Careers

(Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., Specialized Training, Experience, etc.)

• Actuary
• Network Engineer
• Ethical Hacker
• Statistician/Data Scientist
• Database Engineer/Architect
• Software Assurance Engineer
• Information Security Analyst
• Systems Engineer
• Computational Biologist
• Systems Administrator
   

• Microsoft Office 
• Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP)
• Certified Associate in Python Programming (PCAP)
• CompTIA:  Fundamentals, A+ and Networking