Computer Science Program

  • The CS Mission Statement

    The Computer Science (CS) Program is designed to meet the needs of highly talented and motivated students who wish to major in one of the various fields within the computer science industry.  Curriculum provides college-bound students with rigorous learning opportunities in an environment rich in quality of instruction, hands-on experiences, and course offerings.  Students acquire a well-rounded foundation in the basic aspects of computing to include but not be limited to programming, database programming, and algorithmic design, as well as the mathematics and science that underlie the discipline.

    About the CS Program

    The CS program includes courses requiring a broad spectrum of skills and abilities including problem solving and communication, logical thinking, object-oriented design, database programming, and digital interaction. Students practice their skills independently as well as in a collaborative, team-oriented manner that embraces the multidisciplinary and multicultural environment of today's world. Throughout, students are encouraged to be responsible members of society who understand the ethical, social, and economic impact of computer science in a global context.
     
    CS upperclassmen expand their technological knowledge skills by using an industry standard design model to fully develop a comprehensive programming project. Through this project, students learn to set goals and meet deadlines, explore and further develop their programming abilities, work collaboratively with peers, and finally, present their work to a panel of industry professionals who provide the students with guidance and feedback.

    CS students have the opportunity to earn Career Technology Education (CTE) certifications in many areas, including AutoCAD, MTA Software Development, MTA Database Fundamentals, CIW Database Design Specialist, and CIW Site Development Associate. 

    Prospective CS students and their parents should carefully examine the program’s four-year plan prior to applying, as the curriculum is academically rigorous and demands a high level of dedication and commitment.
    Please Note: Program classes are subject to change as needed.

    Entering grade 9 students applying to the CS program MUST meet the following criteria:

    • 3.0 unweighted academic GPA
    • Completion of Algebra 1 Honors with an unweighted 3.0 GPA in the course
    • Completion of Geometry Honors with an unweighted 3.0 GPA in the course
    • Proof of enrollment and/or completion of Algebra 1 Honors and Geometry Honors MUST be submitted with the application.
    • Algebra 1 Honors and Geometry Honors must be completed by June 9, 2025.
    • Verification of completion of Algebra 1 Honors and Geometry Honors must be submitted via email to Heather Cleary by June 9, 2025.  No exceptions.

    CS students are REQUIRED to complete the following 4-year plan:

    CS: Computer Science Program

    Grade 9

    Grade 10

    Grade 11

    Grade 12
    English      
    AICE English General Paper AP English Lang & Comp AP English Lit & Comp College Composition I/II (DE) or Brit Lit B/A 1800 (DE)
    Social Studies      
    World History (MYP or AP) VCS/AP US Government AP US History AP Micro or AP Macro and Personal Finance Literacy
    Math      
    MYP Algebra II AP Pre-Calculus AP Calculus AB Linear Algebra S1 (DE)/
    Discrete Math S2 (DE)
    Science      
    MYP Biology Chemistry 1 Honors  Physics 1 (Honors or AP) AP Biology or 
    AP Chemistry or
    AP Environmental Science or
    AP Physics II (AP Physics I Req)
    World Language
    (See flowchart)    		      
    MYP World Language MYP World Language World Language or AP Elective World Language or AP Elective
    Computing      
    Java Programming Essentials AP Computer Science A Java Database Programming Java Programming Capstone
    Electives      
    MYP Personal Fitness/MYP PE AP Elective AP Elective AP Elective