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Computer Science

Industry Sector: Information and Communications Technology
Pathway: Systems Programming

Program Description

The RHS Computer Science Pathway is a series of three courses that focus on building critical thinking and problem solving skills that will prepare students for high paying, high demand jobs in the competitive technology field.  Our CS pathway is focused on software development and systems programming. There are two additional courses outside of the primary pathway that would supplement a student’s knowledge. IT Essentials which focuses on technology support, computer repair and cybersecurity and AP Computer Science A which focuses on object oriented programming in Java.

Sequence of Classes

Intro Course - Exploring Computer Science (ECS) 

(UC/CSU 'G' Elective)

Prerequisite: CMIM1 or current enrollment

Exploring Computer Science (ECS) is a gateway course into the growing field of computer science. The ECS curriculum is a highly collaborative and project based learning environment.  The course covers topics around computer ethics, privacy, web design, computer programming, data as well as robotics. The class has a strong emphasis on problem solving and serves as a platform to build the foundational programming and problem solving skills necessary for success in the Computer Science industry.  No prior experience is required to take this course, however if you have experience, there are opportunities for you to expand and share your expertise with your peers.  

Concentrator Course - AP Computer Science Principles  

(UC/CSU 'D' Science)

Prerequisites: Exploring Computer Science (ECS)

AP Computer Science Principles is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course.  Students in Computer Science Principles will explore the seven big ideas of computing: creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programming, the Internet, and global impact of technology.  Students will follow the engaging UC Berkeley course, Beauty and Joy of Computing.  Upon successful completion of the course, students will be prepared to take AP Computer Science and or Technology Innovation.  **AP Computer Science Principles students (in 11th and 12th grade) will earn 3 college credits from CSU, Sacramento through the ACE program.

Concentrator Course - AP Computer Science A  

(UC/CSU 'C' Math)

Prerequisites: AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science A is designed for college bound students or advanced computer skilled students who desire to take the AP Computer Science Exam A for college credit. AP Computer Science is intended to be equivalent to a beginning computer science course at a university. Programming in Java is emphasized while studying design issues to create programs that are adaptable, reusable, and understandable. Students will use Java in the development of algorithms, fundamental data structures, and learn common programming techniques for application development. In addition, an understanding of the basic hardware and software components of computer systems and the responsible use of these systems are integral parts of the course.  **AP Computer Science A students (in 11th and 12th grade) will earn 3 college credits from CSU, Sacramento through the ACE program.

Capstone Course - Technology Innovation

Prerequisites: AP Computer Science Principles or AP Computer Science A

Technology Innovation students will apply the programming and computing concepts learned throughout the Computer Science Pathway (ECS, AP CSP, AP CSA) to a semester-long computing project. Technology Innovation is a project-based course in which students propose and complete a semester-long programming project (app, website, game, robot, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, etc.).  Students will learn and use the Agile software development process, Git version control, as well as marketing and business concepts related to software development and the technology industry.  

Program Outcomes

  • Proficiency in computer science fundamentals, including algorithms, data structures, and object-oriented programming using Java.
  • Hands-on experience creating real-world tech projects such as apps, websites, and robotics solutions.
  • Exposure to teamwork, project management, and presentation skills in a professional and collaborative environment.

Program Accomplishments

  • Project-based learning supported by industry-standard tools like Agile development, version control, and collaborative programming.
  • Opportunities to connect with industry partners and receive mentorship and feedback on student-created projects.
  • Public presentations to an Innovator review panel, giving students real-world experience in pitching and marketing their technology solutions.