Business and Computer Technology

Business courses prepare students for successful careers in marketing, management, finance and hospitality. Our computer technology courses prepare students for successful careers in IT, computer science, programming, engineering and a wide range of other computer based careers. Through a variety of engaging, interactive courses, students gain access to business knowledge, technology skills, and the career advancement skills necessary to thrive in a global society.

Click here for brief info on the department, teachers and career pathways 

The multifaceted discipline of business includes subject matter areas focusing on the functional areas of business (management, marketing, finance, accounting, entrepreneurship), factors affecting business (economics and international business), acquiring basic skills (information technology and communication), and examining business from different perspectives.

In addition to offering real-world content, students enrolled in business courses also develop skills critical to postsecondary success including:

Introduction to Computer Science and Coding

Course # 6072

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course will focus on learning the basics of computer coding languages and computer science that are essential for creating software and using modern technology at an advanced level. Students will explore the impact of computing in society and the application of computing across career paths and build skills and awareness in digital citizenship and cybersecurity. This course is a suggested prerequisite for the AP Computer Science Principles class. 


AP Computer Science Principles A, B

Course # 6028, 6029

Grade Offered: 10, 11, 12 

Credits: 2

Prerequisites:  Intermediate Algebra [3210, 3211, 3212] 

Description: AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to creative aspects of programming, using abstractions and algorithms, working with large data sets, understandings of the Internet and issues of cybersecurity, and impacts of computing that affect different populations. AP Computer Science Principles will give students the opportunity to use current technologies to solve problems and create meaningful computational artifacts. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science. Introduction to Computer Science and Coding is a suggested prerequisite. 


AP Computer Science A and B W/Java

Course # 6040, 6041

Grade Offered: 10, 11, 12

Credits: 2

Prerequisites: 3210, 3211, 3212 

Description: Computer Science A builds on the foundation of key concepts learned in Computer Science Principles. This class enhances understandings and applications of problem solving, hardware, algorithms, and perspectives that help people utilize computers to address real world problems in contemporary life. Students will thoroughly explore fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, how to organize and process data, and explore the ethical and social implications of computer use. Students write solutions fluently in object-oriented paradigms, and write, run, test and debug solutions in the Java programming language as well. 

While not required, it is strongly recommended that students complete the AP Computer Science Principles course prior to registering for this course as this course builds on the basic skills learned in AP Computer Science Principles to teach students authentic app development. (For 10th,11th, 12th grades)


CyberSecurity

Course # 6042

Grade Offered: 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

            Description: As our world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, cybersecurity is a topic of growing importance. It is crucial that companies and individuals take precautions to protect themselves from the growing threat of cyber attacks. This course prepares students with crucial skills to be responsible citizens in a digital future. 

Cybersecurity lays a foundation of understanding cyber law and policy, Linux, networking technology basics, risk assessment, cryptography, and a variety of essential cybersecurity tools - all the essential knowledge and skills needed to begin a future in the cyber workforce.

This course is recommended for students who have taken a previous computer science course (Intro to Computer Science, AP Computer Science Principles, or AP Computer Science A).


DECA and Entrepreneurship A & B

Course # 6101, 6102

Grade Offered: 10,11,12

Credits: 2

Prerequisites: None

Description: DECA & Entrepreneurship provides students with real-world experiences and challenges where they can learn and develop skills for high-demand careers. Students will develop business and marketing plans and present those plans in competitions within the class as well as possible external competitions such as DECA* conferences. This class is also an opportunity to participate in DECA during the school day which includes in-depth experiences with professional role play case studies, sales demonstrations, preparing for job interviews as well as planning future careers and education. In addition, students will help to operate the school store as they take on the role of designer, buyer, advertising and sales person as they create, order, market and sell product. *DECA is an international student organization that enhances the education of students with a focus on marketing, management, or entrepreneurship as well as increasing their college and career readiness. 


Managing Your Money

Course # 6019

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

Description: Everyone wants money, but do you know what to do with it? In this course, you will learn the essential life skill of how to manage personal finances, now and in the future. Topics include saving & banking, credit, identity protection, financing education, investments, taxes, buying a car, insurance, renting vs. buying and budgeting. Students will benefit from using state of the art software simulations and computer modules as well as hearing from various guest speakers. 

Managing Your Money Online

Course # 6019L

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

Please Note

This online course will only run if there are enough students registered. In the case that the online course you selected does not run, you will be enrolled to the in-person version of the course.

Description: Everyone wants money, but do you know what to do with it? In this course, you will learn the essential life skill of how to manage personal finances, now and in the future. Topics include saving & banking, credit, identity protection, financing education, investments, taxes, buying a car, insurance, renting vs. buying and budgeting. Students will benefit from using state of the art software simulations and computer modules as well as hearing from various guest speakers. 

Investments

Course # 6026

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

Description: Did you know that most wealthy people made their money through investing? Students will learn how to effectively manage their financial resources and get first-hand experience in the stock market. A partial list of topics includes: mutual funds, tax sheltered annuities, retirement planning, long-term investing, 401Ks, bonds, stocks and estate planning. 


Website Design

Course # 6025

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

Description: Have you ever wanted to create your own website? You will be able to create eye-catching websites in this class. The course has a strong focus on learning the fundamentals of HTML5, XHTML, CSS and other leading web technologies. You'll work on several individual projects and one group project analyzing the creation of Facebook. This class serves as an excellent introduction to learning the universal language of computers and computer programming. 

Marketing & Management

Course # 6205

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

             Description: Are you curious about the field of business? This course is a must for understanding the concepts of business and marketing, Marketing will focus on the functions of marketing with an emphasis on leadership development. To further enhance your learning experience, you will participate in Virtual Business - Retail software simulation, which will give you experience in business management. 

Sports & Entertainment Marketing

Course # 6024

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

             Description: This class teaches the basics of marketing through the sports and entertainment industry. Topics include target markets, branding, sponsorships, and endorsements, public relations, and promotional techniques. Activities include running a virtual franchise, which simulates real-life decision making. 

Accounting I

Course # 6017

Grade Offered: 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: 

None

Description: Students who earn 85% or higher in this course may receive articulated credits with St. Paul College. Accounting is the language of the business world, and the course will make you fluent in the basics. It is essential to careers in business. Working papers are used to analyze, organize, and summarize financial information, and stimulate real-world accounting. 


Keyboarding and Microsoft Office

Course # 6031

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

             Description: This course takes a practical and analytical approach to developing written and oral business communication skills. 

Students learn to analyze the audience and purpose of the communication, research and organize ideas, format and design written documents, and create presentations based on the subject matter and content. 

Students will practice proper keyboard technique and work to improve their typing speed and efficiency. The course is a hands-on approach to Microsoft Office and Google Apps. Students will learn about Publisher, Access, Powerpoint, Spreadsheets, Word and integration between applications. This course is useful for anyone interested in going into business. 


 

Computer Fundamentals

Course # 6030

Grade Offered: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credits: 1

Prerequisites:

None

Description: This class is only for students who have no experience or very little experience with computers. Students will learn proper keyboarding technique; how to open, save, and organize files; using Windows XP; and basic hardware components. Students will also learn how to conduct research online and use a number of online tools to help with their coursework. This course provides an excellent introduction on how to use computers for academic success.