HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM OF STUDIES - CTE-Cybersecurity & Information Technology

CTE Cybersecurity &

Information Technology

The Cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT) program offers two distinct CTE pathways that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the tech industry. The Information Technology pathway focuses on the fundamentals of computer systems, networking, hardware, and software support. Students gain hands-on experience troubleshooting devices, configuring networks, and exploring certifications such as CompTIA CertMaster+ and CompTIA A+. The Cybersecurity pathway introduces students to digital defense, ethical hacking, network security, and incident response while providing opportunities to explore certifications like CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+. Through interactive labs, simulations, and Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions, students apply technical and security concepts to real-world challenges. Both pathways emphasize problem-solving, collaboration, and professional readiness, with opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized certifications and complete internships with local technology partners, preparing them for college programs or entry-level careers in IT and cybersecurity.

Course Descriptions

5.0 point grading scale will be used if courses are CTAG

Information Technology

Grades 9-10

Year / ½ credit

This first course in the IT career field is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of computer concepts and essential skills necessary for work and communication in today's society. Students will learn safety, security, and ethical issues in computing and social networking. Students will also learn about input/output systems, computer hardware and operating systems, and office applications.

Fee - $100

Personal Computers

Grades 10-11-12

Semester / ½ credit

Students will learn to install, repair, and troubleshoot computer hardware systems. They will perform preventative maintenance practices and learn techniques for maintaining computer hardware security. Communication skills and professionalism in troubleshooting situations will be emphasized.

Fee - $100

Prerequisite: Information Technology, and teacher approval required.

In-state Career Tech Assurance Guide (CTAG) college credit may be available with passage of WEBXAM.

Computer Software

Grades 10-11-12

Semester / ½ credit

Students will apply knowledge and skills of commercial and open source operating systems in in portable, stand alone, and networked devices. Students will install a variety of operating systems manually and using remote assistance. They will learn to configure, modify, and troubleshoot operating systems. Desktop virtualization, system security, and operating system history will be addressed

Fee - $100

Prerequisite: Information Technology, and teacher approval required.

Programming

Grades 10-11-12

Year / ½ credit

In this course, students will learn the basics of building simple interactive applications. Students will learn the basic units of logic: sequence, selection, and loop. Students will apply algorithmic solutions to problem-domain scenarios. Students will gain experience in using commercial and open source languages, programs, and applications. Will be offered no earlier than 2028-2029 school year.

Fee - $100

Prerequisite: Information Technology, and teacher approval required.

In-state Career Tech Assurance Guide (CTAG) college credit may be available with passage of WEBXAM.

Cybersecurity

Grades 9-10

Year / 1 credit

Students will learn the components of cybersecurity and the role each plays in preventing, detecting and mitigating vulnerabilities and attacks. Components include the security of the network infrastructure, security of the systems, and the prevention, detection, and mitigation of common vulnerabilities and attacks. Throughout this course, students will examine and implement security safeguards for desktop, network, and application security.

Fee - $100

In-state Career Tech Assurance Guide (CTAG) college credit may be available with passage of WEBXAM.

Cybersecurity 2 Defense & Reinforcement

Grades 10-11-12

Year / 1 credit

Students will learn the process of systematic defense for information technology systems. They will apply knowledge and skills required to secure network resources including infrastructure, operating systems, data, and applications. Students will apply the knowledge of disaster recovery and business continuity.

Fee - $100

Prerequisite: Cybersecurity and teacher approval required.

In-state Career Tech Assurance Guide (CTAG) college credit may be available with passage of WEBXAM.

Cybersecurity 3 Testing & Response

Grades 11-12

Year / 1 credit

The Cybersecurity 3: Internship course provides students with the opportunity to apply the technical, analytical, and professional skills they have developed throughout the Cybersecurity and Information Technology pathways in a real-world work environment. Students are placed with local industry partners, where they gain hands-on experience in areas such as network administration, system support, cybersecurity operations, and information assurance. Throughout the internship, students will engage in meaningful projects, practice workplace communication, and demonstrate problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in professional settings. In addition to their field experience, students will complete classroom-based reflections, maintain progress logs, and participate in professional development activities to strengthen their employability and career readiness. This capstone course bridges classroom learning with practical application, preparing students for postsecondary education, industry certifications, and entry-level positions in the IT and cybersecurity fields.

The schedule will be blocked for 6th and 7th period or Seniors will release 6th period and Juniors will release 7th period to go to their work site. Will be offered no earlier than 2026-2027 school

Fee - $100

Prerequisite: Cybersecurity 1, Cybersecurity 2 Defense and Reinforcement and teacher approval required.

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IN CYBERSECURITY AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

CAREERS AFTER CREEK