Frequently Asked Questions

What courses are required for Engineering Academy Graduates?  

PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design and PLTW Principles of Engineering are both required for the Transcript Designation and Certificate of Completion. Students can choose to fill the 2 credits of related coursework with any non-PLTW related courses. Please see the list below.

• 3D Animation and Gaming 

• Advanced CAD (weighted)

• Art and Design for Engineers

• 3D Design II 

• AP Computer Science A

• AP Computer Science Principles 

• Computer Programming

• Computer Networks

• Cybersecurity

• Software Engineering

• Robotics & Drones 

• Drafting Design Studio (weighted)

• Electronics

• Small Gas Engines

• All Science AP Courses 

• Geometry in Construction (counts for math geometry credit and an additional elective credit!) 

• Any 4th year math course

• AP and Post-AP Math Courses (Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, Multivariable Calculus)

  For full course descriptions, please see the course catalog. 

When can I start taking Engineering Academy classes?  

Now!  You can start as early as your freshman year.  We encourage anyone interested to get started right away.  The PLTW part of the Academy includes a senior capstone course that only those who start as freshmen will be able to take.  Start the PLTW sequence now by taking Project Lead The Way Introduction to Engineering Design.

When do I apply to be in the Engineering Academy? 

The Engineering Academy application process opens in the Spring of each year to sophomores.  Students go through the application process and then interview with a panel of professional engineering, architects, manufacturing professionals and/or teachers. 

What do I do once I am in the academy?  You will keep taking engineering-related coursework and participating in engineering extracurriculars to work toward earning either one of two awards, Transcript Designation or Certificate of Completion, before you graduate. All of the requirements for either completion option should be completed prior to January of the students senior year.

What courses are open to freshmen?  

• PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design* 

Additional Options: 

• Art and Design for Engineers 

• Computer Programming 

• AP Computer Science Principles

• Computer Networks

• 3D Animation and Game Design

• AP Physics 1

Do I need any special skills to be in the Academy?  The academy is open to everyone.  Students who do well in the academy are interested in designing solutions that solve problems, like working with technology and their hands, are creative and persistent, enjoy applying math and science knowledge, are willing to collaborate with others, and are good at managing their time.  

Are PLTW Engineering courses honors weighted?  The following PLTW Engineering Courses are honors weighted.  

• PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design

• PLTW Principles of Engineering

• PLTW Aerospace Engineering 

• PLTW Civil Engineering and Architecture 

• PLTW Digital Electronics 

• PLTW Engineering Design and Development

Are there prerequisites for any of the PLTW classes?  

• PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) students who wish to take PLTW Principles of Engineering (POE) must receive a 70% or higher both semesters to meet the prerequisite to take PLTW POE.

• PLTW POE students who wish to take PLTW Aerospace Engineering (AE), PLTW Digital Electronics (DE) and/or PLTW Civil Engineering & Architecture (CEA) must receive a 70% or higher both semesters in PLTW POE to meet the prerequisite for PLTW AE, DE and/or CEA.

• PLTW AE, DE and/or CEA students who wish to take PLTW Engineering Design & Development (EDD) must receive a 80% or higher both semesters to meet the prerequisite to take PLTW EDD.

Can I complete the Engineering Academy and the Dual Degree program?

No, you cannot concurrently complete the Engineering Academy and the Dual Degree program because there is not enough room in your class schedule to fulfill course requirements for both.

If you are interested in additional information:
Mr. Nick Wedoff at nwedoff@district158.org