As an open academy, Harris County High School’s Computer Science courses are designed to serve all students, from those who wish to take only one course to those who want a more intensive experience. The CS Academy is dedicated to improving diversity in the classroom and the industry. Since its inception, collaboration with local industry and national organizations has focused on providing an open and inviting environment for underrepresented minorities and females.
The Computer Science Academy offers a flexible curriculum across all levels of beginning, intermediate, or advanced technology experience that allows students to follow their interests and tailor their program of study in a way that provides them with the best experience to reach their goals.
Completion of a Career Pathway consists of three courses in a specific field of study. All pathways begin with an introductory course followed by two advanced level courses as listed below.
Intro to Digital Technology or Intro to Software Technology
Computer Science Principles (AP or Standard)
AP Computer Science
Intro to Digital Technology or Intro to Hardware Technology
Intro to Cybersecurity
Advanced Cybersecurity
* Additional pathways are available by completing the first two courses at HCHS and finishing the third course through Georgia Virtual School: Game Design, Programming, Web Development, Internet of Things, and Cloud Computing.
After completing the third and final course in a pathway, students are given the opportunity to obtain industry level certification or job credential in that field of study.
The Computer Programming industry-based credential is part of the NOCTI Job Ready assessment battery. This assessment is based on input from secondary, post-secondary, and industry representatives.
This exam is administered at the end of the Computer Science Pathway.
CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
This certification exam is administered at the end of the Cybersecurity Pathway