Technology and Engineering Courses

Technology and Engineering Courses

For more information on all Career and Technical Education classes at Morris Hills Regional, check out our informational YouTube videos.

All courses listed below fulfill the 21st Century Life & Careers Graduation Requirement (TCLC)

Engineering/Architecture Courses

With a selection of classes designed for students interested in pursuing a career in Engineering or Architecture, our CAD, Engineering, and Architecture courses provide students a competitive advantage as they explore post-secondary options. Utilizing industry standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, Sketchup and OnShape, students will have the opportunity to explore various career paths and gain exposure to rapid 3D prototyping and laser technology. Students completing a 3-year sequence through Computer Aided Design 1, Computer Aided Design 2, and either Engineering or Architecture will have the opportunity to earn industry credentialing as an Apprentice Drafter through the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). Students who have a propensity towards the Engineering Field are encouraged to explore Engineering Maker Lab as an option. 

COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN 1   (TC911)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective

This course introduces the student to the use of drawing as the language of industry and provides the opportunity to use drafting instruments in preparing various types of technical drawings and gain introductory experience to Computer Aided Design using AutoCAD.  Topics include related technical knowledge, practical skills, general information, and an overview of career opportunities related to the drafting field. Special attention is given to technique, method, and industrial applications. The areas taught are orthographic projection, sections, primary auxiliaries, dimensioning, blueprint reading and pictorial drawing through both engineering and architectural drawings. Emphasis is on the value of a planned approach to problem solving by developing models to actual scale drawings. ^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Early College Program.  Course alignment varies on a year-to-year basis- check with your instructor. 

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN (TC941)

Grades 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisite: Computer Aided Design 2

Architectural Design is a course designed for the student who is considering a career in the field of architecture or other related areas. The comprehensive skills learned and advanced lessons on house design, layout construction methods, materials and building codes will enable a student to draw a complete set of original plans for a house design of their own. Students will also get hands on experience by building a physical model of their house design. Students will also complete real world projects in commercial design and Green building practices. Students will continue their studies in AutoCAD and also be introduced to the Autodesk Revit 3D modeling, Google SketchUp and Photoshop software programs.  Students have the opportunity to enter state and national architectural design contests and with successful completion of this third year course, will be eligible to earn an ADDA certificate and be recognized as an apprentice drafter. Students enrolled in this course will complete a school-based enterprise Work Based Learning experience during the course of the school year.  ^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Early College Program.  Course alignment varies on a year-to-year basis- check with your instructor. 

ENGINEERING MAKER LAB (TC967)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective

This course is designed for students who have a keen interest in tinkering to discover how things work. This class will focus on problem solving strategies,  reverse engineering, basic tool and equipment use, and the exploration a variety of technology and engineering options that students can subsequently pursue  at Morris Hills Regional. Throughout the year, students may compete in various competitions to further expand upon their design loop skills.  

Graphic Communication Courses

Students who are enrolled in our graphic communication courses will be exposed to both the digital creation and technical production of imagery.  Students will utilize Adobe products to design and layout artwork.  Furthermore, students will work in a shop setting to become familiar with a wide array of industry-standard machinery.  Our graphic communications courses are the ideal selection for students who are interested in a career in the arts or who simply like being creative and working with their hands.  Those enrolled in our second-level class will learn valuable soft skills as they create business/client relationships with various organizations and individuals around the school.  Opportunities are available for third or fourth year students to pursue a Gifted and Talented program.  

INTRODUCTION TO GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS  (TC952)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective

This course is designed to enable students to relate knowledge from other subjects to a practical, useful experience. The student will be involved with areas such as desktop publishing and electronic imaging, design and layout, use of artwork, photography, offset printing, and screen printing. Also included is a study of the various career opportunities available in the field. Demonstrations, audiovisual materials, and student participation in laboratory experiences are all combined to enable the student to survey the various areas of graphic communications. ^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Middle College Program.

Metal and Wood Manufacturing Technology 

Recent research has shown a comprehensive shortage of skilled trade workers.  In our Metal and Wood Shops, the Morris Hills Regional District offers students the opportunity to gain valuable skills that can earn them a career right out of high school.  Students can learn a wide array of woodworking skills from hand tools to jointers, band saws, sanders, and stationary power equipment.  Our Metal Shop offers students a foundation of machine shop technology.  Career-focused students who are looking to enter the workforce following high school should consider pursuing our 3-year Machine Shop Technology sequence.  Progressing through Metalworking, Metals and Manufacturing Technology, and culminating in Advanced Metals and Manufacturing Technology, students who choose this track will earn industry-valued credentials in a high-paying, high-demand job. 

INTRODUCTION TO WOODWORKING (TC953)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective

This course is designed to acquaint students with the field of woodworking and its related areas.  A thorough study of the types of wood and their applications is accompanied by experiences with hand and machine operations.  The sequence of work is developed in orderly progression from basic operations to complex operations involving jointers, band saws, sanders, and other types of portable and stationary power equipment.  The student is exposed to hand tools, industrial techniques and materials dealing with wood finishing, wood turning, and cabinet making. Opportunities are provided for students to develop an appreciation of design and to explore possible occupational interests.  Time is spent on individual and group project activities.

CABINET MAKING & FURNITURE DESIGN  (TC963)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective: Prerequisite:  Introduction to Woodworking

This course is designed to provide enhanced woodworking students with the opportunity further to develop their skills.  Advanced hand tool and machinery operations, the history and styles of furniture, properties of wood, wood selection and furniture, and cabinetry design will be emphasized.  Students will sketch, design, and construct their own custom projects, which will include advanced techniques learned throughout the school year. 

METALWORKING   (TC954)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective

This is a general metalworking course offering instruction and study activity in the areas of sheet metal, foundry, welding, forging, precision measuring, and machine shop practices. Background and developmental demonstration and informational study and discussion are supplemented through practical experience in the use of tools and materials. Activities will include the study of the production of metals, sheet metal layout and fabrication, pattern making, soldering and brazing, welding exercises, metal finishing and metal lathe operation. Projects will be carried out commensurate with the interest and ability of the student.

METALS AND MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY  (TC965)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisites:  Metalworking

This course is designed to provide students with advanced skills used in the manufacturing trades.  Advanced machine tool and welding operations, inspection, CNC machining, and foundry operations will be emphasized.  Students will design their own projects by hand sketching or through the use of design software (AutoCAD). Experimentation with the various processes available is encouraged.  The history and current trends of manufacturing will be studied from an occupational viewpoint.

ADVANCED METALS AND MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY  (TC966)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisites:  Metals and Manufacturing Technology, Application and Departmental Approval 

As the culminating course in the Machine Shop Technology CTE Program, this course will build upon the skills learned in Metals and Manufacturing Technology.  Students will approach this course independently, working towards completing projects they have designed on their own.  Portions of the second half of this course will focus on preparation for an industry-approved completer examination.  

*Students enrolled in the third year of this approved CTE program must co-enroll in TC999 CTESLE for on-the-job training. 

Automotive Mechanics Technology  

The Morris Hills Regional District Automotive Mechanics Technology program prepares students to for immediate entry into the workforce.  Our three-year progression will train students on state-of-the-art equipment, updated to meet the ever-changing technology of the modern automobile.  Through the sequence, all aspects of diagnostics will be addressed and curriculum will be approached from an occupational viewpoint.  Students in the second or third year of the program will work towards Automotive Service Excellence and National Automotive Technician Educational Foundation (ASE and NATEF) certifications.  Should students chose to pursue post-secondary options, the Morris Hills Regional District maintains an articulation agreement with Lincoln Tech, allowing students to potentially bypass coursework.  Dealerships regularly express their need for skilled Automotive Technicians, Morris Hills Regional offers our students a competitive advantage in this high-demand field.  

AUTO MECHANICS 1  (TC920)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 10 credits; One Year Elective; 

The three-year automotive mechanics program is designed to prepare the student for a career as an auto technician.  The student is taught to understand the operation and repair of all parts of the vehicle. The first year begins with the learning of basic automotive theory through readings, discussions, audiovisual presentations and demonstrations.  This is followed by actual practical work performed on vehicles scheduled into the shop for repairs. Experiences include service and repair of chassis, cooling system, lubricating system, electrical system, exhaust system, engine accessories and computer-assisted diagnostics.  Emphasis is given to instruction in technical knowledge, practical skills, processes and techniques, and occupational information.   *As this is year 1 of a 3-year sequence, seat priority will be as follows: 1. Sophomores, 2. Juniors, 3. Seniors

AUTO MECHANICS 2  (TC930)

Grades 11, 12; 10 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisite: Auto Mechanics 1 and Application 

This course re-emphasizes and expands all previously learned skills and knowledge.  It provides for continued study and more advanced application of instructional units in automotive repair and service. During this second year, the emphasis is placed almost entirely on practical experience. Students perform all of their work on vehicles scheduled into the automotive shop. Units are expanded to include the study of electrical and electronic systems, air conditioning and heating operating principles/applications which lead towards Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) refrigerant/recovery/recycling certification.  All instructional units will prepare students to satisfy the requirements of ASE/National Automotive Technician Educational Foundation (NATEF) certification.

Electricity and Robotics   

We are proud to host a growing Robotics and Trades program.  Our Electricity and Electrical Trades courses provide students with valuable and useful information and skills.  Students in Electricity will be exposed to the fundamentals of electricity, house wiring, circuits, and a variety of projects .  Students can then follow-up on these skills and explore a potential career path in Electrical Trades, where the class is approached from an occupational viewpoint.  

Students also have the option of exploring the steadily growing world of Robotics.  With the recent trend towards Automation and the prospect of many jobs defined by algorithms being automated in the near future, our students have the opportunity to get ahead of their competition before leaving high school.  With two levels of Robotics, students can explore the advanced functioning and programing of modern day robots while solving problems and learning soft skills such as teamwork.  The Morris Hills Regional District takes part in the First Tech Challenge, competing against other local schools and teams.  

ELECTRICAL TRADES (TC961) 

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisite: Electricity 

This course is designed for students who wish to enter a career in electrical trades or a degree in construction management. Emphasis is placed on the reading diagrams and schematics, blueprint reading, and career readiness. Units include distribution, Industrial motor control, National Electrical Code, and project management. In addition, instruction is provided in technical knowledge, practical skills, processes and techniques, as well as the study of occupational information to prepare the student for employment.

ROBOTICS 1 (TC955) 

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits per year; Elective; Prerequisites: Electricity OR AP Computer Science Principles OR AP Computer Science A

Robotics 1 is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to program, build, and operate automated machines and robotic devices. The history and current trends of automation and robotics are addressed. Applications to industry, home, and our daily lives are investigated. Students will assess, build, and test various automation and robotic devices employing electronics and electromechanical technology. Hands on assembly and operation are encouraged. Use of programmable electronic microprocessors, computer controlled equipment, prototype assembly, and automated manufacturing will be explored.  NOTE: Attendance at 3 to 4 weekend dates for First Tech Challenge competitions is a REQUIRED component of this course.  The instructor will provide the required dates at the start of the school year. 

Television Production 

TELEVISION PRODUCTION 1:  Elements of Broadcasting (TC970)

Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; 5 credits

The main objective of Television Production 1 is to provide students with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of television production by running a daily news broadcast. By doing so, students will develop research and communication skills as well as technical production skills including: camera operation, lighting set-ups, audio engineering, computer graphics, and live production editing. These skills will create a base for all stages of television production. It is also the purpose of this course to identify students who are ready for a more advanced and specialized practice in the field of Television Production and to prepare those who plan to continue study on other levels. 

^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Early College Program.  Course alignment varies on a year-to-year basis- check with your instructor. 

TELEVISION PRODUCTION 2:  Video Production (TC971)

Grades 10, 11, 12; 5 credits

Prerequisite: Television Production 1

The main objective of Television Production 2 is to provide students with the opportunity to continue to examine and create television production projects in an historical and social context, as well as relating them to themselves and other art forms. By doing so, students will utilize the communication and production skills acquired in Television Production 1, as well as develop skills in all aspects of post-production editing to assist with critical thinking and self reflection, allowing students to expand their knowledge base and experience in all stages of television production.  It is also the purpose of these courses to identify students who are ready for advanced, more specialized practice in the field of Television Production, and to prepare those who plan to continue study in this field in the Gifted and Talented program and on a post-secondary level. 

^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Early College Program.  Course alignment varies on a year-to-year basis- check with your instructor. 

TELEVISION PRODUCTION 3:  Advanced Video Production (TC973)

Grades 11, 12; 5 credits

Prerequisite: Television Production 2

The main objective of Television Production 3 is to provide students with the opportunity to continue to examine and create television production projects in an historical and social context, as well as provide them the opportunity to make connections to themselves, their prior knowledge, and other art forms. By doing so, students will utilize the communication and production skills acquired in Television Production 1 and 2, along with critical thinking and self reflection, to expand their knowledge base and experience in all stages of video production. It is also the purpose of these courses to identify students who are ready for advanced, more specialized practice in the field of Television Production, and to prepare those who plan to continue study in this field in the Gifted and Talented program and/or on a post-secondary level. Students will also develop and enhance interviewing techniques and script writing skills moving from studio production to fieldwork of broadcast journalism. Students taking this class will also complete a school-based enterprise Work Based Learning experience throughout the duration of the school year.  

^^Three college credits may be earned through the Fairleigh Dickinson University Early College Program.  Course alignment varies on a year-to-year basis- check with your instructor. 

Structured Learning Experience  

CTE Structured Learning Experience (TC999)

Grade 12; 10 credits; One Year Elective; Prerequisite: Successful completion of two (2) years of a New Jersey Department of Education approved Career and Technical Education Program; Co-Requisite: Enrollment in the third year of an approved Career and Technical Education Program course 

The Structured Learning Experience Program allows students on-the-job training both during and after the school day.  Students enrolled in this section are marking the concluding chapter of a three-year sequence of study in a specialized area.  By participating in a Career and Technical Education Structured Learning Experience, students will put to work the many hands-on skills that they have learned over the past three years.  Evaluation in this course will take place through on-the-job site observations in addition to student reflection and selected credentialing options.  Students who participate in this program will build their resume while preparing themselves for the next chapter in their lives.  Participants will be empowered to enroll in college, a trade school, or enter the workforce. 

Technology Show Highlights 

For a better glimpse at what the Technology Department has to offer, check out highlights from our past Technology Showcases. 

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Shared Time Options at Morris County School of Technology

Some Career & Technical Education courses are not offered by the Morris Hills Regional District, but are available to district students through the Morris County School of Technology, 400 East Main Street, Denville.  Students typically apply in their sophomore year for admission into shared time programs that encompass junior and senior year. Additional information can be found here.