Descriptions of the courses offered at San Marcos High School are outlined in the following pages. Students should take note of the grade levels at which the course may be taken, prerequisites, and the length of the course (semester or year-long).

Some of the abbreviations commonly used in this section are explained below.

A-G Designation UC/CSU admission requirements (identifies courses that meet the entrance requirements of that school)

AP Advanced Placement (designates classes to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exams, which  may result in a student’s receiving college credit for a course, even though the course was completed in high school

ELD English Language Development (designates English classes for those learning English as a second language).

(P) College preparatory (designates classes accepted by colleges and universities for purposes of meeting their entrance requirements)

(H) Honors (designates honors classes designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement classes)

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Click here to learn more about the Agricultural Pathway

Year 1: AGRICULTURAL BIOLOGY (P) - 81100 Click here for more info

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation:  D - Science

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

This is a one year lab science course designed for students interested in agriculture science and/or post-secondary education. The course emphasizes the California Standards in life science principles in molecular and cellular aspects of plants and animals. The course also covers chemistry of life, genetics, history of living things, ecological relationships and their environment, and animal systems. Research project(s) and oral/written presentations or reports will be a valuable part of the course. *This course meets the life science requirement.

Year 1: FLORAL DESIGN (P) - 83100 Click for more info

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None (Repeatable)

This course provides entry-level training in floral design and management. Instruction will include: the principles of floral design, flower preparation and design, identification of materials and tools, caring for and selecting plants, and management of a retail floral operation. Students will gain hands on experience by performing the tasks performed in a retail flower shop.

Year 2: AGRICULTURAL CHEMISTRY (P) - 82100 Click here for more info

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  D - Science

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

This is a laboratory science course designed for the college bound student with a possible career interest in agriculture. It meets the Physical Science portion of the science laboratory requirement for high school graduation and for the California State (CSU) and the University of California (UC) systems. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, this course covers chemistry principles utilizing the new NGSS standards along with the state CTE framework.  The course is centered on an extensive laboratory component in order to connect big ideas of chemistry with agricultural applications as well as written and oral reports, lectures, homework, quizzes and tests, FFA and agriculture projects. Agriculture Chemistry is the second year course in the agriscience pathway. Students who have taken Ag Biology are encouraged to enroll in Ag Chemistry and complete the agriscience pathway.

Year 2: AGRICULTURAL PHYSICS (P) - 85123

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  D - Science

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

This course gives students a good foundation in Physics with related Earth Science phenomena and Agricultural applications.  The following topics will be covered: forces, laws of motion, structures, plate tectonics, momentum, collisions, universal gravity, Kepler's laws, planetary motion, waves, earthquakes, wave technology, the nature of light, optics and light spectra, electrostatics, electricity and circuits, magnetism and electromagnetic induction, energy, power plants, renewable sources, nuclear radiation and processes, and history of the Earth, stars and the universe. This course also provides an opportunity and expectation for student’s participation in the National FFA organization including FFA participation and a Supervised Agriculture Experience Project. 

ANIMAL SCIENCE (P) - 45101

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  D - Science

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

This is a project based course designed to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or employment in the Animal Science industry.  Students will be introduced to the basic concepts and principles that govern animal nutrition, growth, health, reproduction, and genetics, as well as practical commercial applications, such as ration formulation, disease prevention, and artificial insemination.  An essential part of this course will be leadership activities and the Supervised Agriculture Experience project. The appropriate use of technology and industry-standard equipment is an integral part of this course.  Competencies in this course are aligned with the California Common Core State Standards and the California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards.  This is the first course in a pathway of courses designed to engage students and develop college and career readiness skills within the Agriculture and Natural Resources industry sector. 

Year 2: VETERINARY SCIENCE (P) - 85101 Click here for more info

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study:  9th grade students MUST take Agricultural Biology concurrently.  2 Years of Agriculture Science recommended or teacher’s recommendation. 

This course meets the life science requirement for high school only. Included is instruction in animal behavior, physiology of lactation, artificial insemination, hygiene and sanitation, parasitology, livestock instruments and their use, animal genetics, and veterinary skills. Students will be expected to do supervised animal projects as part of their SAE/FFA program.* Internships are available for Juniors and Seniors.

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Year 1: COMPUTER GRAPHIC DESIGN I (P) - 81106

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None (Repeatable) 

This course provides training in digital imaging and media manipulation with an emphasis on design and the arts. Instruction covers graphic design and illustration, desktop publishing, image manipulation and editing, photo retouching, and the creation of images. Gain hands-on training in Graphic Arts products, such as, logos, posters, magazines, specialized programs. Learn how to incorporate motion graphics, digital imaging, and special effects. Students use equipment like digital cameras, scanner, black/white/color printers. Students learn software packages covering page layout, illustration, and photo manipulation. Students will train to utilize programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, Apple Pages, Motion3, Flash and others. The Graphic Design field is a collaborative field; students will learn to function as members of an integrated dynamic production team on a wide variety of projects. Complete the course by producing a finished DVD for use in your Media Arts portfolio. Graphic Design is a Telecommunications Academy and Occupational Program Course (ROP).

Year 2: COMPUTER GRAPHIC DESIGN II (P) - 82106

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None (Repeatable) 

Graphic Design II, the logical continuation of Graphic Design I, continues to provide students a hands-on, working understanding of a career in digital graphic design. As an extension of Graphic Design I, we will continue to explore the role of the artist as a mass communicator — one who seeks BOLD SIMPLICITY of form. Utilizing the powerful software programs, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign the student will create original vector-based (line) illustrations, pixel-based photographic enhancements, both aimed toward final assembly within a digital desktop publishing program. With dynamic composition as a goal, we will focus on the five elements of design: line, color, shape, space and texture…as well three significant design principles: balance, emphasis and unity. Each student will be treated as a working graphic designer under the guidance of an art director (teacher), with projects reflecting authentic design campaigns.

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

THE ART OF FILM (P) - 85110 Click here for video

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

Do you love to escape into the world of movies and television shows? Well, here's your chance to find out how the professionals make it happen as we will explore all facets of filmmaking through our analysis of some of the greatest films of all-time. You and your friends will get the chance to watch and learn as we dissect the works of filmmakers such as Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Christopher Nolan and David Fincher. You're guaranteed to have a good time, so get started in the San Marcos Filmmaking Academy by taking Art of Film with Mr. Campbell.

Year 1: FILMMAKING 1 (P) - 81110 Click here for video

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

UC/CSU (Visual and Performing Arts Credit)

Now’s your chance to make movies and YouTube/Instagram videos like the ones you’ve watched over the years.  In Filmmaking 1, you and your friends will get to use top of the line cameras, lighting rigs and editing programs to create film-festival worthy productions.  You’ll learn how to collaborate with your peers in a variety of ways that will not only be extremely fun, but enlightening, as you explore your imagination in a way that you’ve never done before.

Year 2: FILMMAKING 2 (P) - 82110 Click here for video

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

UC/CSU (Visual and Performing Arts Credit)

Are you ready to take your creative movie making skills to the next level? Students in our sought-after Filmmaking 2 course will develop their screenwriting, cinematography, lighting and editing skills, producing award-winning short films and videos that will be the envy of SMHS students across our campus. Your films will be shown during our weekly showcases in the Student Union and Café as well as submitted to the North County High Schools Film Festival where you’ll have the chance to win cash prizes. Take the final course in San Marcos High School’s Filmmaking Academy before you head out to pursue your own cinematic glory!

Year 3: FILMMAKING 3 (P) - 83110 Click here for video

Grade level: 11-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Filmmaking 2 or Teacher Approval 

Filmmaking 3 is a capstone class for students who have successfully completed Filmmaking 1 and 2.  Students will use skills gained in earlier classes to engage in internships with local businesses. Filmmaking 3 is a capstone class for students who have successfully completed Filmmaking 1 and 2 and it’s a time for SMHS students to use the skills they’ve developed during their time in the SMHS Filmmaking Academy as they participate in internships with local businesses, create documentaries and submit films to major film festivals such as the New York City’s All-American High School Film Festival. This will be your crowning achievement during your time in the SMHS Filmmaking Academy! 

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Click here for more info about the Photography Pathway

Year 1: DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 1 (P) - 81109

Grade level: 9-11             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None 

Beginning Digital Photography is the first level in a series of four courses, in which students will learn the history of photography, how to operate a professional DSLR camera, learn Photoshop, and begin to acquire the skills needed to enter the photography industry. This course will educate students on the artists that shaped photography into the industry that it is today. The students will develop the vocabulary and verbal communication skills needed to professionally critique and analyze photography by using the elements of art and principles of design. Through hands on-camera experience, the students will learn to create aesthetically and compositionally interesting work. The students will learn the importance of natural light in different environments and how to shape light. Students will expand their knowledge by working in a digital lab environment. The students will learn photography workflow, adobe software, and post-image production. Students do not need a DSLR camera at home, to be successful in this course.  

Year 2: DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 2 ADVANCED (P) -82109

Grade level: 9-11             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Grade of C or better in Digital Photography and teacher recommendation.

In level 2 of Digital Photography, students will continue to expand their knowledge of a DSLR camera and their editing skills. The students will be challenged on a weekly basis to take their skills learned from level one and apply them to higher-level concepts, which will expect them to problem solve and expand their creativity. Students will be expected to pre-conceptualize their ideas and also reflect on their completed work. Students will create a website that will be updated frequently and act as their digital portfolio showcasing their work and begin to work on creating a mock photography business. Students will learn how to use strobes, artificial lighting, and light modifiers in a studio setting. Students will continue perfecting their editing and retouching skills and apply them to printed photographs that will be displayed at the end of the year in their photography exhibition. Students will also collaborate with other CTE courses for group projects. Students are expected to have a DSLR camera at all times in and outside of the classroom. DSLR cameras are available for rent, for advanced students. **Seniors who are interested in taking Photo 2: Advanced, have the option of enrolling in AP 2D Art & Design instead. This means that they will learn Photo 2: Advanced curriculum with the class but also have the option to work on an AP Photography Portfolio that can be submitted to the college board, at the end of the school year.

Year 3: DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 3 (H) - 83209 (Weighted Grade)

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study:  C or better in Photo 2

In level 3 of Digital Photography, the students will have the opportunity to earn a 5.0, in this weighted course. Students will be expected to work more independently and focus on a handful of ongoing projects in and outside of class, simultaneously. Photo 3 students will meet one on one with the instructor, outside of class, throughout the year, to go over their work. During class, students will have time to edit and work on their projects with the instructor’s feedback. Photo 3 students will offer their knowledge to Photo 2 students by giving feedback, suggestions, and offer help during class time. Photo 3 students are expected to explore and research photographers, artists, and techniques and experiment with new ideas. They will dig deeper into Photoshop, the studio, and DSLR cameras. They will be expected to write short photo essays and explore alternative photographic techniques. Students will also be expected to visit photography exhibits every quarter. Photo 3 students will be pulled throughout the year to help around the school for any photographic needs, as well as work for the school yearbook. Photo 3 students will be highlighted at the end of the year photography exhibit and will need to print their own work for the show in May. If a student intends to take the fourth level, AP Photography, they should begin their photograph work in Photo 3. The student should alert their instructor, if they intend to take AP photography, at the beginning of Photo 3. Students are expected to have a DSLR camera at all times in and outside of the classroom. DSLR cameras are available for rent, for honors students. **Seniors who are interested in taking Photo 2: Advanced, have the option of enrolling in AP 2D Art & Design instead. This means that they will learn Photo 3: Honors curriculum with the class but also have the option to work on an AP Photography Portfolio that can be submitted to the college board, at the end of the school year.

Year 4: AP 2-D ART & DESIGN IN PHOTOGRAPHY - 85209 (Weighted/Potential College Credit)

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: C or better in Photo 3 Honors

In the fourth and final course of Digital Photography, the students will have the chance to earn a 5.0 in this weighted course. Unlike other traditional AP classes where students are required to take a written test in May, students will instead work all semester to produce a body of photographic work to submit to the AP College Board in May. If a student passes with a 3 or higher, they will earn their 2D Design college credit. This course usually takes about a year to complete so a student should decide by Photo 3 if they intend to take AP photo. The students will be expected to work independently, maintain a rigid work schedule, plan small critiques with other Photo 4 students and their instructor. Students will need to keep a sketchbook that will document their photographic projects. Students will continue perfecting their editing and retouching skills and apply them to printed photographs that will be displayed at the end of the year in their photography exhibition. Students will also work to prepare their digital and printed portfolios for the AP College Board. This course may require a minimum of 5 hours a week outside of class, to be successful. Students are expected to have a DSLR camera at all times in and outside of the classroom. DSLR cameras are available for rent, for AP students. When signing up for AP Photo, make sure to ask for instructor Briones (as to not get placed in traditional painting/drawing art with the art teacher). **Seniors have the option of taking the AP 2D Art & Design course in their second, third or fourth year of photography. 

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Year 1: DIGITAL MUSIC (P) 4302

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None (Repeatable) 

Students  in  digital  music  will  focus  on  composition  techniques  and  song  writing  skills  while  learning  elements  of computer  based music and digital editing. Students will learn how to use Sibelius composition software, Reason music syntheses, Pro Tools editing and Logic music creation programs.

DIGITAL MUSIC 2: AUDIO/MUSIC FOR VIDEO GAMES (P)- 82111

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None (Repeatable) 

This course focuses on the creation and implementation of music and sound for video games. Using a variety of video games students will analyze interactive sounds during gameplay, then learn how to create and combine elements of music, sound effects, and dialogue to complete a scene from a game and production workflow using Unity and Wwise platforms.  

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Year 1: FINE WOODWORKING 1 (P) - 81112 Click on video

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None.  (Repeatable)

Articulation with Palomar College Woodworking Program – Credit for CFT 105

This course is open to both experienced and inexperienced woodworkers who are interested in learning about furniture and cabinet making. First-time students begin with a required project before progressing to the individualized projects done by the more experienced students.  Students may enroll in the class for more than one period of the day. Fees are charged only for students who wish to take projects home. Emphasis on Computer aided design and CNC machinery is placed during 2nd semester.

Students also have the opportunity to join internships that lead to jobs in cabinet and furniture making. Fine Woodworking may be used to fulfill the A-G Visual and Performing Art Requirement

**Course articulated with Palomar College. Students who earn a C or better in the course will also earn community college credit.

Year 2: FINE WOODWORKING 2 (P) - 82112

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation: F - Visual and Performing Arts

Recommended Previous Course of Study: C or better in Fine Woodworking 1 

Advanced Wood Technology is the second course in Woodworking advanced manufacturing pathway. It is designed for students who have completed Fine Working 1, 2 and provides a deeper understanding of wood and industrial products with a heavy emphasis on the design process.  Students learn to use both traditional fine hand tools and cutting-edge technology (CNC) to realize and refine their designs.

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Year 1: BITA 1 FINEWOODWORKING - STUDY OF MODERN CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INFRASTRUCTURE (P) - 81121 

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None 

The Residential and Commercial Construction course is designed to teach basic skills for the construction trades through a course rich in connections to construction projects that will generate interest in math and increase students' likelihood of success. The course covers basic construction math; measurement and scale, blueprint reading, safety, procedural use of hand and power tools.  Students acquire these skills through the use of technology and real world problem solving.  Integrated throughout the course are foundation standards, which include communication, ethics, interpersonal/team skills, critical thinking and other employment skills needed for the 21st Century.

Year 2: BITA 2 HOMEBUILDING - STUDY OF MODERN CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INFRASTRUCTURE (P) -82121   

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None 

Pending Students will have the opportunity to build a full-scale house as a team while gaining an in-depth understanding of the history behind construction, materials, and trades in the industry.  Students will use Primary Sources and become Construction Historians as they reconstruct the advancement of the trades, materials, and tools that are now being used in residential and commercial construction. The course covers a more advanced knowledge of safety, use of hand and power tools, blueprint reading, geometry, and estimating. Integrated throughout the course are foundation standards, which include communication, ethics, interpersonal/team skills, critical thinking and other employment skills needed for the 21st Century. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to perform the duties of an entry-level building construction technician with the knowledge of Construction Codes and general and trade-specific terminology.

CAREERS IN EDUCATION 1 (P) - 81104  Click here for more information 

Grade level: 9-12 

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective 

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

Careers in Education is a one year course that provides training to students for a career in education and the role of the teacher in the art of K-8 instruction. Students will gain insight into the responsibilities of a teacher, child growth and development, safety, and principles of effective instruction and assessment. Students will review grade level skills in Reading, Math, and English Language Arts and learn the different methodologies, strategies and materials employed in the elementary classroom. Students will hear from a variety of guest speakers to learn about the different career opportunities in the field of education. The course will also consist of an internship second semester. Successful students are given the opportunity to participate in a site-based internship, where they will observe and assist elementary teachers in a variety of instructional support and recreational activities. As teacher assistants, they will tutor elementary students in literacy, writing and math topics. It will prepare students for entry into college or university teaching training programs. This course meets the UC “G” requirement. INT, UC/CSU .

CAREERS IN EDUCATION 2(P) - need course #  Click here for more information 

Grade level: 11-12 

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective 

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Careers in Education 1 (P)

SMHS Graduation Subject Requirement: Successful completion of 10 credits of CTE may count for 1 year of World Language or VAPA 

This capstone course provides CTE Education Careers pathway students in 11th - 12th grade with an opportunity to understand principles of education in practical application.  Students will explore growth and development, major learning theories, principles of learning and teaching, classroom management techniques, and strategies for lesson planning and development.  They will complete observations of mentor teachers to better understand teaching practice and the application of learned theories and strategies.  In addition, they will complete weekly fieldwork in a classroom under the guidance of a mentor teacher.  This fieldwork will consist of implementing their own lesson plans and activities designed for content area courses.  This course reinforces standards in reading, writing, speaking, listening, mathematics, social studies , and science and requires their application in educational settings. Students will be required to practice communication, ethics, interpersonal/team skills, critical thinking and problem-solving, self-management, professionalism, and classroom safety. The students in this course will be key participants in building an academic culture. 

This course does require students to have reliable transportation and the ability to report off-campus to the internship site. Additionally, students are required to behave professionally and with maturity at all times. Failure to comply with professional standards or to complete the internship will result in a W/F grade. 

INTRO TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (H) - 81102

Grade level: 9-12 

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective 

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

Discover the role of an engineer in taking an idea from the design process to manufacturing of production. Students work individually and in teams to dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. The course of study will include the sign of process, technical sketching, engineering documentation and drawing, measurement and statistical analysis, 3D CAD Solid modeling, reverse engineering, product design, and product presentation. Introduction to Engineering and Design is the first of two foundation courses in the Project Lead the Way high school engineering program. This project based class challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities, and problem solving skills based upon engineering concepts. 

PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (H) - 82202

Grade level: 9-12 

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective 

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Algebra and either Introduction to Engineering or Middle School Technology

This class is a “hands-on” course to introduce students to some of the major concepts in a college level engineering course of study. You will master and apply basic Engineering concepts with technology, while tackling real world challenges and small projects. As part of these activities and projects, you will build electronic circuits, build and program a robot, assess energy sources and applications, research or use fluid power, test the strength and durability of materials, and understand how things move. In this class you are 61 not alone. Team up with other students to test and share your developing skills through hands-on projects and presentations. Principles of Engineering is the second of two foundation courses in the Project Lead the Way high school engineering program. This project based class also challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities, and problem solving skills based upon engineering concepts. 

ENGINEERING DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT (H) - 81113

Grade level: 10-12 

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective 

Recommended Previous Course of Study: One High School Engineering Class and one of the following: A second Engineering course, other CTE Completion, AP Capstone, or AP Physics2

Engineering Design and Development (EDD) is the capstone course in the PLTW high school engineering program. It is an open-ended engineering research course in which students work in teams to design and develop an original solution to a well-defined and justified open-ended problem by applying an engineering design process. Students will perform research to select, define, and justify a problem. After carefully defining the design requirements and creating multiple solution approaches, teams of students select an approach, create, and test their solution prototype. Student teams will present and defend their original solution to an outside panel. While progressing through the engineering design process, students will work closely with experts and will continually hone their organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, their creative and problem-solving abilities, and their understanding of the design process.

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Year 1: COMPUTER SCIENCE (P) - 81101

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation:  C - Mathematics

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

(Meets third-year math requirement for HS graduation)

Computer Science is designed to offer an introduction to computer science. Students will learn the basics of computer programming along with the basics of computer science. Using Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. It gives a foundation in the tools used in computer science and prepares students for further study in computer science, including AP Computer Science A. 

Year 1: AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (P) - 81115

Grade level: 9-12             

A-G Designation:  D - Science

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Computer Science or B or better in SMUSD middle school technology class

(Meets third-year math requirement for HS graduation)

AP Computer Science Principles provides coding fundamentals.  Fosters algorithmic and computational thinking.  Explores the impact of computing on society.  This course is taught using Python®.

Year 2: AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A - 82201

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  C - Mathematics

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Computer Science, AP Computer Science Principles or equivalent course work prior to taking the AP course.

(Meets third-year math requirement for HS graduation)

The AP Computer Science A course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem-solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing. The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem-solving and design. These techniques represent proven approaches for development solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. Concepts are taught using the Java programming language. 

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

Click here to for more info about Health Sciences Pathway

Year 1: HEALTHCARE CAREER ESSENTIALS I (P) - 81103

Grade level: 9-11             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None.

This course provides an opportunity for students to gain knowledge and skills for a career in healthcare. Using real-life scenarios and process-driven activities, students will learn the responsibilities and challenges of being healthcare professionals. Students will explore nutrition and wellness, cover basic anatomy and physiology and will learn how to address infection control issues. Students will expand their understanding of patient care, emergency medical response (basic cardio-pulmonary resuscitation-CPR for one person, two people, child, infant, obstructed airway and mouth to mask ventilation based on American Heart Association Standards) and deepen their knowledge of various healthcare systems. In addition to building their understanding of technical concepts and skills, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers and develop personal career plans to pursue work in the healthcare industry. This course meets the University of California and California State University entrance requirements.  

Year 1:  ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY(H) - 81203 (Weighted Grade) 

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Biology with a C or better highly recommended

This honors course is designed to provide a rigorous, broad based, general study of human anatomy and physiology. Through the use of microscopes, models, skeletons  and dissections, students will gain a thorough understanding of the structure and function of the major systems of the human body. It also covers the skills students will need as a part of the medical pathway capstone course their senior year. The focus of this course is for students who have interests and intent to pursue a career in science or health care related professions and who desire to learn more about the human body.

Year 2: HEALTH CAREER ESSENTIALS II (P) - 82103

Grade level: 12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Completion of Healthcare Essentials 1 and/or Anatomy/Physiology Honors with a C or better

This course is the second year of a two-year program to prepare students for a future career in the healthcare industry. The focus of this course is a clinical internship experience at a local, approved healthcare facility to gain real-world skills through job shadowing experiences. This course does require students to have reliable transportation, possession of an American Heart Association Heart saver CPR/AED First Aid certification, and the utmost professional and mature behavior.

Year 1 and Year 2 are required to be a “CTE Completer”

CRIMINAL JUSTICE I (P) - 81107

Grade level: 9-11             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: None

Criminal Justice 1 is the first year in a two-year program to prepare students for college and/or career in criminal justice  and related  fields. This course includes classes in crime scene investigation, introduction to criminal justice, law enforcement procedures, etc. Introduction to criminal justice gives students a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system and covers the history, theories,   and philosophy of the tree elements of criminal justice. Students will investigate the workings of American law enforcement, courts and the corrections systems. Guest speakers from all areas of the criminal justice system will address the class throughout the semester about career paths in the criminal justice system. The class will also explore the hundreds of jobs in the criminal justice system and help the students to find a pathway to these careers.

**Successful completion of the course with a grade of B or better will result in the student earning 1 unit of Palomar College Credit in AJ197 (law Enforcement procedures) and 3 units in AJ100 (Introduction to Criminal Justice)

CRIMINAL JUSTICE II (P) - 82107

Grade level: 10-12             

A-G Designation:  G - College Prep Elective

Recommended Previous Course of Study: Successful Completion of Criminal Justice 1  

Articulation with Palomar College Administration of Justice Program

The course will give students an understanding of the criminal and juvenile system, with a focus on the relationship between criminal justice and social justice. Students will also understand the role of crime and punishment in society. Students will be able to answer essential questions such as what causes crime? How is crime addressed? How has the criminal justice system in the US evolved, and how does the criminal justice system impact society today?

**Successful completion of the course with a grade of B or better will result in the student earning 1 unit in AJ197 9Speech and police Interview Skills), 2 units of AJ 197 (Crime Scene Investigation), 2 units in AJ197 (Pre-employment Police Fitness Preparation), and 3 units in AJ 65 (Preparation for Law Enforcement)