AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the big central ideas of Computer Science. CS Principles invites students to understand how computing changes the world. Students apply creative processes to develop two computational artifacts. They will build a solid understanding of computing and computational thinking that they can apply in further studies of Computer Science and provide a pathway for becoming a well-educated and informed citizen who understands how computer science affects people and society. CS Principles is comparable to a general introductory college computing course. Students will be prepared for the AP Computer Science Principles assessment including two performance tasks throughout the year and the AP exam in the spring. This course is required for AP Computer Science A. 

Grade Level: 9 – 12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2

AP Computer Science A follows the College Board AP Computer Science A curriculum. The class focuses on learning and applying programming concepts in Java with an emphasis on Object Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts. The course prepares students for the AP Computer Science A exam. It meets the state Board of Education requirements for a 4th math credit. Students in Computer Science I are eligible to join the Carroll Computer Science Team that represents Carroll in programming competitions throughout the state. This course is required for Honor Computer Programming II.

Grade Level: 10-12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2 

Computer Programming II builds on the topics learned in Computer Science A, including UIL Computer Science topics. It continues object-oriented concepts with an emphasis on data structures (including stacks, queues, linked lists, and binary trees) and topics such as algorithm analysis. Students will have the opportunity to earn industry certifications in Java. Students are encouraged to participate in programming competitions and are eligible to try out for the Dragon UIL Computer Science Team. 

Grade Level: 11 – 12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2 

Students have the opportunity to design a project or coursework based on personal interest in the field of computer science. Enroll in an online course, develop an app, or participate in a work-study or internship experience related to Computer Science. Critical thinking, information technology experience and application of information technology concepts are essential to prepare students for success in a technology-driven society. Students submit a proposal in order to receive approval.

Certifications: JAVA, Python or options from CompTIA

Grade Level: 11-12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2 

In Computer Maintenance/Lab, students will acquire knowledge of computer maintenance and creating appropriate documentation. Students will analyze the social responsibility of business and industry regarding the significant issues relating to the environment, ethics, health, safety, and diversity in society and in the workplace as related to computer maintenance. Students will apply technical skills to address the IT industry and emerging technologies.

Grade Level: 10-12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2 

AP Cybersecurity is a yearlong high school course that offers a broad introduction to the field and aligns closely with a college-level, introductory cybersecurity course. Students learn about common threats and vulnerabilities and how they combine to create risk. Students study how individuals and organizations manage risk and how risk can be mitigated through a defense-in-depth strategy. Students explore specific vulnerabilities, attacks, mitigations, and detection measures across a variety of domains including physical spaces, computer networks, devices, and data and applications. Throughout the course, students consider the impact of cybersecurity on individuals, organizations, societies, and governments. Content and skills taught in the course align with the professional skills outlined in the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Workforce Framework.

Certification: CompTIA Security+

Grade Level: 10-12 | Credits: 1 | Semesters: 2