Computer Science 1 yr.                                        CCAT

Focuses on developing foundational computer science skills through the lens of mathematics, emphasizing problem-solving using programming and algorithms. Students explore computing systems, data, networks, and computational thinking to create solutions, preparing them for technology-driven careers by building technical proficiency and responsible digital citizenship. 

Required Courses: 

• 2806 Computer Science Principles

• 1408 Computer Science Essentials

• 2801 Computer Science Applications

• 1418 Cybersecurity

• Students also earn 12 college credits through WVUP: 

AP CSP - 3 credits

CSE - 3 credits

AP CSA - 3 credits

Cybersecurity - 3 credits

• Students have the opportunity to take two AP tests for college credit:

AP CSP Exam

AP CSA Exam

Industry Credentials: 

• Computer Science Principles code.org certificate (JavaScript)

• Computer Science Applications code.org certificate (Java)

• Foundational C# with Microsoft Certification

Leads to careers such as: 

Computer Science-These roles focus on creating software, solving complex problems, and advancing technology: 

• Software Developer / Engineer – Designs and builds apps, websites, and systems.

• Full-Stack Developer – Works on both front-end (user interface) and back-end (server logic) of web apps.

• Mobile App Developer – Creates apps for iOS or Android devices.

• Game Developer – Designs and programs interactive games using engines like Unity or Unreal.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer – Develops machine learning models and smart systems.

• Data Scientist / Analyst – Uses programming (Python, R, SQL) to find insights in large data sets.

• Computer Systems Analyst – Designs and optimizes business computer systems.

• Software Tester / QA Engineer – Tests and improves the quality of software before release.

Cybersecurity-These focus on protecting data, systems, and networks from threats: 

• Cybersecurity Analyst – Monitors and responds to security incidents.

• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) – Legally tests systems to find vulnerabilities.

• Security Engineer / Architect – Designs secure network and system infrastructure.

• Incident Responder / Digital Forensics Expert – Investigates breaches and analyzes cyberattacks.

• Security Consultant – Advises organizations on how to strengthen their security posture.

• Network Security Administrator – Manages and secures an organization’s network operations.

Specialized & Emerging Tech Careers-These combine coding, data, and security in cutting-edge fields:

• Cloud Engineer – Manages and secures cloud services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).

• DevOps Engineer – Bridges development and IT operations to streamline software delivery.

• Blockchain Developer – Creates decentralized applications (smart contracts, cryptocurrency tech).

• Robotics Engineer – Programs robots and automation systems.

• IoT (Internet of Things) Developer – Builds smart connected devices.

 Education, Research, and Leadership Paths

• Computer Science Teacher / Professor – Educates the next generation of coders.

• Technology Integration Specialist – Helps schools or organizations use tech effectively.

• IT Project Manager – Leads software and cybersecurity projects.

• Research Scientist (AI, Data, Security) – Works on advancing computing knowledge and innovation.

Career Outlook- These fields are among the fastest-growing and highest-paying in technology. For example:

• Software Developers: Median salary around $120K/year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

• Cybersecurity Analysts: Expected growth of +32% by 2032 — far above average.

National Average Salary: 

• Computer Support Specialist: $55,000–$65,000

• Web Developer: $70,000–$85,000

• Software Developer: $100,000–$120,000

• Cybersecurity Analyst: $95,000–$115,000
  Data Analyst: $80,000–$95,000

West Virginia Average Salary: 

• Computer Support Specialist: $50,000–$55,000 per year

• Web Developer: $60,000–$70,000 per year

• Software Developer: $80,000–$95,000 per year

• Cybersecurity Analyst: $85,000–$95,000 per year

Top-paying opportunities in WV:

• Technology service providers

• Healthcare and education IT departments

• Financial and data security firms
  Federal and state technology agencies