Course Catalog - Programming & Software Development - Computer Science

Programming and Software Development

Business & Industry or STEM Endorsement

PR: Prerequisite   |   CR: Credit for Course   |   SEM: Semesters   |   LC: Local Credit

(It is recommended students follow the program of study sequence level 1-4 as outlined by TEA.)

Level 1: AP Computer Science Principles M #7104

AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science. The technology applications curriculum emphasizes the skills and qualities set by International Society for Technology in Education standards for students: empowered learner, digital citizen, knowledge constructor, innovative designer, computational

PR: None

SEM: 2 CR: 1

Level 1: Onramps Computer Science #7320

(Harlan, Jay, Warren, Stevens, Brennan only) Thriving in Our Digital World is a new dual enrollment course that teaches computer science principles, a set of core ideas that shapes the landscape of computer science and its impact on our society. In addition to learning about the magic and beauty of computing, students will acquire essential Texas College and Career Readiness skills, applying critical thinking, problem solving, and communication within a project-based learning framework. Students will experience high-quality curriculum designed by the faculty at The University of Texas at Austin. Students can earn three hours of UT credit with feedback and assessment provided by UT course staff.

PR: Algebra I

SEM: 2 CR: 1

Level 2: Game Programming and Design TBD

Game Programming and Design will foster student creativity and innovation by presenting students with opportunities to design, implement, and present meaningful programs through a variety of media. Students will collaborate with one another, their instructor, and various electronic communities to solve gaming problems. Through data analysis, students will include the identification of task requirements, plan search strategies, and use programming concepts to access, analyze, and evaluate information needed to design games. By acquiring programming knowledge and skills that support the work of individuals and groups in solving problems, students will select the technology appropriate for the task, synthesize knowledge, create solutions, and evaluate the results. Students will learn digital citizenship by researching current laws and regulations and by practicing integrity and respect. Students will create a computer game that is presented to an evaluation panel. The six strands include creativity and innovation; communication and collaboration; research and information fluency; critical thinking; problem solving, and decision making; digital citizenship; and technology operations and concepts.

PR: Algebra 1

SEM: 2 CR: 1

Level 3: AP Computer Science A 1 M #7215 & #5971

CS2 extends student knowledge from CS1. The AP Computer Science A course is equivalent to a first semester, college-level course in computer science. The 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 object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using the Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities. Students will have opportunity to earn college credit through Advanced Placement exam administered by College Board. The curriculum emphasizes the skills and qualities set by International Society for Technology in Education standards for students: empowered learner, digital citizen, knowledge constructor, innovative designer, computational thinker, creative communicator, and global collaborator.

PR: Algebra I & either Computer Science I or Fundamentals of Computer Science

SEM: 2 CR: 2

Level 4: Practicum in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-Computer Science

A course designed to give students practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills. Students develop technical knowledge and skills required to pursue a career in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics career field. Practicum experiences can occur in a variety of locations appropriate to the nature and level of experience.

PR: Algebra I and Geometry

SEM: 2 CR: 2