AP Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer science course. Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. (CTE Code: 3185)
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs provide learners with the knowledge and skills they need to be prepared for college and careers. It gives purpose to learning by emphasizing real-world skills and practical knowledge within a selected career focus.
CTE courses lead to opportunities across a variety of careers, industries and pathways and provide the sequential electives required for graduation.
Through the Virginia Department of Education’s High School Industry Credentialing initiative, students can earn a credential or license by passing an approved exam. Students who successfully complete a CTE program and pass the accompanying state-approved credentialing exam may earn two verified credits to fulfill a graduation requirement. These students have a higher earning potential and ultimately will be more marketable.
CTE graduation requirements can be fulfilled with courses described in this section. Courses are organized below by program area.
CTE Program Areas & Course Descriptions
- Business and Information Technology
- Career Connections
- Family and Consumer Science
- Health and Medical Science
- Marketing
- Military Science
- Technology Education
Business and Information Technology
AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory college-level computing course. Students cultivate their understanding of computer science through working with data, collaborating to solve problems, and developing computer programs as they explore concepts like creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programming, the internet, and the global impact of computing. (CTE Code: 10019)
Following the College Board’s suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level microeconomics, AP Microeconomics courses provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers (both consumers and producers). They place primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets, while also including a study of factor markets and the role of government in the economy.
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, financing postsecondary education, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success. (CTE Code: 6121)
Students study basic management concepts and leadership styles as they explore business ownership, planning, operations, marketing, finance, economics, communications, the global marketplace, and human relations. Quality concepts, project management, problem solving, and ethical decision making are an integral part of the course. (CTE Code: 6135)
Students in Computer Science 1 explore programming concepts, use algorithmic procedures, implement programming procedures with one or more standard languages, and master programming fundamentals. Coding is used throughout the course. Graphical user interfaces may be used as students design and develop interactive multimedia applications, including game programs. In addition, students employ HTML or JavaScript to create Web pages. Students develop their employability skills through a variety of activities. (CTE Code: 6640)
Building on their foundation of programming skills, Computer Science 2 students use object-oriented programming to develop database applications, interactive multimedia applications including game applications, mobile applications, and Web applications. Students continue to develop their employability skills as they research pathways for continuing education and careers in the information technology industry and engage in various career-building activities. (CTE Code: 6641)
Cybersecurity affects every individual, organization, and nation. The Cybersecurity 1: Fundamentals course focuses on the evolving and all-pervasive technological environment with an emphasis on securing personal, organizational, and national information. Students will be introduced to the principles of cybersecurity, explore emerging technologies, examine threats and protective measures, and investigate the diverse high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand career opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. (CTE Code: 6302)
Cybersecurity 2: Software Operations is designed to teach many aspects of computer support and network administration. Students learn networking concepts, from usage to components, and create peer-to-peer network systems and client server networks. Students learn how to install and configure network cards and connect them to networks; to install the operating systems; to create, set up, and manage accounts; to load software; and to establish, implement, and maintain network integrity security plans. This course may cover software-based network operating systems, such as Windows Server or Linux, to prepare students with a foundation in computer network administration. (CTE Code: 6304)
Cybersecurity 3: Advanced Software Operations continues to teach aspects of network administration, focusing on the management and support of network users and systems. The topics covered include understanding the responsibilities of computer professionals, training end users, evaluating new technology, developing system policies, troubleshooting workstations, managing network services and protocols, and effectively using email and business communications. Students learn communication protocols, troubleshooting techniques for systems and client-server networks, website management, and other advanced networking topics. Techniques that are used to install operating systems, set up and manage accounts, load software, and create and implement security plans are taught. This course may provide instruction about software-based network operating systems, such as Windows Server or Linux. Instruction will emphasize preparation for industry certification. (CTE Code: 6306)
Students learn how economies and markets operate and how the United States economy is interconnected with the global economy. Additionally they learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions relating to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, financing postsecondary education, taxes, saving and investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, and living independently. They also learn the importance of investing in themselves in order to gain the knowledge and skills valued in the marketplace. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship, more effective participation in the workforce, and career success. The course incorporates all economics and financial literacy objectives included in the Code of Virginia §22.1-200-03B. (CTE Code: 6120)
Entrepreneurship 1 introduces students to the exciting world of creating, owning, and launching their own business. Students will learn concepts and techniques for planning an entrepreneurial venture, using design thinking and business model development. Students will learn about financial statements, marketing principles, sales and customer service, and basic economic principles for successful operation. (CTE Code: 9093)
Entrepreneurship 2 is designed for students who wish to concentrate on advanced strategies for entrepreneurship, building upon concepts introduced in Entrepreneurship 1. The focus of the course is on development of a business plan and small business management. Students will establish, market, and maintain a business. (CTE Code: 9094)
Courses must be taken in sequence.
The game design industry is the fastest revenue growing entertainment medium, and has created many new job disciplines. In Game Design and Development 1, a project-based course, students will create innovative games through the application of graphic design, animation, audio, and writing skills. Students will work in teams while developing problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. They will analyze, design, prototype, and critique interactive games within a project management environment. Career opportunities across multiple industries, including the entertainment and educational arenas, will be explored. (CTE Code: 8400)
In Game Design and Development 2, students will work collaboratively in teams to refine their game design skills as they apply graphic design, animation, audio and writing skills to create innovative games for education and entertainment. This project-based course enhances problem solving, project management, and communication skills through the analysis, design, construction, and critique of interactive games. Students will learn about career opportunities in game design and development and investigate the training and certification requirements. (CTE Code: 8401)
Courses must be taken in sequence.
Information Technology Fundamentals introduces the essential technical and professional skills required for students to pursue programs leading to professional careers and information technology certifications. The course introduces skills related to digital technology, digital applications, maintenance/upgrading/troubleshooting, and networking fundamentals. Students also explore ethical issues related to computers and Internet technology and examine web page and game design. (CTE Code: 6670)
In Media and Web Design 1, students develop proficiency in designing and creating desktop-published projects, multimedia presentations/projects, and Web sites, using industry-standard application software. Students apply principles of layout and design in completing projects. Students create portfolios that include a résumé and a variety of desktop-published, multimedia, and Web-site projects produced in the course. (CTE Code: 6630)
Students who take Media and Web Design 2 develop advanced skills for creating desktop-published, interactive multimedia, and Web-site projects. Students work with sophisticated hardware and software, applying skills to real-world projects. (CTE Code: 6631)
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to career exploration, budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, financing postsecondary education, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Development of financial literacy skills and an understanding of economic principles will provide the basis for responsible citizenship and career success. (CTE Code: 6121)
Students learn how to navigate the financial decisions they must face and to make informed decisions related to budgeting, banking, credit, insurance, spending, taxes, saving, investing, buying/leasing a vehicle, living independently, and inheritance. Instruction in personal finance prepares students to function effectively as consumers, savers, investors, entrepreneurs, and active citizens. The course incorporates all personal living and finances objectives included in the Code of Virginia §22.1-253.13:1.B. (CTE Code: 3120)
Teaches management and the management functions of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Focuses on application of management principles to realistic situations managers encounter as they attempt to achieve organizational objectives. (CTE Code: 6135)
Presents the various steps considered necessary when going into business. Includes areas such as product-service analysis, market research evaluation, setting up books, ways to finance startup, operations of the business, development of business plans, buyouts versus starting from scratch, and franchising. Uses problems and cases to demonstrate implementation of these techniques. (CTE Code: 9093)
Presents a framework of personal money management concepts, including establishing values and goals, determining sources of income, managing income, preparing a budget, developing consumer buying ability, using credit, understanding savings and insurance, providing for adequate retirement, and estate planning. (CTE Code: 6121)
Students taking ITD 110 develop a working knowledge of web site designs, construction, and management using HTML or XHTML. Includes headings, lists, links, images, image maps, tables, forms, and frames. (CTE Code: 6630)
ITD 210 incorporates advanced techniques in web site planning, design, usability, accessibility, advanced site management, and maintenance utilizing web editor software(s). (CTE Code: 6631)
Prerequisites: ITD 110 or Media and Web Design 1 is required for ITD 210.
Presents the information literacy core competencies focusing on the use of information technology skills. Skills and knowledge will be developed in database searching, computer applications, information security and privacy, and intellectual property issues. (CTE Code: 6611)
Career Connections
Students engage in exploring their interests, skills and values through an integrated course and applied professional experience or mentorship through Work-Based Learning (WBL). As students construct a portfolio of reflections, interviews, and other career investigations, they gain insight into their strengths and professional interests, bringing relevancy to academics and direction to future educational and career choices.
WBL can include a range of experiences as short as a couple hours of job shadowing to more significant participation in internships, apprenticeships, and part-time employment to student-designed experiences such as service learning projects and student-run businesses. These authentic experiences support students’ long-range education and career goals while developing professional goals and interpersonal skills. WBL experiences are developed through ACPS partnerships with industry and community organizations, and/or can be self-sourced by students through their own networks that meet program guidelines. More information about the course and WBL experiences are available through each school’s Career Specialist. (CTE Code: 9071)
Note: An additional credit can be earned by completing 280 hours of WBL experience that meet program guidelines. In this case, students earn a combined 2 credits, including 1 credit for the Design Your Future Capstone course and 1 credit for 280 hours of WBL experience.
This course teaches students to make informed career and continuing education choices as they transition from school, gain technical skills, and adapt to the workplace. Students are taught ethical behaviors and career-research, job-acquisition, workplace-communication, self- awareness, self-advocacy, customer-service, and life skills. This course offers students integrated labor market needs through an applied employment education format. (CTE Code: 9078)
Students develop competencies in identifying individual aptitudes in relation to effective leadership skills, understanding organizational behavior, using effective communication in the workplace, handling human resources and organizational problems, supervising and training employees, resolving conflict, and planning for the future. Continuing education in leadership is emphasized as well as practical leadership experiences in cooperation with school and community leaders. (CTE Code: 9097)
Provides an orientation to the teaching profession in Virginia, including historical perspectives, current issues, and future trends in education on the national and state levels. Emphasizes information about teacher licensure examinations, steps to certification, teacher preparation and induction programs, and attention to critical shortage areas in Virginia. Includes supervised field placement (recommended: 40 clock hours) in a K-12 school. (CTE Code: 9062)
Students continue to explore careers in the Education and Training Cluster and pathways. This course provides the opportunity for students to prepare for careers in education as they research postsecondary options, learn about the process of teacher certification in Virginia, and participate in a practicum experience. (CTE Code: 9072)
Family and Consumer Science
Continuing from Introduction to Culinary Arts, this course provides students with opportunities to obtain comprehensive knowledge of the food service industry as well as to expand their technical skills in a food service specialty. Students explore careers and refine their skills in implementing safety and sanitation standards, applying nutritional principles, planning menus, using business and math skills, and selecting and maintaining food service equipment. (CTE Code: 8279)
Students will prepare to take the ServSafe Industry Certification, and with a passing score, will test out of PVCC HRI 158 Sanitation and Safety.
Introduction to Culinary Arts students investigate food safety and sanitation, culinary preparation foundations, basic culinary skills, diverse cuisines, service styles, nutrition and menu development, and the economics of food. Students also explore postsecondary education options and career opportunities within the food service industry. (CTE Code: 8250)
Health and Medical Science
In Biomedicine 2, students gain advanced knowledge and skills related to diverse medical-related pathways. They will explore diagnostic and therapeutic laboratory procedures that support bioscience research and practice. They will also investigate safety and ethical concerns associated with the field. As a part of the course, students will engage in field experiences in which students learn alongside mentor partners from our local healthcare community. (CTE Code: 8347)
This course focuses on various techniques that are used to modify living organisms, or parts of organisms, to improve plants and animals, and the development of microorganisms for specific purposes. Student activities range from bioprocessing and DNA analysis, to medicine, biomechanical systems, and the environment. Students gain insight and understanding about biotechnology career fields. (CTE Code: 8344)
In EMT 1 and EMT 2, students explore and apply the fundamentals of emergency medical services (EMS), anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology while demonstrating skills in assessing and managing patient care, including assessing the scene and understanding shock, resuscitation and trauma. Students must complete a minimum of 85% of the didactic and lab aspects of the course, per 12VAC5-31-1501 in the Code of Virginia. Successful completion of all course requirements may lead to eligibility to take the Virginia State Psychomotor Exam and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam. Students must meet the requirements of the Functional Position Description for the Basic Life Support Provider (refer to EMS.TR.14B and 12VAC5-31-1501 in the Code of Virginia). (CTE Code: 8333 and 8334)
Note: Students must be at least 16 years old prior to the first day of EMT instruction. All students will need to undergo a criminal background check that includes fingerprinting and drug screening.
The EMT 3 course is intended for students who have completed EMT 1 and 2, and who may have obtained EMT certification from the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS). Students will strengthen the skills mastered in the basic courses as they acquire skills to assist advanced life support (ALS) providers, build on the foundations of EMS education, and meet education requirements for certification or recertification. Students also learn to coordinate with other public health and safety services, such as fire control, law enforcement, and emergency management. The course includes mentored as well as instructional experiences. Students must complete a minimum of 85% of the didactic and lab aspects of the course. (CTE Code: 8335)
Health & Medical Sciences 1: Intro introduces the student to a variety of healthcare careers and develops basic skills required in all health and medical sciences. It is designed to help students understand the key elements of the U.S. healthcare system and to learn basic healthcare terminology, anatomy and physiology for each body system, pathologies, diagnostic and clinical procedures, therapeutic interventions, and the fundamentals of traumatic and medical emergency care. Throughout the course, instruction emphasizes safety, cleanliness, asepsis, professionalism, accountability, and efficiency within the healthcare environment. Students also begin gaining job-seeking skills for entry into the health and medical sciences field. In addition, instruction may include the basics of medical laboratory procedures, pharmacology fundamentals, biotechnology concepts, and communication skills essential for providing quality patient care. (CTE Code: 8302)
In Health & Medical Sciences 2: Careers, students explore opportunities in the health care field by developing basic skills common to several health care careers. They study body structure and function, principles of health and disease, and an overview of the health and patient care system. Supervised work-based learning may be part of the course in health care settings and is managed by the health and medical sciences education teacher. (CTE Code: 8331)
In Medical Laboratory Technology 1, students gain foundational knowledge and skills appropriate for a variety of medical-related career paths in the field of medical technology. They are introduced to diagnostic and therapeutic laboratory procedures that support medical research and practice, and investigate safety, quality assurance, and ethical concerns associated with the field of medical technology. (CTE Code: 8377)
This course is designed to help students learn health care language. Topics are presented in order beginning with each body system’s anatomy and physiology and progressing through pathology, diagnostic procedures, therapeutic interventions, and finally pharmacology. Students learn concepts, terms and abbreviations for each topic. (CTE Code: 8383)
Sports Medicine/Physiology 1 introduces students to topics such as human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, medical terminology, injuries and illnesses, and legal and ethical issues in sports medicine. Students also examine prospective careers in the sports medicine field. Upon successful completion of this course, students are eligible to take Sports Medicine II and pursue certification as a personal trainer. In this course, students earn a certification in First Aid/CPR/AED. (CTE Code: 8316)
Sports Medicine/Physiology 2 builds upon basic knowledge acquired in Sports Medicine I on topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise program design, and injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and management. Students prepare for a career in sports medicine, including completing an internship.Upon successful completion of this course, students will be eligible to take the National Academy of Sports Medicine-Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) exam. (CTE Code: 8317)
Courses must be taken in sequence.
Marketing
This course introduces students to digital and social media marketing. Students explore principles, strategies, tools, and tactics related to consumers, branding, advertising, and promotions. Students explore how success is measured in a digital and social media marketing campaign. This course emphasizes ethics, laws, and security. Students also investigate business and marketing plans as well as careers in digital and social media marketing. (CTE Code: 8125)
Marketing 1 students examine activities in marketing and business important for success in marketing employment and postsecondary education. Students will learn how products are developed, branded, and sold to businesses and consumers. Students will analyze industry trends and gain hands-on experience in the marketing of goods, services, and ideas. Topics will include professionalism in the workplace, product planning and positioning, promotion, pricing, selling, economic issues, and the impact of technology on the marketplace. (CTE Code: 8120)
Marketing 2 students build on knowledge gained in a prior Marketing course. Students participate in supervisory and management activities focusing on the marketing mix, purchasing, financing, human resources, global marketing, pricing, and emerging technologies. Students will prepare for advancement in marketing careers and postsecondary education. (CTE Code: 8130)
The introductory course, Sports & Entertainment Marketing 1, helps students develop a thorough understanding of fundamental marketing concepts and theories as they relate to the sports and entertainment industries. Students will investigate the components of customer service skills, branding, product development, pricing and distribution strategies, business structures, sales processes, social media, sponsorships and endorsements, as well as promotion plans needed for sports and entertainment events. (CTE Code: 8175)
In Sports & Entertainment Marketing 2, students will build on prior knowledge of sports, entertainment, and recreation marketing. This course focuses on the principles of management and planning supported by research, financial, economic, ethical, and legal concepts. Students will be able to plan and execute an event, establish a sports, entertainment, or recreation marketing product/business, and develop a career plan. (CTE Code: 8177)
Military Science
Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) 1 courses include instruction in the organization and functions of the U.S. Army, leadership skills, and life skills education. The content of these courses cover, but is not limited to, the history and evolution of the Army, including its structure, operations, customs and courtesies; maps and navigation; first aid, personal hygiene, and field sanitation; and substance abuse prevention. These courses also introduce students to principles of leadership and citizenship. (CTE Code: AR7913)
Army JROTC 2 courses build upon the content of Army JROTC 1 and include, but are not limited to, ongoing instruction in leadership principles and citizenship; drill and ceremonies; organizational structure; command and staff relationships, functions, and responsibilities; significant military campaigns and leaders; map-reading and orienteering; weapon safety and marksmanship; and survival training. (CTE Code: AR7916)
Army JROTC 3 courses build upon prior Army JROTC courses, giving more emphasis to leadership development. These courses serve to strengthen students’ leadership skills (including planning, problem-solving, motivation, and performance appraisal) and management skills (with regard to time, personnel, and other resources) through allowing them to assume leadership duties. Students study topics introduced in earlier years—such as military history, map-reading and orienteering, marksmanship, and drill and ceremonies—at a more advanced level and are also provided with military service opportunities. (CTE Code: AR7918)
Technology Education
Students learn the principles of architecture and increase understanding of working drawings and construction techniques learned in the prerequisite course. Experiences include residential and commercial building designs, rendering, model development, and structural details. Students use computer-aided drawing and design (CADD) equipment and established standards or codes to prepare models for presentation. The course is especially beneficial to future architects, interior designers, or home builders. (CTE Code: 8437)
Design 1: Prototyping is a foundational design theory course that introduces students to a variety of tools that focuses specifically on the nature of design and aesthetic appeal. Students will identify the specific needs of worldly concern or a customer, generate concepts, pitch ideas, and create physical or digital prototypes for evaluation. Students may interact with a variety of problems or iterate a few designs based on the needs of the class. (CTE Code: 8425)
In Design 2: Product Design, students will work in teams to design and create unique, functional and meaningful products that will benefit society. Teams will apply knowledge and skills of design and manufacturing techniques combined with entrepreneurial thinking and social justice to bring ideas and products to market. Throughout the process, they will evaluate how aesthetics, materials, societal impact, and people’s interactions with their creations influence the final product or idea. (CTE Code: 8427)
Students use a graphic language for product design and technical illustration. They increase their understanding of drawing techniques learned in the prerequisite courses. They research design-related fields while identifying the role of advanced drawing and design in manufacturing and construction industry processes. They apply the design process, analyze design solutions, reverse engineer products, create 3-D solid models using CADD, construct physical models, and create multimedia presentations of finished designs. They complete a work portfolio based on a chosen graphic project. (CTE Code: 8438)
Prerequisite: Architectural Drawing & Design or Engineering Drawing & Design
Engineering 1: Materials & Processes is an introductory course in design tools and advanced manufacturing technologies. This course is a foundation for learning creative problem solving using a variety of hand tools and CAD/CAM machines. Students will learn the basics in 3D modeling, 2D design, maintenance through application of wood and metalworking equipment, and a variety of technology, including CNC machines, laser cutters, and 3D printers. Students will utilize these tools to solve a variety of problems and create physical and digital solutions. (CTE Code: 8433)
Engineering 2: Construction: Students will apply design thinking to solve real world problems with advanced manufacturing tools and techniques. Throughout this course, students will iterate ideas utilizing software simulation and physics applications to bring functional and practical designs to life. (CTE Code: 8431)
Students use a graphic language for product design, technical illustration, evaluation of designs, and engineering drawings. They increase their understanding of drawing techniques learned in the prerequisite course. Students use computers, calculators, and descriptive geometry and adhere to established standards to solve design problems. They work in teams to design solutions for an identified need. (CTE Code: 8436)
Prerequisite: Technical Drawing & Design
In Engineering Research 1, Students examine technology and engineering fundamentals in relation to solving real-world problems. Students investigate engineering history, including major engineering achievements, and they examine the principle engineering specialty fields and their related careers. Students practice engineering fundamentals, using mathematical and scientific concepts, and they apply the engineering design process through participation in hands-on engineering projects. Students communicate project-related information through team-based presentations, proposals, and technical reports. (CTE Code: 8450)
Engineering Research 2 focuses on building an engineering team, working with case studies, managing projects, delivering formal proposals and presentations, and examining product and process trends. In addition, students continue to apply their engineering skills to determine what postsecondary education engineering pathway they want to follow. Students will participate in STEM-based, hands-on projects as they communicate information through team-based presentations, proposals, and technical reports. (CTE Code: 8452)
The geospatial technology program provides experiences pertaining to the study and use of geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), remote sensing (RS), and mobile technologies. Fundamentally, these technologies allow students to explore and analyze the natural and human-made world, locally, globally, and beyond.
Students in Geospatial Technology 1 use tools, processes, and techniques to create, store, access, manipulate, and revise data to solve human challenges. These experiences employ real-world spatial analysis models and guidelines for integrating, interpreting, analyzing, and synthesizing data, with a focus on both the implications and the limitations of geospatial technologies. (CTE Code: 8423)
Geospatial Technology 2 builds upon the study and use of Geospatial Technology 1. Students further explore and analyze the natural and human-made world, locally, globally, and beyond. Students use tools, processes, and techniques to create, store, access, manipulate, and revise data to solve human challenges. Data is created, collected, and used to analyze spatial relationships. These experiences employ real-world spatial analysis models and guidelines for integrating, interpreting, analyzing, and synthesizing data, with a focus on both the implications and the limitations of such technologies. Students will also use network-based data management systems. (CTE Code: 8424)
Courses must be taken in sequence.
Design Technology courses are recognized International Baccalaureate courses. The courses are designed to promote an understanding and appreciation of the technology design process as a cycle. As students work through the technology course and related project, which unifies all aspects of IB design technology, they analyze and evaluate the impact and ethical considerations arising from technology. The courses focus on how design is used to produce outcomes. In Design Technology 2, the design project is assessed against the design technology criteria: planning, research, development, evaluation, and manipulative skills. (CTE Code: IB4585/IB4586)
An introduction to the use of geospatial tools, such as geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS) and remote sensing, applied to a variety of areas, including cultural geography, environmental science, ecology, geology and public planning. (CTE Code: 8423)
Students in Principles of Technology 1, a single-period laboratory science course, apply physics and mathematics concepts through a unified systems approach to develop a broad knowledge base of the principles underlying modern technical systems. Students study seven technical principles: force, work, rate, resistance, energy, power, and force transformers, emphasizing how each principle plays a unifying role in the operation of mechanical, fluid, electrical, and thermal systems in high-technology equipment. This "principles and systems" approach to studying these technical principles provides a foundation for further education and career flexibility as technology and technical systems advance.
Note: Students who complete Principles of Technology 1 and 2 may use these courses to satisfy one physics credit in laboratory science. A student must complete both courses in order to receive laboratory science credit. The sequence of Principles of Technology 1 and 2 will satisfy one unit of credit in laboratory science for physics and one elective credit. Students who enroll in Principles of Technology courses for a physics credit must have completed Algebra 1 and two other laboratory science courses as specified by the accrediting standards prior to enrolling in Principles of Technology. (CTE Code: 9811)
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1 and two lab sciences if using for a physics credit
Introduces technical drafting from the fundamentals through advanced drafting practices. Includes lettering, geometric construction, technical sketching, orthographic projection, sections, intersections, development, fasteners. Teaches theory and application of dimensioning and tolerances, pictorial drawing, and preparation of drawings. (CTE Code: 8436)
Prerequisite: Technical Drawing & Design
Introduces the engineering profession, professional concepts, ethics, and responsibility. Reviews hand calculators, number systems, and unit conversions. Introduces the personal computer and operating systems. Includes engineering problem solving techniques using computer software. (CTE Code: 8451)
Prerequisite: PVCC MATH 162 PreCalculus or equivalent, such as Mathematical Analysis
Applies principles of orthographic projection, and multi- view drawings. Teaches descriptive geometry including relationships of points, lines, planes and solids. Introduces sectioning, dimensioning and computer graphic techniques. Includes instruction in Computer Aided Drafting. (CTE Code: 8453)
Prerequisite: PVCC EGR 121 Introduction to Engineering
Robotics & Automation 1 is a lab-based course that uses a team-based approach to introduce the basic concepts of robotics, construction and programming of autonomous and semi-autonomous robots. The course will focus on careers in engineering, robotics, programming and game design. Course instruction will primarily be tied to lab experiments, as students will work collaboratively to build and test increasingly more complex robots. (CTE Code: 8421)
Students taking Robotics & Automation 2 engage in the study of computers and microprocessors and their applications to manufacturing, transportation, and communication systems. Topics include computer programming using Java, robotic design, control systems, and social/cultural impact of these technologies. Problem-solving activities challenge students to design, program, and interface devices with computer systems. Learning activities include building robots, using computer-aided design, 3D printing, and control of electromechanical devices. Students will participate in hands-on projects in a laboratory setting as they communicate information through team-based presentations, proposals, and technical reports. In addition, students will have the ability to compete in the First Tech Challenge (FTC) Robotics. This will challenge their engineering skills and give them the ability to communicate with other schools, businesses, and industry. (CTE Code: 8405)
In this foundation course, students learn the basic language of technical drawing and design, and they design, sketch, and make technical drawings, models, or prototypes of real design problems. The course is especially recommended for future engineering and architecture students. (CTE Code: 8435)
Video & Media Tech 1: Communication Systems provides experiences in the fields of imaging technology, graphic productions, video and media, technical design, and various modes of communicating information through the use of data. Students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills using the universal systems model. Students also learn about the impact of communication on society and potential career fields relating to communications. (CTE Code: 8415)
Video & Media Tech 2: Video and Media Technology offers students a hands-on opportunity to study all aspects of video and media production. Students will conceptualize, plan, and contribute through all production phases: preproduction, production, and postproduction. In addition, students will practice various methods of gathering and recording information and creating novel content to create a variety of video and media productions while operating studio editing software and video and audio equipment. (CTE Code: 8497)
Video & Media Tech 3: Digital Visualization provides experiences related to computer animation by using graphics and design concepts. Students solve problems involving 3-D object manipulation, storyboarding, texturing/mapping, lighting concepts, and environmental geometry. Students create a variety of animations that reflect real-world applications and are introduced to interactive and 3-D animation software. Production of a portfolio showcasing examples of original student work is included. (CTE Code: 8459)
Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center (CATEC)
Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center (CATEC) offers the following high school programs at their main campus on E. Rio Road in Charlottesville and at satellite campuses, with transportation provided to and from base high schools:
- Automotive Body Technology
- Automotive Service Technology
- Building Trades
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts
- Electricity
- Fire Science
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Nurse Assistant
- Veterinary Science
Classes are available free of charge to Albemarle County and Charlottesville City public school students. CATEC courses provide hands-on and work-based learning activities alongside academically-driven curricula that prepare students to enter the workforce or continue their education. Work-based experiences include job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships.