Upper School Course Catalogue - 2025-26

Technology & Innovation

Technology & Innovation

Click on a course name below to view more information.

Class of 2023: The Fine Arts requirement can be met by completion of 1.5 credits earned in Practical Arts courses (Digital Design Studio and Introduction to Engineering Design).

Level: 9th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 1 only)

Description: This one-semester course introduces students to the core principles of design as they apply to various digital media. Students will build a foundation in key design disciplines, including graphic design, web design, and video game development, learning to use industry-standard tools to create visually compelling digital projects. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving and the development of a unique visual voice across different platforms. Learning culminates in an independent digital design portfolio or capstone project that showcases the student’s expertise, artistic vision, and mastery of digital communication.

Level: 9th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 2 only) 

Description: This hands-on course trains students to become engineers by mastering the design cycle—the process of taking an idea from concept to a working solution. Practical experience is gained by using industry-standard tools, such as 3D modeling and Computer-Aided Design (CAD), to create detailed prototypes. The curriculum explores modern technologies, including electrical circuits and Arduino microcontrollers, providing the necessary skills to code and build smart devices. Through collaborative team projects, students tackle complex, real-world problems, developing the critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills essential for inventing the future.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 1 only)

Prerequisite: Department chair approval.

Description: This course provides a hands-on introduction to the Swift programming language—the technology behind many Apple apps. Students explore the skills and tools developers use, including Swift’s syntax, key language features, and standard best practices. The course also covers essential computer science concepts, including data structures and algorithms. Students should have prior experience with programming concepts, data types, variables, and control structures. Familiarity with object-oriented programming principles is also recommended.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 2 only) 

Prerequisite: Honors App Development 1 and department chair approval.

Description: This course offers an in-depth experience in application development, building on prior knowledge of the Swift programming language. Students work with more advanced syntax, data structures, and algorithms as they develop interactive, feature-rich apps. Emphasis is placed on strengthening iOS development skills using Xcode and Apple’s System Development Kits (SDKs). Throughout the semester, students complete a comprehensive app development project that provides opportunities to apply their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities to develop a fully functional, innovative application.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 1 only) / Course can be taken more than once.

Prerequisite: Department chair approval.

Description: Honors Advanced Robotics is an exciting and challenging program that immerses students in the world of robotics. Students will delve into advanced robotic engineering principles, including mechanical design, electronics, and programming in Java. They will work together to design, build, and program robots and participate in FIRST Robotics competitions. Beyond hands-on robot construction, this comprehensive STEAM-focused class builds upon the foundations laid in Middle School robotics and technology courses, preparing students for a future filled with innovation and technology.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 1 only) 

Description: This course delves into the practical applications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones.  It integrates Space, Manufacturing, Aviation, Robotics, and Technology while offering a multidisciplinary perspective.  Students gain hands-on experience in safe, small Unmanned Aircraft Systems operations within the National Airspace System. Topics encompass basic small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) operation, Federal Aviation Association (FAA) Remote Pilot-in-Command Knowledge Test preparation, and the opportunity to obtain Industry Certification. This course equips students for responsible UAS operation and future studies in emerging technology fields.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Semester (Semester 2) 

Description: This course provides an introduction to critical concepts and cutting-edge tools that are shaping the modern business landscape.  Students will learn about blockchain technology, its business applications, and its potential to drive innovation as it transforms industries and revolutionizes business operations.  The course will examine blockchain systems integrating Artificial Intelligence, explore the synergy between IoT devices and blockchain, and how to enable secure data transmission and storage.  Students will develop a broader understanding of technologies that are pivotal in shaping the future of today’s modern businesses.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Year

Description: This course introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. The rigorous curriculum promotes a deep understanding of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. Students develop their Digital Portfolio as part of the AP submission requirements, which includes the coding of an individual performance task and exploratory research on computing innovations.

Level: 11th and 12th grades

Length: Year

Prerequisite: Algebra 2, Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles, and department chair approval.

Description: This course follows the guidelines set by the College Board, in which students learn the object-oriented Java programming language as well as the data structures associated with it. Students design and implement computer-based solutions to problems, learn well-known algorithms and data structures, and are able to develop and select appropriate algorithms and data structures to code solutions to problems.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Year

Description: AP Cybersecurity is a year-long course that teaches students the foundational principles and practices of cybersecurity. Designed to be equivalent to a one-semester introductory college cybersecurity course, this class explores defense-in-depth strategies to address vulnerabilities, attacks, and mitigation across the physical, network, device, application, and data domains. The course utilizes authentic, career-connected scenarios to provide hands-on learning experiences. No prior cybersecurity knowledge or course prerequisites are required.

Level: 10th through 12th grades

Length: Year (Will be offered during the 2027-2028 school year)

Description: AP Networking is a year-long course that introduces foundational computer networking concepts. Through hands-on learning, students develop problem-solving skills as they explore network topologies, protocols, addressing, security, and troubleshooting. The curriculum aligns with industry certifications like CompTIA Network+, CCNA, and CCST: Networking.   No prior networking knowledge or course prerequisites are required.