Career & Technical Courses

Automotive Technology I is the beginning courses in the Advanced Automotive Technology program sequence at the Career Center. It may also be taken as a general interest course. Students are introduced to career opportunities in the automotive field and how the Automotive Youth Education System (AYES) can help them find employment in an automotive career path. Students will develop competencies in many of the ASE certified areas of automotive technology including brakes and engine repair. Students also will learn how to work with tools and perform vehicle maintenance. Most of this course is hands-on, and allows students to work on cars, including their own.

Automotive Technology II involves "real world training” in an on-the-job type of facility. Training in the most up-to-date technologies enables a student to gain experience in this exciting and fast-growing industry. Use of modern specialized equipment with emphasis on ’’hands-on” training makes this course beneficial to future technicians, as well as automobile owners. This course is a prerequisite for Automotive Technology III.

Automotive Technology III is the culmination of the three-year sequence in Advanced Automotive Technology. Students continue to build competencies in ASE-certified areas of automotive technology, including specialized areas such as computer-controlled systems, fuel injection and front wheel alignment. Use of sophisticated testing devices and other modern equipment prepares students with job skills required for success in the automotive industry. In the spring semester, students can participate in the Career Center’s nationally recognized internship program, where students interview for paid internships at local automotive dealerships and independent service facilities. During the summer, most of these internships turn into full-time, paid positions.

Students apply problem solving skills to real-life situations through word processing, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia presentations, and integrated software applications. Students work individually and in groups to explore computer concepts, operating systems, networks, telecommunications, and emerging technologies. Work experience is available for this course (Optional). Students combine classroom instruction and supervised on the-job training at an approved work site with continuing supervision throughout the school year. With this course student can meet the career and technical industry certification graduation and the online course graduation requirement.

Students apply problem-solving skills to real-life situations through advanced integrated software applications, including printed, electronic, and Web publications. Students work individually and in groups to explore advanced computer maintenance activities, Web site development, programming, networking, emerging technology, and employability skills.

In this specialization course, students are taught concepts of robotics and automated manufacturing by creating 3-D designs with computer modeling software and producing computer-controlled models of their designs.

Students learn to use the JAVA and Python programming language to code and compile programs in an open source or Windows environment. Course content includes program design and problem solving, control structures, functions, parameter passing, data structures, arrays, and file processing. Emphasis is on program design.

This course focuses on developing computer programs to solve problems. Students will also learn about program design principles that will allow them to write programs that are understandable, adaptable, and reusable. Students will also learn other important computer science concepts and protocols including the development and analysis of algorithms, the development and use of fundamental data structures using various programming languages.

Advanced computer programming builds on the foundation of programming skills. Advanced Programming students use object-oriented programming concepts, I/O control structures, functions and/or methods, data abstractions, data structures to develop database applications, interactive multimedia applications including game applications, mobile applications, and Web applications. The course discusses computer network architecture and the function of computer hardware, including networks and operating systems, data organization, algorithms, and software engineering. Students continue to develop their employability skills as they research pathways for continuing education and careers in the information technology and computer sciences industries and engage in various career building activities.

Students build on Cosmetology I by learning through a scientific approach to the art of cosmetology. Students learn how to braid with extensions, make wigs, permanent waving, chemical hair relaxers, soft curl-perms, theory and application of color, skin care, hair removal, facial makeup, nail care, advanced nail techniques, and the business of cosmetology. As part of their training, students also will work in the lab on clients to gain real salon experience, attend beauty shows, and work with senior citizens at various local community centers. Cosmetology kits are provided for student use, or they may purchase their own (approximate cost $170).

Culinary Arts & Sciences II presents an intense curriculum designed to prepare students for postsecondary education or entry-level employment in the food service industry. This course focuses on the following: cook-to-order entrees; correct cooking of meats, fish and vegetables; pizza and bread making; business entrepreneurship; and food sciences and nutrition.

Students work in a real-world kitchen environment preparing meals for real customers. In addition, advanced baking skills are taught with an emphasis on production costs, profits and loss, scaling formulas, and successfully running a small business. Qualified students may compete in the SkillsUSA competitions, where they can win scholarships and other valuable awards.

Culinary Arts and Sciences II covers the fundamental chemistry, mathematics and technologies required of the successful culinarian. Students will practice scaling formulas and recipes; extrapolating service requirements for banquets; as well as varying essential combinations of ingredients (acids, bases, proteins, and fats) to control their effects on the final products.

Students will be introduced to the principles of cybersecurity, explore emerging technologies, examine threat and protective measures, and investigate the diverse high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand career opportunities in the field of cyber security. This course also introduces student to network design and cyber security process and procedures for personal and enterprise networks. Students follow a standard design process to expand and upgrade each network, which includes requirements gathering proof-of-concept, and project management. Focuses instruction on the installation, configuration, and administration of the Windows and/or Linux operating system and emphasizes the use of Linux as a network client and workstation. This course develops the student’s skills needed to become network technicians, computer technicians, and entry level cyber security careers. It provides a hands-on introduction to networking and the internet, using tools and hardware commonly found in home and small business environments.

This course 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 install and configure network cards and connect them to networks. Students learn how to install operating systems, set up and manage accounts, load software, and establish and implement security plans. This course may cover software-based network operating systems, such as Windows Server or Linux.

This course 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-based network administration. This course provides students instruction and the basic overview of routing and remote access, addressing, and security. It also familiarizes students with servers that provide email services, Web-space, security, and authenticated access. Students learn about the soft skills required for system administration and basic hardware configuration. Includes specially designated instruction to give a student a basic knowledge of hardware and software configurations and cybersecurity, College Credit.

This course teaches the fundamental concepts, architectures and protocols related to network security. Students will learn network administration, focusing on the management and support of network users and systems. Students learn communication protocols, troubleshooting techniques for systems and client-server networks, web site management, and other advanced networking topics. Topics covered include overview of network security; basics of cryptology and encryption; threat models, authentication and authorization mechanisms and standards; public key infrastructure; electronic mail security; transport layer and web security; packet filtering, firewalls, intrusion detection, and virtual 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.

Cyber security level III courses continue 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. Additional topics include overview of network security; basics of cryptology and encryption threat models, authentication and authorization mechanisms and standards; public key infrastructure, electronic mail security; transport layer and web security; packet filtering firewalls, intrusion detection, and virtual operating systems, set up an manage accounts, load software, and create and implement security operating systems, such as Windows Server or Linux. Instruction will emphasize orientation for industry certification.

This course introduces students to network design and cybersecurity process and procedures for personal and enterprise networks. Students follow a standard design process to expand and upgrade each network, which includes requirements gathering, proof-of-concept and project management. Focuses instruction on the installation, configuration, and administration of the Window and/or Linux operating system and emphasizes the use of Linux as a network client and workstation. Thus, course develops the student’s skills needed to become entry level cybersecurity professionals, systems administrators, network technician’s computer technicians, cable installers, and help-desk-technicians. It provides a hands-on introduction to networking and the internet, using tools and hardware commonly found in home and small business environments. Labs include PC installation, internet connectivity, wireless connectivity, file and print sharing, and installation of game consoles, scanners, and cameras. Additionally, students will become proficient in Microsoft Office, which includes word processing, spreadsheet database, and presentation software to demonstrate skills required for digital literacy.

This course includes database design and Structured Query Language (SQL) programming. Students study database fundamentals, including database development, modeling, design, and normalization. In addition, students are introduced to database programming. Students gain the skills and knowledge needed to use features of database software and programming to manage and control access to data. Students will prepare for the first of two certification exams.

Early Childhood Education I is designed for students interested in preparing to be early childhood teachers in childcare occupations and elementary education. Students receive classroom instruction and practical experience working with infant, toddler, preschool, elementary and special needs children. Students learn basic principles of child growth and development, explore the characteristics of early childhood programs and implementation of early childhood curriculum.

This course continues to improve students’ skills in teaching young children. Students become familiar with the full range of occupational opportunities in the Early Childhood Education field. Students implement a variety of Early Childhood curriculum activities through field work placements and student teaching experiences. Students take the ParaPro assessment, a step in becoming a teacher’s aide or teacher assistant.

This program is a college-level course taught to the National Highway Transportation Safety Agency/US Department of Transportation 1994 Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) National Standard curriculum. This program is ideal for the student interested in the medical field or any career requiring First Aid certification. Students will study anatomy, physiology, introduction to emergency medical care, airway management, patient assessment, medical emergencies, obstetrical/gynecological emergencies, care of the trauma patient, pediatric emergencies, and ambulance operations. Students will also complete the American Heart Association Basic Life Support for the healthcare provider and a first aid course. Students will also be provided the opportunity to assist and observe in a hospital emergency department or ride-along on an emergency ambulance.

The tasks for this course represent the National and Virginia Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Educational Standards. Students build on their knowledge and skills for providing basic life support by focusing on the areas of EMS operations, medical emergencies, and management of special patient populations. Supervised field experience that includes at least 10 patient contacts outside of school hours is required. Successful completion of this second course in the sequence will earn the student CTE completer status. Successful completion of all course requirements and instructor endorsement 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). Students must complete a minimum of 85 percent of the didactic and lab aspects of the course, per 12VAC5-31-1501 in the Code of Virginia.

This course is an essential foundation class for all students interested in computers, networking, and web -based application and programming. Students who are interested in Information Technology (IT) or Cyber Security careers and would like to learn to set up home computer networks, or to learn about how computers work should take this course. Included technologies are computer home network setups, and computer solutions used personally and in business. Students can also prepare for highly recognized industry certifications. Eligible students can earn dual enrollment credit.

Medical Terminology is designed to help students learn health care language. Topics are presented in logical 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.

This certificate program is designed to provide students with the basic skills and knowledge to begin work as a pharmacy technician. The coursework will fulfill the requirements of the Board of Pharmacy and prepare students to take either the state examination or the national examination administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Trained, experienced pharmacy technicians who can demonstrate the right skills and knowledge would be able to pursue many exciting and respected career options or postsecondary study in the pharmacy field.

This certificate program is designed to provide students with the basic skills and knowledge to begin work as a pharmacy technician. The coursework will fulfill the requirements of the Virginia Board of Pharmacy and prepare students to take national examinations, the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Examination from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Examination for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Trained, experienced pharmacy technicians who can demonstrate clinical skills and knowledge, have many exciting and respected career options, and are well-positioned to pursue postsecondary study in the pharmacy field. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

This course 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.

This course provides an introduction to the professions of physical and occupational therapy. Students explore the principles and practices of therapists in the health care industry and participate in clinical observation under the direct supervision of a licensed physical and/or occupational therapist. Clinical skills in the areas of physical therapy and occupational therapy enable students to gain understanding of rehabilitative care, which is practiced throughout the continuum of care and across the life span of individuals. After successful completion of this course, students may seek higher education for specific degrees/licensure in a variety of fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, sports medicine, athletic training, chiropractic medicine, biology, or exercise science. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Students expand their knowledge of animal science and the care of animals, including comparative anatomy, disease prevention, parasitology, genetics, and breeding. Students will focus on handling the small and exotic animals in the lab such as parakeets, cockatoos, snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, fish, and arthropods. Additional technical skills in veterinary assisting will be introduced and practiced. Students may earn 3 articulation credits for ZOO 276 - Animal Management Internship 2, from State University New York -Jefferson Community College towards an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Zoo Technology.

Television & Multimedia Production II is an intense, hands-on course that prepares students to function as professional media producers. The class models a commercial production company, giving students multiple opportunities to produce creative projects in the Career Center’s impressive Digital Media Production Facility. Projects may be produced for competitions, clients and community partners. Students also are given the opportunity to produce independent projects, such as original short films or documentaries. These projects teach students the media production business while helping them to build professional portfolios that will set them apart from their peers. This advantage leads to awards, internships, scholarships, and successful higher education and career paths.

Students will demonstrate mastery of media production knowledge and skills. They will function as media producers by creating original productions as they develop and market programs for target audiences. Students will assemble a professional digital portfolio to advance postsecondary and career goals. They will investigate the dynamic media production industry and identify opportunities for real-world experiences (e.g., internship, job shadowing). Students will research postsecondary opportunities and formulate strategies for both college and career success.

Television Production I cover the theory and practice of digital media production. Students develop skills through “hands-on” projects in the Career Center’s Digital Media Production Facility, one of the best of its kind in Virginia. Production assignments range across the fields of television, radio, and the internet, and include public service announcements (PSAs), music videos, independent short films, radio spots, websites, and animation. Television Production students routinely earn local, state and even national prizes through many opportunities for competitions and client work afforded by this course. Students work individually and in groups to produce original pieces, which they take with them as professional digital portfolios at the end of the class.

Veterinary Science enables students to acquire the employability and technical knowledge and skills needed to succeed in postsecondary education as well as in a career in veterinary medicine or a related occupation. Students work with the wide variety of domestic and exotic animals housed at the Animal Science facility. Course content integrates application of academics, development of career competencies, and instruction in course specific knowledge and skills, such as business management, the use of tools, equipment, and facilities related to veterinary medicine. The program’s strong partnerships with local animal related businesses allows for opportunities to build leadership skills and participate in internships. Students enrolled in the course should have a strong background in math and science and should be familiar with small animal care. Students may earn 3 articulation credits for ZOO 276- Animal Management Internship 2, from State University New York - Jefferson Community College towards an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Zoo Technology.