Students in the Computer Science Pathway at Grand Prairie Collegiate Institute will gain an understanding of the study of computers and computational systems. This program focuses on software and software systems; this includes their theory, design, development, and application.

Careers in this Pathway

• Software Developer
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Computer & Information Systems Manager
• Web Developer
• Information Security Analyst
• Computer Science Powerpoint Presentation

Computer Science Presentation

Computer Science 4-Year-Plan

Computer Science Overview from a Student

PLTW Computer Science Program brings computer science to life. At a time when computer science affects how we work and live, PLTW Computer Science empowers students in grades 9-12 to become creators, instead of merely consumers, of the technology all around them. 

The program’s interdisciplinary courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges. As students work together to design solutions, they learn computational thinking – not just how to code – and become better thinkers and communicators. Students take from the courses in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.

PLTW Computer Science courses are part of the AP + PLTW computer science pathway.

Building a Strong Foundation for College and Career

Whether building apps to meet client needs or exploring cybersecurity, PLTW Computer Science engages students in interdisciplinary activities that not only build knowledge and skills in computer science, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance. The program’ s courses empowers students with in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they choose. 

• Computer Science Essentials
• Computer Science Principles
• Computer Science A
• Cybersecurity

Computer Science Essentials

Students will experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. This course will empower students to develop computational thinking skills while building confidence that prepares them to advance to Computer Science Principles and Computer Science A.

Computer Science Principles

Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.

Computer Science A

Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.

Cybersecurity

Whether seeking a career in the growing field of cybersecurity or learning to defend their own personal data or a company’s data, students in Cybersecurity establish an ethical code of conduct while learning to defend data in today’s complex cyberworld. 

Pathway Instructors

Nicholas Brown - Pathway Lead