Computer Programming

What is Computer Programming?

Designing and developing computer programs is a rewarding activity for building the software that runs all of our modern technology devices. From laptops to cellphones, from simple calculations to financial planning and big data analysis, for computer games and laboratory instruments, and much more, computer programs are at the heart of them all.

In computer programming, we learn and practice how to read data, set values, execute decisions, apply mathematical functions, repeat instructions, and display results.

Computer programmers are creative, curious, logical, detail oriented, and good at problem solving.

CPRO

CPRO

Is it for You?

Computer Programming follows a college-level Computer Science curriculum through our partnership with Harrisburg University. Students interested in applying to the program should enjoy problem solving and troubleshooting. This program requires the use of a computer to solve complex issues in varying types of code and programs, and careers typically necessitate additional schooling at a post-secondary institution. Work in this field often occurs in climate-controlled environments indoors, typically 40 hours per week and involves sitting for most or all of the work day. Additionally, the following skills are necessary to excel in this program:

  • Good vision (either naturally or with correction), including color vision

  • Good eye and finger coordination

  • Problem solving capability

  • Ability to troubleshoot issues

  • Strong mathematics skills

  • Reading comprehension (most material above 8th grade)

Earn college credits through our partnership with

Harrisburg University

Program Objectives 

1.     Complete PA Dept. of Ed. POS (Program of Study
2.     Complete NOCTI Competencies
3.     Earn College in the High School (CHS) Credits through Harrisburg University:

CISC 120: Fundamentals of Computing

CISC 160: Data Structures 

CISC 300: Web Technologies

Earn Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer

4.     Complete Job Shadow
5.     Complete Post-Secondary School Visit
6.     Complete employability skill training

Level 1 

College in the High School: CISC 120-Programming I

POS TASKS:

  • 100s: Code Programs

  • 200s: Design Program Solutions

  • 300s: Analyze Programming Problems

  • 400s: Test Programs

  • 600s: General Information and Concepts

Level 2

College in the High School: CISC 160-Data Structures 

POS TASKS:

  • 100s: Code Programs

  • 200s: Design Program Solutions

  • 300s: Analyze Programming Problems

  • 400s: Test Programs

  • 500s: General Information and Concepts, with emphasis on algorithm analysis

  • 600s: Ethics, Legal Compliance, and Security

  • 800s: Maintain Programs

Level 3 

College in the High School: CISC 300-Web Technologies

POS TASKS:

  • 200s: Design Program Solutions

  • 300s: Analyze Programming Problems

  • 400s: Test Programs

  • 500s: General Information and Concepts, with emphasis on algorithm analysis

  • 600s: Ethics, Legal Compliance, and Security

  • 700s: User Documentation

  • 800s: Maintain Programs

What's Next?

Potential Career Pathways 

* Salaries listed are PA state averages taken from www.onetonline.com and are accurate as of 2020.

Post-Secondary Studies

*Many employment options in this field require additional study.