Computer Science Endorsement
Description
Holliston High School is pleased to announce a new Computer Science Endorsement (CSE) program.
The CSE program is a way for HHS students to focus their electives on computer science-related courses and projects. Through a combination of coursework and independent projects, students participate in curriculum covering coding and programming, hardware systems, complex applications, and societal issues.
Upon completion of the program, students will have earned a special CSE certificate to be included with their HHS transcript, useful for college and scholarship applications.
A Larger View of Computer Science
At HHS, we recognize that computer science has many different sides, and is used by professionals of many different fields. From programming and coding to social media, web design to database management, film special effects to robotics, computer science is an important area of study for future creators.
Flexible Participation
The CSE program at Holliston High School allows students to choose electives that suit their interests and future goals. Students can choose to focus on programming and coding, on digital art and graphic design, on hardware and robotics, or in areas of their own selection. The "cafeteria-style" selection and scheduling makes it easy for students to fit the CSE into their regular high school course selections.
Who Can Earn the HHS Computer Science Endorsement?
The CSE program is an opt-in program, open to all HHS students, grades 9-12, who are interested in exploring computer science-related study. For scheduling purposes, it will be easiest for students to begin the program as 9th graders, but students may join the program at any point during their HHS career.
Requirements
The Computer Science Endorsement (CSE) can be awarded to any HHS student that completes the following requirements:
1. Coursework
Completion of five (5) credits in computer science-related coursework. These courses are electives found in the HHS Program of Studies. Additionally, some non-HHS online courses can be considered toward completion of the CSE, based on the course's curriculum.
2. Independent Project
Students will complete and present an independent project about any computer science related topic . Topics should be approved in advance by the CSE Coordinator.
Students may choose to make the project part of their school schedule (Recommended: Course #990 Senior Project) or to compete the project on their own outside of the school schedule. Students who complete outside projects should contact the CSE Coordinator to arrange a presentation time.
Receiving the Endorsement
Students completing the CSE program can be award their certificate at any of these three times:
- End of Grade 11
- Midway through Grade 12
- Upon graduation
Courses
CSE-Related Electives
In the Program of Studies, the following electives can be counted toward completion of the CSE.
FAQ
- Q: Why earn the Computer Science Endorsement (CSE)?
- Q: Who can join the CSE Program?
- Q: What are prerequisites for participating?
- Q: What classes are part of the CSE program?
- Q: Can I count past classes toward the CSE?
- Q: Can I count online classes toward the CSE?
- Q: What's my commitment if I join the CSE Program?
- Q: Is there a penalty if I decide to leave the program later?
- Q: What if I have more questions?
Q: Why earn the Computer Science Endorsement (CSE)?
For students who are interested in pursuing computer science or technology in the future, the CSE is a great way to get experience and foundational knowledge. The CSE is an excellent way to set yourself apart on college and scholarship applications.
But the best reason is, if you like computer science courses, you get to take more computer science courses!