Spark Your Future: Explore by Career Theme

Study human development and family systems across the lifespan in depth. Complete required field study and a summer assignment while building college-level research and writing skills. Forty hours of student field study is a UConn/ECE requirement. This rigorous college-level course mirrors university expectations with advanced projects and independent work. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

*UConn equivalent course: HDFS 1070: Individual & Family Development (3 credits)

Prepare for early childhood careers through the CDA pathway. Study child development, early learning, and family engagement using national standards. (1/2 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: FGD501 and teacher recommendation.

Designed for students completing the Preschool Educator and Child Development Associate (CDA) pathway, in this course you will apply foundational knowledge of child development, early learning, and family engagement through supervised practicum experiences in preschool or early childhood settings. You will complete required observation and participation hours, practicum documentation, and portfolio artifacts in preparation for early childhood careers and postsecondary study. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation.

Explore teaching as a career. Learn lesson planning, classroom management, learning styles, and the role of education in the United States. Job shadow teachers and practice planning across subjects. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Explore how your passions in art, science, sports, or technology can lead to a career in education. Learn what it’s like to work in schools, how teaching and learning happen, and the big ideas shaping education today. Study the history, philosophy, and social foundations of education, and discover how you can make a difference for the next generation. This rigorous college-level course mirrors university expectations with advanced projects and independent work (1/2 year – 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: FIT601 and/or FIF705 or Instructor Approval.

*UConn equivalent course: EDCI 1100: If You Love It, Teach It (3 Credits)

Train for a rewarding career in healthcare. Through labs, hands-on skill practice, and clinical experiences, you 'll prepare for the CNA exam and earn state certification. A great first step toward nursing or medical careers. (1 year – 1/2 credit classroom and 1 credit clinical, double channel) 12 

Prerequisite: Teacher/counselor approval

To learn more about the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Pipeline Program, click here.

Earn dual credentials in medical interpretation and nursing assistance. Bilingual students gain real-world healthcare experience through labs, clinical work, and cultural awareness training. Paired with CNA/CNA clinical courses second semester. (1 year - 2 credits) 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

To learn more about the Medical Interpreter (CNA) Pipeline Program, click here.

Prepare for a fast-paced career in emergency medical services. Through classroom lessons, hands-on labs, and ambulance ride-alongs, you 'll learn life-saving skills and earn eligibility to take the National EMT exam. (1/2 year - 2 credits) 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher/counselor approval

To learn more about the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Pipeline Program, click here.

Explore a variety of Allied Health careers in this college-level course. Hear from professionals, learn medical terminology, and gain CPR and First Aid certification while studying teamwork in healthcare. This rigorous college-level course will help you decide if a career in healthcare is right for you. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

*UConn equivalent course AH1100 Allied Health (1 credit)

Uncover what matter is made of and how it changes. Explore atoms, bonding, reactions, and energy through hands-on labs and experiments. This class builds a foundation for future science studies and careers in health, technology, and engineering. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Experience chemistry at a faster pace and higher level. Explore matter, reactions, and energy through rigorous labs and projects that build strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This fast-paced, honors-level course challenges motivated learners to think critically and work independently. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a B or better in Algebra

Explore how the human body works from cells and tissues to organs and systems. You'll dive into hands-on labs, group research, and real dissections to understand how structure and function connect. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Discuss today's big questions in health and medicine from the history of healthcare to disease prevention and medical ethics. Learn how science, technology, and society shape wellness. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Not open to students who are enrolled in or who have completed SMD606 

Explore how diseases spread and how we can prevent them. Study bacteria, viruses, and the body's immune response while practicing lab techniques used in public health and medicine. This rigorous college-level course requires advanced labs, projects, and independent study.  (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: SHM701 recommended (not required) 

*UConn Equivalent course: PUBH 1001: Introduction to Public Health (3 credits)

Discover the science behind animal care by learning about various careers working with animals, laws protecting animals and groups that drive changes in those laws. The domestication of animals (including genetics and artificial selection) will be covered, along with animal behaviors and training. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Discover the science behind animal care by learning about various careers working with animals, laws protecting animals and groups that drive changes in those laws. The domestication of animals (including genetics and artificial selection) will be covered, along with animal behaviors and training. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Study how writers use literature and film to challenge injustice. Trace movements across the 20th century to today and craft persuasive, well-supported arguments. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Consider what makes a successful life and how people cope with loss. Read contemporary literature and media, discuss multiple perspectives, and write with empathy and clarity. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Examine how identity forms and changes, and how relationships shape who we are. Read contemporary texts and media while practicing analysis, discussion, and reflective writing. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Examine how individuals, groups, and institutions interact to shape society. Explore themes like diversity, culture, family, and social forces. This dual-enrollment course mirrors university-level expectations for research, discussion, and analysis, offering opportunities to earn college credit. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

* UConn equivalent course: SOCI1001:Sociology (3 credits)

Learn the fundamentals of human thought processes and behavior. Explore human development, gender, motivation, personality and psychological disorders. Build foundational knowledge for college-level psychology through experiments, discussion, and self-reflection. (1 year - 1 credit) 12.

Evaluate ethical issues in sports, including fairness, conduct, performance-enhancement, equality, youth sport dilemmas, and fandom. Analyze case studies, media, and current events to sharpen argument and reflection. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Engage in college-level study in UConn Contemporary Issues In Sport. Examine social issues in sport through historical and modern texts and documentaries. Debate complex topics and craft researched arguments connecting sport to society today. This dual-enrollment course mirrors university-level expectations for research, analysis, and writing, offering opportunities to earn college credit.  (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Previous honors coursework recommended; exceptionally strong students may take the class with teacher recommendation 

*UCONN equivalent course: EDLR 2001: Contemporary Issues in Sport

Examine the issues, events, and people that shape our country today and develop skills necessary for critical analysis of the news and active participation in a democratic society. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Examine the issues, events, and people that shape our world today and develop skills necessary for critical analysis of the news and active participation in a democratic society. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Study the foundations, institutions, and current dynamics of American government. Analyze how policies are made and what shapes political participation and leadership through an in-depth analysis of current political issues and debate. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.  

*UConn equivalent course POLS1602: Introduction to American Politics (3 credits).

Explore how the U.S. legal system functions, focusing on criminal, civil, family, and constitutional law with special focus on Connecticut. Learn through analysis, role play, and discussion with legal professionals while developing legal reasoning skills. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Using Procreate on the ipad as the primary tool, learn essential digital drawing techniques, experiment with digital brushes and layers, and refine composition to create compelling illustrations. Create illustrations that clearly communicate ideas and narrative storytelling. Emphasis is placed on intentionally crafting images to inform, persuade, or emotionally engage an audience.  (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: ADR601, ADR661 or ADR664

Learn design principles and visual communication using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator plus traditional media. Create portfolio-ready projects and build digital literacy. This college-level course requires independent work, strong study habits, and a sustained studio practice. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Create original dances by exploring improvisation, movement invention, and the elements of dance. Craft choreography from varied sources and perform in the semester showcase. This college-level course requires independent work, strong study habits, and a sustained studio practice.  (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Completion of a dance course.

Write poems, stories, memoir, drama, and creative nonfiction. Study mentor texts, respond to prompts, revise with feedback, and share your work. May be taken more than once. Note: Does not count toward English credit. (1/2 year - 1/2 humanities elective credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Report and produce for school print, digital, and video platforms. Practice interviewing, style, editing, and multimedia storytelling in a newsroom setting. May be taken more than once. Note: Does not count toward English credit. (1 year - 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Tell compelling stories for web, broadcast, and social platforms. Learn camera work, audio, lighting, graphics, and non-linear editing in studio and field settings. Deadline-driven projects build real production habits. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Advance your production skills to create dynamic content across platforms. Work in studio, live streaming, and field environments using professional tools. Projects are deadline-driven and build portfolio depth. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Digital Media 1 or Journalism (IVP501 or EJN301)

Take your production skills to the next level through advanced studio work, field reporting and live event coverage. You will serve as producers and directors for school wide events such as assemblies, performances and athletics contests, all broadcast live from our professional TV studio and on-location setups. Outside class time is necessary to produce assignments. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Bake for real customers. Produce items for the Brickview Restaurant and Cafe while learning production scheduling, quality control, and point-of-sale basics. Strengthen technique and explore food-industry careers. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: 1 credit in any combination of culinary courses

Run a working restaurant. Rotate through kitchen and front-of-house roles, build leadership, and learn operations. Opportunities include ServSafe certification, a restaurant tour, and a food-critic experience. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: 1 credit in any combination of culinary courses

Start your baking journey with core techniques for measuring, mixing, and baking. Prepare quick breads, cakes, and fruit desserts while learning safety and smart equipment use. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Level up with tarts and pies, yeast breads, enriched doughs, confections, French cookies, and dessert sauces. Review safety and sanitation, then practice advanced terms and methods to produce polished bakes. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: FFB301

Learn kitchen safety, sanitation, knife basics, and equipment use while preparing quick breads, dairy items, cookies, salads, and simple entrees. Explore nutrition and culinary career paths. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Travel the map through food. Explore the history, traditions, and signature dishes of North American and Caribbean cuisines while sharpening essential cooking techniques and flavor skills. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: FFD201 or FFB301

Cook your way around the world. Explore culinary traditions and techniques from countries such as Mexico, France, Italy, and India while expanding your palate and skills. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: FFD201 or FFB301

Learn how products and brands connect with customers. Practice the marketing mix, research, and branding through hands-on campus and community challenges. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Step into the business side of sports and entertainment. Use a management simulation, present to local partners, and build employability skills through real projects. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Engage in college-level study in ECSU Public Speaking. Learn speech fundamentals and earn potential college credit. Research, write, deliver, and critique informative, persuasive, interview, and impromptu speeches using effective rhetoric and organization. This dual-enrollment course mirrors university-level expectations for research, analysis, and writing, offering opportunities to earn college credit. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*ECSU equivalent course: COM230: Basic Speech (3 credits)

Explore sculpture through carving, casting, construction, and modeling. Work in metal, clay, wood, wire, paper, plaster, stone, and found objects while designing original 3D pieces and strengthening craft. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: B in one of: ADR664, ADR601, ADE671, AMJ671, ACY661 or ADE771

Learn to draw from observation with essential tools and techniques. Build confidence and accuracy. No prior experience necessary. (½ year - ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Gain hands-on experience with construction fundamentals and industry safety standards while earning certifications including OSHA 10 and First Aid/CPR. This course will prepare students for apprenticeships with local trade unions and employers in construction and the skilled trades including the Connecticut State Building Trades Training Institute (CSBTTI). (1/2 year - 1 credit) 12. 

To learn more about the CT Building Trades Training Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Pipeline Program, click here.

Prepare for the CT DEEP Safe Boating exam and hands-on training on the water. Learn navigation, safety, and recreational boating while exploring maritime careers. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Learn the language of engineering graphics with AutoCAD. Practice geometric construction, orthographic and isometric drawings, dimensions, and tolerances. Create simple 3D prints to bring designs to life. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Advance to complex 2D and 3D modeling in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Chief Architect. Apply teamwork and problem solving to real-world projects and earn college credit opportunities. This advanced dual-enrollment course combines college-level study with hands-on industry experience. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VED201

* Three Rivers Community College equivalent course: CAD 1330 2D CAD-AutoCAD

Start woodworking with hand tools and select power tools. Learn safety, measuring, and project planning while building practical projects. Explore related careers. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Take on more complex wood projects using varied species and power tools. Meet industry guests, deepen safety and measuring skills, and explore career pathways. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VWT201

Build on skills by designing and constructing complex projects using advanced tools and machinery while emphasizing safety, precision and professional shop practices. Complete major projects that demonstrate craftsmanship, problem-solving and career readiness in the skilled trades. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VWT651

Build metal smithing skills and design knowledge while fabricating jewelry. Techniques include sawing, soldering, cold connections, forming, finishing, and stone setting. (1 year - 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Explore 3D form, design, and structure through metal fabrication and technical problem solving using techniques such as soldering, welding, cutting, and texturing to create expressive sculptural works. This course builds on the metal fabrication techniques learned in AMJ671 and AMY671, but focuses more on larger sculptural objects and exploration of metal sculpture techniques. Students will be required to keep a sketchbook that documents their ideas, process, and any revisions, similar to the sketchbook kept in all jewelry classes. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Any metals and jewelry class

Learn contemporary jewelry design and metalsmithing: sawing, soldering, cold connections, stone setting, and chain making. Create finished, wearable pieces. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Explore engineering fields and the design process while engaging in hands -on making projects. Use industry standard 3D modeling software to design, test and build projects such as solar cars and bridges. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

*UConn equivalent course UNIV 1820: First Year Seminar - Intro to Making (1 credit)

Experience advanced manufacturing processes, safety, and materials while making products with CNC machines and 3D printers. Earn college credit and entry to the YMPI program. This advanced dual-enrollment course combines college-level study with hands-on industry experience. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

*CT State Three Rivers equivalent course: MFG 1004 Manufacturing Processes

Examine at the college level how generative AI reshapes reading, writing, research, and ethical argumentation. Study core AI concepts in plain language and apply them as literary and communication tools through close reading, composition, rhetorical analysis, and project‑based practice, while maintaining originality, credibility, and ethical responsibility. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

*UConn equivalent course: ENGR 1195: Special Topics in Engineering: AI Literacy (AI for All) (2 credits)

Discover how computing shapes our world. Explore problem solving, data, the internet, and creative applications of technology through accessible, hands-on projects. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9 & 10.

Learn problem solving and object-oriented programming with Visual Basic. Practice syntax, program design, and testing while exploring computer history, architecture, and the social impact of technology. (1 year - 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Create games in JavaScript while learning computer science foundations. Build logic, algorithms, and problem-solving skills and iterate through testing and debugging. This fast-paced, honors-level course challenges students to think critically, strengthen abstract reasoning, and apply advanced problem-solving skills independently. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: MCC551 and teacher recommendation

Design and analyze programs using Java. Build algorithms, data structures, and problem-solving skills while learning how software works. Emphasis on logical rigor and testing mirrors first-semester college CS. This college-level course requires strong study habits, analytical thinking, and the ability to connect multiple mathematical concepts through independent work. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: MCC551 and teacher recommendation

Collect, analyze, and interpret data using probability, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, regression, and nonparametric methods. Use real contexts and technology to justify conclusions clearly. This college-level course requires strong study habits, analytical thinking, and the ability to connect multiple mathematical concepts through independent work. This dual-enrollment course mirrors UConn's college-level rigor through advanced mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and independent work. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12. 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation 

*UConn equivalent class: STAT1100Q Elementary Concepts of Statistics

Design, build, and program VEX robots while learning mechanical, electrical, and coding fundamentals. Compete in challenges that sharpen teamwork and problem solving. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Discover the unique ecosystem of Long Island Sound through hands-on labs and fieldwork. Study marine organisms, water quality, and human impact on coastal environments. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Engage in college-level study in Introduction To AP/UConn Environmental Science. Prepare for AP Environmental Science by exploring ecosystems, biodiversity, conservation, and human impact. Build lab and field skills to succeed in future AP courses while connecting science to real-world sustainability. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10 & 11.

Explore how humans impact the planet while studying topics like climate change, energy, pollution, and ecosystems. Other course topics may include geology, weather, ecology, agriculture. Through labs and projects, you'll learn practical ways to make a difference. Cannot be taken in conjunction with Biology or AP Environmental Science. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Discover how living and nonliving systems interact on Earth. Explore sustainability, climate change, pollution, and resource management through labs and field studies. Perfect for students passionate about protecting our planet. This rigorous college-level course mirrors university expectations with advanced labs, projects, and independent study. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

* UConn equivalent course: NRE1000 Environmental Science (3 credits)

Explore the diversity of animal life across the planet, from local species to exotic wildlife. Learn about evolution, adaptations, and how animals behave within their ecosystems. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Discover the science behind animal care by learning about various careers working with animals, laws protecting animals and groups that drive changes in those laws. The domestication of animals (including genetics and artificial selection) will be covered, along with animal behaviors and training. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Learn the language of business by practicing real bookkeeping tasks. Build skills in budgeting, cash control, payroll, the accounting cycle, and financial reporting while using an online workbook. Explore career paths in accounting and finance. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Cover the full Accounting 1 and 2 sequence in an accelerated format. Use an online workbook while building strong analysis, accuracy, and business communication skills. This fast-paced, honors-level course expects independence and sustained effort. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: B- in MAL654 or accounting teacher approval

Advance your accounting skills with cash and accrual systems, partnerships and corporations, depreciation, inventory, taxes, and computerized accounting. Connect classroom learning to real business trends and careers. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: C in BAC601

Master clear, concise communication for school, work, and life. Practice speaking, writing, digital etiquette, and professional use of social media. Build a job search portfolio with a resume, cover letter, recommendations, and interview prep. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Survey the world of business and entrepreneurship. Learn how companies start and grow while exploring ownership types, basic economics, global business, and career options. Build an entrepreneurial mindset. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Build real-life money skills: budgeting, banking, credit, identity protection, insurance, taxes, and saving and investing. Create a post-high-school budget aligned to your goals. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Master core money decisions for life and entrepreneurship: recordkeeping, budgeting, risk, insurance, credit, purchasing, investing, taxes, and retirement planning. This rigorous college-level course mirrors university expectations with advanced projects and independent work. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

*UConn Equivalent Course BUSN 2235: Personal Financial Literacy (3 credits)

Examine both micro and macroeconomic principles to understand markets, consumers, production, and government policy. Analyze how economies function at individual and global levels through data and real-world case studies. This dual-enrollment, college-level course develops advanced reasoning, problem-solving, and research skills, offering opportunities for UConn credit and AP exam preparation. (1 year - 1 credit) 12.  

* UConn equivalent course: ECON1201: Principles of Microeconomics (3 credits) and ECON1202: Principles of Macroeconomics (3 credits)

Explore Algebra 2 concepts through personal finance. Use functions, statistics, probability, geometry, graphing, and trigonometry to model banking, credit, investing, taxes, car ownership, independent living, and budgeting. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Evaluate ethical issues in sports, including fairness, conduct, performance-enhancement, equality, youth sport dilemmas, and fandom. Analyze case studies, media, and current events to sharpen argument and reflection. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Engage in college-level study in UConn Contemporary Issues In Sport. Examine social issues in sport through historical and modern texts and documentaries. Debate complex topics and craft researched arguments connecting sport to society today. This dual-enrollment course mirrors university-level expectations for research, analysis, and writing, offering opportunities to earn college credit.  (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Previous honors coursework recommended; exceptionally strong students may take the class with teacher recommendation 

*UCONN equivalent course: EDLR 2001: Contemporary Issues in Sport

Examine the issues, events, and people that shape our country today and develop skills necessary for critical analysis of the news and active participation in a democratic society. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Examine the issues, events, and people that shape our world today and develop skills necessary for critical analysis of the news and active participation in a democratic society. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Study the foundations, institutions, and current dynamics of American government. Analyze how policies are made and what shapes political participation and leadership through an in-depth analysis of current political issues and debate. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.  

*UConn equivalent course POLS1602: Introduction to American Politics (3 credits).

Explore how the U.S. legal system functions, focusing on criminal, civil, family, and constitutional law with special focus on Connecticut. Learn through analysis, role play, and discussion with legal professionals while developing legal reasoning skills. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.