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High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ STEM! Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity

The vision of the Cybersecurity regional program is to empower future cyber professionals through a rigorous, interdisciplinary education. Students are challenged to explore real‑world problems, engage in cutting‑edge research, and develop solutions through collaboration. Through a focused, experiential curriculum, students build the technical knowledge and analytical skills needed to lead in cybersecurity, information technology, and related STEM fields.

 

Core Experiences

  • Earn CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA Security+ Certification
  • Participate in internships/apprenticeships
  • Earn college credit
  • Connect with industry professionals, university faculty, and industry mentors
  • Participate in competitions and student organizations

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic foundation in computer science, and cybersecurity principles through rigorous, standards-based coursework. Emphasize development of skills for problem-solving, critical thinking, ethical reasoning, creativity, and collaboration in securing digital systems and information.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in experiential learning through cyber labs, simulations, ethical hacking exercises, and collaborative research projects. Offer opportunities for internships, mentorships, and job shadowing with local and national IT firms and research organizations to build practical skills and career readiness.
  3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in cybersecurity, information technology, and related fields through a structured College Preparatory pathway.

Application & Locations

Application: Interest-based application

Schools:

  • Region 1: Blair
  • Region 2: Springbrook
  • Region 3: Wheaton
  • Region 4: Wootton
  • Region 5: Gaithersburg
  • Region 6: Seneca Valley

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Cybersecurity Program. Cells in blue are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Career Advising

Summer Enrichment & Preparation
AP Computer Science Principles (if technology education credit is needed) or Computer Programming 1 Cybersecurity Course 1 Cybersecurity Course 2 Cybersecurity Course 3 or Work-based Learning or Dual Enrollment
Science Science Science AP/Advanced Level Computer Science or Related Math Elective
World Language World Language World Language or Elective World Language or Elective
US History US Government (NSL) World History Elective
English English English English
Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics
Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, all students mustcomplete the following to remain enrolled in the Cybersecurity Program and earn the related certificate:

  • 1 credit introductory computer science based on student experience
    • AP Computer Science Principles (if technology education credit is needed) or
    • Computer Programming 1 or
    • AP Computer Science A (Java)
  • 2 Credits Cybersecurity (1 & 2)
  • 1 Credit advanced Cybersecurity
    • Cybersecurity 3 or
    • Related work-based learning or
    • Related dual enrollment course
  • 1 credit advanced computer science or math elective
    • AP Computer Science A (Java) or
    • Advanced level computer science course or
    • Advanced level math course related to cybersecurity