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High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Science, Math, & Computer Science (SMCS)

Science, Mathematics, and Computer Science (SMCS)

Ever wonder how apps are coded, how smart tech is built, or how top scientists solve huge real-world mysteries? In the Science, Mathematics, and Computer Science (SMCS) program, you won’t just learn about the future; you’ll help create it! Here, science, math, and coding come together in epic hands-on projects. You'll team up with friends, tackle advanced challenges, and build the problem-solving skills you need to make a real impact. By blending these three subjects, students build strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills needed to solve real-world challenges, independently and as a team.

 

Core Experiences

  • Engage in science, mathematics, computer science, and engineering experiences and STEM-related extracurricular student organizations
  • Conduct original research and present findings
  • Participate in career-connected learning and earn college credit
  • Connect with professionals, university faculty, and research organizations in STEM fields

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) practices through rigorous, standards-based coursework and the development of problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in experiential learning through labs, independent and collaborative research projects, and opportunities for career-connected learning experiences with local and national businesses 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 STEM-related fields through the College Preparatory pathway.

 

Application & Locations

Selection Process: Criteria-based application.  Students must be enrolled in Algebra 1 or a higher-level math class in grade 8 to be eligible. 

Schools:

  • Southern Region: Blair
  • Eastern Region: Springbrook
  • Central South Region: Wheaton
  • Central Region: Wootton
  • Central North Region: Gaithersburg
  • Northern Region: Poolesville

Course Progression

Due to the nature of the Science, Mathematics, and Computer Science Programs, students are required to take eight classes each semester for all four years of high school.  The eight classes may include career-connected learning in Grades 11 and 12.  The additional class period is added at the end of the school day.  Students may still participate in athletics.  Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Science, Mathematics and Computer Science Program. Cells in blue are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed

Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 SMCS Career-Connected Learning Grade 12

Fundamentals of Computer Science A/B

Algorithms and Data
Structures A/B

SMCS Elective

Career-Connected Learning:

Completed during the summer between Grades 11 and 12; some opportunities may continue through Grade 12 and may earn graduation credit; career-connected learning experiences can be with universities, research labs, etc.

SMCS or General Elective

Research and Experimentation

Advanced Science 4: Biology

Applied Statistics (S1 or S2) & SMCS Elective (S1 or S2)

SMCS or General Elective

Center Precalculus A/B

or

Center Functions

Center Precalculus C/D

or

Center Analysis 1

Center Analysis 1

or

SMCS Math Elective

SMCS Math Elective
English English English English
Honors or AP US History Honors or AP US Government (NSL) Honors or AP Modern World History SMCS or General Elective
Elective (PE or Fine Arts) Elective (PE, Fine Arts, or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts, or Health) SMCS or General Elective
World Language World Language World Language or Elective World Language or Elective

 

Program Requirements

In addition to the MCPS requirements for graduation, all students must take the following courses to remain enrolled in the Science, Mathematics and Computer Science Program and earn the related certificate upon graduation.

  • Mathematics (4 credits)
    • Completion through at least Magnet Analysis 1
    • Applied Statistics (counts toward elective credits as well)
    • Including the above requirement, at least 1 credit in math each year (4 total).  Math courses taken after Analysis 1 will count toward elective credits.
  • Science (4 credits)
    • Advanced Science 1: Physics
    • Advanced Science 2: Chemistry
    • Advanced Science 3: Earth Space Systems
    • Advanced Science 4: Biology
  • Computer Science (2 credits)
    • Fundamentals of Computer Science
    • Algorithms & Data Structures
  • Engineering (1.5 credits)
    • Research & Experimentation (.25 credits/semester)
    •  Foundations of Engineering Technology (PLTW school may use a different code.  Course is unique to this program, and prior credit from middle school does not fulfill this program requirement)
  • Research (1 credit - optional upon request, but highly recommended and completed by almost all program students)
    • Senior Research Project (also counts toward elective credit)
  • Electives
    • 4.5 credits of magnet advanced-level courses in STEM.  Senior Research Project and elective math credits count toward this total.