Program Overview
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Students explore software development, game development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and physical computing through hands-on, real-world projects.
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The Computer Science program at Genesee Career Institute provides students with hands-on, real-world experience in today’s most in-demand technology fields.
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Students build skills in software development, physical computing, cybersecurity, data analysis, AI literacy, and collaboration.
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Students are introduced to career pathways including software development, helpdesk support, cybersecurity, AI, game development, and drone technology.
Course Offerings
Introduction to Software Engineering
Dive into the world of software engineering with a hands-on introductory course! You'll learn how to design, build, and improve apps and games that tackle real challenges. Along the way, you'll pick up essential programming skills, discover how to fix bugs, and work together with classmates on exciting projects. We’ll focus on creative problem-solving, using tools like version control, and sharing your ideas clearly—so you’re ready to make your mark in tech.
Sample Projects
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Machine software
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Game development
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Real-world problem solving
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Autonomous drone competition
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Introduction to 3D printing
Certification Preparation
Placement Guidance
Entry-level, no experience required, grade-level mathematics
“Everybody should learn how to program a computer… because it teaches you how to think.”
Steve Jobs
AP Computer Science A
Dive into Java programming with a course designed to help you master real-world problem-solving and object-oriented design! You’ll get hands-on experience creating, testing, and improving your own programs using classes, methods, arrays/lists, and inheritance. Along the way, you’ll build projects that encourage creative thinking, clear coding, and teamwork, all while preparing you for the AP Computer Science A exam. If you enjoy figuring out how things work and working with others to build something amazing, this course is for you!
Sample Projects
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Java development
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Game development
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Team development projects
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Autonomous drone competition
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Student-ran 3D print farm
Certification Preparation
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IT Specialist: Java
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AP Computer Science A
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Oracle Java Fundamentals
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Artificial Intelligence
Placement Guidance
Grade-level mathematics
Learn all about the AP Computer Science A course and exam here.
Introduction to Cybersecurity
Get ready to dive into the world of cybersecurity! In this course, you’ll explore how to keep your devices, networks, and personal information safe in our connected world. Through hands-on activities, you’ll discover the basics of being a good digital citizen, learn how networks work, spot potential online threats, and set up systems securely. You’ll practice solving real-world problems and develop the skills you need to think like a cybersecurity pro. This course will help you prepare for entry-level certifications and give you a great start for further cybersecurity studies.
Sample Projects
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Computer builds from real components
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Smart devices
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Networking Infrastructure
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Troubleshooting
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Cyber scenarios
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Introduction to 3D printing
Certification Preparation
Placement Guidance
Entry-level, gerade-level mathematics
“There are only two types of companies: those that have been hacked, and those that will be.”
Robert Mueller
AP Cybersecurity
AP Cybersecurity is an exciting, hands-on course where you’ll learn how to protect computers and networks from real-world threats. You’ll dive into simulations, work through interactive labs, and tackle actual case studies to see how professionals keep information safe. Along the way, you’ll practice spotting and stop cyberattacks, learn about important security tools, and get prepared for certifications like Network+ and Security+. This course is designed to give you the skills you need for college, careers, and beyond!
Sample Projects
Placement Guidance
Intro to Cybersecurity or equivalent
Learn all about the AP Cybersecurity course and exam here.
Career Exploration/Essentials
A career-readiness course that helps students connect technical interests to future pathways while building professional skills. Students develop resumes and portfolios, practice project management and teamwork, and explore workplace expectations, ethics, and emerging technology impacts. The course supports goal setting and postsecondary planning alongside micro-credentials.
Sample Projects
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Resume and portfolio
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Project Management
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Career exploration
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AI literacy and ethics
Certifications
Artificial Intelligence Foundations
Live Distance Learning (LDL)
LDL is a live, scheduled class taught by a certified teacher using interactive video. Students attend during the school day at their home school with on-site support, learning alongside students from multiple districts, expanding access to courses that may not be available locally.
Full-year course
Grades 9–12
No coding experience required
Sample Projects
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Explore how AI systems make decisions and learn from data
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Investigate bias, ethics, and responsible AI
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See how AI is used across careers (healthcare, business, tech, and more)
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Create and present an AI for Good capstone project
Placement Guidance
Great for curious, creative students who want practical, future-ready skills.
Certification Preparation
Prepare for tomorrow. Understand AI today.
How to Apply for the Computer Science Program
Contact your high school counselor to apply!
*Indicates a program that is included in the Genesee County Career and Technical Education Early Middle College (GC CTE EMC) as a program option.