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High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Engineering

Engineering

The vision of the Engineering regional program is to empower future innovators through a rigorous, interdisciplinary education. Students are challenged to explore real‑world problems, engage in cutting‑edge research, and design solutions that shape the future through collaboration. Through a focused, experiential curriculum, students develop the technical knowledge and problem‑solving skills needed to lead in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.

 

Core Experiences

  • Earn Autodesk Certified User credentials in AutoCAD, Revit, or Fusion 360
  • Connect with industry professionals, university faculty, and industry mentors
  • Participate in competitions and student organizations
  • Earn college credit

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills
    Equip students with a strong academic and technical foundation in engineering principles, mathematics, and applied sciences through rigorous, standards-based coursework. Emphasize the development of analytical thinking, innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving skills essential for success in engineering and related fields.
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience
    Engage students in project-based and experiential learning through engineering labs, robotics, and independent or team-based projects. Offer opportunities for internships, mentorships, and partnerships with local businesses, and higher education institutions, and engineering organizations to enhance technical proficiency and career readiness.
  3. Foster Career and College, Career and/or Community Pathways
    Support students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in engineering, architecture, and advanced technology fields through a structured College Preparatory pathway.

 

Application & Locations

Selection Process: Interest-based application for all sites.  Wheaton also has criteria-based application with the requirement of completing Algebra 1 or higher level math class by the end of grade 8.

Schools:

  • Southern Region: Bethesda-Chevy Chase
  • Eastern Region: Sherwood
  • Central South Region: Wheaton
  • Central Region: Rockville
  • Central North Region: Magruder
  • Northern Region: Poolesville

Course Progression

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

Pathway 1: Interest-based application (all sites)

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

Career Advising

 

Completion of Algebra 1 by end of grade 8

Summer Enrichment & Preparation
Introduction to Engineering Design (if not taken in middle school) Principles of Engineering

Aerospace or Civil Engineering or Digital Electronics

 Engineering Design & Development
Honors Biology Honors or AP Physics 1 Honors Chemistry Advanced/AP Science or Engineering Elective
or
Work-Based Learning
or
Dual Enrollment
Applied STEM Center Lab Computer Science Elective (Python or Java) Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health)
U.S. History NSL Government World History Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health)
World Language World Language World Language or General Elective World Language or General Elective
English English English English
Integrated Algebra I or higher Integrated Algebra II or higher Pre-Calculus or higher Calculus (Calc with Applications, or AP Calculus)

 

 

Pathway 2: Criteria-based application (Wheaton site only)

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

Career Advising

Summer Enrichment & Preparation
Introduction to Engineering Design (If not taken in middle school) Digital Electronics

Aerospace or Civil Engineering

 Engineering Design & Development
Principles of Engineering Honors Chemistry AP Chemistry AP Physics C or AP Biology
AP Physics 1 Honors Biology Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health)
Magnet Precalculus A/B Magnet Precalculus C/D AP Calculus (AB or BC) Math Elective
World Language World Language Elective (PE, Fine Art or Health) Elective
English English English English
AP or Honors US History AP or Honors US Government (NSL) AP or Honors World History Elective

Program Requirements

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

Pathway 1: Interest-based application (all sites)

  • Introduction to Engineering Design (If taken in middle school, students will take two engineering electives below)
  • Principles of Engineering
  • 1 credit from the following three courses
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Civil Engineering
    • Digital Electronics
  • 1 Credit in Computer Programming (Python or Java)
  • 1 Credit in Calculus (Calculus with Applications or Higher)
  • Engineering Design and Development

Pathway 2: Criteria-based application (Wheaton site only)

  • Engineering (5 credits)
    • Introduction to Engineering Design (If taken in middle school, students will take both enfineering electives below)
    • Principles of Engineering
    • Digital Electronics
    • 1 credit from the following two courses
      • Aerospace Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
    • Engineering Design and Development
  • Science (5 credits)
    • AP Physics 1
    • Honors Chemistry
    • Honors Biology
    • AP Chemistry
    • 1 credit from the following two courses
      • AP Physics C
      • AP Biology
  • Math (4 credits)
    • Completion through AP Calculus
    • 1 credit of Math electives each year after completing calculus