HS Course Selection Guide - Chester County TCHS -Brandywine Campus

  • The Chester County Technical College High School Brandywine Campus is a public high school specializing in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and available for students in grades 9 through 12. CTE programs prepare students for success in college, the workplace and life. All CTE programs at the Brandywine Campus are designated as High Priority Occupations (HPO) by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and are aligned with the Pennsylvania State Academic Standards and national industry certifications.

    CTE programs at the Brandywine Campus lead seamlessly to postsecondary education through the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) SOAR Programs of Study. The mission of SOAR is to prepare Students (who are) Occupationally and Academically Ready for college and careers in an increasingly diverse, high-performing workforce. Graduates of approved SOAR programs who meet challenging academic and technical criteria qualify for several FREE technical credits at over twenty-five participating colleges across Pennsylvania. These include the Pennsylvania College of Technology, Delaware County Community College, Clarion University, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, and Harcum College. For more information about SOAR and the complete list of participating colleges and postsecondary program, please go to http://www.education.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/programs_of_study/7686/srticulations/679190

    • Traditional high school career and technical programs
    • Traditional college courses
    • Dual-enrollment classes that blend high school and for-credit college courses

    Each program is described below. Additional information may be found at http://www.cciu.org.

    Allied Health Science Technology - EMT

    This highly successful senior-only program is a college preparatory program for academically talented high school seniors considering a career in the medical profession. The program includes 7.5 hours per week of classroom and clinical experience in a healthcare facility. Due to the number of clinical locations available, the program has limited enrollment. TCHS Brandywine participating hospitals include Brandywine Hospital, Chester County Hospital, Jennersville Regional Hospital, and Paoli Memorial Hospital.

    Animal Science

    Animal Science and Technology prepares students to provide for the welfare of animals in the pet companion industry, veterinary science and biomedical fields. Graduates of the program are prepared for post-secondary education and entry-level employment. Upon graduation, interesting and rewarding career paths can be followed which combine a love for animals with an interest in the life sciences. Program concentrations include animal anatomy and physiology, animal cruelty issues, animal hygiene, genetics, husbandry, nutrition, preventative care and medicine, reproduction, and surgical assisting. Due to the emphasis on science and math, students considering this program should possess a strong academic foundation.

    Automotive Collision Technology

    Automotive Collision Technology is for students who have a keen interest in motor vehicles and an eye for color, shape and creativity. Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue professional credentialing, entry-level employment, and post-secondary education. Automotive Collision technology instruction is provided in the following areas: detailing and estimating, glass and hardware repair and replacement, metal finishing and body fillings, non-structural damage repair, outer body panel repair, painting and refinishing, welding and cutting. Program learning activities parallel the industry-recognized I-CAR curriculum.

    Automotive Service Technology

    The Automotive Service Technology program is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and prepares students for post-secondary education and entry-level employment in the rapidly changing automotive service industry. Students are introduced to the ever-changing advancements that occur in the automotive industry such as hybrid vehicle design and maintenance. Instruction is provided in the following areas: automotive electrical and electronics systems, brake repair and installation, drive train and engine performance, heating and cooling systems, suspension and steering systems. The program also emphasizes customer relations and instructs students in the use of proper etiquette in a service economy.

    Baking & Pastry Arts Program

    The baking and pastry program provides students with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become an accomplished pastry artist.

    Barbering

    The Barbering program prepares students for the Pennsylvania State Board of Barbering Examination and includes all phases of hair and skin care, including beard and mustache trimming, facials, haircutting, honing and stropping, light therapy, perming, scalp treatments, shampooing, shop management, and tapering. Instruction in basic chemistry, anatomy and physiology, bacteriology, and infection control is also included. Students who have earned sufficient hours will be eligible to take the state licensing examination and obtain entry-level employment in the barbering or related field of employment.

    Carpentry

    The Carpentry program develops students’ skills for a career in the residential, commercial and home improvement construction industry. Students enrolled in the program learn safety practices, job estimating, and materials selection practices. They also learn the basics of rough carpentry, including the layout of walls, rafters, stairs and floors. Finish carpentry is also studied, including blueprint reading and drafting, cutting and joining construction materials, door, window and trim installation. Students have the opportunity to learn cabinet and furniture construction, including the use of laminates. A major focus is the construction of the joints required in fine cabinetry and furniture construction. Students study blueprint reading, construction methods and estimating, materials selection, and the safe use of hand and power tools. Students are responsible for the completion of hands-on carpentry and cabinetmaking projects from start to finish.

    Commercial & Graphic Arts

    Commercial and Graphic Arts involves creating communication materials that promote ideas, products and services. Students enrolled in this program explore the many facets of the commercial and graphic arts industries and build a strong foundation in the design and production of a wide variety of communication materials. Students learn the basics of design, color theory, page layout, lettering and the production skills needed for the printing process. Advanced study focuses on the use of computer graphic design skills and introduces students to software, such as Adobe™ Creative Suite, PhotoShop, InDesign, Illustrator, Flash, Bridge, and Acrobat Pro. The course is based on industry standards that prepare students for admission to post-secondary art schools and entry-level employment in the graphic communications industry. Upon completion of the course, students have a portfolio of their work to present to prospective employers and college admissions officers.

    Community Health - Allied Health

    Community Health - Allied Health is a community-based program that allows students to explore health issues through hands-on experiences that have a positive impact in the community.

    Computer Information Systems-Networking

    In the Computer Information Systems program, there is an emphasis on operating systems, applications programming languages, and networking equipment through hands-on training. After successful completion of the course, students are prepared for post-secondary education and entry-level positions in the computer support and operations, networking, and software development fields. There are four primary tracks addressed in the Computer Information Systems program, as follows: Networking Hardware, Networking Software, A+ Training, and Application/Web Development. In addition, all students are exposed to network security concepts. Our Security+ training course teaches the latest testing objectives and is designed to assist users in implementing and maintaining communication security, cryptography, access control, infrastructure security and authentication.

    Cosmetology

    The Cosmetology program prepares students for state licensing in the field of cosmetology. Students can qualify to become a licensed cosmetologist or to obtain a specialized license in other areas, such as: nail technician, esthetician or natural hair braider. Program theory and hands-on skill instruction is provided in the following areas: facials, hairstyling, cutting, coloring, permanent waving and relaxing, straightening, infection control, principals and practice, manicures and pedicures, and professional awareness.

    Criminal Justice & Police Sciences

    The Criminal Justice and Police Sciences program prepares students for both post-secondary education and entry-level employment in the protective services field. Students in the program are graded based on mastery of traditional classroom theory and performance of hands-on skills, including: performing police and security tactics, investigating crime scenes, and investigation report writing. Students receive instruction in the following areas: basic fire science, crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, criminal law, civil law, and court procedures, electronic security systems, forensic science, investigative photography, police and security tactics, and self defense.

    Culinary Arts

    The Culinary Arts program teaches students the necessary skills to be successful in the creative and rewarding food service industry. Graduates of the program may choose to continue their education with advanced standing in college and other post-secondary programs, or they may seek employment in entry-level culinary positions. The instructional program includes classroom theory and hands-on skill development in the following areas: baking, catering, customer service, food preparation, food service management, short order and high volume cooking. Graduates of the program are recognized as graduates of an American Culinary Federation approved program.

    Digital Media & Sound Communication

    Digital Media & Sound Communications offers students interested in content creation, production and multimedia communication the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to pursue careers in this growing field. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience using industry-standard cameras, a recording studio, sound boards, editing software and other technologies that will help them bring their creative visions to life.

    Early Childhood Care & Education

    The Early Childhood Care and Education program aligns its curriculum with the Pennsylvania Department of Education Bureau of Career & Technical Education Child Development Associate (CDA)-Ready curriculum. All components of our Early Childhood Care and Education program prepare students to earn the CDA national certification. To become CDA ready, students complete 120 hours of formal training through multiple modalities, such as: active accredited trainings, project-based learning, research and field observations, and web-based distance education. Students gain experience as they rotate through various in-house preschool programs. Students create portfolios and professional development records that document their training and 480 hours of experience working with children in a preschool environment. Agreements with various colleges can provide students with between six and 15 undergraduate credits in early childhood education after completing the program.

    Electrical & Mechanical Systems

    The Electrical & Mechanical Systems program enables students to gain the necessary skills to pursue electrical or mechanical engineering programs in college. Instruction is provided in the following areas: AC and DC machines, blueprint reading, commercial/industrial wiring, emergency powers systems, motor controls and single-and three-phase transformers. Through classroom theory, lab work and real-world, hands-on experiences, graduates of this program are prepared to continue their education in college or seek entry-level employment in the electrical trades.

    Electrical Occupations

    Students who are passionate about electronics and want their education to include hands-on building, installing, and repairing of electrical systems will thrive in this program. Students will be provided with an understanding of safety, the handling of power tools, how to navigate a job site, and an in-depth understanding of electricity. This program will allow students to navigate the National Electrical Code (NEC) and be well-positioned to pursue careers in the electrical trades.

    Engine Technology

    The Engine Technology and Recreational Vehicles program prepares students with the skills to troubleshoot and repair residential, commer- cial, and recreational outdoor power equipment and small engine. The program is aligned with the industry-recognized Equipment Engine Training Council (EETC) certification program, and includes engine repair and rebuilding, performance upgrades and the repair of various systems. The systems covered in the program include fuel, electronic, lubrication, cooling and braking systems. Maintenance procedures are a key component of the program as they relate to welding, fabrication and machining. The use of computer technology in a customer service- and teamwork-based learning environment, is a major focus of the program. Career advancement in this field is largely dependent upon post-secondary education and successful work experience.

    EMT - Allied Health Science Technology

    This fast-paced program prepares students to gain hands-on experience providing emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients.

    Health Career Pathways

    Students explore the many exciting career pathways available in the health and medical occupations fields. They study vital signs, adult and pediatric patient assessment, ambulatory devices, and direct patient care. Direct clinical observation experience in a health care setting may be arranged to prepare students for a variety of careers in the health care industry. The Health Occupations program combines instruction in anatomy and physiology, growth and development, health careers, medical abbreviations, medical ethics, medical terminology, and nutrition. An emphasis is placed on communication and leadership skills, computer literacy and medical math. Many graduates of this program choose to continue their education to pursue careers in nursing, sports medicine, physical therapy and radiology.

    Hospital Pathway - Allied Health

    This hospital-based program is for students interested in providing inpatient and outpatient care to the community. Students will spend time in each clinical rotation with professionals, observing direct patient care and diagnostic testing. Students will learn medical terminology and medical abbreviations; ethical, professional behavior and anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students may have the opportunity to complete a three-to-six week internship in a particular area of interest at the end of the year.

    HVAC/ Refrigeration Technology

    The HVAC/Refrigeration Technology program provides students with the opportunity to install, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Students in the program develop the skills needed to assemble and install tubing and piping systems, motors, compressors, control devices, valves and thermostats. Blueprints and schematics for related equipment and systems are also studied. In addition, basic electrical and control circuit concepts are taught and applied. Classroom presentations are reinforced by hands-on projects that enhance the learning experience. Graduates of the program may choose to continue their education in a post-secondary technical program, pursue an apprenticeship, or gain entry-level employment in the HVAC/refrigeration field.

    Marketing & Financial Services

    The Marketing and Financial Services program at TCHS Brandywine is designed to train students for careers in sales and customer service in banking, retail and many other fields. Students are also academically prepared to pursue postsecondary degrees in business administration, accounting, marketing, and finance. The student-operated branch of the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union, located in the high school, affords the Marketing and Finance students the opportunity to develop and apply their skills in a way that cannot be duplicated in the classroom.

    Sports Medicine

    This program offers students who are interested in pursuing a career in athletic training, kinesiology, physical training, exercise science or medicine the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field. Classroom instruction will help prepare students to be successful in a variety of placement opportunities in sports and physical therapy rehabilitation centers alongside professionals in the field. This program prepares students to pursue post-secondary opportunities or enter the workforce upon successful
    completion.

    Teacher Leadership Academy

    Students who are interested in becoming a teacher or pursuing a career in education would be a great fit for this program. With Pennsylvania currently projecting a teacher shortage, Teacher Leadership Academy (TLA) offers students real-world experience in Chester County school districts that will help set them apart as they pursue a career in education. This program prepares students to pursue postsecondary opportunities upon successful completion.

    Veterinary Science

    The Veterinary Science program prepares students for successful employment in the field of veterinary medicine in entry-level positions at private veterinary practices, animal hospitals, biomedical research facilities, pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic laboratories and the military. Students interact with animals in and out of the classroom, job shadow and attend clinics with local veterinarians. The Veterinary Science program is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education with an emphasis on the sciences. Students must possess a strong academic foundation and have at least a 3.0 GPA. Students in this program have the opportunity to pursue college credits while enrolled at TCHS.

    Other Offerings Through the Chester County IU

    NOTE: Contact the CCIU at www.cciu.org/drivered to enroll in these courses.

    Driver Education: Highway Safety no credit Online Theory Instruction cost: $125*

    The main goal of this course is for students to acquire driver knowledge, including up-to-date safe driving and defensive driving techniques. Each concept is reinforced with study guides and movies, as well as outside resources. The Online Theory Course consists of 19 chapters and contains a quiz at the end of each chapter. Students must score 80% or higher on each quiz before moving on to the next chapter. In addition, students must score 80% or higher on the final exam in order to receive a certificate of completion. Online Theory takes approximately 30 hours to complete. Students will have one year (12 months) to complete the course.

    Behind the Wheel Instruction no credit (10, 11, 12) 6 hours cost: $464*

    This instruction is necessary to complete minimum requirements for possible insurance reduction and a regular license. This phase includes six hours of actual on-the-road driving instruction with an instructor from an outside contractor in a dual-control car. Lessons may be scheduled during study halls, during major subjects on a rotating basis, after school, and on weekends. The instructor can administer the driving test to students during the last half-hour of their lesson if they have completed the theory portion training and have had their permit for six months. This eliminates the need to go to a Pennsylvania Driving Center to take the test.
    Prerequisite: Enrollment in/or completion of Theory Instruction and at least sixteen years of age.
    *Rates are subject to change without notice.