HCST Curriculum

This course introduces the foundational principles of photography. Students learn the basic functions of a DSLR camera, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Emphasis is placed on the elements of composition, natural lighting techniques, and an introduction to digital workflow using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.

Building on fundamental skills, this course focuses on controlled lighting and portraiture. Students work in a studio environment, learning to use various light sources and modifiers. Advanced techniques in Adobe Photoshop, such as retouching and compositing, are explored to create professional-quality portraits and images.

This course shifts focus to specific commercial applications. Students explore genres such as product photography, architectural photography, and photojournalism. Assignments are project-based, requiring students to work from a creative brief and develop a cohesive body of work for their portfolios.

As a capstone course, this level simulates a professional photography environment. Students work on complex, client-driven projects, manage their workflow from concept to final delivery, and learn the business aspects of photography, including marketing and pricing. The primary goal is to produce a professional-quality portfolio suitable for college applications or entry-level employment.

This course covers the fundamentals of networking, including topologies, protocols, and the OSI model.

This course focuses on LAN switching, VLANs, and basic router configuration.

An in-depth study of router and switch configuration, routing protocols, and wireless LAN implementation.

Focuses on scalable network design, WAN technologies, and advanced network services for large-scale environments.

Introduces foundational concepts of computer science and challenges students to explore how computing and technology can impact the world.

A college-level course covering cybersecurity principles, including threat analysis, network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking.

A college-level course focusing on advanced networking concepts, protocols, and infrastructure design in preparation for industry certifications.

Introduction to the elements of art and principles of design. Students will develop foundational skills in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

Focuses on typography, color theory, and layout design. Students will create vector graphics for logos and illustrations.

Advanced projects in branding, advertising, and publication design using Adobe InDesign. Emphasis on creating a cohesive brand identity.

Portfolio development and capstone projects that simulate real-world client work. Prepares students for college-level design programs and careers.

Introduction to the fundamentals of digital audio, music theory, and MIDI sequencing. Students will learn to use digital audio workstations (DAWs) to create original music.

Focuses on recording techniques, microphone placement, and audio mixing. Students will work on multi-track recording projects and learn the principles of sound engineering.

Advanced topics in synthesis, sound design, and audio post-production for film and video. Students will create complex soundscapes and explore advanced mixing and mastering.

Portfolio development and capstone projects. Students will produce a professional-quality EP or sound design portfolio, preparing them for college or careers in the audio industry.

Introduction to the fundamentals of video production, including camera operation, basic lighting, audio recording, and non-linear editing with Adobe Premiere Pro.

Focuses on narrative storytelling and broadcast journalism. Students will learn scriptwriting, storyboarding, and advanced editing techniques, producing short films and news segments.

Advanced production techniques, including multi-camera live switching, motion graphics with Adobe After Effects, and green screen compositing. Students will manage and produce live broadcasts.

Portfolio and reel development. Students will take on leadership roles in a capstone project, simulating a professional production environment from pre-production to final delivery.

Introduction to the principles of physical fitness, human anatomy, and proper exercise techniques.

An exploration of human movement, biomechanics, and the physiological response to exercise.

Advanced topics in fitness program design, client assessment, and the science of nutrition for performance.

A detailed study of the structure and function of the human body's major systems, including the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

Practical application of training principles, client interaction, and preparation for personal training certifications.

Continues the study of human body systems with a focus on the cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine systems, and how they integrate.

Focuses on sports medicine concepts, injury prevention, basic athletic training techniques, and rehabilitation protocols.

An overview of various careers in the healthcare industry, medical ethics, and foundational medical terminology.

Builds on foundational knowledge with a focus on patient care procedures, infection control, and vital signs.

A detailed study of the structure and function of the human body's major systems, including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

An exploration of the principles of nutrition and their role in maintaining health, preventing disease, and managing medical conditions.

Provides training in emergency medical response, including patient assessment, CPR, and first aid techniques for various medical emergencies.

Prepares students for the CCMA certification exam, covering clinical procedures, pharmacology, and patient interaction in an ambulatory setting.

Continues the study of human body systems with a focus on the cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, and digestive systems.

An introduction to the fundamental concepts of business, including economics, management, marketing, and finance.

Students will explore the process of creating and managing a new business venture, from idea generation to business plan development.

Covers the principles of marketing, including market research, consumer behavior, branding, and promotional strategies.

Introduction to the principles of accounting, including the accounting cycle, financial statements, and bookkeeping for service and merchandising businesses.

Develops proficiency in essential business software, including word processing, spreadsheets (Excel), and presentation applications.

Advanced accounting principles, focusing on partnerships, corporations, and managerial accounting concepts.

Advanced topics in business software, including database management (Access) and integrating applications for complex projects.

An overview of the financial services industry, covering topics such as banking operations, investments, and personal financial planning.

An introduction to the stages of child development from infancy through adolescence, covering physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

Focuses on planning and implementing developmentally appropriate activities and learning environments for young children.

Covers essential topics in pediatric health, safety, nutrition, and creating a healthy and safe environment for children.

Explores methods for fostering creativity in young children through art, music, dramatic play, and literature.

Introduction to the fundamentals of cosmetology, including safety, sanitation, professional ethics, and basic hair styling and cutting techniques.

Focuses on hair coloring, chemical texture services (perms and relaxers), and an introduction to skincare and facials.

Advanced techniques in hair design and an introduction to nail technology, including manicures and pedicures.

Covers the scientific principles behind cosmetology, including the chemistry of hair and skin products, and relevant anatomy and physiology.

Comprehensive review and practice for the state board licensing exam, with a focus on salon management and business practices.

Advanced study of the biology and chemistry related to hair, skin, and nail treatments, reinforcing the scientific knowledge required for a cosmetology career.

Introduction to kitchen safety, sanitation, basic knife skills, and fundamental cooking techniques. Students will explore the basics of a professional kitchen environment.

Focuses on stocks, sauces, meat fabrication, and various cooking methods. Students will gain hands-on experience in a food service setting.

Exploration of specialized culinary areas, such as baking and pastry, garde manger, and international cuisines. Emphasis on plate presentation and menu development.

A capstone course covering front-of-house operations, cost control, inventory management, and the business of running a restaurant.

Introduction to the fashion industry, basic sewing and garment construction techniques, and the study of different textiles and fibers.

Focuses on pattern making, fashion illustration, and intermediate garment construction. Students will learn to take a design from sketch to finished product.

Advanced construction techniques and an introduction to fashion marketing and merchandising. Students will develop a mini-collection and create a marketing plan.

A capstone course focused on portfolio development and business practices in the fashion industry. Students will create a final collection and present their work in a showcase.