One of the most valuable methods of learning in Technology is building and reflecting on projects. This takes the theoretical knowledge acquired in a classroom setting and applies it in a practical way, allowing for more career-focused skill building.

Key Features

For second-year students of Warren Tech’s Computer Science and Cybersecurity program, this means a recurring, self-directed, project-based curriculum. The goal of this curriculum is a recurring 2-week cycle is project delivery, starting from the project proposal through to the presentation, the key features of which are:

• Student-driven project selection to enhance engagement and creativity
• Emphasis on both technical skills and soft skills (presentation, planning, project management)
• Integration of real-world cybersecurity challenges and computer science concepts
• Iterative learning process with regular feedback loops
• Opportunity for interdisciplinary projects combining CS and cybersecurity

This curriculum structure allows up to eight complete project cycles per semester, giving students multiple opportunities to refine their skills, explore different areas of computer science and cybersecurity, and build a portfolio of projects.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is divided into three main phases: Pitch, Produce, and Present (P³). This structure allows students to experience the full lifecycle of a project, from initial concept to final delivery. Each phase is designed to develop different skills and competencies essential for success in computer science and cybersecurity fields, while engaging with each student’s individual interests and aptitudes.

Monday-Tuesday (Week 1): Pitch

The Pitch involves a written and spoken proposal of a project the student would like to work on. While the project criteria is relatively open ended and up to student creativity, it should adhere to the following guidelines and boundaries:

• Projects must expect to take a week’s worth of time. Larger projects must be broken up, while smaller ones must be expanded upon.
• Projects must expand on the student's knowledge and challenge their existing experience in the field of computer science or cybersecurity.
• Projects must be proposed and approved by their instructor.
• Projects may be worked on as a group of no more than two students, but will require increased complexity and scrutiny.

The Pitch phase is designed to encourage students to think critically about their project ideas and develop their ability to communicate technical concepts effectively. During this phase, students will:

• Research and explore potential project ideas within their areas of interest.
• Develop a project proposal outlining objectives, scope, and expected outcomes.