-
Overview
Pathway in Technology Early College (P-TECH) is a high school plan that focuses on getting students ready for college and providing opportunities to earn college-level, credit-bearing coursework through Dual Credit classes.
West Campus HS P-TECH Academy offers students the opportunity to pursue college credit and industry-recognized credentials in Cyber Security. Students enrolling in P-TECH’s four- to six-year Cyber Security program as 9th graders can earn industry-based certifications, Level 1 and Level 2 certificates, and/or an associate’s degree or from Palo Alto College; all while completing their high school diploma requirements — at no cost (FREE) to their family.
About the Program
The West Campus HS P-TECH Academy focuses on preparing students for careers in the Cyber Security field. The academy is for students who want a career related to planning, implementing, upgrading, or monitoring security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. The Cyber Security program of study also includes exploration into responding to computer security breaches and viruses and administering network security measures.
Students enrolled in the West Campus HS P-TECH Academy will take Dual Credit classes at Palo Alto College and which will lead to an Associates Degree in Cyber Defense and Operations, a Level 1 Certificate in Cyber and Digital Forensics, a Level 2 Certificate in Cyber Defense and Operations, and the following industry-based certifications: MTA Industry-Based Certification, CompTIA Security+, and CompTIA PenTest+. All costs for Dual Credit courses and certification are paid by South San Antonio ISD. Courses earned in the Associate Degree at Palo Alto College are transferable to Texas A & M, San Antonio Bachelor of Applied Arts in Science Degree in Information Technology--Cybersecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I apply for the West Campus HS P-TECH Academy?
Students will complete the P-TECH Academy application in the spring of their 8th-grade year. Students accepted into the academy will be enrolled in the summer bridge program which will prepare students for success in taking college-level courses while in high school.
2. Do I have to pay to take the Dual Credit classes and industry-based certification exams?
No, South San Antonio ISD pays the costs for all college classes and certification exams taken by the student.
3. Do I have to take a test to qualify for the West Campus HS P-TECH Academy?
No, the P-TECH Academy does not require students to take an entrance exam. We interview students to ensure that they are committed to the study of Cybersecurity and are aware of the demands of taking college-level courses while still in high school.
