Information Technology

QHS IT students work together at a workstation.Information Technology

At Quincy High, our Information Technology program empowers students with hands-on experience and training for a range of careers, including technical support, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, programming, and network administration. Our program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that covers computer hardware, software, networking, programming, and more. The curriculum is aligned to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Career Technical Education (Chapter 74) Frameworks for Information Support Services and Networking as well as industry-recognized certifications.

We offer:

  • Three-tiered curriculum, covering computer hardware, networking, and advanced programming.

  • CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ certification preparation.

  • Emphasis on building resumes and portfolios with internship opportunities for real-world experience.

Post-Graduate Opportunities

Upon completing our program, students are equipped with the skills and certifications needed for various post-high school education paths. Whether pursuing a 4-year degree, technical certificates, or entering the workforce directly, our graduates are well-prepared for success.

Careers

Information Technology career training opens doors to a variety of exciting opportunities. Immediate employment possibilities include roles as network technicians, security specialists, or information technology support technicians. Further certifications and short-term training can lead to increased earnings and expanded career prospects.

Average Salary

Massachusetts, known for its thriving technology sector, offers competitive salaries for Information Technology professionals. Computer user support specialists average $71,080; network support specialists average $88,340; computer systems analysts average $112,380; database administrators and architects average $98,860.

Industry/Career Outlook

The future is bright for IT professionals. The technical support field is projected to grow by 13% in the next 10 years, surpassing the average growth rate. Specifically, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are among the fastest-growing fields in computer technology, with double-digit growth expected across various tech-related careers.

Equipment/Software Training

Students work with Windows, Windows Server, Linux, and MAC Operating systems, as well as Multimedia and office productivity applications from Microsoft and Google and other Open-Source applications. Cybersecurity topics such as threat identification and mitigation, malware, intrusion prevention and detection, vulnerability assessment and management, and data privacy are explored and practiced. Computer programming with HTML, JavaScript, Python, and C++ is studied. Network design, construction, and maintenance are completed with hand tools, wiring, and connectivity tools as well as system monitors and network software diagnostic utilities. Students also find, test, and evaluate software tools and develop their software toolkits.

Certifications/Certificates

  • Comptia A+

  • Comptia Network +

  • Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)

  • Cisco Networking Academy: IT Essentials

  • Cisco Networking Academy: CCNA R&S; Intro to Networks

  • Cisco Networking Academy: CCNA R&S; Switching Routing and Wireless Essentials

  • Cisco Networking Academy: JavaScript Essentials

  • Cisco Networking Academy: CPA: Programming Essentials in C++

  • Cisco Networking Academy: PCAP: Programming Essentials in Python

  • Cisco Networking Academy: Introduction to Cyber Security

  • Cisco Networking Academy: Cyber Security Essentials

  • Cisco Networking Academy: NDG Linux Essentials

  • Cisco Skills For All: Entrepreneurship

  • Career Safe

  • Certificate of Occupational Proficiency – Information Technology

Articulation Agreements

Bunker Hill Community College – up to 3 credits

  • CIT 182 PC Hardware - 3 credits

New England Institute of Technology – up to 18 credits

  • NE115 Computer and Networking Fundamentals – 3 Credits

  • NE121 Windows Networking Essentials – 4 Credits

  • NE131 Networking for Small Businesses – 3 Credits

  • NE245 Introduction to Networks – 4 Credits

  • NE257 Routing and Switching Essentials– 4 Credits

Quincy College Pathways Program – 15 credits

Students who take Information Technology 1 can get college credit for the following:

  • CSI 101 Introduction to Computers – 3 credits

  • CSI 116 Introduction to Programming – 3 credits

Students who take Information Technology 2 can get college credit for the following:

  • CSI 244 Networking I – 3 credits

  • CSI 217 Operating Systems - 3 credits

Students who take Information Technology 3 can get college credit for the following:

  • CSI 245 Networking II - 3 credits

Recommended Course of Study

Grade 9

  • English

  • Foreign Language

  • Mathematics

  • Science

  • Social Studies

  • Physical Education

  • Pathways

  • Computer Applications 1

Grade 10

  • English

  • Foreign Language

  • Mathematics

  • Science

  • Social Studies

  • Physical Education

  • Information Technology 1

  • 1 Elective Course

Grade 11

  • English

  • Mathematics

  • Science

  • Social Studies

  • Physical Education

  • Information Technology 2

  • 1 Elective Course

Grade 12

  • English

  • Social Studies

  • Physical Education

  • Information Technology 3

  • 3 Elective Courses