Magnet Program - Hunterdon Central Regional High School

Architectural Design Academy Magnet Program

The Architectural Design Academy is a creative hub for students who love sketching, building, and visualizing innovative spaces and structures. Through hands-on projects and design exploration, students develop the skills to think critically about form, function, and aesthetics. Whether aspiring to become architects, civil engineers, designers, or creators of the built environment, participants learn to shape the spaces where we live, work, and play. Students may enter the academy in 9th grade if prerequisites are met.

Supervisor Robert Hastings, Ph.D. reviews the TED academies (Architectural Design, Engineering and Robotics) in the video below, along with Media & Communications, which he also oversees.

Courses in Architectural Design Academy

Courses must be taken in the following sequence. To earn the Architectural Design Academy endorsement on their high school diploma, students would need to take all three courses listed below.

#830 — RESIDENTIAL DESIGN — 2.5 Credits

Grades: 9-10

This course will provide students with an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of Architectural Design. Students will explore residential architectural styles, basic building codes and structural requirements. Students will progress through creating residential floor plans and developing interior designs using drafting tools then expanding their ideas into computer design. Students will make decisions based on personal needs, desires and available resources to design living spaces. Residential Design is the first course required for students interested in pursuing the Architectural Design Academy.

#832 — ARCHITECTURE — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: #830 Residential Design

Architecture is a project-based STEM course for students who are considering careers in architecture, civil engineering, planning, and construction. Students will draw, design and build architectural structures. Students will use AutoCAD to draw a block plan of their own neighborhood. They will design and draw floor plans. They will design, build, and test a tall structure and model a small sustainable house. Students will use an advanced professional CAD system to model a final house design and produce plans and images of their virtual model. It is recommended that students have an understanding of problem-solving and the engineering design process. This is the second required course if students are pursuing the Architectural Design Academy sequence.

#834 — SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE DESIGN — 5 CREDITS

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: #832 Architecture

Students will learn the fundamentals of the sustainable side of Architecture. Students will explore the reuse, renew and recycle side of design, along with an element of alternative design. Students will design structures that are sustainable and green. Emphasis will be on repurposing an existing structure, developing recreational areas, and ADA (American Disability Act). LEED Certification will be introduced and used as a basis for eco-friendly designs. Sustainable Design is the last course in the Architectural Design Academy sequence.

Biomedical Science Academy Magnet Program

The Biomedical Science Academy is a four-year progression of courses designed for ALL students to explore options and develop skills related to a career in the dynamic and varied field of healthcare. To earn the Biomedical Science Academy endorsement on their high school diploma, students would need to take all four biomedical science courses offered. Please note that the biomedical science courses do not satisfy the science graduation requirements.

#481 — INTRODUCTION TO THE BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES — 5 CREDITS

Grade 9

This course serves as the foundation course for the Hunterdon Central Biomedical Science Academy. During the first half of the course, students will explore the core competencies for Inter-Professional Collaborative Practice (IPCP), the U.S. Healthcare System, Dimensions of Wellness, the Health/Illness Continuum, Levels of Prevention, searching healthcare literature, general systems theory, and an introduction to the healthcare delivery system. Through classroom lectures, group discussions, and hands-on activities, students will develop a solid foundation in biomedical science and gain an understanding of how the healthcare system operates in the United States.

During the second half of the course, students will investigate a specific health-related profession in order to develop an understanding of how it fits within the overall healthcare system as well as to discover what typical preparation, credentialing, and employment opportunities exist. Students will be encouraged to interview a healthcare professional as part of their investigation. As a culminating activity, students will participate in a professional poster presentation session to communicate their findings. Eligible students can earn 4 credits for Stockton University's course HLTH 1101-Introductions to the Health Sciences. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#482 — BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 2 — 5 CREDITS

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: Successful completion of #481 Introduction to the Biomedical Sciences.

This course serves as the second course in the Hunterdon Central Biomedical Science Academy sequence. Students will continue their exploration of medical professions while further developing their familiarity with medical terminology. The first part of this course will focus on the role of medical research in healthcare, as well as methods of medical research and experimentation. During the second part of the course, students will engage in hands-on investigation of human body systems with a focus on the muscular, skeletal and integumentary systems.

#483 — BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 3: ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY/MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY — 5 CREDITS

Grade: 11

Prerequisite: Successful completion of #482 Biomedical Sciences 2.

Special Note: This course should not be taken if the student has already taken #470-Anatomy & Physiology.

This course serves as the third course in the Hunterdon Central Biomedical Science Academy sequence. Students will continue an exploration of basic medical terminology as well as engage in hands-on investigation of the digestive, excretory system (including urinary and respiratory), circulatory (including lymphatic, immune, and cardiovascular), nervous, reproductive and endocrine systems using realistic anatomical models, case studies, as well as dissection. In each unit, students will explore pathophysiology and medical career pathways to make connections in the community preparation of the year 4 seminar. This course has dual enrollment agreements with Raritan Valley Community College and Fairleigh Dickinson University. Eligible students can earn 4 credits for RVCC’s course, BIOL 120-Human Biology, and 3 credits for FDU’s course, BI 112-Medical Terminology. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#484 — BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 4 — 5 CREDITS

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of #483 Biomedical Sciences 3.

This course serves as the fourth course and culminating capstone experience in the Hunterdon Central Biomedical Science Academy sequence. In this course, students will explore current events in biomedical science as well as the five health science career pathways through various guest speakers and hands-on activities. Students will investigate several case studies challenging them to apply the core competencies of Inter-Professional Collaborative Practice (IPCP), as well as principles of medical ethics. Finally, students will research a specific health-related profession in order to develop an understanding of how it fits within the overall healthcare system as well as to discover what typical preparation, credentialing, and employment opportunities exist. Students will interview a healthcare professional and write a culminating paper on the experience. This course is eligible for dual enrollment with Stockton University. Students can earn 4 credits for Stockton's course, HLTH 1101-Introduction to Health Sciences. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

Computer Science Academy Magnet Program

Become the next generation of digital architects, cybersecurity experts, or software developers. The Computer Science Academy is designed for the student who demands more than introductory coursework—it is your pathway to an in-depth exploration of the field, resulting in a Computer Science endorsement on your high school transcript. This rigorous four-year journey offers mastery in AP-level coursework, including AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A. Students will learn to design Tech Stacks, System Architecture, and Relational Database Management Systems (SQL). The program provides tangible value by offering college credit through partnerships with institutions such as Seton Hall University and Raritan Valley Community College.

Supervisor Robert Cole reviews courses offered in the Computer Science Academy in the following video.

Starting with the Class of 2027, students must complete 20 credits to earn the Computer Science Academy endorsement on their diploma. Students entering Hunterdon Central will need to take Computer Science Academy 1 then Computer Science Academy 2 plus 10 more credits. Students in the Class of 2026 must complete 12.5 credits.

#381 — COMPUTER SCIENCE ACADEMY 1/Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles - 5 CREDITS

Grades: 9

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

This course introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and computational thinking. It covers topics such as problem-solving, data analysis, algorithms, and programming, while also exploring the impact of computing and technology on society. Students will learn to create digital artifacts, design and implement algorithms, understand and use abstractions, and explore cybersecurity principles. The course emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, and is designed to be accessible to students with varying levels of prior experience. The course prepares students to take the AP Exam for AP Computer Science Principles. In addition, students enrolled in this AP course who take the AP Exam will receive full AP weight for the course. Otherwise, Honors weight will apply. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Seton Hall University. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#382 - COMPUTER SCIENCE ACADEMY 2/Advanced Placement Computer Science A - 5 CREDITS

Grade 10

Prerequisite: #381 Computer Science Academy 1/AP Computer Science Principles

This course builds on foundational coursework with a focus on object-oriented programming and problem-solving using Java. Students gain a deep understanding of programming concepts such as data structures, algorithms, control structures, and object-oriented design, with an emphasis on writing, testing, and debugging code. Topics include classes, objects, inheritance, arrays, ArrayLists, recursion, and searching/sorting algorithms. Through practical coding exercises, students build computational skills and learn best practices. This course prepares students to take the AP Computer Science A exam. In addition, students enrolled in this AP course who take the AP exam will receive full AP weight for the course. Otherwise, Honors weight will apply. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Raritan Valley Community College. Eligible students can earn 4 credits for RVCC's course, CSIT 105-Foundations of Computer Science. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

Advanced Courses

#ET40 — ADVANCED WEB PAGE DESIGN — 2.5 CREDITS
#369 — CYBERSECURITY 2 — 2.5 CREDITS

#ET40 — ADVANCED WEB PAGE DESIGN — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: #ET35 Introduction to HTML & Web Page Design

This course is for all students who have taken Introduction to HTML & Web Page Design and want to learn the advanced features of creating web pages. Students utilize advanced WYSIWYG programs to incorporate dynamic elements into their web page, which include the application of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). Students will have the opportunity to explore their design aesthetic and learn how to create a web design that corresponds with a brand’s marketing plan.

#369 — CYBERSECURITY 2 — 2.5 CREDITS

Prerequisite: Cybersecurity 1

This course is designed for students who are interested in exploring careers in Cybersecurity. The focus of instruction will include the implementation and monitoring of security on network and computer systems. Students will investigate strategies to identify and protect against security threats such as hackers, eavesdropping and network attacks. The basics of cryptography and logic reasoning will be explored. Hands-on labs in a cyber range provide practice in the configuration and mitigation of system vulnerabilities. Each unit integrates current events and related cyber ethics and law. *Ethics agreement must be signed by all students and parents during the first 2 weeks of class.

Additional Course Options

#362 — INTERNET OF THINGS — 2.5 CREDITS

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 any level

This course is intended to provide students with a fundamental understanding of three big concepts: 1) “Internet of Things”, 2) “Cloud Computing” and 3) “Web Services”. This will be achieved by hands-on design and building of a network that integrates home devices such as lights, outlets and motion detectors. The student will integrate and manage devices through Home Automation Software, Cloud Computing on Amazon Web Services. Solutions will be developed to interact and control these devices through Alexa, web interfaces and mobile devices across the internet. Prior programming experience is not required for this course.

#364 — COMPUTER SCIENCE 1 – JAVA — 2.5 CREDITS

Corequisite: Algebra 2 (any level)

This is an in-depth course designed to teach the fundamentals of computer science and program design. The programming language used in the course to teach these concepts is Java. The course covers classes; operators; input and output; control statements and functions. It is recommended for the serious minded problem solver who is interested in a career in a computer-related field. Students should have good study skills and a strong interest in computers. Since this is a lab-oriented problem-solving course, good attendance, and the ability to focus and stay on task are important. Students are expected to complete programming assignments outside of class.

#365 — CYBERSECURITY I — 2.5 CREDITS

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 any level

This course is designed for students who are interested in exploring careers in Cybersecurity. The focus of instruction will include the implementation and monitoring of security on network and computer systems. Students will investigate strategies to identify and protect against security threats such as hackers, eavesdropping and network attacks. The basics of cryptography and logic reasoning will be explored. Hands-on labs in a cyber range provide practice in the configuration and mitigation of system vulnerabilities. Each unit integrates current events and related cyber ethics and law. *Ethics agreement must be signed by all students and parents during the first 2 weeks of class.

#636 — COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

Computer Science Discoveries is an introductory computer science course that empowers students to create authentic artifacts and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun. Areas of study include problem-solving, animation and games, the design process, data and society, and physical computing. Students will also be exposed to the fundamentals of web development.

#ET35 — INTRO TO HTML & WEB PAGE DESIGN — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

This course is designed as a basic introduction to HTML and creating web pages. The students read, write, and edit HTML coding. The students learn how to create, edit, and manage web pages. The course also explores the basics of WYSIWYG programs, as well as basic picture editing. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Raritan Valley Community College. Eligible students can earn 3 credits for RVCC’s course, IDMX 225-Web Page Development I. Visit the HCRHS Dual Enrollment web page for more information.

#653 — DIGITAL MULTIMEDIA DESIGN — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

This course provides students the opportunity to create dynamic presentations that incorporate text, digital images, audio, and video. Students learn to use a combination of hardware and software to plan, design, create, and deliver multimedia presentations through graphics, print, and video. Students demonstrate their mastery by creating multimedia presentations for content areas throughout the school and for their own visual expression of a specified topic.

Engineering Academy Magnet Program

The Engineering Academy is designed for hands-on learners who enjoy designing, building, and testing innovative ideas. Students explore real-world engineering concepts through creative problem-solving and collaborative projects. This academy prepares future engineers and innovators to develop practical solutions that shape the world around us. Students may enter the academy in 9th grade if prerequisites are met.

Supervisor Robert Hastings, Ph.D. reviews the TED academies (Architectural Design, Engineering and Robotics) in the video below, along with Media & Communications, which he also oversees.

Courses must be taken in the following sequence in order to receive the Engineering Academy endorsement on the high school diploma.

#806 - Pre-Engineering - 2.5 credits

Grades: 9-12

This course provides a general introduction to course offerings in the Technology, Engineering and Design (TED) department. It will provide students with hands-on experience in technical drawing, design, fabrication and engineering through project-based units. Students will use problem-solving techniques to brainstorm and create solutions, and will develop an understanding of the design process, technical drawing, basic tool usage, and safety skills. This is the first course in the Engineering Academy sequence.

#804 - Engineering 1: Principles - 5 credits

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: Any level of Geometry, #806 Pre-Engineering

Engineering 1: Principles is a course that covers a variety of disciplines that are found within a Technical/Engineering Career. This course is ideal for students who are considering a STEM-related career choice and are looking for hands-on experience. Students develop their designs using sketching, computer-aided design (CAD), and 3D prototyping. Students use CAD to design, build and animate a mechanical system. Students will explore different branches of engineering and solve multi-layered engineering problems through the use of the design process. They will develop their solutions through research, brainstorming, sketching, creating technical drawings, creating CAD models, and using tools and materials to create working prototypes. Throughout the course, students will document their projects in a digital engineering notebook. It is recommended that students have an understanding of problem-solving and the engineering design process. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with New Jersey Institute of Technology. Eligible students who complete this course and HCRHS course #806 can earn 2 credits for NJIT’s course, MET 103, Engineering Graphics and Introduction to CAD. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information. This is the second required course in the Engineering Academy sequence.

#803 - Engineering 2: Honors Application - 5 credits

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: #804 Engineering 1: Principles AND any level of Algebra 2 AND any level of Geometry

Engineering 2: Honors Application is an advanced-level, project-based STEM course for students who are considering engineering or technical careers. Students must have prior experience with Geometry and Computer Aided Design before taking this course. Students use analog and digital tools to reverse engineer, analyze and prototype a complex mechanical system. They design and build advanced assemblies, electronic circuits, and program microprocessors. Throughout the course, students will document their projects in a digital engineering notebook. The course culminates with students applying these skills to a final project of their own design. This is the final required course in the Engineering Academy sequence.

Media & Communications Academy Magnet Program

The Media & Communications Academy is for students who are passionate about storytelling and creative expression behind the camera or microphone. Through hands-on projects and real-world experiences, students develop skills in media production, reporting, and digital communication. This academy prepares future reporters, content creators, journalists, and communication professionals to share stories that inform, inspire, and connect audiences.

Students may enter the academy in 9th grade. Students must take the Introduction to Media and Communications course first and then either the two radio/podcasting courses or the two TV/video production courses to meet the requirements for this academy and earn the endorsement on their high school diploma.

#850 — INTRODUCTION TO MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS — 2.5 CREDITS

#855 — TELEVISION/VIDEO PRODUCTION 1 — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: #850 Introduction to Media and Communications

Television/Video Production 1 is a course that explores the fascinating world of digital video and television production. Students learn the ”nuts and bolts” of the production process, use professional equipment in a modern digital TV studio and gain experience with industry-standard video editing software. Students work in collaborative teams to produce video projects using small cameras while learning the basics of studio and field production, lighting, and sound. Special emphasis is placed on creativity and the writing process. Classes also tape daily announcements which are seen in the school and throughout the community via the school's educational access television channel and HCTV YouTube Channel. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Seton Hall University. Eligible students can earn 3 credits for Seton Hall's course, COBF 1220-Introduction to Digital Media Production. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#856 — TELEVISION/VIDEO PRODUCTION 2 — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: #855 Television/Video Production 1

Television/Video Production 2 builds on the skills learned in Television/Video Production 1. Students explore the techniques and styles of various video genres while learning advanced production skills. The class is project-based, collaborative, and emphasizes writing, creativity, and the development of professional skills. Students build on editing skills learned in Television/Video Production 1 and incorporate special effects to increase the quality of their productions. In addition, students in this class compete against other schools in a state-wide challenge to write, produce, and edit a short film.

This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Seton Hall University. Eligible students who complete this course can earn 3 credits for Seton Hall’s course, COBF 2223-Introduction to Studio Television I. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#851 — RADIO BROADCASTING 1 — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: #850 Introduction to Media and Communications

Radio Broadcasting 1 is an introductory course intended to prepare the student interested in a career in radio. The course provides students with an opportunity to work in a real radio studio as well as examine the various departments and personnel that go into making a radio station function. The course is divided into technical and non-technical instruction. Technical topics include sound, consoles, microphones, basic production, and FM station operations. Non-technical topics include broadcast performance, news, programming, and the history of broadcasting. Students may also gain on-air experience and can earn up to 1.25 credits for participation in a 10-week-long optional radio show broadcast on WCVH 90.5FM. This course has a dual enrollment agreement with Seton Hall University. Eligible students can earn 3 credits for Seton Hall's course COBF 2401-Writing for Radio. Visit the HCRHS dual enrollment webpage for more information.

#852 — RADIO BROADCASTING 2 — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: #851 Radio Broadcasting 1

Radio Broadcasting 2 builds on the skills learned in Radio Broadcasting 1. Some students may serve as student managers of various departments at WCVH, the student-run radio station. The course is divided into technical and non-technical instruction. Technical topics include podcasting, advanced production, and advanced station operations. Non-technical topics include sales, management, interviewing techniques, population demographics, audience research, and copywriting. Students may also gain additional on-air experience and can earn up to 1.25 credits for participation in a 10-week-long optional radio show broadcast on WCVH 90.5FM.

Robotics Academy Magnet Program

The Robotics Academy is designed for students fascinated by the intersection of mechanics, coding, and electronics. Through hands-on projects and problem-solving, students explore how machines think, move, and interact with the world. Students who complete the academy emerge as future automation experts and innovators ready to lead on the front lines of technology. Students may enter this academy in 9th grade if prerequisites are met.

Supervisor Robert Hastings, Ph.D. reviews the TED academies (Architectural Design, Engineering and Robotics) in the video below, along with Media & Communications, which he also oversees.

Courses must be taken in the following sequence.

#815 — INTRODUCTION TO ROBOTICS — 2.5 CREDITS

Grades: 9-10

Note: This course is not open to students who previously completed #812 Robotics.

This course will provide students with an opportunity to learn fundamental robotic skills and programming essentials. Using a VEX platform robot, students work collaboratively to develop a robot to complete specific tasks. Students will have the opportunity to complete projects involving guided research, problem-solving, and design documentation by means of an Engineer’s Notebook.

#817 — ROBOTICS 1 — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 10-12

Prerequisite: #815 Introduction to Robotics

This course is designed to challenge students in the operations of the VEX Robot platform as it teaches science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students will learn how to use feedback from sensors, applied mathematics and measurement to program their robot to navigate in its environment. Students will have the opportunity to complete multiple challenges involving guided research, problem-solving, collaboration, and design documentation by means of an Engineer’s Notebook. Students interested in participating on the Robotics Team are encouraged to consider this course.

#818 — ROBOTICS 2 — 5 CREDITS

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: #817 Robotics 1

This is the culminating course for the Robotics Curriculum and is focused on Advanced Manufacturing and Automation. It is designed to challenge students in the operations of the VEX Robot platform as it teaches science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Students will learn how to use feedback from sensors, applied mathematics and measurement to program their robot to navigate in its environment. Students will have the opportunity to complete multiple challenges involving guided research, problem-solving, collaboration, and design documentation by means of an Engineer’s Notebook. Robotics 2 is required for students pursuing the Magnet Program of study in TE Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering.

Learners to Leaders Education Academy Magnet Program - Coming in 2026-2027!

The "Learners to Leaders" Education Academy is a hands-on, career-focused program for students who want to become educators or work with children. Through three courses—Child Development, Early Childhood Education, and Introduction to Education—students will get a head start on their future careers by exploring the science of how children learn, designing their own lesson plans, and gaining real-world experience in local classrooms. This academy is the perfect fit for students who are natural leaders, love working with children, and want to make a meaningful difference in their community.

Course descriptions coming soon!

Performing Arts Academy Magnet Program - Coming in 2026-2027!

The Performing Arts Magnet Academy provides a rigorous curriculum for students passionate about the performance arts. This program emphasizes student-driven creativity, expression, and artistic choice. Students can earn the Performing Arts endorsement by completing one of the specialized tracks in Theater, Instrumental Music, or Vocal Music. Each track is designed to challenge students to elevate their performance abilities both within collaborative ensemble settings and as solo artists. The academy's curriculum is built to foster advanced technical skills, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of their chosen art form, preparing students for advanced studies and professional pursuits in the arts.

Course descriptions and sequencing coming soon!