Business courses are designed to expose students to career planning in business, health, accounting, marketing, law, technological and management occupations. Our Cooperative Education program offers students an opportunity to blend academics and workplace resume building experiences. The Careers and Technology Department gives students the opportunity to obtain knowledge of skills and abilities necessary in today’s global society. Computer programs such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Publisher and Access are utilized in various computer courses.

BUSINESS AND CAREERS (8030) (9030) Grade 9-12 5 Credits

Exploring business and careers offers our students an understanding of how business operates and an appreciation of the relationship between business and the community. This course will give students the fundamentals of how to prepare for work and life through career planning, money management, and independent living techniques. This course will enable the students to explore their own interests and abilities through various resources so that they will be better prepared for choosing a career path. Students will acquire information in money and banking, investing, job readiness, future career trends, entrepreneurship, resumes, job interviewing, and career planning. Students will learn to understand the importance of human relations through various team-building applications, gain an understanding of the fundamentals of the stock market and investment strategies. In addition, students will gain a better understanding of bank accounts, credit and debit cards, bills, credit scores, taxes, insurance, investing and being an educated critical consumer. Guest speakers are hosted from various career paths.

INTERNSHIP AND BUSINESS CAREERS II – (9034) Grades 11-12 5 Credits (Pass/Fail)

Juniors & Seniors only

A career internship provides work-based learning experience as an extension of school-based career exploration. Juniors and seniors will have the opportunity to participate in paid/unpaid internships at a business, OBHS or an institution for one period during the school day. The internship provides career development opportunities while gaining resume building experience related to their interests, talents and abilities. Students work alongside their mentor/supervisor/educator and develop transferable academic, technical and employability skills. They gain work readiness skills and a broad overview of occupational fields while gaining an appreciation for academics. Weekly timesheets and journals are required.

ACCOUNTING I (9015) Grades 10-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite:

• Students in Accounting I must have earned a grade of “C” or better in Algebra I or a higher level mathematics course.

Accounting I develops an understanding of the accounting skills needed in the financial management of goods and service businesses organized as sole proprietorships and corporations as well as preparation for accounting or finance in college or as a career. Students will use double-entry accounting principles, journalizing, and posting routine business transactions such as cash receipts, payments, purchases, and sales. Course participants will become familiar with the primary types of business organizations, their relationship to each other, and their distinct service to society. An automated accounting computerized instructional program will be introduced to help students make the transition from manual to computer-based accounting. Business ethics will be covered to focus students’ attention on ethical issues in accounting and in the business environment.

ACCOUNTING II (9016) Grades 11-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite:

• Students enrolling in Accounting II must have earned a grade of “C+” or better in Accounting I.

Accounting II expands the basic theories learned in Accounting I to focus primarily on corporations. Students will refine their knowledge of basic accounting by learning additional accounting concepts involving uncollectible accounts, depreciation, plant assets, accrued revenue and expenses, and financial reporting for a corporation. An automated accounting computerized instructional program will be utilized to help students make the transition from manual to computer-based accounting.

ACCOUNTING III Honors (9018) Grade 12 5 Credits

Prerequisite:

• Students enrolling in Accounting III must have earned a grade of “B-“ or better in Accounting II

Accounting III Honors will expand the skills learned in Accounting I and Accounting II and will concentrate on the training necessary for those who expect to study in the fields of business management, accounting, economics, marketing, or business administration at the college level. Students will utilize the accounting software program and focus primarily on a departmentalized merchandising business and eventually, a manufacturing business. Accounting III Honors is part of the Middlesex College Dual Enrollment Program, which can potentially award students three college credits upon completion of the course. Finally, students will be exposed to accounting as a career, as well as various ethical issues in business, which will help focus their attention on the importance of rational and ethical decision-making processes in a global business environment.

MARKETING I (9040) Grades 10-12 5 Credits

This course explores the various career opportunities and skills necessary to become successful in marketing and retail occupations. Students will develop skills in merchandizing and management as well as advertising, display, promotion, distribution, communication, human relations, and selling using a hands-on approach. Additionally, this course applies current marketing concepts to current trends in the “real world” Using multiple tools and resources such as the internet and industry standard software applications. It stresses the multicultural nature of the U.S. domestic marketplace and workplace as well as the move towards a global economy.

BUSINESS/PRE- LAW (9035) Grades 10-12 5 Credits

Virtually every aspect of an individual’s life is affected by business and/or personal law. This course begins with the fundamental principles of law in general and how our local, state, and federal court systems operate. Major topics covered are criminal law/torts, consumer law, problems in society, bailment, juvenile justice, and minors and employment. Personal law is covered with a focus on relevant topics using a “lifestyle” approach. Students participate in field trips to the local municipal court and the state superior court. Guest speakers include attorneys, state troopers, and local law enforcement agencies.

MICROSOFT OFFICE SUITE I (8005) (9005) Grades 9-12 5 Credits

Students are introduced to the Microsoft Office package, which includes Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access. A step-by-step approach is provided, so students learn the many features of each of these programs. Students will learn and apply the concepts to word processing documents, spreadsheets, databases, and power point presentations.

MICROSOFT OFFICE SUITE II (9006) Grades 10-12 5 Credits

Prerequisite:

• Microsoft Office Suite I with a minimum passing grade of a C or better

The rapidly changing world of technology has made computer applications an important component of learning. This course is the second course that is intended to further develop skills using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. A step-by-step approach is provided to improve and expand students’ knowledge of Microsoft Office. This approach assists students in creating projects that will incorporate the Internet while integrating all Microsoft programs.

WEB PAGE DESIGN/DESKTOP PUBLISHING (8010-9010) Grades 9-12 5 Credits

The first part of this course will provide a comprehensive overview of the technology tools and layout procedures for designing published documents in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Publisher for classroom productivity. The second part of this course will expand students’ understanding of the technology tools and design layouts for classroom productivity through Web Page Development tools in Microsoft Office, HTML, and Dreamweaver. Students will be expected to use these tools to produce required classroom projects for other discipline areas.

COMPUTER SCIENCE I (8020) (9020) Grades 9-12 5 Credits

This course introduces the student to computational thinking, problem solving techniques, and algorithm design using web and object-oriented programming languages. Supplemental topics such as graphics, animation, robotics, and designing applications will be covered. Additionally, a brief introduction to networking, computer hardware, Internet principles, telecommunications, and emerging technologies will take place.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (9022) Grades 11-12 5 Credits (AP)

Prerequisite:

• Computer Science minimum grade of a “B”

The AP Principles course introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing affects and changes the world. Topics covered in the course include: programming, robotics, cybersecurity, mobile applications, game design, networking, and social media (user experience and user interface exploration). This is an excellent course to apply skills and concepts learned in Computer Science I.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE (9023) Grades 11-12 5 Credits (AP)

Prerequisite:

• Computer Science I minimum grade of a “B”

This advanced course is intended for students who have successfully completed Computer Science I. The course features the Java programming language and uses object-oriented programming to develop solutions for business, scientific, and gaming problems. At its conclusion, the student will be encouraged to take the College Board’s Advanced Placement Examination in Computer Science. This course is part of the Middlesex College Dual Enrollment Program, which can potentially award students three college credits upon completion of the course.

PERSONAL FINANCE (8031/9031) Grades 9-12 2.5 Credits

This course develops personal finance skills that all students need in order to make wise decisions regarding financial security. Students will discover ways to maximize their earning potential. Topics of study include comparing/contrasting local banks and services that they provide, completion of a personal budget, comparison shopping (online), and check writing and record keeping. Students will be enrolled in the Stock Market Game. This is an online simulation, in which students work in small teams, to build a portfolio. Guest speakers and current events enhance the current curriculum. This is a half year course that is taught in conjunction with Small Business Ownership for Grades sophomores, juniors and seniors ONLY. This half-year course will be taught in conjunction with Civic Responsibilities and Rights for the Grade 9 class only.

SMALL BUSINESS OWNERSHIP (9032) Grades 10-12 2.5 Credits

Today, about 15% of the work force in the United States is composed of entrepreneurs, and the percentage is growing. This semester course will stress initiative, creativity, problem solving skills, and ongoing education to adapt to market changes. Students will choose a particular field that they would like to investigate in regard to business ownership. Their business idea will then be represented in the form of a business plan. Students will research the following areas: competition, location, store layouts, product offerings, pricing strategies, and advertising campaigns. This is a half year course taught in conjunction with Personal Finance for Grades 10-12.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS (9038) Grades 10-12 2.5 Credits

This course will help students develop an understanding of the global marketplace and how businesses throughout the world interact with each other. Topics such as protocol, language, holidays, geography, time differences, currency, customs, and gift giving are studied. Students will learn the fundamentals of international business with a “hands-on” approach. There is a focus on current events and travel. Case studies and research companies such as Microsoft, McDonald’s, Proctor & Gamble, Heinz, and other multinational businesses will be studied.

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT (9036) Grades 10-12 2.5 Credits

Students learn the basis of management today, the management environment, planning, organizing, leadership, and quality control skills. Critical thinking skills are developed through case studies about real-world situations in corporate America. Additionally, students explore their potential management style and careers in management. Other topics include ethics, law, social responsibility, and organizational structure. This is a half year course that is taught in conjunction with Sports and Entertainment Management.

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT (9039) Grades 10-12 2.5 Credits

This course emphasizes Sports and Entertainment Management topics such as leadership, finance, product management, people management, information management, legal and ethical issues, customer relations, sales management, managing change, and career development. Students will become familiar with the management of athletic retail outlets to professional sport teams. Half year course taught in conjunction with Business Management.

COOPERATIVE BUSINESS EDUCATION (CBE)

The following requirements apply to the Cooperative Education Program:

• Students must complete a Cooperative Education application, submit for review and interview with the Cooperative Education Coordinator prior to enrolling in the program.

• Students cannot have more than 14 unexcused absences in grade 11.

• Students must have a willingness to secure employment for the Program and complete 540 hours at their workplace to qualify for credit and comply with the New Jersey required work hours. Employment must be paid through a payroll system (no under the table compensation.)

• Ss

  tudents will be scheduled for early release in order to report to job stations and will be responsible for arranging their own transportation.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (9043) Grade 12 15 Credits

Prerequisite:

• Business/Technology Department Class

Cooperative Education is a work-study program open to seniors who are employed/seeking employment in local businesses to gain on-the-job training. Students have a related class in which they study and review skills needed to succeed after graduation. Adulting 101, college/vocational preparation, independent living, workplace safety, networking, financial fitness, future workforce trends and practices. Students gain an understanding of required universal and soft skills, build a personal Career Portfolio and LinkedIn account through classroom activities and resume building workplace experience.