Business & Technology
The De La Salle Business & Technology Department offers elective courses to all De La Salle juniors and seniors.
Courses are designed for those who would like to explore business at an introductory level as well as for those who have a high level of interest and plan to study business at the college level and all levels in between. At De La Salle, students have the opportunity to learn about business beyond the traditional means. Students attend field trips, interact with professionals and learn hands on with assistance from Christian Financial Credit Union.
Business & Technology Courses
- 931 - Introduction to Technology
- 932 - Robotics
- 938 - Bloomberg Finance
- 941 - Accounting I
- 942 - Intro to Business
- 947 - PLTW Intro to Engineering Design
- 948 - PLTW Principles of Engineering
- 950 - Civil Engineering & Architecture
- 962 - AI & Cybersecurity
- 963 - AP Business Principles & Finance
- 964 - Drone Technology & Unmanned Aircraft Systems
931 - Introduction to Technology
931 – INTRODUCTION TO TECHNOLOGY
0.5 Credit
Grades Offered: 9, 10 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Grades Offered: 9, 10 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Content for the course is divided into four major units of study that include: an introduction to computer network and technology resources; essential skills and application of both desktop and cloud-based productivity tools used to gather, evaluate and publish information in various digital formats; digital citizenship, where students will study the human, societal, and academic/scholarly issues related to the legal and responsible use of social media, technology and resources obtained online; and, an introduction into numerous disciplines within the information science and technology field, including computer programming, digital image editing, website design, network administration and engineering design principles. This course is delivered utilizing a student-centered approach, where a combination of guided practice, independent investigation, and collaborative inquiry will be utilized to assist students with the acquisition of knowledge and skills, as well as the demonstration of their learning through various work products and assessments.
932 - Robotics
932 – ROBOTICS
0.5 Credit
Grades Offered: 10,11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Grades Offered: 10,11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
This introductory course is designed as an introduction to robotics. The student will build robots/smart machines using motors and sensors (touch, light and sound) and how to program the robot.
This course emphasizes creativity, problem solving and teamwork skills. By building robots, the student will easily practice a set of subjects such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This class will also expose the student to many career opportunities in manufacturing, transportation, surgery, safety, research and mass production of consumer goods. This class can fulfill the Technology requirement beginning with the Class of 2027.
This course emphasizes creativity, problem solving and teamwork skills. By building robots, the student will easily practice a set of subjects such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This class will also expose the student to many career opportunities in manufacturing, transportation, surgery, safety, research and mass production of consumer goods. This class can fulfill the Technology requirement beginning with the Class of 2027.
938 - Bloomberg Finance
938 – BLOOMBERG FINANCE
0.5 Credit
Grade Offered: 11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Grade Offered: 11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Bloomberg Finance is a hands-on course that teaches students how professionals analyze the
stock market and global economy using the same tools found on Wall Street. Students use the
Bloomberg Terminal to research companies, track markets, analyze financial data, and build
investment portfolios. The course focuses on real-world skills such as market analysis, financial
decision-making, and understanding economic news. Students gain practical experience,
improve financial literacy, and can earn the Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) certification,
giving them a strong advantage for college, internships, and future careers in finance and business.
941 - Accounting I
941 – ACCOUNTING I
1 Credit
Grades Offered: 11, 12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Grades Offered: 11, 12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Accounting I introduces students to fundamental accounting concepts while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications through the analysis of Wall Street Journal articles. The course covers key topics such as the accounting cycle, financial statements, ethics in accounting, and the role of bookkeeping in personal and business finances. Students will also explore how technology, like accounting software and spreadsheets, is used to manage financial data effectively.
With a focus on real-world applications, students will analyze business case studies and engage in hands-on projects like simulations and collaborative exercises. The course emphasizes financial literacy, problem-solving, and critical thinking, providing a strong foundation for careers in accounting, finance, or business management. By the end, participants will understand how to interpret financial data, prepare essential reports, and appreciate the role of accounting in business decision-making, making it ideal for those pursuing further studies or valuable financial skills.
942 - Intro to Business
942 – INTRO TO BUSINESS AND MARKETING
1 Credit
Grades offered: 11, 12 (Elective)
Grades offered: 11, 12 (Elective)
The Introduction to Business course offers students a comprehensive overview of the business world, integrating foundational concepts with real-world applications. Through the analysis of Wall Street Journal articles, students explore topics such as economic systems, business ownership, marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and ethics. Key areas include understanding supply and demand, market structures, branding, financial literacy, and the impact of businesses on society, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and informed decision-making.
This course features hands-on projects, simulations, and case studies that apply business theories to practical scenarios. Students will engage in career exploration, developing workplace skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication. By the end, participants will have a solid foundation in business principles, insight into global economic trends, and the ability to critically evaluate real-world business events, making this course an excellent starting point for advanced studies or careers in business.
947 - PLTW Intro to Engineering Design
947 – PLTW INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN
1 Credit
Grade Offered: 9,10,11 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
Grade Offered: 9,10,11 (Elective)
Prerequisites: None
This course is recommended for students who are interested in a career in the field of Engineering.Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work. This is the first course in a series of three, one per year. Freshmen and sophomore students may take this in lieu of physical education, health, and seminar. The course is limited to 20 students as only one can be offered this year. The priority of placement is seniors first, then juniors, followed by sophomore, and finally freshmen. This class can fulfill the Technology requirement beginning with the Class of 2027.
948 - PLTW Principles of Engineering
948 – PLTW PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING
1 Credit
Grade Offered: 10,11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: Completion of 947 Intro to Engineering Design
Grade Offered: 10,11,12 (Elective)
Prerequisites: Completion of 947 Intro to Engineering Design
The course exposes students to some of the major concepts that they will encounter in a postsecondary engineering course of study. Students have an opportunity to investigate engineering and high tech careers. POE gives students the opportunity to develop skills and understanding of course concepts through activity-, project-, and problem-based (APPB) learning. Used in combination with a teaming approach, APPB learning challenges students to continually hone their interpersonal skills, creative abilities, and problem-solving skills based upon engineering concepts. It also allows students to develop strategies to enable and direct their own learning, which is the ultimate goal of education. Students will employ engineering and scientific concepts in the solution of engineering design problems. Students will develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge of research and design to create solutions to various challenges. Students will also learn how to document their work and communicate their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community. Principles Of Engineering is the second of three foundation courses in the Project Lead the Way high school engineering program. The course applies and concurrently develops secondary level knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. The course of study includes: Mechanisms, Energy Sources, Energy Applications, Machine Control, Fluid Power, Statics, Material Properties, Material Testing, Statistics, and Kinematics. Sophomore students may take this in lieu of physical education and health. The course is limited to 20 students due to resources.
950 - Civil Engineering & Architecture
950 - CIVIL ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE
1 Credit
Grade Offered: 12th
Prerequisites: Intro to Engineering Design & Principles of Engineering
Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA) is a high school level specialization course in the PLTW Engineering Program. In CEA students are introduced to important aspects of building and site design and development. They apply math, science, and standard engineering practices to design both residential and commercial projects and document their work using 3D architectural design software.
Utilizing the activity-project-problem-based (APB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students will progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, and other professional skills.Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students will solve problems as they practice common design and development protocols such as project management and peer review.
Students will develop skill in engineering calculations, technical representation and documentation of design solutions according to accepted technical standards, and use of current 3D architectural design and modeling software to represent and communicate solutions
962 - AI & Cybersecurity
962 - AI & CYBERSECURITY
0.5 Credit
Grade Offered: 10th-12th
Prerequisite: None
Grade Offered: 10th-12th
Prerequisite: None
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and computer science concepts designed to prepare students for both college pathways and high-demand technology careers. Students will develop strong computational thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on activities and project-based learning.
Students will explore key cybersecurity principles including digital threats, online safety, social engineering tactics, cryptography fundamentals, and strategies used to protect systems, networks, and data. Instruction is reinforced through analysis of real-world cybersecurity case studies, helping students understand how cyber incidents occur and how professionals respond.
The course integrates learning modules from the Cisco Networking Academy, exposing students to industry-relevant content and career pathways in cybersecurity, networking, and information technology. Students also have the opportunity to earn (2) industry-recognized certificates that validate their IT skills and expand their opportunities through respected coursework and pathways to in-demand technology careers.
Students will also examine the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in society and technology, including how AI impacts cybersecurity, business, and everyday life. Through career readiness projects, students will research AI-driven careers, explore certifications, and build professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and digital responsibility.
Students will also examine the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in society and technology, including how AI impacts cybersecurity, business, and everyday life. Through career readiness projects, students will research AI-driven careers, explore certifications, and build professional skills such as communication, collaboration, and digital responsibility.
By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in modern technology concepts, cybersecurity awareness, and career pathways within the rapidly evolving digital workforce.
963 - AP Business Principles & Finance
963 - AP BUSINESS PRINCIPLES & FINANCE
1 Credit
Grade Offered: 11,12
Prerequisite: None
AP Business with Finance is a college-level course that helps students understand how
businesses work and how money moves in the real world. Students will learn about entrepreneurship, marketing, management, accounting, investing, and personal finance while studying real companies and current economic events. The course focuses on hands-on learning through case studies, projects, simulations, and problem-solving activities. Students will build skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and decision-making that prepare them for college majors and careers in business, finance, economics, and entrepreneurship.
964 - Drone Technology & Unmanned Aircraft Systems
964 - DRONES TECHNOLOGY & UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS
0.5 Credit
Grade Offered: 10-12
Prerequisite: None
Drone Technology and Unmanned Aircraft Systems is a laboratory-based STEM course that explores the physical, natural, and engineering science principles governing the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Students investigate core concepts from physics, aerodynamics, meteorology, electronics, and systems engineering as they relate to multirotor drone flight and performance.
Through structured, inquiry-based instruction, students analyze forces of flight, energy transfer, propulsion systems, stability and control, navigation, and the interaction between atmospheric conditions and aircraft behavior. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical and scientific reasoning to real-world aviation and engineering problems.
Students engage in hands-on learning using a modular drone kit provided to each student. The drone is initially disassembled and reconfigured throughout the course, allowing students to examine how design choices impact aircraft performance, efficiency, and mission suitability. Across the term, students complete 15 guided flight investigations and five real-world engineering design challenges that integrate scientific experimentation, data collection, troubleshooting, and iterative problem solving.
The course also introduces students to aviation safety, airspace structure, and operational regulations as part of a comprehensive study of modern UAS systems. As a culminating application of course content, students are prepared to sit for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Knowledge Test; however, the primary focus of the course remains on scientific understanding, engineering practices, and applied STEM competencies. By the end of the course, students will have developed skills in:
- Applying physics and natural science principles to aircraft flight and control
- Engineering design, systems analysis, and technical problem solving
- Drone assembly, maintenance, and performance optimization
- Safe and responsible flight operations
- Data-driven evaluation of engineering solutions
This course is designed to meet high school science and STEM learning objectives while providing students with practical, real-world applications of physical science and engineering concepts relevant to emerging aviation technologies.