1. Computer Science

Participants respond to an annual coding-related design challenge by developing a software program that accurately addresses an onsite problem in a specified, limited amount of time.

Participants respond to a cybersecurity challenge by identifying a breach in computer security via "Capture the Flag" games. Participants will solve onsite challenges in a specified, limited amount of time.

Participants demonstrate understanding of and expertise in basic information technology concepts by taking an online exam. Certifications will be granted through TSA’s partnership with CompTIA for a passing score.

Participants use either 2D or 3D computer graphics tools and design processes to communicate, inform, analyze, and/or illustrate a STEM topic, idea, subject, or concept.

Participants use knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving principles, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork to design, implement, test, and document a software development project of educational or social value.

Participants in a timed, onsite challenge develop a computer-controlled model-solution to a problem, typically one from an industrial setting. Teams analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, explain the program and mechanical features of the model-solution, and leave instructions for evaluators to operate the device.

Participants develop a game that reflects the theme for the year, which can be found on Themes and Problems. The game must have high artistic, educational, and social value and be interesting, exciting, visually appealing, and intellectually challenging. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th. 

Participants design, build, and launch a website that features the school’s career and technology/engineering program, the TSA chapter, and the chapter’s ability to research and present a given topic pertaining to technology. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th.

Semifinalists participate in an onsite interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development of the website—with an emphasis on web design methods and practices, as well as their research for the annual design topic.

Participants will demonstrate their knowledge of computer science and coding by taking a written test onsite at the National TSA Conference. Semifinalists further demonstrate their programming knowledge by participating in a programming challenge. Specific details about the onsite challenge can be found in Themes and Problems. 

Participants complete an exam covering general cybersecurity vocabulary and knowledge needed to execute tasks commonly performed by all levels of cybersecurity professionals. Using digital presentation software—participants address a specific cybersecurity issue before a group of hypothetical corporate board members (i.e., judges).

Participants must explain the importance of cybersecurity and why it is essential that the organization invest in such measures. The problem statement will be posted in Themes and Problems. Semifinalists exhibit proficiency by recommending security measures to address various scenarios based on factors such as efficiency, feasibility, and ethical impacts.

Participants conduct research on an annual theme or topic, collect data, and document their research in a supporting portfolio and a display. Participants implement a variety of methods to find connections between data and gain insightful knowledge about a particular issue.

Using analytics, participants assess collected data to make predictions and informed decisions. Semifinalist teams report for a timed, onsite challenge in which they must review specific data sets, provide insights, make predictions, and present their findings. 

Participants complete an exam covering essential IT skills and knowledge needed to perform tasks commonly performed by all levels of IT professionals. Semifinalists exhibit proficiency and demonstrate creative problem solving by applying techniques to troubleshoot a timed industry-related challenge onsite.

Participants develop a working digital device (product) with real-world applications. Through a product demonstration and documentation, the team shares knowledge of microcontroller programming, simple circuitry, and product design and marketing. The project should have educational and social value, and conform to the theme for the year, which can be found on Themes and Problems. Semifinalists present their ideas.

Participants use a team approach to develop a computer-controlled model solution to a given problem, typically one based on an industrial setting. Teams analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, explain the program and mechanical features of the model-solution, and leave instructions for judges to operate the device.

Participants develop, build, and launch an E-rated, online game that focuses on the subject of their choice. The game should be interesting, exciting, visually appealing, and intellectually challenging. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th.

Semifinalists are announced onsite at the annual National TSA Conference. Semifinalist teams participate in an onsite interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise they gained during the development of the game.

Participants design, build, and launch a website that features the team's ability to incorporate the elements of website design, graphic layout, and proper coding techniques. Participants submit the entry pre-conference by May 15th.

Semifinalists are announced onsite at the annual National TSA Conference. Semifinalists participate in an onsite interview—with an emphasis on web design as it pertains to their solution—to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development stages. The design brief can be found in Themes and Problems.