- TSA
- Computer Science
The Technology Student Association (TSA) offers middle school and high school students in-school and virtual opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge through relevant competitions. Additionally, student members learn about and implement 21st century skills through leadership activities,
and career awareness.
TSA COMPUTER SCIENCE COMPETITIONS
TSA CS competitions are designed to be integrated into an existing CS curriculum and can be implemented in an in-school or virtual environment.
High School Computer Science & Information Technology Competitions
Middle School Computer Science & Information Technology Competitions
TSA COMPUTER SCIENCE FAQs
TSA chapters take the study of STEM beyond the classroom and give students the chance to pursue academic challenges among friends with similar goals and interests. TSA offers a group of seventeen (9 high school and 8 middle school) competitions that specifically address Computer Science and Information Technology.
TSA has an online affiliation system. To start a chapter, click on the “Join/Login” button on the top right of the TSA homepage. If you have questions about affiliation contact TSA Membership Manager Suzy Orr.
The time involved in being a TSA chapter advisor varies with each advisor. Teachers who incorporate the competitive events into their curriculum often report a low time commitment, since using the TSA materials engages students more fully and provides an enhanced teaching and learning environment. Some teachers opt to have their chapter meet before or after school, then teachers control the frequency and length of time. Advisors typically report that the benefits of TSA justify the time investment.
TSA offers three, curriculum-integrated, membership programs. Each chapter chooses the program that works best for the chapter. Click here to view the three levels of membership and state and national membership dues. The membership cost per student averages about $15.
TSA competitive events are designed to be incorporated into the curriculum and may also be used as the basis for a before- or after-school chapter. Chapter advisors decide which method works best for them.
While many stand-alone CS competitions exist—TSA CS competitions provide a more comprehensive experience which include leadership activities and 21st century skills integration.
Assistance is available through the TSA state advisor (the individual who manages the TSA program and state TSA conference) and/or through the national TSA office. At your request, we also can arrange for a TSA mentor (an experienced TSA chapter advisor) to answer questions and help guide your chapter.
Yes. While TSA is designed to be an intracurricular program, schools may choose to implement their chapter through an existing CS (or other STEM-related) club after affiliating with TSA.
TSA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a career and technical student organization (CTSO). Funding for career and technical education (CTE) through the Carl D. Perkins Act may be available to programs with recognized CTSOs.
COMPETITION
“In the TSA Software Development competition, I worked with a team of coders to achieve a common goal—which has helped to improve my teamwork and communication skills. This experience inspired me to choose Computer Science as my college major.”
—Andrew T., Georgia
CLASSROOM
“TSA brings an added dimension to my Computer Science classroom. Students use what they are learning to compete in areas such as coding and software development—and at the same time—develop crucial 21st century skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. I can’t think of another program that combines rigorous, intracurricular competitions with the universal leadership skills necessary for tomorrow’s careers.”
—Tammy V., South Carolina
CAREER
“TSA student members are more mature and focused than other people their age. It is obvious that they appreciate and enjoy the experience of participating in TSA’s STEM-based competitions. I attended a STEM-focused high school. Now that I am working in the cybersecurity industry, I would have greatly benefited from participating in an organization such as TSA.”
—Kevin C., New York
Email Lynda Haitz for more information.