Pathway lookup
Programming / Computer Science in Virginia
These pages summarize rules to help you plan. They are not legal advice. Before you place students at a work site or change a program, check with your state agency, your district's counsel and your insurance carrier.
In short
Virginia students take Programming 6640 and can count a CS credit as math, science or CTE; Virginia has the most software developer openings in the set.
State program: Programming 6640 (140 hrs, grades 10-12); Programming, Advanced (code: Confirm with the agency)
What a high school can deliver
AP CSP, Python Institute, CIW and Oracle credentials and a CS credit that can count as math or science; developer jobs usually need a degree.
Credentials students can earn
AP Computer Science Principles exam; PCEP and PCAP; CIW; Oracle; Unity (May 2026 Board list: Confirm with the agency)
Age and hour requirements
No age gate. CS and coding must be in state standards and local curricula (Va. Code 22.1-253.13:1); a CS credit may count as math, science or CTE (8VAC20-132-51).
Other agencies involved
None
Who can teach it
Computer Science endorsement (36 semester hours, or 18 as an add-on; 8VAC20-23-300) or Technical Professional License, Business and IT (programming): 2 years in past 5, certificate or associate degree, 9 semester hours.
Child labor rules for work placements
No permit or state hour limits at 16-17; no federal hazardous order covers software work.
College credit after high school
No statewide agreement found; youth registered apprenticeship (Software Developer) from 16; CCRV Passport/UCGS is general education only.
Where to go next
- The full Programming / Computer Science guide, showing Virginia
- The Virginia state profile
- Add this pathway to your plan
Programming / Computer Science in other states
Other pathways in Virginia
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