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Academies of Loudoun Program Matcher

Choose your student's grade and interests. We will list the AOS, AET, Advanced AET, and MATA programs that fit, when to apply for each, and the college credit and credentials LCPS lists.

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Browse All Academies of Loudoun Programs

Every program and pathway LCPS lists for AOS, AET, Advanced AET, and MATA, with the grades, credits, NVCC credits, and credentials as LCPS prints them. MATA pathways are grouped by the career clusters LCPS uses. Each name links to the official LCPS page.

Academy of Science (AOS): apply in the fall of 8th grade

Academy of Science (AOS)

Four years of integrated science and math with a science research course every year from 10th grade on.

4 years, grades 9 to 12.

  • 9th AOS Integrated Science I & II (Earth Science, Chemistry, Physics) 200 min period; AOS Integrated Math I (Students take SOL for Algebra II) 100 min period
  • 10th AOS Integrated Science III (students will take SOL for Earth Science & Chemistry); AOS Sophomore Science Research 200 min period; AOS AP Integrated Math II 100 min period
  • 11th AOS AP Biology; AOS Junior Science Research; AOS AP Calculus AB or AOS AP Calculus BC
  • 12th AOS AP Science options (Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science); AOS Senior Science Research; AOS AP Calculus BC or AOS Multivariable Calculus

Academy of Engineering and Technology (AET): apply in the fall of 8th grade

AET Engineering

Four years of engineering, with engineering projects each year and junior and senior research.

4 years, grades 9 to 12.

  • 9th AET Integrated Math I; AET Physics; AET Engineering I (CTE credit)
  • 10th AET AP Integrated Math II (verified math credit); AET Research Chemistry (verified science credit); AET Engineering II (CTE credit)
  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Engineering III – Junior Research (science elective credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Engineering Senior Research* (science elective credit)
AET Entrepreneurship + Engineering

Entrepreneurship in 9th and 10th grade, where students write STEM business and marketing plans, then engineering in 11th and 12th.

4 years, grades 9 to 12. College credit: Includes dual-enrollment (DE) courses.

  • 9th AET Integrated Math I; AET Physics; AET Entrepreneurship I DE (CTE credit)
  • 10th AET AP Integrated Math II (verified math credit); AET Research Chemistry (verified science credit); AET Entrepreneurship II DE (CTE credit)
  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Engineering I (CTE credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Engineering II (CTE credit)
AET Entrepreneurship + IT

Entrepreneurship in 9th and 10th grade, then applied advanced computer science in 11th and 12th.

4 years, grades 9 to 12. College credit: Includes dual-enrollment (DE) courses.

  • 9th AET Integrated Math I; AET Physics; AET Entrepreneurship I DE (CTE credit)
  • 10th AET AP Integrated Math II (verified math credit); AET Research Chemistry (verified science credit); AET Entrepreneurship II DE (CTE credit)
  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Applied Advanced Computer Science I (computer science credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET AP Applied Advanced Computer Science II (science credit)
AET Information Technology (IT)

Four years of computer science and information technology, with research projects and junior and senior research.

4 years, grades 9 to 12.

  • 9th AET Integrated Math I; AET Physics; AET Applied Advanced Computer Science I (computer science credit)
  • 10th AET AP Integrated Math II (verified math credit); AET Research Chemistry (verified science credit); AET AP Applied Advanced Computer Science II (science credit)
  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Computer Science – Junior Research (science elective credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET CS Senior Research* (science elective credit)

Advanced AET: apply in the winter of 10th grade

Advanced AET Engineering

Two years of AET engineering in 11th and 12th grade, with engineering projects.

2 years, grades 11 to 12.

  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET Physics; AET Engineering 1 (CTE credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET Engineering II (CTE credit)
Advanced AET Information Technology (IT)

Two years of AET computer science in 11th and 12th grade, with research projects.

2 years, grades 11 to 12.

  • 11th AET AP Calculus AB OR BC; AET Physics; AET Applied Advanced Computer Science I (computer science credit)
  • 12th AET AP Statistics OR AP Calculus BC OR Multivariable Calculus; AET AP Science Options (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, OR Physics - Mechanics); AET AP Applied Advanced Computer Science II (science credit)

Monroe Advanced Technical Academy (MATA): apply in the winter of 10th or 11th grade

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

Biotechnology

An overview of biotechnology and its careers, lab skills and standards, and workplace readiness.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: NOCTI- Biotechnology.

Environmental Plant Science

Plants, forestry, agriculture and sustainability, taught while working in a greenhouse.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 12.0 NVCC credits (HRT100, HRT115, HRT121, HRT245).

Credentials: Greenhouse Operators Certification Examination: Southeast Greenhouse; Registered Technician Certification (VA Dept of Ag Pesticide Technician License).

Veterinary Science

A foundation for careers in animal and veterinary science.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 4.0 NVCC credits (VET111).

Credentials: FFA Greenhand Degree; Idexx- Parasitology, Hematology, etc.; Beef Quality Assurance: Virginia Cooperative Extension; Veterinary Medical Applications Certification Exam.

Architecture & Construction

Building Construction

Preparation for entry-level work in building construction.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: OSHA 10 Construction Industry; Ramset Power Actuated Tool; NOCTI- Carpentry Assessment.

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Electricity, refrigeration, soldering and brazing, controls and wiring for heating and cooling systems.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: HVAC (EPA) Technician Examination (Core, Levels I, II, II, Universal); HVAC Excellence- Low GWP Refrigerant Safety; HVAC Excellence Employment Ready Examination: Air Conditioning, Electrical, Heat Pump.

Masonry

Preparation for entry-level work in masonry and general construction.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: OSHA 10 Construction Industry; Ramset Power Actuated Tool.

Arts, A/V, Technology & Communications

Computer and Digital Animation

An introduction to 2-D and 3-D animation.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: Toon Boom Certified Associate: Harmony Advanced Examination.

Graphic Communications

A Print-Ed accredited pathway in graphic design and print communications.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits.

Credentials: Adobe In-Design Examination; Print Ed- Graphic Communications Examination; Print Ed- Graphic Design Examination.

Television Production and Digital Moviemaking

Foundational knowledge and technical skills for careers in television and film.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: NOCTI- Television Production.

Health & Science

Certified Nurse Aide

Preparation for licensure and an entry-level job as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA).

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 3.0 NVCC credits (HIM111).

Credentials: National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) Examination; Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education; American Heart Association Basic Life Support; American Heart Association First Aid.

Biomedical Technology

A two-year foundation in biomedical science for a range of medical careers.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits. College credit: 1.0 NVCC credits (BIO147).

Credentials: PLTW Exams: Biomedical Science, Human Body Systems, Medical Interventions.

Emergency Medical Technician

Training toward certification as an Emergency Medical Technician.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 8.0 NVCC credits (EMS111, EMS120).

Credentials: Emergency Medical Technician Examination.

Health Informatics

Health information technology, healthcare data, medical terminology and electronic health records.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 1.0 NVCC credits (HLT141).

Credentials: Certified Electronic Health Record Specialist (CEHRS) Exam; Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education.

Introduction to Health & Medical Sciences

A 10th-grade introduction to a wide range of healthcare careers.

1 year, grade 10. 3.0 credits. College credit: 1.0 NVCC credits (HLT141).

Credentials: Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education.

Medical Laboratory Technology

A foundation for careers in medical laboratory science.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits. College credit: 5.0 NVCC credits (MDL100, MDL130).

Credentials: Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education.

Pharmacy Technology

Preparation for an entry-level job as a certified pharmacy technician.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits.

Credentials: NHA: Certified Pharmacy Technician (ExCPT) Examination; Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education; American Heart Association Basic Life Support; American Heart Association First Aid.

Radiology Technology

A foundation for careers in medical radiology.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits. College credit: 1.0 NVCC credits (HLT141).

Credentials: Stop the Bleed; OSHA 10 General Industry- Healthcare; Revive! Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education.

Hospitality & Tourism

Culinary Arts

An American Culinary Federation (ACF) accredited pathway that prepares students for entry-level culinary work.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: NRA: ServSafe Certification; OSHA 10 General Industry- Culinary.

Human Services

Cosmetology

Preparation for licensure and entry-level work in cosmetology.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits.

Credentials: Cosmetology Licensure Examination.

Information Technology

Cisco

Computer and mobile device hardware and software, security and networking.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 16.0 NVCC credits (INT154, INT155, INT156, INT157).

Credentials: CISCO Certified Networking Associate (CCNA); CompTIA Network+ Examination.

Cybersecurity

Hands-on work assembling, installing, configuring and securing computer systems.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 15 NVCC credits (ITE152, ITN106, ITN107, ITN101, ITN260).

Credentials: CompTIA A+ Core 1 & Core 2 Exam; CompTIA Security+ Examination.

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Administration of Justice

Preparation for entry-level work in the legal, law enforcement and criminal justice system.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits.

Credentials: OSHA 10 Law Enforcement.

Manufacturing

Welding

Preparation for entry-level work in welding and sheet metal.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits. College credit: 13 NVCC credits (WEL120, WEL121, WEL122, WEL130, WEL160).

Credentials: AWS Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW); AWS Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW); AWS Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW); AWS Shield Metal Arc Welding (SMAW); OSHA 10 Construction Industry; Ramset Power Actuated Tool.

Transportation, Distribution & Logistics

Auto Collision Repair Technology

Preparation for entry-level work in auto collision repair.

1 year, grades 11 to 12. 3.0 credits. College credit: 1.0 NVCC credits (AUB127).

Credentials: ASE Mechanical and Electrical Components; ASE Non-structural Analysis and Damage Repair; ASE Painting and Refinishing; ASE Structural Analysis and Damage Repair; SP/2 Collision Repair Safety; SP/2 Collision Repair and Refinish Pollution Prevention.

Auto Service Technology

Preparation for entry-level work in auto service.

2 years, grades 11 to 12. 6.0 credits.

Credentials: ASE Automatic Transmission/Transaxle; ASE Brakes; ASE Electrical/Electronic Systems; ASE Engine Performance; ASE Engine Repair; ASE Heating and Air Conditioning; ASE Manual Drive Train and Axles; ASE Suspension and Steering; ASE Automotive Service Technology; ASE Maintenance and Light Repair.

A student can be in only one Academies program. For the published requirements, see the eligibility checker.

Academies of Loudoun Programs: Common Questions

Can my child be in more than one Academies of Loudoun program?

No. LCPS says students can take part in only one of the curricular programs: AET, AOS, or MATA. A student offered a seat in one program and waitlisted for another may accept one offer and stay on the other waitlist.

Is my child guaranteed their first pathway choice?

No. LCPS says applicants are not guaranteed their first pathway choice and may be offered their second or third choice. Pathway choices can be changed only while the application window is open.

Can my child switch programs after enrolling?

Not directly. LCPS offers admission to a specific program. A student who wants a different program must withdraw and reapply during the winter admissions window.

When does each program take applications?

AOS and AET take applications in the fall of 8th grade and run four years, from 9th through 12th grade. Advanced AET and MATA take applications in the winter from 10th and 11th graders. Advanced AET runs in 11th and 12th grade, and MATA pathways run one or two years.

Which MATA pathways earn college credit?

LCPS lists NVCC credits for 13 of the 25 MATA pathways. The most are in Cisco (16.0), Cybersecurity (15), Welding (13), and Environmental Plant Science (12.0). Each pathway in the list below shows its NVCC credits and course codes as LCPS prints them.

Does a match mean my child will get in?

No. The matcher lists programs that fit the grade and interests you chose. It does not predict admission. To check the published requirements, use the eligibility checker.

Sources, last checked September 26, 2026

LCPS can change its programs, pathways, and requirements, and its pages are the official record. Questions go to the LCPS admissions office at AcademiesAdmissions@lcps.org or 571-252-1992. AcademiesPrep is an independent prep program and is not affiliated with the Academies of Loudoun or Loudoun County Public Schools.

Aiming for AOS or AET?

For 8th graders applying this fall, the free diagnostic has students complete two STEM reasoning problems and one ACL-style writing response, and shows where they stand.

Take the Free ACL Diagnostic