The Early IT initiative aims at transforming the the state of information technology workforce by increasing the quantity, quality, and diversity of the IT talent pool through providing access to affordable high quality education and high paying careers. This program is centered around key innovative concepts that significantly reduce the total cost of the bachelor's and master's degrees while improving the level of job readiness for the graduates. Learn more about the program on the UC Early IT website.
Industry Credential Preparation (CompTIA Network+ & Tech+)
Prepare students for in-demand IT certifications with courses aligned to CompTIA Network+ and Tech+ exams. These courses build foundational and technical skills needed for success on certification exams and in real-world IT careers. Any knowledgable and licensed teacher can deliver the content, and additional support is available for districts that need it. Remote teachers of record are also available.
Algebra 2 Alternative Pathways
Offer students a practical, career-connected alternative to Algebra 2 that still meets Ohio graduation requirements. These courses integrate applied math concepts within IT contexts, helping students build both quantitative and technical skills. These courses align with Ohio’s Advanced 9–12 CS Standards and meet rigorous criteria for graduation. Any knowledgable and licensed teacher can deliver the content, and additional support is available for districts that need it. Remote teachers of record are also available.
Early IT Program Course Catalog
Explore the full range of Early IT program courses developed in partnership with the University of Cincinnati. This comprehensive catalog provides students with a structured pathway into information technology, from foundational knowledge to advanced topics.
There are five courses (of the required 9) are available in an online format through InnevAto EDU. (See the UC Early IT website for information about the additional 4 required courses.)
Teachers must be trained and approved through the University of Cincinnati's Early IT program. Training and additional support is available for districts that need it. Remote teachers of record are also available.
CS (Computer Science) Promise Approved Provider through ODEW
Ohio House Bill 33 created the Computer Science Promise (CS Promise), allowing Ohio students in grades 7–12 to take one computer science course per year at no cost if it isn’t offered by their school. UC’s Early IT courses (via InnevAto EDU) are approved. Students may earn bilateral UC credit when taught by a UC-approved Early IT teacher; districts sign a bilateral agreement. Details are on the Department’s Computer Science Promise webpage. For more information, contact Tracy Collins, Ph.D., (513) 556-5161, collit6@ucmail.uc.edu.
Research-Based Instructional Design
InnevAto EDU’s courses are built on a research-based instructional design that prioritizes student engagement, accessibility, and academic rigor.
Grounded in Quality Matters standards and aligned to Ohio Learning Standards, every course integrates best practices in online learning, including clear objectives, interactive assessments, and real-world applications.
All courses are fully accessible, meeting ADA requirements and web accessibility compliance standards, ensuring that every student can navigate and succeed.
Competency-Based Education
Competency Based Education allows students to advance based on their ability to master a skill or competency at their own pace.
Students demonstrate mastery of a given skill or content, exempting them from additional work that aligns to the mastered learning outcomes.
With this in mind, the UC Early IT Courses fall into two main categories, which in turn dictates the competency approach that the course takes:
- knowledge based courses
- skill based courses