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Suncoast Community High School: A Guide to Its 4 Elite Magnet Programs


Suncoast Community High School in Riviera Beach, Florida, is one of the state’s most selective public magnets. Known for a rigorous, college-prep culture, Suncoast offers four distinct, application-based programs that let students tailor their paths in STEM, computer science, technology, and the globally recognized IB curriculum. Use this guide to compare programs, understand admissions, and choose the best fit.


Quick school snapshot


Suncoast consistently ranks among Florida’s top public high schools and is noted for both academic excellence and student diversity. According to Niche, it is listed among the Best Magnet High Schools in Florida and is widely regarded for college preparatory outcomes.


Computer Science (CS)


Designed for students interested in computer science or computer engineering, the CS magnet develops strong problem-solving habits and fluency in object-oriented design.


What you’ll study


  • Java Programming Essentials and AP Computer Science A

  • Java Database Programming with T-SQL

  • A senior capstone project that synthesizes software design, teamwork, and presentation skills


What you’ll gain


  • Proficiency in Java and database fundamentals

  • A portfolio of projects that translates well to internships, hackathons, or first-year CS coursework


Ideal for Students who enjoy logic, coding challenges, algorithmic thinking, and building real software.

International Baccalaureate (IB)


Suncoast is an IB World School. All ninth and tenth graders participate in the Middle Years Programme (MYP); eligible students transition to the full IB Diploma Programme in grades 11–12.


What you’ll study


  • An integrated, writing-heavy curriculum across humanities, STEM, and world language

  • Theory of Knowledge, Creativity-Activity-Service, and the Extended Essay

  • Interdisciplinary projects that emphasize global perspectives and research


What you’ll gain


  • Advanced reading, analysis, and academic writing

  • A credential recognized by universities worldwide, often with credit/advanced standing


Ideal for Students who want a challenging, globally focused curriculum with heavy reading, research, and discussion.


Innovative Interactive Technology (IIT)


IIT blends creativity, coding, and digital production through three hands-on pathways. Each pathway builds marketable skills for direct entry into the workforce or further study.


Choose your pathway


  • Game, Simulation, and Animation Programming

  • Commercial Digital Photography

  • Drafting and Design Technology


What you’ll gain


  • Portfolio-ready artifacts (games, media, visual design, or CAD work)

  • Software literacy and production workflows used in creative and technical industries


Ideal for Visual thinkers, makers, and problem-solvers who want to build tangible products and creative tech projects.


Math, Science, and Engineering (MSE)


MSE is Suncoast’s advanced STEM track with a strong physics core and extensive math.


What you’ll study


  • AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

  • Upper-level math alongside engineering concepts and scientific inquiry


What you’ll gain


  • Deep preparation for engineering and physical sciences

  • Research experience through science fairs, with many students advancing to state and international competitions


Ideal for Students who love high-level math, lab work, and engineering design challenges.


Admissions and eligibility


Admission to Suncoast’s magnets is competitive and selective.


Minimums and coursework

  • A minimum 3.0 GPA is required

  • Program-specific prerequisites apply (for example, the CS magnet expects completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry Honors)


Application process

  • Apply via the Palm Beach County School District Magnet and Choice School Application

  • After admitting the top 10% based on academic performance, remaining seats are filled by lottery to maintain equitable access


Tips for applicants

  • Match your magnet choice to recent grades and interests (coding projects for CS, lab work for MSE, visual portfolio or technical samples for IIT, writing/research strengths for IB)

  • Keep transcripts, test scores (if any), and recommendations organized and ready before deadlines


How to choose your best-fit magnet


Start with your strengths

  • Love coding and data? CS.

  • Strong writer and global thinker? IB.

  • Hands-on creator or designer? IIT.

  • Math-heavy problem solver with lab curiosity? MSE.


Think about the day-to-day

  • CS and MSE lean into structured problem sets and cumulative concepts

  • IB expects steady reading, writing, and research across disciplines

  • IIT blends creative production with technical skills and portfolio work


Consider college and career goals

  • CS and MSE align with engineering, computer science, data science, and physics

  • IB suits students aiming for broad liberal arts or interdisciplinary majors and international universities

  • IIT connects directly to creative tech, design, media, and applied STEM programs


Student outcomes and culture


Suncoast students typically take numerous AP/IB courses, build competitive resumes through research and competitions, and assemble strong portfolios or capstones. The culture emphasizes hard work, collaboration, and time management—skills that translate to success in selective college programs.


Bottom line


Every Suncoast magnet leads to rigorous academics and impressive outcomes; the best choice is the one that fits your strengths and daily interests. Review the coursework, imagine your weekly workload, and choose the path that keeps you motivated from freshman year through senior capstone.





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