AP® Computer Science Principles

Girls Only & All Genders Course; Prerequisite - None, though prior programming experience recommended; Full Year Course

Course Overview

This course investigates the “big ideas” found in our digital world. Using the Python programming language, students develop and demonstrate fundamental concepts of computer programming that can be applied across a variety of projects and languages. Students explore different means of representing information digitally and how our digital world has evolved. They create computer programs to solve authentic problems or for personal interest, such as unique musical pieces, math calculators, and data summations. Students discuss the current state of technology and its role in our everyday lives, discerning the positive and negative influences of innovations concerning computer and network technologies to society, culture, and economics. Throughout, students develop their skills in computational thinking, logical reasoning, and describing processes through algorithms and abstraction. Finally, students demonstrate their learning by creating a portfolio for submission to the College Board and are prepared for the AP® Computer Science Principles Exam in May.

Please note: this course cannot be completed without a computer running a Windows or Macintosh operating system. Chromebooks, iPads, smartphones, and tablets are not adequate.


“When I took this course, which is not offered at my school, I fell in love with it and decided to major in it in college. It is nice to have an avenue to explore something I’m interested in that I would not have been able to before.

Course Approval

This course is approved by the College Board and the NCAA.

One Schoolhouse is fully accredited with the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges through December 1, 2025. We are an approved online publisher for the University of California. 


Academic Program Teachers

Academic Program teachers are passionate about helping students flourish and thrive.

  • With small sections (averaging 15 students), teachers inspire, encourage, and instill confidence in their students.

  • Teachers are drawn from top independent schools across the country and participate in our extensive training on current research and best practices in online instruction methods.

  • Teachers are experts in their subject field and also highly qualified, with over 80% having a master’s degree or a terminal degree.

Explore Other Student Courses

Introduction to Computer Science

Artificial Intelligence

AP® Computer Science A

Get in touch

Have any questions? Email us now