Overview
Since their launch, the two Advanced Placement (“AP”) Computer Science courses created by the College Board—AP Computer Science A and AP Computer Science Principles (“AP CSP”)—have been two of the fastest growing AP courses. According to data released by the College Board, between 2017 and 2018, the number of students taking the AP CSP exam increased from 50,000 to 76,000—a growth rate of over 50%. Much of this growth is due to the states of Nevada and Kentucky partnering with the College Board to bring the AP CSP course to every school district in their states. But, growth is occurring elsewhere, including in our home state of Colorado, and many students are choosing to self-study for the AP Computer Science exams when the courses are not offered at their high schools.

AP Computer Science A vs. AP Computer Science Principles
While it is possible to enroll and complete both courses, students should be aware of their differences before enrolling. The most important distinction between the two is that AP Computer Science A solely uses the Java programming language. Students learn to evaluate, create, and implement solutions in addition to working with algorithms and debugging Java solutions. This course includes a laboratory component and is equivalent to an introductory college-level computer science course.

The AP CSP course, on the other hand, is project based and students submit their projects throughout the year to receive an AP score for college credit in addition to the end of year AP exam. It does not rely on any particular programming language—that is left to the instructor’s discretion. This course focuses more broadly on the ideas underlying computing: algorithms and data, creativity, programming, cyber security, and even the social implications of the field. This course is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in computing.

Fundamentally, AP Computer Science A can be thought of as more narrowly focused and technical, whereas AP CSP gives students a more broad understanding of computing practices.

Factors to Consider
In reality, students should reflect on their interests and future career goals when deciding whether to take these courses. AP Computer Science A is a great course for students who wish to pursue a career in engineering, software development, or web design. AP CSP is a great course for students less interested in Java and more interested in careers in the sciences generally or majoring in math or economics.

There are still other factors to consider. For students who already have some programming skills, AP CSP will likely cover content that is already familiar and may not be particularly helpful nor challenging. Before enlisting in either course, students should be strong mathematically, especially with algebra and functions. And it should be noted that, as the newer of the two courses, there is less material available for students looking to self-study for the AP CSP course.

We Are Here to Help
For several years now, we’ve witnessed increased demand for one-one-one tutoring for both AP Computer Science courses. We are happy to announce that we now offer one-on-one tutoring for students enrolled in either course. Our resident computer science instructor graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in Computer Science and is passionate about helping young students learn and explore the field. If you have questions or need assistance, please call Scott Moser at (303) 819-4328 or contact him via email at scott@mosereducational.com.