Online AP courses have become a popular option for students looking to earn college credit while still in high school.
These courses offer flexibility and often provide rich resources to help you succeed in your exams.
How do you choose the best online AP course that will fit your needs and help you achieve your academic goals? This article will review nine top online AP courses, providing insights into their quality, cost, and special features.
By the end, you should have a clearer idea of which ones might be best for you.
1) AP Biology by Johns Hopkins University
The AP Biology course at Johns Hopkins University is a standout option for students aiming to prepare for college-level biology.
Targeted at students in grade 9 and above, this course mirrors the content found in a first-year university biology class.
You’ll explore various biology topics, from genetics to ecology.
The course includes a laboratory component that meets College Board standards.
This hands-on approach ensures you gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) ensures the course material is thorough and well-organized.
Students often find the course material engaging and effective, making learning more enjoyable and less stressful.
To enroll in this course, students often need qualifying scores on the PSAT, making it suitable for academically prepared students.
The course aims to build a robust foundation in biology, paving the way for further studies in science and engineering.
Another benefit of this course is the opportunity to earn AP credits.
Johns Hopkins University accepts scores of 3, 4, and 5 on the AP exams, which can accelerate your educational journey.
If you’re worried about keeping up with the curriculum, it’s worth noting that many students have found the structure and pacing manageable.
The interactive online environment helps students stay engaged and track their progress effectively.
For those considering other related courses, the Honors Biology course by Johns Hopkins can be a great precursor to this AP Biology class, offering a strong preparatory background.
By choosing AP Biology at Johns Hopkins, you’re setting yourself up for success in both your current studies and future scientific endeavors.
2) AP Calculus AB by Khan Academy
AP Calculus AB by Khan Academy is a popular choice for students preparing for the AP exam.
This course covers a range of topics, including limits, derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
Khan Academy’s video lessons are clear and easy to follow.
Bill Scott, an experienced teacher, uses Khan Academy to teach AP Calculus at Phillips Academy.
The course also includes practice problems to help you master each concept.
The platform offers a self-paced learning experience.
You can study at your own speed and revisit lessons as needed.
This flexibility is ideal if you need more time to grasp complex calculus topics.
You can access the course for free.
This makes it an excellent resource if you are looking for quality education without the cost.
The lessons align well with the AP Calculus AB exam format.
The course not only prepares you for the AP exam but also helps you develop a strong understanding of calculus principles.
Khan Academy’s AP Calculus AB content is widely recommended by students on forums like Reddit.
The practice exercises are designed to reinforce your learning.
You can track your progress and identify areas where you need improvement.
This helps you focus your study efforts effectively.
Khan Academy also offers resources for teachers.
These tools can support classroom instruction and provide additional practice for students.
In summary, AP Calculus AB by Khan Academy offers a comprehensive, free, and flexible learning platform.
Whether you are self-studying or using it as a classroom supplement, the course provides valuable resources to help you succeed.
Check it out here.
3) AP English Language and Composition by edX
The AP English Language and Composition course by edX offers a robust introduction to college-level writing.
This course is designed to prepare you for the AP exam.
It focuses on key areas like rhetorical arguments and writing techniques.
The course material covers various writing styles.
It emphasizes analyzing and crafting arguments.
You will work on reading and writing texts related to different topics.
edX provides the course in an archived, self-paced format.
This means you can complete it at your own pace.
Having a self-paced structure allows for flexibility in your learning schedule.
You may need extra help with some course aspects.
Consider seeking a tutor or a study group if you need assistance.
This extra support can be useful for reviewing practice materials and answering questions.
Remember, the course is available online and can be accessed through the edX platform.
This makes it convenient for you to study from anywhere.
Keep track of your progress and ensure you cover all important topics.
For more information, visit the edX course page to see the full course syllabus and get started.
4) AP Physics 1 by Princeton Review
AP Physics 1 by Princeton Review offers a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for the AP exam.
The program includes five full-length practice exams, giving you plenty of opportunities to test your knowledge.
These practice exams mimic the real test to help you get comfortable with the format.
You’ll find detailed content reviews on each topic covered in the course.
These reviews are clear and concise, helping you understand important concepts without getting overwhelmed.
The guide also features targeted test strategies.
These strategies are designed to help you tackle different types of questions effectively.
You can learn tips on managing your time during the test and avoiding common pitfalls.
Another benefit is the access to online extras.
These online resources include additional practice questions and interactive tools to further reinforce your learning.
Updates are planned for the curriculum, starting fall 2024.
This means new content and revised exam formats to ensure you are studying the most relevant material.
Realistic practice experiences are a strong point too.
Many students report that the practice questions closely resemble those on the actual exam.
To get your own copy of the Princeton Review guide, check out their AP Physics 1 Premium Prep book.
This guide aims to give you the tools you need to succeed on the AP Physics 1 exam.
5) AP U.S. History by Study.com
The AP U.S. History course by Study.com offers a comprehensive learning experience.
This course includes 33 hours of video lessons that cover topics from early civilizations to modern history.
It’s designed to help you understand key concepts in U.S. history.
You will find many useful tools in this course, such as assessment quizzes and essay writing tips.
These tools can help you prepare effectively for the AP U.S. History exam.
You can also review important topics quickly with their summary sessions.
Study.com’s course is structured into 26 chapters.
This makes it easy to follow along and ensures you cover all essential topics.
You can find chapters on early civilizations of America, the Bering Land Bridge Theory, and more.
The lessons are engaging and are suitable for a wide range of learning styles.
They use different formats, such as video lessons and quizzes, to keep you interested.
This makes it easier to retain the information you learn.
For additional support, you can access study guides and practice quizzes on their platform.
These resources are designed to reinforce what you have learned and test your understanding.
This can boost your confidence as you prepare for the exam.
You can start by visiting Study.com’s AP U.S. History Exam Prep Course for more details.
It’s a great resource if you want a thorough and enjoyable way to study for the AP U.S. History exam.
6) AP Chemistry by Coursera
AP Chemistry by Coursera offers five modules.
This course covers advanced high school chemistry topics.
It follows the American Chemical Society guidelines.
You should have a basic knowledge of chemistry before starting.
This includes nomenclature, reactions, stoichiometry, and molarity.
The course has interactive lessons.
These help you grasp difficult concepts.
You’ll also find practice problems to test your knowledge.
One strong point of this course is its structure.
The material is organized clearly, making it easier to follow and review.
If you’re getting ready for the AP Chemistry exam, this course could be useful.
It provides content that aligns with standard high school curricula.
For more details, check out AP Chemistry by Coursera.
This link gives you access to the course outline and enrollment options.
7) AP Statistics by University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin offers an AP Statistics course designed for high school students.
This course is available online, making it accessible for students who may not have AP Statistics offered at their local schools.
You will cover various topics like data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
You will also learn about probability and statistical inference.
These skills can be beneficial for college and various career paths.
The course is structured to help you succeed in the AP exam.
It includes practice exams and feedback, preparing you well ahead of the test date in May. UT Testing and Evaluation Services mentions that the AP exams are not held on the UT Austin campus but are administered at participating high schools.
The course is hosted on the Canvas platform.
This makes it user-friendly, with resources like lectures, assignments, and discussion forums all in one place.
You can access the course anytime, making it easier to fit your schedule.
Taking this course can also earn you college credit if you score well on the AP exam.
This can save you time and money when you transition to college.
8) AP World History by Modern States
AP World History by Modern States offers a solid introduction to world history from 1200 CE to the present.
You will explore key events, figures, and trends in different regions.
The course uses a mix of videos, readings, and practice questions to help you understand these topics.
You will start with early civilizations and progress through major periods like the Renaissance, Industrial Revolution, and the World Wars.
The course also covers cultural developments, governance, and economic changes.
One of the strengths of this course is its flexibility.
You can go through the material at your own pace, which makes it useful for both fast learners and those who need more time.
The videos are engaging and help break down complex subjects into digestible chunks.
If you need extra practice, the course includes practice questions similar to those on the AP exam.
This will help you get comfortable with the format and types of questions you will face.
The course also offers tips on how to write strong essays and short answers.
You will find the structure of the course easy to follow.
It is divided into units that mirror the curriculum typically found in a classroom setting.
This helps you stay on track and ensures that you are covering all the necessary material.
To read more details about the course, check AP World History: Modern Course.
If you prefer a textbook with practice questions, consider looking into customer reviews to gauge its helpfulness.
9) AP Environmental Science by UC Scout
UC Scout offers a well-structured AP Environmental Science course.
It is designed to provide thorough and engaging content for high school students.
This course is known for its high-quality materials and clear instructions.
You can expect detailed lessons covering various environmental topics.
These include ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, and resource management.
The course includes interactive elements to help reinforce learning.
UC Scout provides flexibility with its On Demand option.
You can work at your own pace with the guidance of UC Scout teachers.
There is also a requirement to add an observer, like a parent or guardian, to monitor progress.
The course utilizes the Canvas platform, making it easy to navigate and submit assignments.
The platform supports various learning tools and resources.
These features help ensure a smooth and effective learning experience.
Students who take this course often find it helpful for exam preparation.
UC Scout’s lessons and practice tests are tailored to meet the AP standards.
This preparation can boost your confidence and readiness for the AP exam.
For more details on what this course offers, you can explore the UC Scout course catalog.
This will provide you with a full list of available courses and their descriptions.
Overview of AP Courses
Advanced Placement (AP) courses provide high school students an opportunity to take college-level classes.
These courses help students prepare for college and offer the chance to earn college credit before finishing high school.
What Are AP Courses?
AP courses are college-level classes offered in high school.
Created by the College Board, these courses cover a range of subjects such as math, science, history, and languages.
Each AP course concludes with an exam, which is scored on a scale of 1 to 5.
Scoring well can earn you college credit or advanced placement in college courses.
Key Points:
- College Board offers these courses.
- Subjects include math, science, history, and more.
- Exams are scored from 1 to 5.
Benefits of Taking AP Courses Online
Taking AP courses online offers flexibility and convenience.
You can study at your own pace, balancing coursework with other commitments.
Online courses can also provide access to a wider range of subjects, sometimes not available in your local high school.
Resources like video lessons, interactive quizzes, and online forums can support your learning.
Key Points:
- Flexibility to study at your own pace.
- Access to a wider variety of subjects.
- Rich online resources like videos and quizzes.
Criteria for Choosing Online AP Courses
Selecting the right online AP course involves examining key factors such as accreditation, instructor qualifications, and curriculum quality.
These elements ensure you get the best education and preparation for your AP exams.
Accreditation
Accreditation is crucial because it ensures the course meets established educational standards.
Look for courses approved by recognized accrediting bodies like the College Board or other well-known institutions.
Having accredited courses can make a difference when applying to colleges.
Accredited programs often have rigorous assessments and high-quality instructional materials.
This ensures you are learning what you need to succeed in both the course and the AP exam.
It’s also wise to verify the accreditation status by checking official websites.
Instructor Qualifications
Instructor qualifications significantly impact your learning experience.
Instructors with strong academic backgrounds, AP teaching certification, and subject matter expertise can provide better guidance and support.
For instance, Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth employs instructors with advanced degrees and extensive experience in their fields.
Experienced instructors can help you better understand complex topics, keep you motivated, and offer personalized feedback.
It’s beneficial to review instructors’ credentials, teaching experience, and any reviews from past students to ensure you’re getting high-quality teaching.
Curriculum Quality
The quality of the curriculum is another essential factor.
A well-designed curriculum aligns with AP standards and thoroughly covers the necessary content.
Programs like those from Road2College offer flexible, comprehensive courses that allow students to progress at their own pace.
High-quality materials and resources, such as textbooks, video lessons, and practice exams, are critical components.
They help reinforce learning and improve understanding of the subject matter.
Ensure that the curriculum offers a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications to help you excel in AP exams.
Tips for Succeeding in Online AP Courses
Succeeding in online AP courses requires consistent time management and effective study habits.
These strategies will help you stay on track and perform well.
Time Management
Managing your time effectively is crucial.
Set a daily schedule to allocate specific times for studying.
This helps you create a routine, reducing the chances of procrastination.
Use a planner or digital calendar to track deadlines and exam dates.
Regularly updating these tools ensures you never miss important tasks.
Break tasks into smaller chunks: Large assignments can be overwhelming.
Divide them into manageable parts and focus on completing each part one at a time.
Prioritize tasks: Identify what needs immediate attention and what can wait.
Focus on high-priority tasks first to ensure that you meet critical deadlines.
Taking short breaks between study sessions can also enhance your productivity.
It refreshes your mind and prevents burnout.
Effective Study Strategies
Developing strong study habits can significantly improve your performance.
Active engagement with the material is more effective than passive reading.
Use active learning techniques: Summarize what you’ve learned in your own words, create flashcards, or teach the material to someone else.
Practice past exams: Taking practice tests familiarizes you with the format and types of questions you’ll encounter.
It also helps identify areas where you need further review.
Join study groups: Collaborating with peers allows for discussion and different perspectives on the material.
It also provides accountability and support.
Stay organized: Keep your notes, assignments, and study materials well-organized.
This helps you quickly find information when you need it, saving time and reducing stress.
Maintaining a study log can help track your progress and highlights areas that need more focus.