AP Computer Science Principles

A college-level introduction to computer science — no prior coding experience needed.

AP

Course Description

AP CSP covers the full breadth of computer science. Students design computational solutions, develop algorithms, work with data, and explore how computing innovations impact the world. No prior experience needed — this is both a standalone AP course and an entry point into the CS pathway.

Class Benefits

  • Earn college credit with a qualifying AP exam score (1,200+ colleges)
  • Learn programming fundamentals applicable to any CS career
  • Develop computational thinking valued across all STEM fields
  • Explore ethical and societal dimensions of computing
  • Build a portfolio-worthy Create Performance Task project

Requirements

  • Open to Grades 10-12
  • 5 Credits (full year)
  • No prerequisites required (entry-level AP)
  • College Board AP exam in May

Instructor(s)

VG

Vanitha Gaurishanker

Teacher of Engineering/Tech Ed.
vgaurish@monroe.k12.nj.us
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Marisa McLaughlin

Teacher of Engineering/Tech Ed.
marisa.mclaughlin@monroe.k12.nj.us

What Students Say

SP

Arjun Sarsam

MTHS '27

The PLTW curriculum for AP Computer Science Principles taught me all the necessary information for the AP exam. The hands-on format of PLTW not only teaches students these skills but gives them the opportunity to put these skills into practice. I would recommend this course to all students regardless of if they are going into the Computer Science field because of its comprehensive first look into how computers and the internet works.

AT

Srujan Patil

MTHS '26 · Purdue '30

AP Computer Science Principles was my first real exposure to coding. Coming from a weak background of coding, AP CSP provided the support needed for me to jump straight into real coding while still understanding everything I am doing. Moreover, AP CSP gave me the confidence to try and learn different coding languages without feeling dumbfounded.

KR

Jia Shibi

MTHS '26 · Rutgers '30

Going into AP CSP, I had limited language in computer programming. However, after taking this class, I now have extensive knowledge on python. Through the PLTW lesson and projects, I felt confident going into the AP CSP exam, with me scoring a 4.

Course Highlights

AP Exam Excellence

MTHS AP CSP students achieve pass rates above the national average.

Academic

Create Performance Task

Students build an original computing innovation for their AP portfolio.

Project

Hour of Code Events

AP CSP students lead schoolwide Hour of Code activities.

Outreach

College Credit Pathway

Qualifying scores earn credit at 1,200+ institutions.

Academic