Advanced Placement and Advanced College Credit Placement Classes
St. Pius X offers a number of classes that challenge students beyond normal high school expectations, both AP (Advanced Placement) and ACCP (Advanced College Credit Placement).
AP demands an AP-approved curriculum and syllabus approved by a college professor. At the end of the year, students take an AP test to determine whether college credit or preferential placement will be given to students in college.
ACCP courses provides the opportunity for students to earn dual credit or credit hours for both high school and college. These courses are taken in cooperation with a college or university and are taught by teachers approved by the cooperating institution.
Advanced Placement Classes (AP) are part of the College Board's program of rigorous content classes for which students take an end-of-course exam to either: 1) gain a higher level of initial college work; 2) earn college credit as determined by the College or University. Teachers are trained in content and methodology; courses must be approved through a thorough audit system by a university professor before it is officially AP.
Does the college you plan on attending accept AP Scores?
Click here to find out if your college will give you credit for your AP scores from St. Pius X High School.
ACCP (Advanced College Credit Placement), or dual credit classes, are taken through a sponsoring college or university; the student adheres to their course syllabus and assessments, and the course is taught by an approved high school teacher (usually with a Master's degree). The student uses the college text, takes their tests, adheres to their attendance requirements. The credit earned is ultimately determined by the school which the student attends. The student's fees to take the class(es) are considerably lower.
Prerequisites for either entail a cumulative 3.00 GPA, teacher's recommendation, and a commitment to the course expectations. The following are available at St. Pius: AP: Computer Science Principles, English II, English III, U.S. History, American Government, Physics, and Studio Art. ACCP Classes: College Algebra, Calculus, Advanced Biology, Environmental Science, English IV, Spanish II, Intro to University Spanish, and Spanish IV.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I receive Credit?
AP Courses: AP credit is given based on the score a student receives on the AP test at the end of the class. AP tests are scored on a 1-5 scale. A three or above is a qualifying score in many cases.
ACCP Courses: With Dual Credit, you are actually a student of the college that is certifying the class. You pay for the credit at the time of enrollment which varies with the school. The grade earned in the class goes on both your high school transcript and a transcript from the certifying college.