AP® Computer Science A

Introduce students to software engineering and object-oriented design while they learn the Java programming language in this new curriculum for AP® Computer Science A (AP® CSA).

A new approach to AP® CSA

In 2020, underrepresented racial/ethnic groups only made up 15% of AP® CSA exam takers. Female students made up 25%. Code.org's CSA curriculum incorporates culturally responsive and equitable teaching strategies designed to invite, engage, and empower a rich diversity of students.

With CSA from Code.org, students will:

Learn in a user-friendly and visually rich multimedia environment
Do software engineering work connected to the real world
Analyze open-source code
Collaboratively develop algorithms
Gain experience writing and making sense of documentation

You must become a verified teacher to use the CSA curriculum and JavaLab. Please fill out this verification form. If you are already verified for CSP/D, you already have access to CSA.

In partnership with

Amazon Future Engineer* is a comprehensive childhood-to-career program to inspire, educate, and train low-income and other disadvantaged children and young people to pursue careers in computer science. Learn about our partnership.

View Professional Learning Opportunities

Our highly supportive Professional Learning Program helps you bring CSA to the students in your school with this no-cost curriculum. In-person and virtual workshops starting this summer.

Two teachers talking and smiling at a professional learning workshop

What teachers are saying about our AP® CSA curriculum:

I have overall been having a great time and we have really enjoyed the creativity in this unit. Something lacking in other AP CSA curricula is that element of personal investment in the programs being created.

I just did this lesson today and I honestly was almost in tears with the change of outlook from Lesson 1 to this lesson in regards to what comes to their minds when they think of the term "software engineer". They saw more positivity and excitement reflected now…they saw more joy and celebration! It was just so amazing!!

My students are talking to each other more than any other years I have taught CSA. One of my "quiet" classes talked and laughed in their small groups as they made the neighborhoods, it helped to build class culture and get them talking to each other.

My kids are having a blast with this, and so am I. Thank you for what you are doing with this curriculum. I am so confident in its potential to be something truly ground-breaking.

This is my first time teaching CSA. Objects were always confusing to me. But now having taught it, it's like 'Ahh! That makes sense. I get it now.'

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is CSA mapped to standards?

Yes, Code.org's CSA curriculum is mapped to the College Board Course and Exam Description for AP® CSA.

How much does it cost to teach CSA?

Our curriculum and platform are available at no cost for anyone, anywhere, to teach!

How/Where can I get professional development for CSA?

Professional learning for Code.org's CSA curriculum will be available beginning Summer 2022. Click here to apply.

What is the recommended timing for teaching CSA?

A minimum of 140 class hours; should be taught as a full-year course. Contains nine units, which includes an AP® Exam Prep unit.

What materials do I need for this course?

This curriculum requires that students have access to computers with a modern web browser. At this time, our curriculum is not optimized for tablets or mobile devices. For more details, check out our technology requirements.

In addition to technology, typical classroom supplies like scissors and sticky notes will also be used throughout the curriculum.

Why do I need to become a verified teacher to teach CSA and run code in Java Lab?

Java Lab is a unique environment from all other Code.org programming environments and requires additional measures to ensure network security for all. Read more about it here.

How can I access answer keys?

Starting in Summer 2022, and with an approved teacher account, you can find answer keys to programming tasks or “Checks for Understanding” in a blue "Teacher Only" panel on Code Studio that shows in the online lessons and activities. Keys for Activity Guides will also be found linked in the lesson plans for the curriculum.

How was the curriculum developed?

Our CSA curriculum was written by teachers, for teachers and was designed with our Curriculum Values in mind. In particular, we focused on expanding access to those who historically have been denied opportunities to learn about the exciting and impactful field of computing. The following goals guided the creation of the CSA curriculum:

Goal 1: Develop an Equitable Course
Goal 2: Prepare Students for Higher Ed and Industry
Goal 3: Design Relevant, Engaging Activities
Goal 4: Incorporate Best Practices from the Field

For more information about the values that guided our work, please see our curriculum values and our professional learning values.