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Advanced Placement Courses

AP Is for Every Student

At Northglenn High School, we believe that rigorous learning should be accessible to all students. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are open to students who are curious, motivated, and ready to stretch their thinking—and we encourage every student to try at least one AP course during their high school career.

Through our Elevate principles—Consistency, Coherence, and Belonging—we are committed to expanding access to AP, supporting students in challenging coursework, and ensuring that every student feels they belong in rigorous academic spaces.

Students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the corresponding AP exam in May.

Access, Support, and Belonging

AP is not just for a select group of students. Your background, identity, or previous academic labels should never limit your opportunities.

At Northglenn, we are committed to:

  • Consistency: Clear expectations and strong instructional practices across AP courses
  • Coherence: Thoughtful pathways that help students build skills over time
  • Belonging: Learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and capable

Students are encouraged to work with counselors and teachers during registration to find AP courses that align with their interests, goals, and readiness.

Our encouragement: Every Northglenn student should consider taking at least one AP course before graduation. Starting with one class is a powerful way to grow confidence and discover new possibilities.

AP Course Offerings

Course availability may vary by year based on scheduling and enrollment.

English

  • AP Seminar
  • AP English Language and Composition
  • AP English Literature and Composition
  • AP Research

Science

  • AP Biology
  • AP Chemistry
  • AP Environmental Science
  • AP Physics 1
  • AP Physics 2

Mathematics

  • AP Pre-Calculus
  • AP Calculus AB
  • AP Calculus BC
  • AP Statistics

Social Studies

  • AP World History
  • AP Human Geography
  • AP U.S. History
  • AP U.S. Government

Electives

  • AP Music Theory
  • AP Spanish Language and Culture
  • AP Studio Art

What to Expect in AP Courses

AP courses are designed to challenge students while providing meaningful support. Students can expect:

  • College-level reading, writing, and problem-solving
  • Engaging, discussion-based and project-based learning
  • Opportunities to develop critical thinking and academic confidence
  • A required AP exam in May (for potential college credit or placement)

Many students begin with one AP course and build from there. There is no single “right” path into AP.

 

AP Capstone™ Program

Northglenn High School participates in the College Board’s AP Capstone™ Diploma Program, a research-based pathway that develops skills in inquiry, analysis, collaboration, and communication.

Program Components

  • AP Seminar: Focuses on research, inquiry, and argumentation
  • AP Research: Students design and complete a year-long independent research project

AP Capstone Recognition

Students may earn:

  • AP Capstone Diploma™
    Awarded to students who score a 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research, and a 3 or higher on four additional AP exams
     
  • AP Seminar and Research Certificate™
    Awarded to students who score a 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research

AP Scholar Awards

The College Board recognizes student achievement through AP Scholar Awards, based on AP exam performance.

Award Levels

  • AP Scholar
    Scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams
  • AP Scholar with Honor
    Average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams
  • AP Scholar with Distinction
    Average score of at least 3.50 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams

Why Take AP?

Students who take AP courses often:

  • Experience deeper, more challenging learning
  • Build strong skills in writing, analysis, and problem-solving
  • Strengthen college and career readiness
  • Gain confidence in their academic abilities
  • Potentially earn college credit or advanced placement (depending on the college or university)

Getting Started

Students interested in AP courses should connect with their counselor and teachers during course registration to explore options and build a plan that fits their goals.

If you’re wondering whether AP is right for you, we encourage you to ask the question, take the risk, and try. You belong in rigorous learning at Northglenn High School.