AP Networking trains students in the field and aligns closely with standard first-year collegiate introductory networking courses. Students blend learning essential networking concepts with relevant, hands-on problem-solving activities to maximize their understanding of network hardware, logical and physical configuration, the use of protocols to enable reliable and accurate transmission of data between hosts, and relevant security practices that protect the transmission of data within and between computer networks. Students learn the value of configuring devices and networks with a “security-first” mindset to mitigate common vulnerabilities. Students work collaboratively to connect, configure, troubleshoot, and secure devices and networks while building critical thinking and communication skills. As an AP Career Kickstart™ course, AP Networking offers students the opportunity to earn an employer-endorsed credential in the networking field.
AP Cybersecurity is a yearlong high school course that offers a broad introduction to the field and aligns closely with a college-level, introductory cybersecurity course. Students learn about common threats and vulnerabilities and how they combine to create risk. Students study how individuals and organizations manage risk and how risk can be mitigated through a defense-in-depth strategy. Students explore specific vulnerabilities, attacks, mitigations, and detection measures across a variety of domains including physical spaces, computer networks, devices, and data and applications. Throughout the course, students consider the impact of cybersecurity on individuals, organizations, societies, and governments. Content and skills taught in the course align with the professional skills outlined in the Nation. As an AP Career Kickstart™ course, AP Cybersecurity offers students the opportunity to earn an employer-endorsed credential in the cybersecurity field.
