Teaching AP® Computer Science A
Learn how to lead a successful AP® Computer Science A class with CodeHS. The Teaching AP® Computer Science A professional development course prepares teachers to teach AP® Computer Science A with a focus on the Java programming language. Teachers will practice the skills they need to teach tricky concepts, debug programs, answer questions, and lead a blended classroom.
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No programming experience required
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Flexible self-paced timeframe
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In-course support with an instructor
Course Overview
Here is an outline of the course modules:
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Welcome
This introductory module provides an overview of the Teaching AP® CSA professional development course. Students learn about the big ideas behind the course, key principles for teaching AP® CSA, access and equity in computer science, and goal planning and pacing. |
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What is AP® CSA?
Students learn about the 2019 AP® Computer Science A course and College Board curriculum framework, how to go through the AP® Course Audit, specific details about the new AP® examination, and an overview of the CodeHS AP® CSA curriculum which includes student recruitment strategies. |
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How CodeHS Works
In this module students will gain an understanding of what CodeHS is bringing to your classroom, and learn how to use the CodeHS website effectively. |
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Java Programming Basics Bootcamp
Students dive in and learn the basics of programming in Java by working through a condensed version of the first two student modules and key lessons from student course modules 3 and 4. |
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Java Programming Advanced Bootcamp
Students continue learning more about programming in Java by working through key student lessons on classes and data structures. |
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Debugging in Java
Finding and fixing errors in programs is a fundamental skill for new and experienced programmers to develop. This module introduces debugging, the art and science of fixing broken programs. Students learn techniques for finding common code errors and effective debugging strategies to share with students. |
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Teaching Programming in Java
Students practice teaching the basics of programming with Java. This module reviews key concepts of Java and object-oriented programming and ways to teach them the classroom. Students also practice grading and fixing student Java programs. |
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Leading a Blended Computer Science Class
Teachers learn what leading a blended classroom with both online and offline activities looks like, and learn helpful ideas and best practices for incorporating online learning into a traditional classroom. |
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After the AP® Exam
This brief module explores how teachers can effectively use the planning and instructional time after the AP® Exam. |
Course Format
This CodeHS professional development course is offered online and takes approximately 30-40 hours to complete. The course consists of learning modules containing video tutorials, example programs, quizzes, programming exercises, and short answer questions. Each module addresses a different aspect of leading a computer science class, from pedagogical approaches to helping students fix broken programs to preparing for the AP® exam.
College Board Endorsed
CodeHS is an ondorsed provider by the College Board for AP computer science courses and PD. This endorsement affirms only the components of Endorsed Provider's offerings alligned to all the AP Curriculum Framework standards and the AP CS assessments.
Teaching AP CSA FAQ
Is CodeHS AP professional development College Board recognized?
Yes. As a College Board–endorsed provider, CodeHS offers professional development recognized by the College Board for preparing teachers to teach AP Computer Science. Completing CodeHS PD helps satisfy College Board expectations for AP teacher preparation and pairs with our pre-approved syllabus for the AP Course Audit.
Can I teach AP CS with CodeHS if I have no programming experience?
Yes. CodeHS AP professional development is designed for teachers with no prior programming experience. The fully online course takes about 30–40 hours and builds the programming skills, pedagogy, and confidence to lead an AP classroom, with personalized feedback from the CodeHS PD team after each activity.
What is the AP CSA pass rate for CodeHS classrooms?
On the 2025 AP CSA exam, CodeHS teachers who responded to our survey reported a 78% passing rate, with 57% of their students scoring a 4 or 5 — compared with a 67% national pass rate and 47% scoring 4 or 5. CodeHS classrooms have reported above-average AP CSA results across multiple years.
AP exam pass rates are self-reported by CodeHS teachers who responded to our 2025 AP exam survey, compared with College Board national rates. See the full 2025 AP results.
