Advanced Placement (AP) courses provide the opportunity for students to participate in challenging course work that allows them to fully pursue interest in a particular subject area. Howard County Public School System encourages high school students to explore the more than 30 course offerings available in a wide variety of topics, including art, computer science, English, mathematics, music, science, social studies, and world languages. Participation in the AP program builds confidence in the ability to perform college level work by improving study habits, writing skills, and problem solving.