North Stafford High – AP Capstone – AP Research

Apr 2026 · 2nd Semester

AP Research is the second of two courses in the AP Capstone program, and it allows students to put the skills acquired in the AP Seminar course to practice in a Capstone Research Project. The course offers an opportunity for students to explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan and conduct a yearlong mentored, research-based investigation to address a research question. This independent study, executed under the mentorship of an AP Capstone trained teacher, culminates in a scholarly academic thesis in which the student defends and articulates his/her position on his/her chosen subject. This course may be included in the requirements for a number of academic programs. High School students can earn additional high school or college credits through a variety of independent study, distance learning, off-site courses, and work-study programs, after an application and review process. Generally, no independent study or alternative credit class can be arranged for classes already in the master course list. These programs work best for students who work well independently or who have a particular vocational interest or ability. For specific information, students should consult school counselors.