AP Government and Politics is designed to be the equivalent of a college-level political science course.

The course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics, and the analysis of specific case studies, theoretical perspectives, and explanations for various political behaviors and outcomes. Five major themes illustrate the distinct features and processes involved in U.S. government and the study of political behavior: Constitutionalism; Liberty and Order; Civic Participation in a Representative Democracy; and Methods of Political Analysis. The course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement test in May. Students may earn college credit through their performance on this assessment. VA/U.S. Government is a required course for all 12th grade students. Standard, Honors, and AP versions of this course are available.