Skill Path

Study for the AP Computer Science A Exam (Java)

Master the core concepts covered in AP Computer Science A Exam and gain a solid understanding of programming and fluency in Java.

Includes AP Computer Science A, Highschool, College, Introduction to Computer Science, Java, and more.

To start this Skill Path, upgrade your plan.
6,404 learners enrolled

  • Skill level

    Beginner

  • Time to complete

    30 hours

  • Certificate of completion

    Yes

  • Prerequisites

    None

About this skill path

In this skill path, we’ll cover all of the key topics that are required for the AP Computer Science A exam. The exam dives deep into Java and is a great entry point for people that have never programmed before. Think of this path as an equivalent experience to most introductory programming courses taught in high school or college. This is a useful resource for anyone beginning their Java journey.

Skills you'll gain

  • Master the Java language
  • Ace the AP Computer Science Exam
  • Understand object-oriented programming
  • Write recursive programs

Syllabus

8 units • 23 lessons • 13 projects • 20 quizzes
  • 1

    Writing Your First Java Program

    Welcome to the start of your journey with Java! In this track, we’ll learn what Java is and write our first program!

  • 2

    Object-Oriented Programming

    Learn how to write object-oriented programs by building your own classes. Then take a look at some of the most common built-in Java classes.

  • 3

    Conditionals and Control Flow

    Learn how to use conditionals - one of the most important tools in programming.

  • 4

    A Deeper Dive Into Classes

    Take a deeper look at how classes work in Java. Explore String methods as well as some of the more advanced features of your own classes.

  • 5

    Arrays and Loops

    Create Arrays and ArrayLists, loop through those data structures, and ultimately create two-dimensional versions of these objects.

  • 6

    Code Challenges

    It’s time to put your Java knowledge to the test! Try solving some of our code challenges involving arrays, loops, Strings, and more!

  • 7

    Algorithms

    What is an algorithm? How do we know if an algorithm is efficient? Let’s dive into some of these Computer Science concepts.

The platform

Hands-on learning

Don't just watch or read about someone else coding — write your own code live in our online, interactive platform. You'll even get AI-driven recommendations on what you need to review to help keep you on track.
Animated demonstration of running code in Codecademy's learning environment

Projects in this skill path

Reviews from learners

  • The progress I have made since starting to use codecademy is immense! I can study for short periods or long periods at my own convenience - mostly late in the evenings.
    Chris
    Codecademy Learner @ USA
  • I felt like I learned months in a week. I love how Codecademy uses learning by practice and gives great challenges to help the learner to understand a new concept and subject.
    Rodrigo
    Codecademy Learner @ UK
  • Brilliant learning experience. Very interactive. Literally a game changer if you're learning on your own.
    John-Andrew
    Codecademy Learner @ USA

Our learners work at

  • Google Logo
  • Meta Logo
  • Apple Logo
  • EA Logo
  • Amazon Logo
  • IBM Logo
  • Microsoft Logo
  • Reddit Logo
  • Spotify Logo
  • Uber Logo
  • YouTube Logo
  • Instagram Logo

What's included in skill paths

  • Practice Projects

    Guided projects that help you solidify the skills and concepts you're learning.

  • Assessments

    Auto-graded quizzes and immediate feedback help you reinforce your skills as you learn.

  • Certificate of Completion

    Earn a document to prove you've completed a course or path that you can share with your network.
See pricing and plans
How it works

Skill paths help you level-up

  1. Get a specialized skill

    Want to level up at work? Gain a practical, real-world skill that you can use right away to stand out at your job.

  2. Get step-by-step guidance

    We guide you through exactly where to start and what to learn next to build a new skill.

  3. Get there quickly

    We’ve hand-picked the content in each Skill Path to fast-track your journey and help you gain a new skill in just a few months.

Ready to learn a new skill?

Get started on Study for the AP Computer Science A Exam (Java) with a free Codecademy account.

Looking for something else?

Explore full catalog