Ascension Academy
College preparatory school

Capstone Diploma Program

AP Capstone™ is a diploma program based on two year long AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. These courses are designed to complement other AP courses that the AP Capstone student may take.

AP Seminar

In this challenging course, students learn how to research using academic databases & journals; ascertain the credibility and accuracy of source material; cite sources accurately & credibly; integrate and synthesize complicated information; and write for an academic audience. Students also learn to collaborate with a team to write an argument and present information in an engaging way. All these skills prepare students for both college and the business world.

During the fall semester, students acquire these reading and research skills that help them complete two Performance Tasks - research papers and presentations - they will complete autonomously during the spring semester.  In addition to these spring research projects, which are counted as a part of their AP score, students complete a written end-of-course exam.

AP Research

The following year in AP Research, students utilize and build on the skills acquired in AP Seminar as they complete an independent research project that deeply explores an individual area of passion or interest. This project culminates in an academic paper of 4,000–5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.

Visit the AP Seminar and AP Research course pages to learn more or contact

Jennifer Oditt
Ascension Academy Capstone Program Coordinator
joditt@ascensionacademy.org
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