Best AP Classes for Graphic Design Majors
Plan AP classes by grade level, priority, prerequisites, college-credit caveats, and Fiveable study resources.
By Amanda DoAmaral · Updated Jul 16, 2026
For graphic design, the best AP® classes are AP 2-D Art and Design, AP Drawing, AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP English Language. The strongest plan builds portfolio work, visual analysis, digital fluency, and communication.
Use this guide with Fiveable's AP Art and Design, AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP English Language.
Recommended AP sequence for graphic design
| Grade | Best AP focus | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 9th grade | Studio art or no AP class | Build drawing, composition, and design habits. |
| 10th grade | AP Art History or AP Computer Science Principles | Adds visual context or digital systems. |
| 11th grade | AP 2-D Art and Design, AP English Language | Builds portfolio and communication skills. |
| 12th grade | AP Drawing, AP 3-D Art and Design, AP Research | Adds portfolio depth and research direction. |
Priority tiers
| Tier | AP classes | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | AP 2-D Art and Design, AP Drawing | Best portfolio foundation. |
| Useful | AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, AP English Language | Supports visual analysis, digital work, and writing. |
| Optional | AP 3-D Art and Design, AP Research, AP Psychology | Useful for product, UX, or research interests. |
Prerequisites and alternatives
Start with the highest available AP in the essential tier. If your school does not offer one of these AP classes, choose the closest honors or dual-enrollment course that builds the same skills: drawing, digital design, art history, or writing.
Portfolio caveats
Design programs often care more about portfolio quality than AP credit. AP Art and Design can help you build a sustained investigation, but admissions portfolios may require specific formats or extra pieces.
Fiveable resources for graphic design AP classes
| AP subject | Study hub | Practice | FRQs | Score calculator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AP Art and Design | Study guides | Practice | FRQs | Calculator |
| AP Art History | Study guides | Practice | FRQs | Calculator |
| AP Computer Science Principles | Study guides | Practice | FRQs | Calculator |
| AP English Language | Study guides | Practice | FRQs | Calculator |
Official planning notes
A few things are worth checking before you lock in a schedule.
- College Board's AP Courses and Exams page lists current AP subjects and course categories.
- Use College Board's AP Credit Policy Search to check college-specific credit and placement.
- Check the graphic design program's own prerequisites and portfolio rules before assuming AP credit will count toward the major.
Related AP career guides
Compare this plan with AP classes for communications, AP classes for marketing, AP classes for architecture, and AP classes by major.
Frequently Asked Questions About AP Classes for Graphic Design
What AP classes are most important for graphic design?
AP 2-D Art and Design, AP Drawing, AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP English Language are the best starting point, but the right schedule depends on your school's course sequence, your math placement, and how many AP classes you can take while doing well.
Do AP classes guarantee college credit?
No. Colleges set their own AP credit and placement policies, and some majors use AP scores differently than the general university policy. Always check the specific colleges and departments on your list.
Should I take every AP class connected to my intended major?
Usually no. Colleges care about rigor, grades, and fit. Prioritize the courses that build the strongest foundation first, then add useful electives if your schedule can handle them.