AP CAPSTONE DIPLOMA
STEM PROGRAM

• AP Capstone Diploma Pathway: Students complete AP Seminar and AP Research, building the high-level inquiry and research skills required for university success.
• Integrated “Block” Learning: Science and math are not taught in isolation; they are integrated through engineering design and real-world problem solving.
• Cross-District Collaboration: Students from Central, Eastern, and Northern come together, creating a diverse and dynamic community of young innovators.

The curriculum is grounded in actionable learning moving beyond theory to design, build, and refine solutions. Students engage in high-impact projects, including:

• Engineering & Design: Mastery of CAD software, 3D printing, laser cutting, and CNC machining.
• Hands-on Science: Project examples: soap production and aquaponics systems.
• Collaborative Research: Individual and team-based research projects through the AP Capstone curriculum.

The STEM Academy is a launchpad for future engineers, researchers, and technical leaders. By blending rigorous AP coursework with university partnerships, we ensure our students are “college-ready” on day one.

• Earn the AP Capstone Diploma: Recognized globally, this diploma signifies to colleges that a student has mastered independent research, collaborative teamwork, and professional communication.
• WMU Dual Enrollment: Students can earn up to 21 college credits through Western
• Michigan University courses, including Product Design Fundamentals and 3D Mechanical Modeling.
• Financial Advantages: Academy students are eligible for a $2,500 WMU scholarship, renewable annually for four years, providing a significant head start on tuition.

In an increasingly technical world, the “4 Cs” Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, and Creativity—are essential. The STEM Academy ensures that FHPS students don’t just consume technology, but learn to create it.

By providing access to specialized facilities at Northern High and professional-grade engineering tools, we allow students to explore their passions without leaving the district. This program is for the “tinkerer,” the problem solver, and the student who always asks “how and why?”

The bedrock of the AP Capstone Diploma is two courses – AP Seminar and AP Research. These college preparatory courses teach students the fundamentals needed to thrive in post secondary education. These two courses, combined with four additional AP courses of choice, complete the coursework for this opportunity. Students must earn a score of three or higher on these six AP Exams to earn the AP Capstone Diploma.

Students in the AP Capstone Diploma STEM Academy will be enrolled through Western Michigan University as dual enrollment students. Program students will have the opportunity to earn 21 dual enrollment credits through Western Michigan University.