Mississippi Department of Education launches pilot AP courses in cybersecurity and business

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has announced the introduction of Advanced Placement (AP) courses in Cybersecurity, Networking, and Business with Personal Finance. The new offerings are part of the College Board’s AP Career Kickstart initiative.

This fall, three high schools—Brandon High School and Richland High School in Rankin County School District, and Harrison Central High School in Harrison County School District—will pilot the AP Cybersecurity and AP Networking courses. These schools participated in summer institutes and will receive continued support during the 2025-26 school year. The pilot is expected to serve as a model for other schools when these courses become available statewide in the 2026-27 academic year.

According to MDE, students who participate and demonstrate proficiency in these courses can earn college credit as well as credentials endorsed by employers.

AP Cybersecurity is designed to help students develop both technical and professional skills relevant to careers in cybersecurity. The AP Networking course aligns with typical first-year collegiate networking classes.

In addition, MDE plans to launch AP Business with Personal Finance across Mississippi starting in the 2026-27 school year. This course will provide students opportunities to study marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, management, and engage in project-based learning through practical applications. It also addresses all National Personal Finance Standards from organizations such as the Council for Economic Education and Jump$tart Coalition.

Mississippi has previously been recognized by Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF) as a Gold-Standard state for personal finance education, highlighting its commitment to financial literacy among students.

“These new courses will expand opportunities for Mississippi students to prepare for high-demand, high-wage careers while ensuring students graduate with the financial literacy skills they will use throughout their lives,” said Dr. Lance Evans, state superintendent of education. “By combining rigorous academics with industry-endorsed credentials, we are opening doors to both immediate career opportunities and college pathways for our students.”

The AP Career Kickstart program aims to prepare students for success after graduation by blending academic content with industry-relevant skills and certifications.

More information about this announcement can be found at mdek12.org/news.