The Difference Between AP United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics

If you’re interested in politics or international and domestic relations, a course in government and politics may be right for you. In AP® United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics, you’ll explore political systems, institutions, and processes, as well as have the opportunity to earn credit, advanced placement, or both.  

What will you learn in AP United States Government and Politics?

In AP United States Government and Politics, you’ll study the foundations of American democracy, the interactions among government institutions, and the importance of political participation in the United States. You’ll practice the skills used by political scientists by analyzing data, studying political writings, and examining constitutional interpretations handed down by the Supreme Court. You'll also learn about American political ideologies and beliefs and ways U.S. citizens can influence decisions the government makes. You’ll consider challenges faced by the government in protecting civil liberties and civil rights while maintaining a balance between liberty and order.

What will you learn in AP Comparative Government and Politics?

In AP Comparative Government and Politics, you'll study the political institutions and processes of six countries—China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom—and compare how they address problems. You’ll explore their political systems, economic changes and development, as well as their political cultures, electoral systems, and citizen organizations. The course offers a global perspective on politics by providing students with greater insight into political and economic developments worldwide.

How are AP United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics similar?

AP United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics are similar because they both explore political systems and how citizens interact with their government.

In each course you’ll learn how to:

• Connect political concepts to real-life situations.
• Analyze data to find patterns and trends and draw conclusions.
• Develop a claim or thesis and support it in an essay.

Studying government and politics in either of these courses can open doors to majors and careers such as prelaw studies, labor and industrial relations, public policy, and public administration. Learn more about the majors and careers related to AP United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics.

How are AP United States Government and Politics and AP Comparative Government and Politics different?

In AP United States Government and Politics, you'll focus solely on the United States political system. In AP Comparative Government and Politics, you’ll focus on political institutions and processes of six international countries—China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

If these courses interest you, talk with your school counselor to see if they’re available at your school and how you can enroll.