JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) announced it will participate in the College Board’s innovative AP Career Kickstart courses, which will include an AP Cybersecurity and AP Networking pilot in three Mississippi high schools this fall.

MDE will also offer AP Business with Personal Finance statewide starting in the 2026-27 school year. According to officials, participation and proficiency in these courses will allow students to earn college credit and employer-endorsed credentials.

The College Board invited Mississippi schools in 2024 to apply to participate in the pilot program for the two AP Career Kickstart courses. The selected schools include Brandon High School and Richland High School in the Rankin County School District and Harrison Central High School in the Harrison County School District. The schools took part in summer institutes and will receive ongoing support during the 2025-26 school year.

MDE officials said the implementation will provide a model for other schools when AP Cybersecurity and AP Networking become available statewide in 2026-27.

“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 courses are designed to prepare students for both college and career success.