The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of selected Advanced Placement (AP) programs on the academic performance and college readiness of high school students. Specifically, the researcher was concerned with ascertaining the effectiveness of social science, math, science, English, music/art and language AP programs on the academic performance and college readiness of high school students. Additionally, this study investigated the relationship among the variables gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, academic performance, and college readiness of AP high school students. An ex post facto research design was used in this empirical study. Archival data were collected on 235 students who attended high school in a southeast Texas district and who took an Advanced Placement (AP) examination administered by the College Board. The data were tested through application of the One-way Analysis of Variance, Chi Square Fit of Independence, and Logistic Regression. The researcher concluded that gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status did not exert a significant influence on the academic performance of AP students. In addition, the investigator concluded that gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and academic performance did not predict the college readiness of AP high school students. Based on the findings of this study, it is suggested that further research be undertaken to examine the effects of demographic factors such as gender, age, and years of experience on teachers' and principals' perceptions regarding AP programs. It is also recommended that a follow up study be conducted that measures more than one indicator for academic performance and for college readiness. Such a study would provide more pertinent information regarding the influence of AP programs on the present and future academic success of high school students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]