Apologia is the dominant science curriculum in Christian homeschooling, used by more families than any other science program in the faith-based market. Founded by Dr. Jay Wile, a nuclear chemist, Apologia offers science education from elementary through Advanced Placement level, all taught from a young-earth creationist perspective with a Biblical worldview.

The elementary series, “Exploring Creation,” uses a notebooking approach: students read from a beautifully illustrated textbook, then respond through journaling, drawing, and hands-on activities. Topics rotate through zoology, botany, anatomy, astronomy, and chemistry across the elementary years. The tone is conversational and engaging, making science feel like an adventure rather than a textbook grind.

At a Glance

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The upper-level courses (7th grade through 12th) shift to a more traditional textbook format, but maintain Apologia’s accessible writing style. The high school courses — General Science, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Advanced Physics/Mathematics — are rigorous, college-preparatory courses that include extensive laboratory work. Students perform experiments using household materials or affordable lab kits. Each course includes 16 modules with study guides and tests.

Apologia’s college-prep reputation is well-earned: students who complete the high school sequence are prepared for college-level science courses. The AP Biology and AP Chemistry courses are particularly well-regarded. Many Apologia students earn high scores on the science portions of the SAT and ACT.

The young-earth creationist perspective is woven throughout every course. Origins, the age of the earth, and evolutionary theory are addressed from a Biblical standpoint. For families who want rigorous science education within a Christian framework, this is a feature. For secular families or old-earth creationists, this is a dealbreaker — and there are excellent secular alternatives (Real Science Odyssey, BFSU, Mystery Science) that provide comparable academic quality.

Apologia materials are available through most Christian homeschool retailers. The cost runs $65–$90 per course. Video instruction options are available through Apologia’s own online academy and through third-party providers. The curriculum has a loyal, multi-generational following — many current homeschool parents used Apologia themselves as students.