Summer Programs at U of Colorado Boulder for High Schoolers

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is not just a prestigious university; it’s also the setting for some terrific summer programs for high school students. Not only does the city of Boulder offer a wide array of activities such as hiking and enjoying nature, but the programs give you a rigorous yet rewarding pre-college experience. You’ll discover what college life is like at CU Boulder during unchaperoned programs and, in some cases, will even be able to earn college credit to jump-start your education. What can you gain from a summer program at CU Boulder, and what are your options? Find out why you should participate in a summer program at CU Boulder and discover the right niche for you. Colleges want to see you spend your summers doing something meaningful and furthering your goals. Some students pursue internships, part-time work, volunteer opportunities, or other activities. While these activities enable you to explore your interests and even potentially earn wages, summer programs are unique in that they also give you a taste of college life. In a summer program, students can experience campus life firsthand by living in a dorm, taking college-level courses, and engaging with faculty in their field of interest. You’ll make connections with peers, pursue your passions in a new environment, and have access to the host college’s unique resources and facilities. Not only will you enjoy the freedom you’ll experience as a college student, but you’ll also get a head start on facing the rigors and challenges of college-level work. CU Boulder offers a variety of credit and noncredit pre-college programs for students looking to get a deep dive on an academic area of their choice. These programs vary in cost and length and many offer both residential and commuter options. (Note: prices are approximated and vary based on whether the student is a residential or commuter participant.) Delve into the world of astronomy, physics, mathematics, and scientific programming. Through this program, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to perform astronomical work and observations in teams. Students will learn about the celestial coordinate system and create â€Å"observing proposals,† before going on nightly â€Å"observing runs.† Final observations are submitted to the Minor Planet Center of the International Astronomical Union. Ready to apply? You can find the application here. Deep dive into different topics within science, engineering, technology and mathematics during this two-week noncredit intensive. Each of the CU Boulder STEM Academies encourages students to perform hands-on laboratory and field work in the curriculum option of their choice. Learn more about the Academies here , and apply via the application . (Note: financial aid/scholarship information is not available for this particular program.) Aerospace Aeronautics and Astronomy Area of specialization: Engineering Area of specialization: Engineering Area of specialization: Life Sciences/Biology Area of specialization: Life Sciences/Biology Area of specialization: Computer Science Explore the research process by working directly with CU faculty and graduate students over the course of this four-week program. You’ll also have the option of participating in a weekly Research Methods course to build your skills. Ready to apply? You can find the application here. Band, orchestra, and piano students will receive world-class instruction by faculty members, graduate students, and guest conductors and artists. Students are placed in either the wind ensemble or string orchestra in this one-week program. They will also have the opportunity to participate in electives aimed at preparing them for college-level music degree programs. Financial aid/scholarship available: Yes Ready to apply? You can find the application here. (Note: As part of the application process, students are required to submit materials including an excerpt of their music attesting to tone quality and technical ability.) Does your child need help finding and applying to summer programs? Consider the benefits of the Mentorship Program , which helps students build their portfolios with the best activities and provides access to practical advice on topics from college admissions to career aspirations, all from successful college students.