Rochester Pre-College Online Program for High School Students

Explore your interests before college

If you have a passion for a certain subject and would like to explore it before college, here is your chance to do so—with one of the world's leading research universities. The Rochester Pre-College Online Program offers courses designed for high school students ages 13 and up. Each course features engaging video by Rochester faculty and live sessions with University mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.


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2021 Program Dates

Multiple 2- and 4-week sessions

Eligibility

For students completing grades 9—12, ages 13+

2021 Fees

$995

Current courses available

Doctor holding an artificial foot in a lab.

Engineering

Discover our bionic future

Biomedical Engineering: Solving the Body’s Problems Through Technology

Can biotechnology increase our lifespan? Can it make our bodies more functional? Can it heal previously untreatable conditions? Delve into the exciting world of biomedical engineering. Learn about current advances and future potentials—everything from artificial limbs to implantable devices. Think like an engineer for the body. Taught through engaging videos by Rochester professors and supplemented by live sessions with University mentors.

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Prescription drugs falling out of a pill bottle onto one hundred dollar bills

Healthcare

Why is healthcare a political hot button?

U.S. Healthcare: Politics, Problems and Possibilities

Is healthcare a right or a privilege? Why are attempts to reform the U.S. system so controversial? Dive into the politics. Learn the history, types of plans and even take a stab at designing a healthcare program yourself. If you’re interested in pre-med or careers in healthcare, this course is for you. Taught through engaging videos by Rochester professors and supplemented by live sessions with University mentors.

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DNA double helix.

Medicine

Learn to read your genes

Personalized Medicine: Customizing Care Through Genetics

Genetic mapping is making treatment more individualized than ever. Step into the brave new world in which genetic science can identify, and in many cases treat, diseases such as addiction, Alzheimer’s, bipolar disorder, even acne. If you are interested in pre-med or STEM, this course is a must. Taught through video lessons by Rochester professors and supplemented by live sessions with University mentors.

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Advantages you gain from our courses:

  • Online courses are available throughout the year — pick a subject that fits your passion and your schedule
  • Suitable for high school students ages 13 and up — so you can start exploring your interests early on
  • Experience what it’s like to take a course designed by University of Rochester faculty while you’re still in high school
  • Asynchronous: lessons by professors are delivered through videos so that you can tune in whenever your schedule allows — the ultimate in flexibility
  • Work with University mentors in live sessions to get the most out of your studies
  • Earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Rochester

Student studying

3 Learning Advantages Designed for You

1. Final Capstone Project

All online courses culminate in a final project that allows you to:

  • Demonstrate what you've learned in a presentation
  • Get feedback from your mentors on your work
  • Choose from a variety of topics covered in your course to show what you’ve learned
  • Use any media you prefer— text, video, photography, PowerPoint

2. Mentoring

You’ll receive guidance from a University mentor through live group sessions. Mentors answer questions and offer support as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:

  • Encouragement and direction on all assignments
  • Inspiration, motivation and confidence to help you excel in your studies
  • Brainstorming to help as you prepare for your final Capstone project

3. Flexibility

  • 100% online, works with your schedule
  • Asynchronous: you’ll learn through engaging videos. Tune in anytime that works for you.
  • 20-30 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support from University mentors
  • Meet fellow students online from around the world

How to Apply

Student at computer

It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application will ask you to provide the following in English:

  1. Basic contact information for you and your parent or guardian.
  2. Why you wish to take this course, and a bit of your story. You can tell us about yourself through writing, video, photos — any media you prefer. NOTE: Please submit all application materials in English.

Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.

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Want to know more?

Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.

Apply now for online pre-college courses

Our application process is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you get to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're accepted?

Find answers to your questions

Undergraduate Admissions

To learn more about applying to the University of Rochester for your undergraduate studies, visit the Undergraduate Admissions page.

Learn more about Undergraduate Admissions