Rochester Pre-College Online STEM Courses for High School Students
Explore your interests in STEM before college
If you have a passion for science, technology, engineering, or math and would like to explore these subjects before college, here is your chance to do so—with one of the world's leading research universities. The University of Rochester offers online courses in biomedical engineering, personalized medicine, video game design, and orthopedic surgery for high school students ages 13 and up. Each course features engaging video by Rochester faculty and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.
Program Dates
Multiple 2- and 4-week sessions
Eligibility
For students ages 13+
Fees
$995
Current courses available
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.
Digital Technology
From storytelling to design
Intro to Video Game Design
Study the art and technology aspects of video game design, from Atari to XBox and Mobile Gaming. Get hands-on experience with the theories, tech frameworks, and storytelling that are used to design Meaningful Play. Learn how to use GameMaker Studio 2 to customize a templated video game.
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.
Orthopedic Medicine
A firsthand look at treating bones
Orthopedic Medicine: Treatments & Surgery
Did you know that orthopedic surgery ranks among the *top medical specialties for both competitiveness and compensation? If you’re a highly motivated student interested in medicine, surgery, or orthopedics, then we have the course for you. You’ll study tumors; trauma; and total joint replacement. Learn common orthopedic conditions, how they present in the body, and the broad range of operative and non-operative treatments available.
*Source: Med School Insiders
Hear From the University of Rochester
Advantages you gain from our STEM courses:
- Online courses are available throughout the year — pick a STEM subject that fits your passion and your schedule
- Suitable for high school students ages 13 and up — so you can start exploring your interests in science, tech, engineering, and math 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
- Receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience
- Earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Rochester
3 Learning Advantages Designed for You
1. Flexible Learning
- 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 mentors
- Engage with fellow students online from around the world
2. Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions 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. 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
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application will ask you to provide the following in English:
- Basic contact information for you and your parent or guardian.
- 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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Apply NowFrequently 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 questionsUndergraduate Admissions
To learn more about applying to the University of Rochester for your undergraduate studies, visit the Undergraduate Admissions page.
Learn more about Undergraduate AdmissionsScholarships
We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential who need assistance affording the associated cost. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:
- Haven't applied to the program, complete your application now. The scholarship application is included.
- Applied to the program and didn't fill out a scholarship request, resume your application and click “Apply for Scholarship”.
- Are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@precollegeonline.rochester.edu for assistance.