Notre Dame Pre-College Online STEM Programs
STEM is one of the most popular areas of study because it serves as the foundation for a variety of majors and potential career paths in fields that foster innovation. Designed to empower brilliant and energetic thinkers, Notre Dame's pre-college online STEM-related courses feature dynamic video lessons by renowned faculty, and access to mentors. Course subjects include biology and psychology, with more on the way. Best of all, discover as many STEM subjects as you'd like anywhere, anytime, at your own pace, since the program is available year-round. This is a great opportunity for you to explore your passions and prepare for college.
Program Dates
Choose the course length that works for you: 2-week and 4-week sessions
Eligibility
For students ages 13 and up
Individual Course Fees
$1,495
Current Courses Available
Biology: The Impact of Genetic Mutations
Why is evolution important in biological systems, and how does it explain why cancer cells exist and recur? In this course, you’ll explore genetic mutations, learn the process of gene editing, and the way it is used for therapeutic purposes. You’ll consider the mechanisms and limitations of immunotherapy and other therapies used to treat cancer. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in STEM or medicine, this course is a great first step.
Psychology: Understanding the Self and Our World
How do we process and use information about social experiences? What kinds of feelings and biases influence how we engage with other people? Psychology helps us understand human behavior, and how the brain influences it. Get an introduction to psychological theories and principles that explore human motivation, behavior, and emotions to gain understanding of each person’s “self.” Whether you envision a future in the field of psychology, or any profession that involves people, this course is a great fit.
How You Will Benefit
- Courses are available throughout the year—pick STEM subjects that fit your passion and your schedule.
- Suitable for high school students ages 13 and up so you can start exploring your interests in STEM early on.
- Experience what it’s like to take a STEM course designed by Notre Dame faculty while you’re still in high school.
- Lessons by professors are delivered through dynamic videos, so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows.
- Work with mentors who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience.
- For each course, earn a Certificate of Completion from the University of Notre Dame for your college application.
Three Learning Advantages Designed for You
Capstone Project
All STEM courses culminate with a Capstone 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 STEM-related topics covered in your course to show what you’ve learned.
- Use any media you prefer—text, video, photography, PowerPoint.
Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:
- Expertise in your course’s particular STEM-related field.
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments.
- Inspiration, motivation and confidence to help you excel in your studies.
- Brainstorming to help you prepare for your capstone project.
Flexible Learning
- 100% online learning that works with your schedule.
- You’ll learn STEM subjects through engaging video lessons. Tune in anytime that works for you.
- Multiple courses can be taken to maximize your learning experience.
- 20 to 30 hours of total instruction and activities per course, including multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support from mentors.
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Just provide some basic information and tell us why you wish to take this program.
Note: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided application process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.
Want to know more?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch!
Frequently asked questions
When will you find out if you’ve been accepted? How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time will you get to complete a project?Answers to your questions are here.
Admissions
Our application is simple. You can expect a prompt decision.
Scholarships
We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential and an inability to pay full tuition. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:
- If you haven’t applied to the program, apply here. After submitting your application, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” on the confirmation page to request a scholarship.
- If you’ve already applied to the program, sign in to your Profile to check your scholarship status. If we don’t have a scholarship request on file, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” to request a scholarship.