Full-Day Programs
Our full-day programs are three weeks in length and focus on one area of study and are reflective of Rochester’s most popular majors. Students will learn from academic departments about different paths within that subject matter.
Programs
The University of Rochester’s Pre-College Programs offer current high school students a wide range of academic programs and a true sense of college life. Students can explore the flexible Rochester Curriculum and learn what they love with like-minded peers. No matter which program you choose, get ready for the Rochester Effect.
Half-Day Programs
Half-day programs are offered for one or two weeks and give students the opportunity to choose from a variety of disciplines to mix and match their interests. Students can apply to up to two half-day programs, one morning program and one afternoon program.
College Credit Courses
Students can take credit-bearing courses in high school and receive college credit that is transferable to most universities for successfully completing their course. Classes typically range from two to five credits.
Online Courses
Our online pre-college courses are designed 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 lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace.
Class Selection
Students select their program and specific classes they are interested in during the online application process. For sessions A and B, students will select first choice and second choice classes. While we prioritize a student’s first choice, there may be times that we will place a student in their second choice.
Classes are subject to a minimum and maximum enrollment. In the event of under-enrollment, the class will be cancelled.
If your first choice class is full, you will be placed in your second choice class. We recommend applying early.
Homework & Challenge of Courses
The full and half day programs include fun, hands-on activities, with little to no homework and no grades. You will be challenged, but also encouraged in your learning experience by the instructors. You may be asked to participate in a group activity or individual research project as part of the class experience.
College courses for high school students consist of homework, projects, quizzes, and tests that will influence your grade for the course. Professors will distribute a syllabus on the first day of class outlining the workload and what additional books and materials may need to be purchased for the course.
If your class requires the use of a computer, accommodations will be made by the instructor. There are several computers available on campus that you may use during your lunch hour. Residential students may elect to bring a laptop computer. Residence halls are wired to provide Internet connection.
See a list of public computer areas.
Books & Materials
For the full and half day programs, books and course materials are included in the program costs.
Students enrolled in college courses will be responsible for purchasing their own books and course materials outlined by the professor. Students can purchase any books or other required items at the University bookstore.
Course Location & Instructors
Classes are held on the University of Rochester River Campus and the University of Rochester Medical Center, including the School of Medicine and Dentistry and the School of Nursing.
Classes are taught by University of Rochester faculty and graduate students.
Class Times
If you are enrolled in a full-day program or half-day morning class, you will attend class from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be served in the dining hall from 11:30 am to 1 p.m. Afternoon half-day programs and the afternoon session of full-day programs run from 1 to 4 p.m.
Class times for students enrolled in credit-bearing courses vary, but classes typically run for a total of three hours daily and are held three to five days a week.