10 University Courses for High School Students
- Stephen Turban
- May 31, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Apr 7
If you’re a high school student looking for exposure to university-level coursework, you should consider applying to university courses across various subjects! These courses strengthen your college applications by demonstrating your dedication to your field of interest and prepare you for higher education with advanced knowledge and skills.
Certifications and coursework completed before college can build a strong portfolio, showcasing your ability to handle academic challenges. Whether you're aiming to stand out in college admissions or gain a head start in a chosen career path, taking university courses as a high school student is a strategic step toward achieving long-term academic and professional goals.
In this article, we dive into 10 great university courses for high school students!
Cost: Free
Eligibility: High school students who are proficient in single variable Calculus and have experience with basic programming
Application Deadline: No deadline
Course Dates: Self-paced
MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW) is an initiative by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that provides free and open access to high-quality educational resources. This platform includes lecture notes, assignments, and exams for a wide range of courses. One noteworthy offering is the course titled "Thermodynamics and Climate Change." This course explores the foundational principles of thermodynamics and their direct application to the critical issue of climate change. The course examines the relationship between energy, heat transfer, and the Earth's climate system. It gives you an understanding of how thermodynamic principles govern global warming and climate fluctuations.
Cost: $329
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Course Dates: Self-paced
The UPenn Wharton Global Youth Program's "Understanding Your Money" course is an excellent educational opportunity for high school students interested in financial literacy and personal finance. Offered by the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, this program provides an introduction to essential financial concepts. Throughout the course, you'll engage in activities, workshops, and discussions. Topics typically covered include budgeting, saving, investing, and making informed financial decisions. You'll explore how to manage your finances effectively, set realistic financial goals, and make responsible spending and saving choices. For a more detailed overview of the program and what it entails, check out this article.
Cost: $3,700 (4 credits) or $7,400 (8 credits) (financial aid available)
Eligibility: Students aged 16-18
Application Deadline: January 10 (Early), February 14 (Regular), and April 10 (Late)
Course Dates: 7 weeks (June 22 – August 10)
Harvard Summer School's "Psychology of Cults" course offers an exploration of the complex psychological dynamics that underpin cults and extremist groups. Designed specifically for high school students, this program explores the psychological, sociological, and ethical dimensions of cults, providing an understanding of how individuals are drawn into these groups and the methods used to influence them. The course covers a broad range of topics, including the psychological mechanisms that cults exploit, the strategies used for indoctrination, and the ethical dilemmas associated with studying and interacting with these groups. By examining case studies, you will gain practical insights into human behavior and group dynamics.
Cost: $6,500 (financial aid available)
Eligibility: Be a 16 to 18-year-old high school sophomore or junior by July 21
Application Deadline: January 10
Course Dates: Session I: June 23 to July 5 | Session II: July 7 to 19 | Session III: July 21 to August 2
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is known for offering high-impact educational experiences to exceptional high school students from around the globe. One of its offerings is the "Economics, Politics, and Law" program. This prestigious program allows students to explore complex economic concepts, the dynamics of politics and governance, and the foundational principles of legal systems. The curriculum features seminars, discussions, and workshops. These sessions are conducted by Yale's faculty and experts in their respective fields. The program also grants access to Yale's resources. To learn more about this program, check out our complete guide here.
Cost: $3,700 (4-credits) or $7,400 (8-credits)
Eligibility: 16-18-year-old high school sophomore or junior
Application Deadline: June 20 (last day to register, based on availability)
Course Dates: June 24 to August 9
Harvard Secondary School Online Program’s "Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology" is an academically rigorous course for high school students interested in the life sciences. Participants in this course will explore topics such as DNA structure, protein synthesis, cellular respiration, and genetic regulation. The program combines research with lectures and laboratory work (where applicable). Harvard's faculty and resources guarantee top-tier instruction. This course fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in this field. It's a valuable stepping stone for those considering careers in biology, medicine, or related disciplines.
Cost: Free without a certificate and $199 with a certificate (financial aid available)
Eligibility: Open to all high school students
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis
Course Dates: Self-paced
Entrepreneurship For All (Part I) offered by BerkeleyX on edX is a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to explore startups and entrepreneurship. Taught by Silicon Valley insiders, this course provides a guide to the entire startup process, from idea conception to launch and scaling. You will gain insights into crucial aspects such as identifying market opportunities, developing business models, and crafting effective pitches. The course covers case studies and practical advice, drawing from the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Silicon Valley. The program includes video lectures, readings, projects, and peer collaboration.
Cost: $3,094
Eligibility: One year of physics Algebra, Trigonometry, Precalculus, and calculus are preferred
Application Deadline: January
Course Dates: July 15 to 26
From the Big Bang to Black Holes is a course that covers astrophysics and cosmology. It explores the origins and evolution of the cosmos, from the explosive birth of the universe in the Big Bang to the enigmatic phenomena of black holes. You will be exposed to the research, theories, and scientific methodologies used to study the universe under the guidance of instructors. Through lectures, discussions, and activities, you will develop an understanding of space, time, and the forces shaping the cosmos. The course provides a unique opportunity to engage with advanced concepts in astrophysics, making it ideal for those considering careers in astrophysics, astronomy, or related fields.
Cost: $1,950
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors
Application Deadline: March
Course Dates: Session I: June 24 to July 5 | Session II: July 8 to 19 | Session III: July 22 to August 2
Anatomy, Physiology, and Disease is designed to provide high school students with an understanding of the human body's systems, their functions, and the fundamental mechanisms of disease. As a participant, you will learn about the structure and function of various organs and systems as well as the underlying principles of health and disease. Through lectures, laboratory work (where applicable), and discussions, you will gain insights into the factors influencing human health and the mechanisms of various diseases. The course covers a broad range of topics, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems, and examines common diseases that affect these systems.
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all high school students
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis
Course Dates: 6 weeks at 4-6 hours per week (self-paced)
This course breaks down the art and science behind effective advertising language, offering an exploration of the strategies employed to sway consumer decisions. From dissecting the psychology behind compelling messaging to analyzing case studies, you'll gain valuable insights into how language choices impact audience perceptions. You'll explore the role of rhetoric, the power of storytelling, and the influence of emotional appeal in advertising. The program will also cover the ethical considerations and the societal impacts of advertising, encouraging you to think critically about the information presented to consumers.
Cost: $1,795
Eligibility: Open to all high school students
Application Deadline: Session I: May 26 | Session II: June 2 | Session III: June 2
Course Dates: Session I: June 2 to 16 | Session II: June 9 to 23 | Session III: June 9 to July 7
Enrolling in Georgetown University’s Program in Investing is a great choice if you're interested in finance and want to explore investment strategies and wealth management. This program is curated to give high school students a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets, investment principles, and the practical skills necessary to navigate investing. Taught by instructors and industry experts, the course covers portfolio management, risk assessment, asset allocation, and investment vehicles. One of the key components of this program is the Final Capstone Project, which allows you to develop and present your investment strategy. Successfully completing the course will earn you a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University.
One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing university-level research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Image Source: MIT OCW logo