Northwestern Pre-College Online Program
Discover Your Northwestern Direction While in High School
Studying with Northwestern means being part of an innovative and collaborative community that excels at transforming society, growing leaders, and pursuing excellence. Our Pre-College Online Program is no exception. Designed for motivated students 13 and older, our online courses are taught by our renowned faculty and feature dynamic video lessons and interactive tools. Be guided by mentors; and enjoy the flexible, online structure that allows you to take multiple courses to discover a variety of academic areas of interest.
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
$1,795
Current Courses Available
Law: From Interview to Argument
If you have ever thought about becoming a lawyer, this course will show you the different skills a lawyer needs to be successful, ranging from problem-solving and attention to detail to communication and persuasion. Knowing how to interview clients, analyze relevant laws, draft legal briefs, and create oral presentations are key to a lawyer’s prosperity. In this course, you’ll explore the exciting world of law, hear from legal professionals, and learn how to successfully argue a case on behalf of a client.
Medical Research: Evaluating Claims and Facts
Medical research is responsible for every new drug, vaccine, and method used to prevent or improve human disease. Traditional and social media routinely cover these medical advancements, but how reliable is this information? In this course, you will learn how to ascertain what claims are credible, the importance of ethical practices, and how to read published research articles critically and strategically.
Psychology: Inside Diagnosis and Treatment
Did you know that psychology degrees are extremely marketable because they enable you to develop valuable and transferable skills like writing, communicating, investigating, and understanding behavior? Here’s your chance to start your journey through the world of psychology. Learn the major theories of how mental health disorders develop, and evaluate the significant science, techniques, and approaches to therapy. Explore the assessment and treatment of mental health issues, and hear from experts in the field.
Business: Innovation, Strategies, and Success
The world of business is a complex series of moving pieces with a great number of specializations. This course introduces you to key foundational business concepts and roles that contribute to operating successfully, including marketing, finance, strategy, and product development. As you work through interactive modules, case studies, and hands-on assignments, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of how to drive success and refine your ability to analyze problems and make strategic decisions.
Engineering: Solving Problems Through Design
Pyramids. Aqueducts. The reversing of the Chicago River. Engineers have played a significant role in solving problems across the globe throughout history. Now, you can discover how these modern-day marvels address today’s real-world issues. In this course, you will explore a number of disciplines within the world of engineering, and the ways they collaborate to solve complex problems. You will review realistic case studies and apply the design process to solve common engineering problems.
Medicine: The Journey to Saving Lives
Are you fascinated by the fast-paced world of medicine? Do you envision a future in the healthcare field? If so, take a journey with us through the modern emergency department (ED). In this course, you’ll explore how patients are triaged (assessed), cared for, and treated based on their symptoms and vitals. You’ll also be introduced to multiple internal medicine specialities, making this course a great fit for any aspiring doctor.
How You Will Benefit:
- Courses are available year round, so you can pick subjects that fit your passion and your schedule.
- Designed for high school students ages 13 and older so you can start exploring your interests early on.
- Experience courses designed by Northwestern faculty while you’re still in high school.
- Lessons are delivered through dynamic videos, so you can participate 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 Northwestern for your college application.
Three Learning Advantages Designed for You
Final Capstone Project
All courses culminate with a Final 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 topics covered in your course(s) 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 each course’s particular field.
- Encouragement and feedback on all assignments.
- Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you succeed in your studies.
Flexible Learning
- 100% online learning that works with your schedule.
- You’ll learn through engaging video lessons. Watch 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.
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.
Admissions
Our application process is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're admitted ? Find answers to your questions here.
Scholarships
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, reach out to us at support@precollege.northwestern.edu for assistance.
- Are unsure about whether or not you applied for a scholarship, reach out to us at support@precollege.northwestern.edu for assistance.
Northwestern University has partnered with Kaplan, Inc. Kaplan is providing the technology, enrollment, and marketing support for the Pre-College Online Program.