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

Gavel and scale representing law
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 researcher in a lab
Medical Research: Evaluating Claims and Facts

Medical research is responsible for every new drug, vaccine, and method used to prevent disease or improve human health. 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.


Hand holding a brain representing psychology
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. 


Entrepreneurs collaborating in a business meeting
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.


Gears and technology representing engineering
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.


Doctor with a stethoscope
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 specialties, making this course a great fit for any aspiring doctor.


Sports agent in an office holding a basketball
Business of Sports: Beyond the Field

Step behind the scenes of professional sports and discover how winning teams are built off the field. From scouting talent to front office strategies, this course uncovers the powerful role of data, technology, and business operations in shaping success. You'll explore real-world trends, hear from industry experts, and even design your own expansion team strategy. Ready to dive into the exciting world where sports and business collide?


Northwestern pre-college online student

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.
Student applying to Northwestern's pre-college online program

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.

Want to Study On Campus?

Experience college life in Northwestern's summer College Prep program. Learn in thought-provoking two-week courses, live on our lakefront campus, make friends, and enjoy fun activities.

Scholarships

We offer need-based scholarships for participating students who exhibit high potential and an inability to pay the full tuition. 

  • 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.

Northwestern University has partnered with Kaplan, Inc. Kaplan is providing the technology, enrollment, and marketing support for the Pre-College Online Program.