High School Summer Scholars Program

The High School Summer Scholars Program at Washington University offers participants the opportunity to experience the independence of college life the summer after their sophomore or junior year in high school.

Highlights of the High School Summer Scholars Program:

• Earn up to seven full college credits, transferable to most accredited colleges and universities. A full course catalog is available on the High School Summer Scholars Program website.
• Get a head start on exploring your options for a college major and a career.
• Study alongside college students in small classes in a relaxed pace with an especially supportive environment.
• Learn first-hand about college in all its dimensions, from residential life to library research. Gain invaluable experience in managing time, choosing courses, and interacting with professors.
• Live in the residence halls for five weeks with fellow scholars, or attend as a commuting student.
• Enjoy a variety of social and cultural opportunities while making new friends from around the world.
• Take advantage of the unique Washington University experience: the excitement of a world-class research institution, with faculty who are leaders in their fields, plus the encouragement of teachers committed to teaching well.

Prospective Scholars can choose between two five-week session. For information, eligibility requirements, and the application, visit the High School Summer Experiences website.

Architecture Discovery Program

Architecture Discovery is open to high school students, between junior and senior years, interested in a career in architecture. This two-week program allows students to learn about the practice of architecture and participate in its educational process. In the mornings, students attend lectures, seminars, and films presented by faculty and visiting professionals. Students also visit a construction site, several architectural offices, and participate in free-hand drawing sessions. Afternoon sessions are set aside for studio work. The coursework is supported by informal seminars, individual tutoring, and group reviews. Students can choose between two sessions. For information and an application, visit the College of Architecture website.

Portfolio Plus Program

Portfolio Plus is open to students 16 or older who have completed their sophomore year in high school. This five-week program is an introduction to the study and practice of art making. All students take drawing and 2D/3D design classes in the morning. In the afternoon, students may select from figure drawing, painting, sculpture, digital photography, or fashion design. In addition to participating in organized trips to local museums and artists studios, students learn to document their work in both slide and digital formats. For information and an application, visit the College of Art website.

High School Summer Institutes

The High School Summer Institutes at Washington University are open to current high school students the summer after their sophomore or junior year in high school. These non-credit summer institutes let participants spend three weeks exploring their interests while living on campus.

Prospective students can choose between these three-week sessions:

• Writing Institute
• Photojournalism Institute
• Pre-Medical Institute

For information, eligibility requirements, and the application, visit the High School Summer Experiences website.