6 Columbia University Pre-College Programs
Columbia University offers 6 pre-college programs for high school students looking to get a head start on their college education. These programs provide a unique opportunity for students to explore academic interests, develop new skills, and get a taste of college life before they graduate from high school. Each program is designed to challenge and engage students, helping them to discover their passions and prepare for their future academic and career paths.
Whether you’re interested in deepening your knowledge in a specific field or exploring something completely new, the 6 Columbia University’s pre-college programs provide a valuable and exciting educational experience.
1. Introduction To Business, Finance, and Economics
- Location: Columbia University, New York City, New York.
- Cost: Residential: $12,449; Commuter: $6,300; Online: $3,960
- Program Dates: In person: June 24- July 12, 2024 (Session 1), July 16- August 02, 2024 (Session 2); Online: July 01-July 12, 2024 (Session 1), July 15- July 26, 2024 (Session 2)
- Application Deadline: Residential: March 4, 2024; Commuter/ Online: April 1, 2024
- Eligibility: Rising junior or senior high school students.
The Columbia University Introduction to Business, Finance, and Economics is an in-depth program for high school students. It covers the basics and practical aspects of these important subjects. Students will learn how businesses work, understand financial markets, and explore economic models. They’ll also learn about investments like stocks and bonds.
The program is interactive, including case studies, research, and lots of discussions. It’s designed to give students a real taste of college-level learning. They will not only learn the theory but also apply it in projects and classroom activities. This makes the learning experience active and engaging.
2. Columbia Writing Academy
- Location: Online
- Cost: $3,960
- Program Dates: July 15– July 25, 2024
- Application Deadline: April 1, 2024 (February 1, 2024: Early Application)
- Eligibility: Rising junior or senior high school students.
The Columbia Writing Academy offers a two-week online course to help students write unique and impressive college admissions essays. It’s designed to help students find their own writing voice and style. Throughout the course, they’ll go through all stages of essay writing – brainstorming, drafting, and revising. They’ll get detailed feedback from teachers to perfect their personal statement.
By the end of the program, they’ll have an essay that stands out in their college applications. Besides the main course, students can join extra online activities and workshops. These include finding the right college, improving their overall application, and getting tips for the Common App.
3. Climate School in the Green Mountains
- Location:Castleton, Vermont.
- Cost:$6,790 + travel fees
- Program Dates:June 30 – July 12, 2024
- Application Deadline: April 1, 2024 (February 1, 2024: Early Application)
- Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12.
The Columbia Climate School in Castleton, Vermont, offers a two-week intensive program for high school students focused on climate change. Students will learn from experts at the school and work with peers who are also interested in environmental issues. This program is not just about learning; it’s about working together to come up with ways to tackle climate change.
The program is run in partnership with Putney Student Travel, known for creating safe and interesting educational travel experiences since 1951. Their approach is unique, combining learning with travel and activities. It’s perfect for curious high school students who want to learn more about global issues and make a difference.
4. Special Foreign Language Programs
- Location: Morningside Campus, Columbia University, New York.
- Cost:$2,376 per point ( $80 application fee)
- Program Dates: Russian Practicum: June 3- June 28, 2024 (Session H), July 1- July 26, 2024 (Session R); Arabic Summer Program: May 20- June 17, 2024 (Session G), June 17- July 12, 2024 (Session J)
- Application Deadline: Session G: April 1, 2024; Session J: May 22, 2024; Session H & R: May 22, 2024
- Eligibility: Students who are either entering or are already in the 11th or 12th grade.
Columbia University’s Special Foreign Language Programs offer students the chance to study various languages during the Summer Session. These six-week courses cover languages like French, German, Greek, Italian, Latin, and Spanish, some in an intensive format. For 2024, two focused four-week programs, the Columbia Arabic Summer Program (CASP) and the Russian Practicum, are also available, including cultural activities to enhance learning.
CASP focuses on Modern Standard Arabic, using the Al-Kitaab series and teaching through activities and multimedia resources. It covers all language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural understanding. The Russian Practicum offers intensive Russian courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Students in these programs should expect to dedicate significant time to study outside of class. Credits earned can be included on a Columbia transcript but don’t guarantee admission to the university.
5. Academic Year Weekend
- Location: Online
- Cost:$2,810 ($80 application fee)
- Program Dates:January 19–March 24, 2024
- Application Deadline: December 5, 2023 (Closed)
- Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12.
Columbia University’s Academic Year Weekend Program is a ten-weekend online course for 9th to 12th graders around the world. It uses a sophisticated online platform for both academic learning and student life activities. The program offers over 20 different courses in an interactive virtual classroom, helping students prepare for college. Besides studying, students can meet and learn from peers from different countries, which helps them get ready for the diverse environment of higher education.
The program is more than just classes. It includes virtual clubs for students to explore their interests with others and a Digital Community Group. This group lets students connect and feel part of a community, guided by a Student Life Intern. This mentor helps them get the most out of their online learning experience. The mix of academics, extracurriculars, and social activities makes this program a unique and valuable opportunity for high school students preparing for college.
6. Double Discovery Center
- Location: Columbia University, New York City, New York.
- Cost:Unspecified
- Program Dates:Unspecified
- Application Deadline: Unspecified
- Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 and from Morningside, Manhattanville, Harlem, and Washington Heights or partner NYC schools. First-generation and/or meet low-income guidelines as defined by U.S. Department of Education.
The Double Discovery Center at Columbia University, started in 1965, helps first-generation students from less-privileged areas in New York City to get ready for and succeed in college. It offers a range of programs that deal with academic skills, college prep, and personal growth. Students from local high schools and Columbia University work together, and each year, about 1,000 students join the program.
The center focuses on three things: improving academic skills in subjects like humanities, STEM, and arts; helping students with college applications and career planning; and supporting their mental and physical health. This well-rounded approach helps students get ready for college and life challenges. The center has helped over 17,000 students in the past six decades, with most of them graduating high school and over half earning a college degree.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Columbia University’s 6 pre-college programs are a great chance for high school students to learn more and get ready for college. These programs cover different topics like languages, business, and science. They help students learn a lot about these subjects and prepare for college life. Joining any of these programs is a good way for students to get ahead in their education and find out what they’re interested in before they finish high school.
