Penn's Gap Year Options

Created by Ivy League faculty and expert practitioners, our non-degree programs are designed to be experienced fully online. Wherever you are in the world, Penn LPS can help you redefine the gap year.

What are your ambitions? Whether you want to learn full time or part time, you can develop your knowledge base in a particular subject, learn a new skill, or immerse yourself in an online Ivy League experience.

Penn LPS Online certificates and courses

Penn LPS Online certificates are short, focused programs of study designed to develop your skills and knowledge in specific subject areas such as applied positive psychology, climate change, creative writing, data analytics, leadership and communication, neuroscience, organizational anthropology, and professional writing. Take four or more accelerated courses to complete a certificate, or select individual courses from a broader range of subjects. Penn LPS Online courses are credit-bearing; please note that credit transfer is granted at the discretion of your home institution.

Penn LPS Boot Camps

Whether you are preparing to enter a technological field or want to bring in-demand digital skills to your area of interest, Penn LPS Boot Camps offer immersive, interactive instruction with extensive learner support and a wide array of resources. Choose your focus from the four available Boot Camps and develop a portfolio of projects in coding, cybersecurity, data analysis, or fintech.

Culture-Driven Team Building Specialization

Learn how team culture is created and influenced, and master tools and strategies to develop leadership skills and handle conflict. Log into Coursera and take a massive open online course (MOOC) to learn vital team-building skills; take all four courses to complete the specialization.

Foundations of Positive Psychology Specialization

Learn the key concepts, theories, and research in this innovative field, and master tools and strategies to encourage well-being and resilience. Take a massive open online course (MOOC) to learn how to thrive personally and professionally; take all four courses to complete the specialization.

For international students: University Connection

The University Connection (UniConn) program combines academic English preparation with expert advising, admissions workshops, and orientation to US university culture to help international students successfully apply and gain admission to undergraduate degree programs at US universities. Sign up for the UniConn experience with English language courses at your level, application workshops, and virtual advising sections—or opt for UniConn Plus to add a course dedicated to standardized test preparation.