UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies Pre-College programs offer 3rd–12th graders engaging, university-level learning experiences. Through online and in-person year-round and summer courses, students explore academic interests in depth, earn credit, and prepare for college with hands-on learning, discussions, and collaboration at a world-class public university.
High school students can earn credit while exploring academic subjects in depth, gaining valuable insight into college-level study and the admissions process. Each program is crafted to engage participants in intensive exploration through lectures, discussions, group projects, and individual research.
Leveraging the expertise and resources of an internationally ranked public university, UC San Diego’s Pre-College programs empower students to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills while discovering their passions and expanding their academic horizons.
Academic Connections
UC San Diego Academic Connections provides a pre-college summer experience that is academically enriching for high-achieving, college-bound high school students motivated to explore the offerings of UC San Diego – a top five, internationally ranked public institution. Students are exposed to some of the most exciting fields of study in the physical and social sciences, engineering, and arts and humanities. Courses place emphasis on active learning and putting knowledge to use in independent and creative ways.
Discover
Discover UC San Diego’s Open Enrollment program is the perfect opportunity for high school students to launch their college journey and experience university-level academics. Offering the same undergraduate courses taken by UC San Diego undergraduate students, this program allows you to earn transferable college credits while studying 100% online. With engaging topics taught by world-class faculty, students can explore their interests, gain valuable knowledge, and earn credits. Start building your future today by joining a program that brings the college experience to you, wherever you are.
Research Scholars
A program where students receive unparalleled educational opportunities that leverage the intellectual capital of an internationally ranked research university and teach highly sought-after skills that can make students more competitive candidates for college admissions and internship opportunities. Students assume the role of researcher, becoming fully immersed in projects that have real-world applications. Program fields include Bioengineering, Business Research, Design Lab, Life Sciences, Marine Science, and Medicine.
Sally Ride Science Academy
Engaging interactive STEAM workshops for elementary, middle, and high school learners. Using a unique hands-on approach, Academy participants will traverse the enthralling worlds of space exploration, marine biology, coding, and programming, among many others. Top-notch STEAM instructors lead these workshops, serving as both teachers and role models, helping to make STEAM careers more accessible.
To find out more about session dates, costs, and classroom format, be sure to check out our website!