Pre-College Summer Enrichment Program
Explore academic research with top UC instructors
University of California, Santa Cruz invites motivated high school students to join a transformative academic journey through the Pre-College Summer Enrichment Program. Offered online and taught by UCSC lecturers, each two-week session provides an immersive introduction to a specialized area of study, combining college-level instruction, hands-on projects, and guest lectures from leaders in academia and industry.
Students collaborate in small teams, guided by UC student mentors, as they build essential skills in research, communication, and critical thinking. Each session concludes with a final project presentation to peers, instructors, and advisors—preparing students for the academic rigor of college and the demands of future careers.
Program details
- Who Should Apply: High school students (grades 9–12)
- Program Format: Fully online (Live via Zoom + Canvas LMS)
- Program Length: Each session is two weeks long. Students may apply to one or both sessions.
- Program Free: $1,200 per session
Ready to get started?
Why choose UCSC's Pre-College Program?
• Build real projects in AI and entrepreneurship.
• Make lasting friends and build your network.
• Earn a certificate of completion from UCSC.
• Get mentorship from top UCSC instructors.
• Get a head start on your future career path.
• Make the most of your summer—in just two weeks.
Two tracks—entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence
Each session provides high school students in grades 9–12 the opportunity to engage in university-level learning, collaborate with peers, and gain practical insights from academic and industry experts.
Entrepreneurship for Researchers
Entrepreneurship for Researchers empowers high school students to transform bold ideas into real-world solutions. This collaborative course introduces students to the Lean Startup methodology, design thinking, and customer discovery as they explore the fundamentals of launching a venture.
Through hands-on project work and mentorship, students will develop business models, conduct market research, and deliver final pitch presentations—while building leadership skills that enhance college readiness and future career success.
Innovate • Build • Pitch
Artificial Intelligence For Researchers
AI for Researchers empowers high school students to harness the power of data and innovation to explore real-world challenges. This immersive, mentor-guided course introduces students to foundational concepts in artificial intelligence and machine learning through Python-based instruction and hands-on project work.
As they analyze data and build predictive models, students will gain practical experience with industry-standard tools—developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills that support college and career success in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Learn machine learning with UCSC experts
Apply for summer 2025
Prepare for college with hands-on learning, real research, and expert guidance.