Discover Duke University's Summer Programs for High School Students

Duke University offers a variety of summer programs designed to give high school students a taste of college life and provide opportunities for academic and personal growth. These programs cater to a wide range of interests, from STEM fields like engineering and neuroscience to subjects like creative writing, business, and game design.

Immersive Pre-College Experiences

Duke University's summer programs offer an immersive pre-college experience that prepares students for life beyond middle and high school. Students get to study in university classrooms, learn to navigate a campus, and experience living with roommates. These programs allow students to explore a career concentration they are interested in before going into college and declaring a major.

More than a typical youth summer camp, these programs combine hands-on academic exploration with professional insight, connecting students with mentors and peers who share their ambitions.

Program Options

Duke Pre-College offers an exciting range of summer programs designed to prepare middle and high school students for the next step in their academic journeys, while fostering global connections and hands-on learning experiences. Duke combines intellectual curiosity, exploration, and innovation to offer challenging educational opportunities to current middle and high school students. These advanced programs offer students the chance to dive into challenging subjects, collaborate with peers, and experience learning at one of the nation’s leading universities.

Here are some of the summer programs available at Duke University:

Read also: Decoding Duke University

Duke Pre-College Programs

These programs mirror the rigorous academic environment of Duke, offering a diverse range of courses spanning the arts, sciences, humanities, and more. Through engaging coursework, students have the opportunity to earn college credit, providing them with a head start on their higher education journey. Beyond the classroom, the programs foster a vibrant community where participants interact with like-minded peers, experience campus life firsthand, and engage with world-class faculty. The Pre-College Programs aim not only to enhance academic preparedness but also to cultivate a sense of independence, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study.

One of the distinguishing features of Duke's Pre-College Programs is the emphasis on experiential learning. Whether exploring cutting-edge research in STEM fields, honing creative skills in the arts, or delving into the complexities of global issues, students gain practical insights that extend beyond traditional coursework. The programs provide a unique blend of intellectual challenge, social engagement, and personal growth, empowering participants to navigate the transition from high school to college with confidence. Duke's commitment to academic excellence and holistic development is evident in the carefully curated Pre-College Programs, making them a transformative and invaluable experience for students aspiring to excel in their academic pursuits.

Duke Summer STEM Academy

These programs present a great opportunity for high school students to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of STEM subjects. Designed to ignite a passion for discovery and innovation, this program offers a blend of interactive workshops, hands-on projects, and engaging lectures delivered by Duke's faculty. Participants will explore a range of STEM disciplines, confronting real-world challenges and unlocking new levels of creative problem-solving. It's an ideal setting for young scholars to expand their horizons and forge a deeper connection with the dynamic field of STEM.

DukeREP (Research in Engineering Program)

The Duke Research in Engineering Program (DukeREP) is a summer program hosted by the Biomedical Engineering Department (BME) for high school students with an interest in science and engineering. DukeREP’s mission is to increase diversity in STEM fields. The program introduces students from diverse backgrounds to scientific research in hopes of inspiring them to pursue academic and professional careers in STEM. While priority is given to Durham Public School students, applications are accepted from all eligible high school students in North Carolina. Students from underrepresented groups in STEM or from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.

Outreach Design Education (ODE)

The Outreach Design Education Program (ODE) at Duke University is a set of programs that introduces younger students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to engineering design and fosters an appreciation for STEM. Through engineering design, ODE promotes students’ STEM identity by empowering them to be the drivers of biomedical innovation. The program’s focus on design, rather than conceptual or abstract learning exercises, gives students the practical skills to identify problems and develop solutions. With these skills, students can transform an idea from a far-off concept into a finished product.

Read also: Learn about Duke's Colors

Duke IGNITE Program

Duke Ignite is an engineering design experience for Durham/RTP-area middle and high school students that challenges students to work toward building solutions to problems in their communities. Ignite is a human-centered design education program established to promote creativity and problem-solving in future innovators. Middle and high school students are challenged to develop innovative solutions to problems that affect their local community, guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals. College students are paired with middle and high school students to serve as trainers and mentors throughout the engineering design process.

Duke's STAR Program

The Duke University's STAR (Summer Training in Academic Research) Program is a prestigious initiative designed to immerse high school students in the world of scientific research and inquiry. Participants engage in hands-on, cutting-edge projects across various STEM disciplines, guided by Duke's faculty and researchers. This intensive experience not only enhances participants' understanding of scientific methodologies and technologies but also inspires them to pursue careers in research and innovation. The STAR Program stands out as a unique opportunity for aspiring young scientists in the realm of clinical medicine, offering them a platform to explore their passions and contribute early to meaningful scientific advancements.

Duke University Neuroscience Experience (DUNE)

The Duke University's Neuroscience Experience (DUNE) is a paid summer research opportunity for high school juniors and seniors, focusing on hands-on neuroscience research under professional mentorship. The program, held at the Duke Institute of Brain Sciences, includes a series of scientific development lectures, professional workshops, and community-building activities. The program aims to prepare students for higher education and future careers in neuroscience and related fields.

Summer College for High School Students

Duke's Summer College program is a unique opportunity for high school students to earn college credit while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Duke University. With a diverse range of courses spanning literature, engineering, and beyond, students can tailor their academic experience to align with their passions and future goals. This program provides more than just an academic challenge; it offers a taste of the college lifestyle, encouraging students to become independent thinkers and responsible learners. By fostering an environment that values both academic excellence and personal growth, Summer College equips students with the skills and confidence needed for a successful transition to higher education.

Duke Game Design Lab

For those with a passion for the rapidly evolving world of game design, the Duke Game Design Lab stands as a playground of creativity and innovation. This program goes beyond theoretical concepts, offering hands-on experiences in game development, programming, and storytelling. Under the guidance of industry professionals, participants bring their game ideas to life, gaining practical skills and insights into the game design process. The Game Design Lab at Duke not only nurtures technical proficiency but also cultivates teamwork and problem-solving abilities, essential for success in the dynamic and collaborative field of game development.

Read also: Duke University Tuition Costs

Program Details for the Duke Pre-College Program

Duke Pre-College classes are designed to give high school students the opportunity to work with Duke Ph.D. students and faculty as they explore a future career and degree program. Each class has a balance of presentations, lectures and experiential hands-on learning.

Dates:

June 13 - June 24, 2026
June 28 - July 9, 2026
July 13 - July 24, 2026

Program fees (2026):

Residential: $6,050 (Middle or High)
Commuter: $3,950 (Middle School Only)

What's Included:

All housing and meals during the program; classes; all books and supplies; guest speakers; field trips; interactive activities; evening and weekend leadership activities and socials.

Extra Fees (optional):

Airport Shuttles - $45 each way
Additional Stay - $120 per night

Payment Options:

At the time of registration, applicants are required to pay a non-refundable enrollment deposit of $500 to secure their place in the course. Payment can be made in full or divided into monthly installments up to 30-days before your session start date. If full program fees are NOT received before the session's final payment deadline (i.e. 30-days before the start-date), students will automatically be dropped from the course. Attendance is NOT guaranteed until all tuition and fees are fully paid.

Daily Schedule:

Each of the comprehensive 12-day programs is structured to include a minimum of ten intensive academic days. The academic schedule is strategically divided into two blocks each day:

Mornings: 9:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Afternoons: 1:30 PM - 4:45 PM

Class time will balance foundational knowledge with practical application:

Direct Instruction: A key component of the academic environment is the opportunity for students to learn directly from the next generation of academic leaders. Instruction will be provided by current Duke Ph.D. and graduate students, faculty or alumni, who will serve as primary instructors and be present for one class block each day. The instructors are then supported by a team of engaging teaching assistants (TAs).
Expert Engagement: Learning will be significantly enhanced through sessions featuring guest speakers, including researchers and industry professionals.
Interactive Application: The curriculum incorporates a variety of interactive activities designed to solidify learning and encourage critical thinking. Each day, TAs will facilitate simulations, dedicated research time, hands-on laboratory experiments, and case studies.

Comprehensive Residential Experience:

Residential students will benefit from a fully programmed, structured daily schedule spanning from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Attendance is mandatory for all program activities except for designated social events, fostering a cohesive and committed learning community.

Afternoon programming is designed for holistic development beyond the core academic sessions. These scheduled activities may include:

Dedicated Study and Research Time: Structured periods for independent work, reading, and project advancement.
Project Development: Collaborative and individual work sessions focused on bringing final projects to fruition.
Leadership Workshops: Focused training on essential skills such as teamwork, conflict resolution, communication, and ethical decision-making.
College Connection Presentations: Informative sessions about the college application process, admissions strategies, and life at a major research university like Duke.
Community Service: Opportunities to engage in meaningful service projects, emphasizing civic responsibility and global citizenship. (Middle School)
Off-Campus Excursions: Carefully planned trips designed to provide cultural enrichment or a practical application of academic concepts in a real-world setting.

Participation for Commuter Students - MIDDLE SCHOOL ONLY:

Middle school commuter students are essential members of the academic community and will participate fully in all academic sessions from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM.

Drop-off: 8:30 AM
Pick-up: 5:00 PM

Commuter students may occasionally be asked to join their project teams remotely via Zoom after dinner, particularly if extra time is required for project completion and thorough preparation for final presentations. This flexible approach ensures all students are fully prepared to showcase their work at the conclusion of the program.

Commuter students may attend orientation and opening activities from 4:30 PM - 8:00 PM on the first day. Final Pick-Up on the last day of the program will be at 12:00 PM.

Parents on Campus & Final Presentations:

The Duke Pre-College program is strategically designed to cultivate essential skills in exploration, independence, and self-directed learning among its participants. A core tenet of this educational philosophy is ensuring that students have the opportunity to fully engage with the academic and leadership components of the experience without external pressure. With this in mind for the upcoming summer 2026 session, parents and guardians will not be invited to attend final presentations and closing ceremonies. Final presentations serve as a critical, high-value academic component of the program. This structure ensures that the program components maximize their aim of promoting self-reliance and fostering a truly independent academic and leadership identity in every participant.

Summer 2026 High School Courses

JuLY 13 - JuLY 24 Courses:

Behavioral Psychology
Biomedical Engineering
Creative Writing
Financial Markets & Investments
Innovation & Business Strategy
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Medicine
Law & Advocacy
Law & Social Psychology
Marketing & Brand Strategy
Neuroscience

Business Course Overviews

Behavioral Psychology: This course introduces students to the psychological principles that shape how people think, behave, and make decisions in professional settings. Students will apply psychological research to practical business challenges, including improving employee engagement, designing effective teams, managing conflict, and understanding consumer behavior.
Sports Business: Students explore the sports industry as a complex global business, examining how teams, leagues, and organizations operate and compete. The course emphasizes strategic thinking and industry analysis. Students create a sports business strategy proposal for a team, league, or sports brand.
Entrepreneurship: Students explore the entrepreneurial mindset by learning how new ventures are created, tested, and scaled. The course covers idea generation, market research, customer discovery, business models, and pitching. Emphasis is placed on creativity, resilience, and problem-solving.
Financial Markets & Investments: Students gain a foundational understanding of financial systems, markets, and investment strategies. The course introduces stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and alternative assets while exploring how markets function and respond to economic forces. Emphasis is placed on financial literacy, critical evaluation, and ethical decision-making in finance.
Innovation & Business Strategy: This course focuses on how organizations develop strategies to innovate, compete, and grow in dynamic markets. Students analyze real-world case studies to explore competitive advantage, market positioning, and organizational decision-making.
Marketing & Brand Strategy: In this course, students explore the fundamentals of marketing and brand strategy through real-world examples, interactive activities, and creative projects. Students learn how brands communicate their values, connect with audiences, and stand out in competitive markets-from global companies to startups and personal brands.

Engineering, the Environment & STEM Courses

Biomedical Engineering: This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field where engineering, biology, and medicine intersect. Students explore how engineers design technologies that diagnose disease, restore function, and improve quality of life-from medical imaging and prosthetics to biomaterials and wearable health devices.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design): Students learn how engineers and designers use CAD software to create precise technical drawings and three-dimensional models. The course emphasizes spatial reasoning, design constraints, and iterative improvement.
Introduction to Engineering: This course introduces students to engineering as a systematic approach to solving real-world problems. Students learn core engineering principles while working through collaborative design challenges that require creativity, testing, and iteration.

General Information

Eligibility Requirements

Age and current grade requirements by program:
- Current Grades: 6-12
- Middle School: Current 6-8 grade
  - Students must be at least 11 years old (by session start date) to attend.
  - Students must be at least 13 years old (by session start date) to reside on campus.
  - Students must have completed one year of middle school before attending.
- High School: Current 9-12 grade
  - Students must be at least 14 years of age (by session start date) to attend.
  - Students must have completed one year of high school before attending.
  - Students may attend the summer after high school graduation.
GPA recommendations:
- Students must have a 3.0+ GPA to successfully participate in Duke Pre-College programs.
Academic Prerequisites
- Some courses will require a prerequisite to complete registration.

Application Process

NSLC applications are completed online and require a deposit with a credit or debit card. NSLC will continue to accept applications if space is available in a program or on a program’s waitlist. Students are selected in a variety of ways, including nominations from teachers, counselors, and alumni.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition covers housing (if applicable) and on-campus meals, plus course materials, academic expenses, trips, tours, activities, and off-campus event transportation.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students demonstrating financial need, academic merit, and school or community involvement are encouraged to apply for a Summer Program Scholarship to offset their summer tuition costs.

Payment Schedule

All enrollments submitted prior to May 1, 2026, will be automatically placed on a convenient monthly payment schedule.

Waitlist

Once a program has reached capacity, a Waitlisted status will appear next to the dates on the application. To join the waitlist, complete the enrollment process and place a deposit.

Refund Policy

*$0 (full refund)*By April 1, 2026$500 (12-day programs)*April 2 - May 1, 2026$1500 (12-day programs)*May 2, 2026, or after100% of tuition paid

Additional Policies

Non-Discrimination Policy: Duke University prohibits discrimination and harassment, and provides equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex or age.
Smoking Policy: Duke University is a Tobacco Free campus.
Housing Policy: For participants residing on campus, Residential Policies and Expectations will apply.
GYM ACCESS: Duke Pre-College students will not be allowed to use the gym on campus.

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