15 Summer Programs at New York University for High Schoolers

Founded in 1831, New York University is one of the largest private research universities in the United States. With a distinct commitment to both the arts and sciences, NYU has a longstanding tradition of innovation across all fields of study. With this in mind, attending a summer program at NYU provides high schoolers with the unique opportunity to learn at globally recognized university amongst other diverse and gifted students.

Why Should Your Student Attend a Summer Program?

Getting a feel for university life via pre-college programs can help your student determine the kind of college experience they may want in the future. Through on-campus housing and rigorous coursework, many summer programs aim to simulate college life. For students who have never experienced life away from home, summer programs are a great way for high schoolers and parents alike to get accustomed to the notion early on.

Additionally, involvement in summer programs can demonstrate your student’s drive and passion for a particular area of study to undergraduate admissions officers later on. Overall, participating in a summer program is one of the many ways that your teen can show prospective schools that they are a self-motivated and ready to thrive in a college setting.

To get a head start on your summer pre college program search, check out following programs offered at NYU!

15 Summer Programs at New York University for High Schoolers

Note: Costs are estimates and can vary according to factors such as residential or commuter status.

Tisch Summer High School Program

The Tisch Summer High School Program gives aspiring artists and performers the opportunity to hone their craft under the tutelage of NYU’s master faculty. This program offers artistic tracks in dance, drama, production & design, dramatic writing, filmmaking and more! The curriculum for this 4-week, residential program is based on Tisch’s undergraduate curriculum. Upon completion of their respective track, high schoolers will earn six college credits.

For more information on program funding options, visit the Tisch Summer High School Program Tuition and Scholarship page.

All of the Tisch Summer High School Programs are open to 10th-11th graders and have an application deadline of January 9, 2019.

1. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Drama

Hone your craft through dedicated conservatory training and theater seminars led by renowned NYU faculty, professional actors, directors, designers and stage managers.

• Program cost: $11,860

2. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Dance

This track provides aspiring dancers with technical choreography and performance training that emphasizes the importance of critical thought and creativity within the world of dance.

• Program cost: $11,760

3. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Writing

Students are given the exciting opportunity to learn the fundamentals of dramatic structure while  developing their own plays and screenplays. During this program, participants will workshop and present their creative work in the Rita and Burton Goldberg Theatre.

• Program cost: $11,860

4. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Filmmaking

Through hands-on and dynamic instruction, students will learn about various approaches to film and narrative storytelling. Additionally, over the course of the program, high schoolers will have access to Tisch’s professional digital camera and sound equipment to help bring their creative visions to life.

• Program cost: $12,250

5. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Game Design

This summer program explores the foundational elements of digital game development and design such as programming, visual arts, animation, sound design, and writing. Ultimately, over the course of 4-weeks, students will gain a true understanding of the artistry that underpins game design.

• Program cost: $12,250

6. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Photography

This program aims to show students how photography and imagery can be an expansive medium for innovative methods of communication, creative expression, and personal exploration. Ultimately, students will learn how to use practical photography skills to create distinctly artistic statements.

• Program cost: $12,280

7. NYU Summer Programs | Tisch | Recorded Music

Explore the fast paced world of music recording and music business through this unique summer program! Over the course of 4 weeks, students will gain instruction on cutting edge studio hardware and ultimately create their own musical recordings.

• Program cost: $11,930
  

8. NYU Precollege

Through NYU’s Precollege program, rising juniors and seniors can take college-level courses for credit while experiencing life as an NYU student. This 6-week program offers credit-bearing courses in over 30 subjects ranging from computer science to creative writing. Beyond the classroom, there are also many social events and activities that students can participate in—creating a distinct sense of community amongst program goers. For a full list of course offerings visit the NYU Precollege Course Search page.

• Program cost: $15,044
• Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
• Application Deadline:
  • March 1: residential priority deadline
  • March 15: international student deadline
  • April 14: commuter priority deadline
  • June 24: final application deadline

Required Essay:

Tell us about who you are, as a student and a person, in 250-500 words (approximately 1 page typed). You may select a topic of your choice, or answer the following question: Describe an experience that has impacted who you are as a person. What is special, unique, distinctive or impressive about you or your life story?

9. NYU Summer Programs | Coding for Game Design

Learn from CREATE Lab at NYU game designers and developers how to create games using Unity! Over the course of 2-weeks, students will be exposed the key principles of game design, as well as an introduction to C++ and Unity scripting.

• Program cost: $1,215
• Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders
• Application Deadline: rolling

10. NYU Summer Programs | Summer Program for Automation Robotics and Coding (SPARC)

This 2-week program aims to introduce high schoolers to the basics of robotics, mechatronics and programming. With an emphasis on hands-on learning, students will learn how to use micro-controllers, interface sensors and actuators using a robotics kit. Additionally, this program will provide high schoolers with an overview of the history of robotics and a look into the future of the dynamic field.

• Program cost: $2,000
• Eligibility: Rising 9th-12th graders
• Application Deadline: March 3, 2019

11. NYU Summer Programs | Computer Science for Cyber Security (CS4CS)

This 3-week commuter summer program looks to encourage and empower historically underrepresented populations in STEM. Through hands on learning and projects, students will gain a fundamental understanding of cyber security and computer science at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering.

• Program cost: $0
• Eligibility: Rising 9th-12th graders
• Application Deadline: April 10, 2019

12. NYU Summer Programs | Summer Math Program for Young Scholars

Over the course of 3 weeks, students can gain an introduction to college level math topics while building upon their skills of problem solving and analysis. The courses provided by this commuter program are led by Courant faculty and graduate students and emphasize collaborative learning.

• Program cost: $1,000
• Eligibility: Current 9th-11th graders
• Application Deadline: May 1, 2019

13. NYU Summer Programs | CALI

Through this 6-day summer institute, students will learn how to navigate the often daunting college admissions process. Upon program completion, participants will be certified College Access Ambassadors and go out to serve as mentors and advisors to other students at their respective high schools.

• Program cost: $0
• Eligibility: Rising 11th-12th graders
• Application Deadline: open March 15; deadline not specified, but likely rolling

14. NYU Summer Programs | Steinhardt Music and Performing Arts Programs

Find the music program that aligns with your interest whether it be music technology or vocal performance! All offered programs are supported by New York University’s Steinhardt Department of Music.

Note: Cost, eligibility and application deadlines vary depending on selected program.

15. NYU Summer Programs | Girl’s STEM

This intensive six-week summer program for gifted STEM students gives high schoolers the invaluable opportunity to participate in hands on research. At the start of the program, each student is paired with a STEM researcher who will guide them through a research project in their respective area of expertise. Beyond the lab, students will also participate in activities such as science related workshops, lectures, and field trips.

• Program cost: $3,500
• Eligibility: Priority is given to current juniors, but sophomores may apply as well.
• Application Deadlines:
  • Early: March 15, 2019
  • Regular: April 15, 2019

How Can You Help Your Student Find Summer Programs?

If your high schooler needs help finding and applying to summer programs that align with their interests and long term goals, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers and guidance counselors for insight on programs that may fit your student’s needs!

To learn more about New York University’s other exciting summer pre-college programs, visit the page High School Programs at a Glance. Additionally, for more summer programs geared towards high school students in the greater New York area, take a look at our post, Summer Activities for High Schoolers in New York City!

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