Berkeley

Are you considering a career in architecture or design? Are you working on your college application and portfolio? Or are you simply curious about what it is like to be an architect?
The Summer Springboard architecture course for high school students introduces architectural ideas, design principles, and methods of exploring problems of the built environment in a collaborative studio setting. While working on a design project you will learn about the academic path to an architectural degree, the day-to-day work of an architect, and the career opportunities.

Excursions – Students in this program have had the opportunity to visit some of San Francisco’s top architectural firms including: Studio Sarah Wilmer, Aidlin Darling Design, and Studio O+A. Students have also had the opportunity to explore the concept of mimetic design with a culminating project that was set in the natural beauty of Inspiration Point in the Tilden Regional Park.

Students in Biotech in Berkeley will explore environmental biotechnology and the discovery of antibiotics from soil microbes. In this course, students will learn how to isolate and test whether microbes found in soil can produce the next generation of antibiotics. They will experience this fun introduction to microbiology, the scientific process, and modern laboratory techniques while also exploring some activities to more easily discover proteins and how the use of artificial intelligence is changing scientific study. Students will also explore the CRISPR Revolution: From Discovery to Application. They will re-trace the steps of scientists who found and developed this groundbreaking technology used to modify DNA in genomes. Students will work to understand the fundamentals of CRISPR engineering at a molecular level and apply it with hands-on labs. They will perform sample collection, data analysis, and work with fluorescent proteins in a scientific process using sophisticated lab tools.

Students will learn firsthand from business veterans about starting and running a business. Over the course of the program, they will develop a plan for a new venture and pitch their idea to real world investors. Along the way, meet with leaders from different areas of business and finance.

Excursions – Last summer in Berkeley, students had the opportunity to visit Bay Area businesses like Netflix, Autodesk Gallery, Maker Nexus, Planet Renu, Shuggie’s Trash Pie, and Pet Experts. Students were also treated to an inspiring and informative career panel of CEOs, producers, and entrepreneur consultants who provided invaluable insights on the journey to becoming an entrepreneur in a wide variety of industries.

This course offers an engaging introduction to coding through Python, suitable for both beginners and those with some programming background. Students will explore Python fundamentals, covering key topics like variables, data types, control structures, functions, and loops, with a blend of theory and hands-on practice. Students will undertake a series of projects, each designed to enhance problem-solving skills and coding proficiency. Those with previous experience in programming will find opportunities to challenge themselves further, while newcomers will gain a solid foundation in Python syntax and program design. The course culminates in a final project, enabling students to demonstrate their skills and add a significant piece to their programming portfolio. This course is structured to build confidence and competence in Python, paving the way for future programming endeavors.

Excursions – Students will dive into the tech wonders of Silicon Valley! Exploring the rich history of computers and the innovative breakthroughs that originated in this iconic hub at the Computer History Museum. Afterwards, they will take an interactive tour of Google HQ’s Visitor Center, showcasing the tech giant’s cutting-edge hardware and software. Students will also have an opportunity to visit Intel’s headquarters and museum.

Did you know that data scientists hold some of the highest-paying jobs for students graduating with a bachelor’s degree in the United States? With the booming influence of data science and machine learning more job roles and opportunities are available in this industry than ever before. From improving decision making processes to releasing innovations, data has become essential to the success of nearly every industry.

In this program, students will cover a wide range of topics from Python basics to advanced concepts like neural networks and deep learning. Students will also have an opportunity to practice their learning by applying their knowledge through projects and exercises using real-world datasets. They will gain experience with popular data science and machine learning libraries such as pandas, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow. Students will also have discussions on the ethical implications of data science and artificial intelligence to prepare them to be responsible practitioners in the field.

This course will introduce students to 3D CAD design and fast prototyping using a 3D printer that they will make to take home with them. Students will learn how to design products using Autodesk Fusion360 and then build a Creality Ender Pro V2 3D printer. They will also learn how to use the 3D printer for fast prototyping, review, and improvements of their designs. The course will cover the principles of 3D CAD design, including design methodology, geometric modeling, and assembly modeling. Students will also learn the fundamentals of 3D printing, including how to select and maintain a 3D printer, materials, and printing techniques.

The Ecology & Environmental Science course brings together diverse knowledge and methodologies from both natural and social sciences to understand and address complex environmental challenges. Recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of environmental issues, the curriculum incorporates biology, chemistry, physics, and ecology, alongside policy studies, economics, psychology, and communication. This comprehensive approach fosters a deeper understanding of humanity’s impact on the environment and empowers students to explore a wide range of potential career paths aimed at mitigating that impact. By examining the the interconnections between climate change, terrestrial and marine ecosystems, pollution, agriculture, human physical and mental health, and environmental justice, students will engage in a holistic course that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. This theoretical and applied learning experience is further enriched by case studies and field trips to local habitat restoration sites and botanical gardens.

Our summer medical program for high school students gives you a 360 degree view of the medical and healthcare field, as well as immersive learning through hands-on projects and simulations.

Excursions – In past years, students went to the KANBAR Simulation Center, which supports UCSF’s educational mission of teaching, learning, and assessment through simulation recreating routine and complex situations. Additionally, students received a behind the scenes tour of Berkeley Fire Department #3 and met with their EMT staff who shared about career opportunities in emergency response and provided a tour of an ambulance. All of the students also complete the requirements to receive their Red Cross Adult & Child CPR certification.

Engineering is one of the top desired careers in many companies. These businesses are always in need of creative minds that can problem solve on their feet and help the company save money, solve issues, and expand their reach. If you are considering a career in Engineering, this course will help you explore what it takes to be an engineer. We will explore facets of mechanical, structural, civil, and electrical engineering in a hands-on, minds-on approach.

Excursions – Students in this program will visit the TESLA Fremont Factory as well as Circuit Launch, an innovative shared electronic and prototype lab, woodshop and additive manufacturing facility.

Nursing is the largest, the most diverse, and one of the most respected of all healthcare professions. Nursing employment is expected to increase by 9% by 2030, post-pandemic, progressively more students have been considering this career path. Nurses are responsible for providing primary health care and specialty services to individuals, families, and communities. Discover the diverse career opportunities and what a day in the life of a nurse looks like. During the program, students will learn the fundamental concepts of caring and gain an interesting perspective on how patient care is provided.

Does your budding physician have an interest in diagnosing, treating, and caring for adolescents, children, and infants? Pediatricians are trained to diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries for children from infancy to young adulthood. While they perform many similar tasks to that of a general physician, pediatricians are specially trained in diagnosing and treating problems specific to young patients. In this program, students will explore the specialty field of pediatric medicine. They will practice conducting patient physcial examinations, triaging pediatric emergency and hospital medicine cases, taking patient histories, and get infant and adolescent CPR/AED certified.

Quantum computing – once the stuff of science fiction – is set to transform technology in the next decade. Berkeley is at the forefront of this revolution, recently chosen to lead a multi-university institute dedicated to advancing the field and developing its future workforce.

At its core, quantum computing harnesses quantum mechanics to solve problems far beyond classical computers’ capabilities. Industry giants like IBM, Google, Microsoft and Intel are already developing superconducting quantum processors that promise unprecedented computing power. There are also a wide array of specialized quantum companies, some right here in Berkeley and the Bay Area like Rigetti and Atom Computing that are also pushing technological advances in this field.

This course equips students with essential quantum knowledge and skills, covering fundamental concepts like superposition and entanglement. Through curriculum designed by leading academic and industry experts, students will explore quantum phenomena and real-world applications.

Are you considering a future in medicine, but unsure about your specific path? Dive into an engaging program designed to help you explore the diverse options within the medical field. Throughout this course, students will gain firsthand exposure to a range of medical specialties, including cardiology, radiology, orthopedics, and more. You’ll also hear about the intricacies of entering medical school, preparing for entrance exams, planning your medical residency, and the vital role of scientific inquiry and curiosity in your journey to becoming a medical professional. Interact with experienced doctors, medical students, and residents while immersing yourself in the multifaceted world of medicine.

Through psychology simulations and hands-on neurology workshops, you will explore the relationships between the brain and human behavior. Whether you are interested in the physical aspect of the brain and central nervous system or more intrigued by human behavior and thought processes, connect with professionals that have a background in both psychology and neuroscience. 

Excursions – students will visit the Coginitive Psychophysiology Lab at SFSU, and hear from a distinguished guest speaker in the psychology profession.

This intensive robotics program offers students a well-rounded introduction to robotics, covering everything from basic electronics and programming to advanced topics like computer vision and artificial intelligence. The program will also include meeting with professionals in the robust robotics industry in the Bay Area and Silicon Valley, giving students real-world exposure to robotics applications. Each day of the program builds upon the previous one, starting with foundational concepts and progressing to more complex topics. Students will have a series of hands on projects that are integrated throughout the course to reinforce learning and further develop practical skills.

Discover how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions about the use of scarce resources in a world of unlimited wants and needs, and what implications economic issues can cause, such as tax and inflation, interest rates and wealth, inequality and emerging markets, and energy and the environment. The Economics course will provide the structure required to understand the way our world operates, from the choices we make in our everyday lives to how businesses or governments achieve their desired objectives.