Summer Springboard
ON THE CAMPUS OF
Duke University
A PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ON THE CAMPUS OF DUKE UNIVERSITY
Program Highlights
- Experience hands-on learning by professionals in the fields of Nursing, Game Development, Veterinary Medicine and more
- Explore central North Carolina with trips to the NC State Farmer’s Market, a Durham Bulls game, and NC Museum of Natural Sciences
- Engage in diverse after-class enrichment: Join college prep workshops and the True You personal development program
- Feel like a college student by staying on Duke’s campus, known for its communal green spaces, specialized gardens, and beautiful architecture.
- Connect with new friends from around the world through mentor-led clubs and fun social activities.
- Learn beyond the classroom with academic excursions to places like the NC State Legislative Building, Animal Protection Society of Durham, First Flight Venture Center, and the Game Design Lab.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Campus Overview
Duke University is consistently recognized as one of the top institutions in the United States, renowned for its rigorous academic programs, strong focus on research, world-class medical center, and competitive athletics. Students have the unique opportunity to engage directly with a vibrant ecosystem encompassing business, research, and healthcare, fully benefiting from the dynamic environment of the Research Triangle. Experience life on Duke’s stunning campus, celebrated for its Gothic architecture, expansive green spaces, and iconic chapel.
RESOURCES
Apply Now
Click here to begin your application for this campus-based program.
Download Infosheet
Click here to view or download the printable infosheet for this campus.
Request a Catalog
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Schedule a Call
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View Campus Brochure
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Watch Campus Video
Click here to navigate to YouTube and watch our short video detailing our summer program on this campus for teens.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Dates & Tuition
| 2026 Dates |
|---|
| Session 1: June 28 – July 10, 2026 |
| Session 2: July 12 – July 24, 2026 |
Click here to enroll in this program using our online enrollment form.
| Tuition |
|---|
| Residential Tuition: $5,698 |
| Commuter Tuition: $2,998 |
| Application Fee: $99+ |
Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.
| Location |
|---|
| City: Durham |
| State: North Carolina |
| Campus: Duke University |
*Learn more about our campus partners and their relationship to our programs.
Two-Week Summer Program
Residential Students
- Includes: all meals, lodging, excursions, academic course, weekend excursions
- Excludes: optional airport pickup and drop-off service (available for an additional fee)
Commuter Students
- Includes: lunch, academic course, excursions, programming from 9am to
5pm, Monday-Friday - Excludes: lodging, breakfast, dinner, weekend excursions (can be added on for $125 per day)
Supplements
- $250 tuition extra (mandatory) for Nursing and Veterinary Medicine courses
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Academic Courses
Biomedical Engineering
Are you passionate about engineering, computers, and life sciences? Do you find excitement in diagnosing medical conditions or designing devices that help treat diseases?
The Summer Springboard Biomedical Engineering course introduces students to the fundamentals of one of today’s fastest-growing engineering fields. It’s a hands-on opportunity to explore how technology and biology come together to improve healthcare.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Summer Springboard’s Business & Entrepreneurship program at Duke immerses students in the core principles of launching and growing a business. In the first class, students are divided into teams and tasked with developing an original business idea. Throughout the program, they refine this idea into a fully developed business, which they will eventually pitch to potential investors. As part of this process, teams create a marketing plan and financial projections to support their venture.
This hands-on, experiential learning approach keeps students actively engaged, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts in real-time as they build their business. The instructor introduces key principles as challenges arise, guiding students through practical problem-solving. On the final day, teams present their finished products to a panel of expert judges who offer valuable professional feedback.
Game Development
This course is designed to teach students how to create a computer game using an industry-standard game development engine. It covers the process of building a 3D virtual world from a computer graphics perspective, introduces key game components, and demonstrates how to use them effectively throughout the development cycle to deliver a fully functional and engaging game.
Students will enhance their knowledge of Computer Science and Computer Graphics, both individually and through collaboration. They’ll explore the fundamentals of professional video game design using popular tools, starting with 3D object creation and progressing to building immersive, customized virtual worlds. By the end of the course, students will have developed a complete game and gained practical skills to showcase in a portfolio.
Nursing
Nursing is the largest and most diverse healthcare profession, widely respected for its essential role in patient care. With employment projected to grow by 9% by 2030, especially in the wake of the pandemic, more students are exploring nursing as a meaningful and stable career path. Nurses play a vital role in delivering both primary health care and specialized services to individuals, families, and entire communities.
In this program, students will explore the wide range of career opportunities within the nursing field and gain insight into what a typical day looks like for a nurse. They’ll learn foundational concepts of compassionate care and develop a deeper understanding of how patient care is delivered in real-world settings.
Public Policy
The government plays a powerful role in shaping nearly every part of our daily lives, from public health and education to criminal justice, immigration, and disaster preparedness. If you’re curious about how public policy addresses critical issues like gun rights, reproductive rights, drug use, and more, this course offers an engaging opportunity to dive deeper into these complex topics.
Students will explore how laws, regulations, actions, and funding priorities are developed and implemented by governmental bodies. Through discussion and analysis, the course fosters a deeper understanding of the policymaking process. It is designed to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to think critically about public policy and its impact on society.
Psychology & Neuroscience
Are you fascinated by the brain and eager to understand how it works? The Neuroscience Summer Springboard course offers students the chance to explore the fundamentals of brain biology and the central nervous system. From perception and decision-making to neuroethics and neurotechnology, students will dive into key topics that reveal how the brain shapes our behavior and experiences.
Throughout the course, students will learn how brain development influences emotions, physiology, and cognition. This hands-on exploration not only deepens understanding of the mind but also lays the groundwork for future studies and careers in medicine, biology, biomedical science, psychology, and related fields.
Veterinary Medicine
Are you ready to turn your passion for animals into a learning experience? In this Veterinary Medicine course, students will explore the wide range of career opportunities within the field, including surgery, internal medicine, pathology, radiology, research, and public health. It’s a perfect starting point for those interested in making a difference in animal care.
The course provides a broad overview of veterinary medicine, covering its history, scope, and vital role in promoting animal health. Students will gain valuable insight into the profession and begin building a foundation for future studies and careers in veterinary science.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Activities & Trips
Duke is nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, known for being a major hub of research, innovation, and education. This area is also known for its beautiful scenery, renowned sports teams, and fun local attractions.
Here are just a few examples of what our students will get to see and explore.
Campus Tours
Tour Duke University and see everything this beautiful campus has to offer!
Also, get the chance to tour the nearby campus of UNC Chapel Hill and learn about student life while exploring academic buildings, libraries, dorms, athletic fields, and more.
North Carolina State Farmer's Market
Enjoy exploring North Carolina’s largest farmers market, discovering new foods, homemade treats, local crafts, and souvenirs for family and friends.
Durham Bulls Game
The Durham Bulls are a beloved minor league baseball team known for their spirited games and fun atmosphere. Spend a night enjoying America’s favorite pastime and cheer for the Bulls!
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the state’s most visited museum and a must-see destination. From towering dinosaur skeletons to live animal exhibits and hands-on science labs, this museum offers something for every curious mind.
Frankie's Fun Park
Enjoy a day of amusement with the group at Frankie’s Fun Park, a large facility that has entertainment for all interests. Enjoy lunch while playing arcade games, bumper carts, laser tag, and collecting tickets to trade in for prizes.
Bowlero Bowling
Spend time at Bowlero for an exciting mix of bowling, arcade games, and great food—all in a vibrant, retro-cool atmosphere perfect for a fun group outing!
Course-Specific Excursions
Each academic program may also take subject matter specific excursions to help round out the student experience.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Student Life
Get a head start on college life by diving into the vibrant student experience at Duke University during your Summer Springboard program. From enjoying delicious meals in the dining hall to settling into your university dormitory, you’ll get a real taste of campus living. Wander through Duke’s beautiful grounds, meet fellow students, and soak up the exciting energy that comes with being part of a dynamic, diverse community.
Whether you’re a residential student enjoying evening hangouts or a commuter making the most of daily campus activities and social events, your Summer Springboard experience will be packed with fun and memorable moments. Both options offer unique opportunities to connect, grow, and build friendships that will last long after summer ends. Get ready to create your own unforgettable college story!
TYPICAL DAY IN THE LIFE
8:00am Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast with your fellow students as you get ready to start your day on-program. Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall.
9:00am Academic Course
Take part in your selected academic course. This college-style learning experience is designed to give high school students hands-on exposure to a specific field of study.
12:00pm Lunch
Enjoy lunch in the campus dining hall, which offers a wide variety of fresh and flavorful options. The menu is designed to accommodate all kinds of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and common food allergies—ensuring every student can find something satisfying and safe to eat while connecting with friends over a great meal.
1:30pm Recreational Activity or Academic Excursion
At Summer Springboard at Duke University, academic excursions are off-campus field trips that connect directly to each course, giving students real-world insight into their chosen field. Recreational activities offer fun and social ways to unwind, explore the area, and build friendships through beach outings, campus games, local attractions, and more. Together, these experiences enrich both learning and student life in a vibrant, hands-on way.
3:00pm College Readiness Workshop or True You
At Summer Springboard at Duke, College Readiness Workshops help students prepare for life after high school with practical tools for navigating the college admissions process—covering topics like essay writing, interview skills, and application strategy. The True You curriculum focuses on self-discovery and personal growth, encouraging students to explore their strengths, values, and goals. Together, these sessions empower students to make confident, informed decisions about their future—academically, professionally, and personally.
5:00pm Commuter Students Depart
For those students that have selected the commuter option, they will depart campus for the day while residential students prepare for dinner and evening activities.
6:00pm Dinner
It’s been a long, eventful day! It’s time to head to the dining hall or other dining location and eat well to restore your energy reserves before taking part in clubs or other nighttime activities.
7:00pm Clubs for Residential Students
Residential students will participate in clubs or other evening activities based on the specific itinerary for the day. It’s a great way to cap off another exciting day with Summer Springboard at Duke!
10:30pm Dorm Checks for Residential Students
Residential students will turn in for the night to rest in their dorm rooms and get ready for the big day ahead tomorrow.
Housing
At Duke, Summer Springboard students are housed in traditional-style dorm room. They’ll share a room with another person and have communal bathrooms. Rooms are separated by gender. Residence halls have surrounding courtyards, common rooms and lounges. Basic linens are provided in the form of a flat sheet, blanket, pillow, pillowcase, and towel.
Summer Springboard staff live on each floor to create a community, provide support, plan activities, and help students get the most out of their program.
Other members of the Summer Springboard staff, including the Campus Director, Assistant Campus Director, and other staff also reside within the dorms during the course of the program and are available to support students and address emergencies, 24 hours a day.
Security
The dorms are access-controlled, and students need their individual access-cards to get into the residence hall and their suite.
Duke Security operates 24/7 and makes regular patrols of the campus and residence halls. Students are also required to be in their rooms past 10PM for safety and accountability purposes.
Facilities
Each dormitory has laundry facilities, lounges, and WiFi throughout. There is also a water filtration station, and students are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle and hydrate regularly.
Dining
Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall. The dining hall offers a wide selection of food, accommodating a variety of diets – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and specific food allergies.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
Duke University
Video & Testimonials
Please note that activities, courses and other items on the itinerary for this program are subject to change. This video may reflect an older version of this program. Please refer to the program infosheet and this website page for the most up-to-date information on this campus-based program.
“Overall it was an amazing experience. I felt like each day was always better than the last. I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime and I’ve also learned more about myself which is extremely valuable.”
– Andrew A. | Alumni Student
“I enjoyed meeting people, the staff, my instructor, and my peers. Loved feeling independent and always feeling comfortable.”
– Bryan L. | Alumni Student
“The academic courses taught me an incredible amount. And the hands-on experiences we had were amazing and informative. The social aspect of the program was also very fun and I met lots of very friendly people.”
– Lauren L. | Alumni Student
*Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly and NYSID which are run in partnership with SSB). Universities and their affiliated departments and partners do not control and are not responsible or liable in any manner for any part of the Summer Springboard program.