Computer Science at Barnard College, Columbia University
From Design, Development, and Debugging to APIs and Algorithms
Summer Springboard program located on the campus of Barnard College, Columbia University
Program Highlights
Residential Tuition:
$5,898
Commuter:
$3,298
Session 1:
July 6, 2025
July 18, 2025
Barnard College, Columbia University
New York, New York
Testimonials
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I like the fact that at the end of the course I had a project that I could easily show off in interviews and when applying to universities and jobs.
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I loved the whole experience and the new people I have met! The computer science program was valuable to me and helped me decide my career choices.
Course Overview
This course offers an engaging introduction to coding through Python, suitable for 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 projects 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 in New York: During last summer’s program, students had the opportunity to explore Microsoft through a behind-the-scenes tour, gaining insights into cutting-edge technology, and engaged in immersive spy simulations at Spyscape. Visits may extend to other top tech companies like Salesforce and Justworks this summer. Furthermore, students will have the chance to learn from industry professionals, including computer programmers, software engineers, and game developers.
Meet your instructor
Dr. Christelle Scharff
Computer Science
Dr. Christelle Scharff is a Professor of Computer Science at Pace University. She has a Ph.D. in Symbolic Artificial Intelligence (Theorem Proving and Automated Deduction) from INRIA, the French National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology. Her current research focuses on global software engineering, mobile for social change, and machine learning.
Learn moreTopics you'll explore
Hands-On Learning
Spend most of the first week learning block-based Java programming for Android and iOS operating systems. The exercises and tutorials quickly help students build capacity with coding, abstraction, algorithms and data management within a program.
The second week involves active coding in small groups with intense research and collaboration. This approach involves an introduction to Python and Raspberry Pi hardware which will allow students to create a mini-project by using the sensors and LED matrix on the Sense HAT technology.
Career Exploration
This module will dive deeper into newsworthy advances in technology and give high school students a first-hand look at related questions and issues. We will discuss the wide variety of professions within the field of technology such as UX / UI design, programming, project management, and quality assurance. You'll get a deeper sense of your unique motivations and aptitudes and how that aligns with potential academic and career choices. This helps students make better informed decisions about some of life’s most important choices.
