Online STEM courses designed for high school students

Case Western Reserve Pre-College STEM Programs

Do you see yourself one day being part of the science, technology, engineering, or math fields? These online STEM courses, designed for high school students ages 13 and up, have been created for this purpose. We offer exciting topics ranging from neuroscience to engineering design, and origins of the universe, covered in-depth, through online coursework. You’ll learn from Case Western Reserve University instructors with the support of mentors. These courses are available year-round, and the online format allows you to study anywhere, anytime, while working at your own pace. This flexibility allows you to take multiple courses and explore a variety of STEM subjects.

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Case Western Reserve University campus

Program Dates

Multiple two- and four-week sessions

Eligibility

For students ages 13+

Individual Course Fees

$1495

Current Courses Available

Neurological brain scans on a computer

Neuroscience

Neuroscience and Medicine: Inside the Brain and Nervous System

Think of your brain as the command center of your emotions, bodily functions and nervous system. How does it transmit messages to keep everything running? What happens when a neurological disorder appears? What are some of today’s advanced treatments for neurological disorders? These questions are at the heart of neuroscience. In this course, you’ll discover the basics of how neuroscience informs exciting developments in medicine. If you are interested in science, medicine, psychology or other STEM-related subjects, don’t miss this educational adventure. Learn through engaging video lessons by Case Western Reserve University instructors Barbara Kuemerle, PhD, and Ashley Nemes-Baran, PhD.

Learn more about neuroscience
Engineer examining a model being made using a 3D printer

Engineering

Engineering: From 2D Sketch to 3D Model

Do you like to build things? Are you interested in the techniques engineers use to go from two-dimensional sketches to three-dimensional models and finished products? Would you like to learn skills that can serve as a basis for a future in video game design, architecture, robotics, civil or mechanical engineering? This course is an ideal way to get started. Learn through engaging video lessons by Case Western Reserve instructors Ainsley Buckner and Jason Bradshaw.

Learn more about engineering
The galaxy and deep space demonstrating how the universe began

Science

Astrophysics and Evolutionary Biology: The Origins of Life

How did the universe begin? When did life enter the picture? Why do some species survive, while others perish? Delve into the history of the cosmos. If you're thinking about a future in STEM, medicine, or even the law or business, you'll acquire a working knowledge of the most basic questions about how our universe and life evolved. Learn through engaging video by Case Western Reserve instructors, Dr. Patricia Princehouse and Dr. Glenn Starkman.

Learn more about astrophysics
A biomedical engineer working on a prosthetic arm

Biomedical

Biomedical Engineering: An Introduction to Medicine’s Future

Biomedical engineering is a game-changer for medicine and technology. It operates at the intersection of engineering design and science, helping to make possible everything from joint replacements and heart transplants to prosthetic limbs and implantable organs. If you’re thinking about a future in this growing field of science and technology, here is your starting point. Learn through engaging video lessons by Case Western Reserve faculty Matt Williams.

Learn more about biomedical engineering

How You Will Benefit

Student completing an online stem course offered by Case Western Reserve

  • Online courses are available throughout the year—pick various STEM subjects that fit your passions and your schedule
  • Suitable for high school students ages 13 and up so you can start exploring science, technology, engineering, and math early on
  • Experience what it’s like to take a course designed by Case Western Reserve University instructors while you’re still in high school
  • Lessons by instructors and professors are delivered through videos so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows—the ultimate in flexibility
  • Receive guidance from a mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience
  • For each course, earn a Certificate of Completion from Case Western Reserve University

3 Learning Advantages Designed for You

Final Project

All STEM courses culminate in a special final project that allows you to:

  • Demonstrate what you've learned in a presentation
  • Get feedback from your mentors on your work
  • Choose from a variety of topics covered in your course to show what you’ve learned 
  • Use any media you prefer—text, video, photography, PowerPoint

Mentoring

You’ll receive guidance from a mentor who can answer questions and provide support throughout the course. You can expect:

  • Expertise in your course’s particular field.
  • Encouragement and direction on all assignments
  • Inspiration, motivation, and confidence to help you succeed
  • Brainstorming to help as you prepare for your final project

Flexible Learning

Study anywhere, anytime at your own pace. You can expect:

  • 100% online learning, works with your schedule
  • Multiple courses can be taken to maximize your learning experience.
  • 20 to 25 hours of total instruction and activities per course, including engaging multimedia simulations and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support
  • Learn through dynamic video lessons. Tune in anytime that works for you
  • Engage with students from around the world

How to Apply

It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Just provide some basic information and tell us why you wish to take this program.

Note: Please submit all application materials in English.

Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.

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Female student working at her computer.

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Admissions

Our application is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.

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Frequently asked questions

How will you be graded? What are assignments like? Are there required materials? How much time do you get to turn around a project? When do you found out if you're accepted?

Find answers to your questions

Scholarships

We offer need-based scholarships for participating students who exhibit high potential and an inability to pay the full tuition. 

  • If you haven’t applied to the program, apply here. After submitting your application, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” on the confirmation page to request a scholarship.  
  • If you’ve already applied to the program, sign in to your profile to check your scholarship status. If we don’t have a scholarship request on file, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” to request a scholarship.