Secondary Division 2024 Course Catalog

The 2024 summer program runs Monday, June 17th through Friday, July 26th. Morning classes are from 8:30 AM to noon, and afternoon classes are from 1:00 to 4:30 PM, unless otherwise noted. Classes meet either two or three days a week.

Grades listed always refer to the grade a student will have completed in June 2024.

The Secondary Division is now closed to new applicants. Those who have already applied may refer to this page to see which classes potentially have spots left.

Course Listings

Click on each course title for course details, full descriptions, and schedules. Use the filter to reduce the list of titles to that type.

Help me choose! See Choosing a Course to learn about the different types of Secondary Division courses.

Course formatCourse load  Grade level eligibilityCourse details
List allOn siteOnlineList allHalf yearFull yearList all6th7th8th9th10th11th Close all Expand all
Meeting timesA-G status  Academic prerequisitesSelect special
List allAMPMList allA-G approvedIn processList allHas prereqsHas no prereq
  • List all classes
  • 4-week schedule (compressed)
  • UC Honors designated
  • AP-aligned
  • Has a placement test
  • New course
Special class types
Secondary Division On-site
Writing & LiteraturePrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SD4300The Writing Process
691011
18TuTh710Full

The Writing Process close

Photograph of The Writing Process during class
For students mastering middle school writing skills and transitioning to high school. Explores various methods of analysis and the stages of writing. Also offered online.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
This course is recommended for students completing Grades 7 and 8.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
Exceptionally well-prepared Sixth Graders may apply for this course.

Full course description

This course is meant for students who are mastering their middle school writing and analytical skills and transitioning to high school. Students will engage in the full process of writing, including pre-writing, drafting, editing and revising. Emphasis will be placed on drawing evidence and insights from close readings of model literary works and multimedia texts (e.g., film, documentaries, interviews). Students will investigate the many purposes for which authors write and will become purposeful readers and writers. They will also study qualities of good writing, consider how to write persuasively on different topics, and become thoughtful readers and reviewers of their classmates' work.

Schedules

SD4300.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMBeth Berlin-Stephens
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4304Analytical WritingClick for details20MTh710Full

Analytical Writing close

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For students mastering high school writing skills and transitioning to college-level textual analysis. This course is also offered online.
Prerequisite: Completion of 1 year of high school English, or permission of the Director.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 20 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:English (B) ‑ UC Honors designation
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This course, taught at the advanced high school level, will allow students to strengthen their analytical reading and writing skills. Students will practice reading with care and will hold meaningful discussions about the texts they study, which may include visual texts as well as written texts. They will learn to incorporate critical thought and deep textual analysis to produce well-organized, well-written, well-developed, and intellectually complex essays. They will perform the stages of writing from clarification of the assignment to final revision, working on research, composition, and editing.

Schedules

SD4304.2
MTWTF
MTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMElizabeth Scherman
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4307Advanced Creative Writing
67891011
16TuTh710Open

Advanced Creative Writing close

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For high school students with a keen interest in fiction and creative writing.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 16 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:English (B) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

Students will read short stories, poems, and a novel, as well as many past student exemplary narratives to learn a variety of creative writing techniques. They will discuss the form and purpose of meta-fiction, and revise their writing through many peer and teacher feedbacks before presenting a choice finished work. In all stories and their clever meta-narratives, students will also learn to be mindful to develop thoughtful tones anchored in rhythmic cinematic world-building and character dialogues that ring true in compelling, thematically weighted plots.

Schedules

SD4307.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMAlex FranklinOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
Fine ArtsPrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SD4310Introduction to Public Speaking
691011
14TuTh710Full

Introduction to Public Speaking close

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For students who want to develop writing and speaking skills. Covers a variety of speaking styles, oratory, and debate.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 14 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9; completion of Grade 7 recommended.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
Exceptionally well-prepared returning sixth graders may apply for this course.

Full course description

Students in this course will develop the writing and performance skills needed to become clear, compelling, confident, and persuasive public speakers. We will practice a variety of speaking styles, including impromptu (speaking “off the cuff” with minimum preparation time), dramatic interpretation (of monologues from novels, plays, and films), debate (defending a position on a controversial issue), and oratory (a formal speech that seeks to inform, inspire, or persuade on a topic of your choice). We will also study, view, and analyze the performances of some of the most powerful orators of the past century. If you are seeking to reduce your anxiety about public speaking, this course provides a friendly, nonthreatening environment in which to increase your confidence. If you already enjoy public speaking, you will have an opportunity to enhance and practice your skills.

Schedules

SD4310.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMLaura Shefler
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4311Fundamentals of Art
67891011
16MWF760Almost full

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Complete multiple projects in this hands-on studio art class using a variety of media.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 16 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified SD students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Visual & Performing Arts (F)
Tuition Total: $760 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$260
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts July 1 and ends July 26.

Full course description

This course is a comprehensive survey of the fundamentals of visual art and design. Together, we will learn how to fuse technique and concept to realize our creative vision and develop our unique artistic voices. Through drawing, painting, sculpture and photography, we will learn how to select the best medium for our message. Through peer review we will present our art for our peers to analyze, discuss, and give constructive criticism. The class will involve both group and individual instruction and feedback, and is suitable for a range of ages and levels.

List of course topics

  • Drawing in graphite
  • Colored pencil drawing
  • Color theory through painting
  • Watercolor techniques
  • Sketching in ink with natural objects

Schedules

SD4311.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMChristina Ecklund
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4315Architectural Design
67891011
33MWF1190Full

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For students who want to develop their creative skills and eye for detail, from planning and designing projects to building and presenting finished models. No technical background is needed.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-8 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 33 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $1190 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$400
This course includes a supply list.

Full course description

This course will introduce students to the discipline of architectural design. They will learn about the causes and consequences of architectural design through contemporary and historical examples. They will develop critical skills of observation that will allow them to see the built environment as the materialization of design but also as the representation of social values that respond to specific cultural ideas. By learning to analyze and design space with critical eyes, they will understand the potential of architectural design in building human relations, from the scale of the house to that of the city. They will learn the basic drawing and drafting skills necessary to design and re-imagine spaces. Overall, this course aims to offer students the possibility to see architecture as a means to their creativity and their potential professional path.

Schedules

SD4315.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMAl Oliva
Full
SD4315.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMAl Oliva
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
LanguagesPrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SD4323First-Year JapaneseClick for details33MWF1030Open

First-Year Japanese close

Photograph of First-Year Japanese during class
Learn Japanese through varied activities like movement, storytelling, and conversation. Complete the full year of Japanese 1 in six weeks, requiring significant self-study prior to the start of class. Access a free self-paced prep course here.
Prerequisite: This course requires a passing score on a readiness test. Self-paced prep assignments are available here.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-8 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 33 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified SD students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Language Other than English (E)
Tuition Total: $1030 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$290

Full course description

This course is based on a fun, playful, and effective approach to learning Japanese. This method is a synthesis of many innovative teaching techniques developed to help accelerate students' language learning. The two major components of this course are: (1) acquisition of basic communication skills of elementary Japanese and (2) learning hiragana and katakana syllabaries as well as some kanji characters. The language is taught through multiple mediums including pictures, graphics, audio, video, and conversation practices. Students also learn about modern Japanese life. This course is equivalent to one year of high school Japanese.

Schedules

SD4323.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMJunko HosoiOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4324Second-Year JapaneseClick for details33MWF1030Open

Second-Year Japanese close

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Continue where First-Year Japanese left off, focusing on conversation, listening, and additional kanji. Complete the full year of Japanese 2 in six weeks.
Prerequisite: Completion of First-Year Japanese, or permission of the Director.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-8 hrs. per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 33 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Language Other than English (E)
Tuition Total: $1030 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$290

Full course description

Using a multi-modal approach, the class will begin where First-Year Japanese left off. The course will include a comprehensive review of katakana and kanji that students have already learned, and the introduction of much more kanji. Emphasis will be placed on consolidation of listening and speaking skills; the additional grammar and constructions will advance students’ understanding even further. In addition to our focus on learning the language, students will learn about culture and customs in contemporary Japanese life. This course covers the full content of second-year high school Japanese.

Schedules

SD4324.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMYumi KosakaOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
Computer SciencePrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SD4330Introduction to Computer Science
67891011
18MWF870Full

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Solving Problems with Python

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For students new to coding with no computer science experience. Covers fundamental concepts in a semester-equivalent programming course. This course was previously titled Introduction to Programming.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified SD students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 17 and ends July 12.

Full course description

This course is designed for complete beginners with no previous background in computer science. The course is highly visual, dynamic, and interactive, making it engaging for new coders. This course teaches the foundations of computer science and basic programming, with an emphasis on students developing logical thinking and problem solving skills. In this course students will learn material equivalent to a semester high school introductory course in Computer Science and be able to program in Python. Conditionals, looping, functions and data structures are all covered extensively. The course utilizes a blended classroom approach. The content is fully web-based, with students writing and running code in the browser. Teachers utilize tools and resources to give focused one-on-one attention to students.

Schedules

SD4330.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMSean Ward
Full
SD4330.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMSean Ward
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4333Elements of Web Design
61011
25MWF1190Full

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The Internet Classroom

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For highly collaborative students with a keen interest in coding, visual design, and the sociocultural impacts of the Internet. No programming experience required.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified SD students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $1190 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$400
Exceptionally well-prepared Sixth Graders may apply for this course.

Full course description

In this introductory course, students combine computer code with graphic design to create their own websites. The curriculum is highly collaborative, including many pair and group activities. Students begin with the concept of syntax and character encoding. They will become familiar with computer networks and file systems as they build web pages from the ground up using HTML and CSS. Advanced students have the freedom to flex their creative muscles: coding topics will be balanced with a discussion of good visual design, usability, and layout, including digital graphics production and complex techniques. Each student will also step into the role of content creator, producing brief reflections that explore non-technical topics such as misinformation effects, the role and responsibilities of Big Tech, intellectual property & copyright, social justice & law, and yes: memes. This course provides the necessary foundation for students who want to continue on to contemporary web/mobile app development.

Schedules

SD4333.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMSamuel Pierce
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4334Computer Science Principles
678
30MWF1190Varies

Computer Science Principles close

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For students new to coding with no computer science experience. Covers the majority of topics in AP Computer Science Principles in six weeks. With additional self-study and review, students will be prepared to take the AP exam in May.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 30 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up; completion of Grade 9 recommended.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designation
Tuition Total: $1190 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$400
ATDP does not provide AP testing. Students who want to register for the AP CSP test will need to check with high schools in their area.

Full course description

This course is accessible for beginning programmers, but covers all of the content included in the AP Computer Science Principles course and will prepare students to independently take that exam in May 2024. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world. Students cultivate their understanding of computer science through working with data, collaborating to solve problems, and developing computer programs as they explore concepts like creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programming, the Internet, and the global impact of computing.

Schedules

SD4334.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMFlint Christensen
Almost Full
SD4334.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMFlint ChristensenOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4337Web DevelopmentClick for details20TuTh870Open

Web Development close

The Advanced Internet Classroom

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For students who have mastered foundational web design and programming concepts, and who want to build independent web development skills. Covers "full stack" coding on frontend and backend, including database design fundamentals.
Prerequisite: Completion of Elements of Web Design and AP Computer Science A, or a passing score on a placement test, or permission of the Director.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hrs. per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 20 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345

Full course description

Want to build your own online store, personality quiz site, or even your own Discord-style platform? This project-based course will teach students how to build complex, dynamic websites using mainstay languages like PHP and Javascript. This course expands on the concepts in Elements of Web Design and computer programming classes. While we will spend some time on interactive graphical elements, most of our attention will focus on how data flows from the backend. Students will become familiar with several new languages and the basics of database programming & relational data design. As the complexity of coursework increases, students will be introduced to topics in programming ethics, examining how these capabilities impact modern societies and culture, such as through AI and "Big Data." Particular attention will be paid to the reading and comprehension of programming APIs, affording students the skills to learn the newest technologies as independent computer scientists.

Schedules

SD4337.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMSamuel PierceOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
SD4351Introduction to Innovation and Entrepreneurship
67891011
21TuF710Full

Introduction to Innovation and Entrepreneurship close

Photograph of Introduction to Innovation and Entrepreneurship during class
For students who want to develop the skills necessary to move progressively from idea to impact. Students will work in teams to practice market research and develop their business strategy.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 21 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of innovation and entrepreneurship, providing you a blueprint for the ideas and strategies to build a successful venture. Students will launch their own venture with collaboration from classmates and with mentorship from the instructor and other Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. This course explores the fundamentals and principles of entrepreneurship for the modern day, and provides real-world, hands-on learning on "what-ifs" to successfully transfer knowledge into products, processes and services that benefit society. Student teams will engage with industry, talking to customers, partners and competitors, as they encounter the chaos and uncertainty of transferring knowledge into products and processes for a successful launch.

List of course topics

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Sources of innovation
  • Leadership fundamentals for innovation
  • Strategy as simple rules
  • Demand creation
  • The role of marketing in your business

Schedules

SD4351.2
MTWTF
TuF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMMadison Alexander
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4358The Practice of Law
67891011
18TuF710Full

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An Overview of Law School

Photograph of The Practice of Law during class
Introduces students to the core curriculum of law school, including torts, criminal law, trial procedure, constitutional law, evidence, contract law, and legal research & drafting. Culminates in a mock trial.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This course will provide an overview of the social institutions and functions addressed in the practice of law. Students will participate in each of the lawyer’s roles: investigation, research, factual analysis, advocacy, trial preparation, and dispute resolution. In the process, students will examine the nature and history of law, interrogate parties, argue hypothetical cases, present evidence, and draft legal pleadings and documents. This class will encourage open participation in lively classroom activities and projects, including roundtable debates and discussions, oral argument, evidentiary inquiry, and forensic analysis, with a premium placed on the robust exchange of diverse ideas and opinions. Substantive areas covered will embrace the core curriculum of American law schools, including torts, criminal law, trial practice and procedure, constitutional law, evidence, contract law, and legal research and drafting. The course will feature a whole-class mock trial.

Schedules

SD4358.2
MTWTF
TuF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMGary Kitajo
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4367Honors Psychology
6789
30MWF1030Full

Honors Psychology close

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Covers material equivalent to the full year of AP Psychology in six weeks. College-level texts are used. With additional self-study and review, students will be prepared to take the AP exam in May.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 30 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up; completion of Grade 10 recommended.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $1030 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$290
ATDP does not provide AP testing. Students who want to register for the AP Psychology test will need to check with high schools in their area.

Full course description

This course provides a rigorous introduction to the fundamental concepts in psychology and prepares students for the May 2024 AP examination in psychology. Topics include the neurological processes that lead to thought and behavior, the processes that allow people to sense and perceive information from the environment, sleep and dreams, behavior, sources of the motivation to act, emotional experiences, language, memory, human development across the lifespan, personality, psychological disorders, types of therapies, bias and discrimination, research methods, and statistics. The course uses a college textbook and requires that students do a significant amount of independent reading. Students come to class prepared to engage in interactive work, such as the analysis of case studies and current or historical events. Students also design and carry out an independent research project. In order to fully prepare students for the AP examination, students get ample practice answering AP-style questions.

Schedules

SD4367.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMJin Hyung Lim
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4368Data Science Lab with RClick for details21MWF1030Open

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Photograph of Data Science Lab with R during class
For advanced high schoolers who want to explore the intersections of social science, computer science, and statistics. Students should have a basic background in understanding linear regression.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II/Trigonometry or Integrated Math 3. Prior experience with computer programming is strongly recommended but not required.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 21 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up; completion of Grade 10 recommended.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designation
Tuition Total: $1030 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$290
This class requires students to have access to a laptop with Windows/Mac OS (not a Chromebook, tablet, or smartphone) that they can bring to class. Students will need to be able to install freely available software specific to this class curriculum to complete in-class assignments and homework.

Full course description

Data science is the practice of extracting knowledge from data in a reproducible fashion and then effectively communicating the results. This course introduces college-level data science concepts, combining three perspectives: (1) inferential thinking, (2) computational thinking and (3) real-world relevance. Given data arising from some real-world phenomenon, how do you analyze that data so as to understand that phenomenon? The course teaches critical concepts and skills in computer programming and statistical inference, in conjunction with hands-on analysis of real-world datasets, using technology platforms commonly to research teams. The course will also explore social issues surrounding data analysis such as privacy and bias.

Schedules

SD4368.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMJames JolinOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
Natural SciencesPrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SD4370Introduction to Neuroscience
67891011
20MW870Full

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Understanding Your Brain

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For current middle school students with an interest in functional neuroanatomy and cognitive science. This course takes place in a campus lab and requires strict adherence to safety procedures.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 20 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7 or 8.
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345

Full course description

"We use our brains at every moment of our lives, and yet few of us have the first idea how they work." -Aamodt & Wang, Welcome to your Brain

This course is an introduction to brain basics and a chance to answer everyday questions about how we think and act: Can you trust your brain? Is the brain like a computer? Do we only use 10% of our brain? Why are yawns contagious? Through readings, demonstrations, activities, and short lectures we will study neurons, neurotransmitters, and the parts of the brain responsible for memory, sensation, and emotions. Students will be required to participate in projects and short presentations as we cover various topics, including perception, amnesia, sleep and dreams, anxiety, brain misconceptions, and famous neuroscience discoveries and techniques. By the end of the course you should have a better understanding of your own brain, mind, and behavior.

Schedules

SD4370.2
MTWTF
MW
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMMaya Feldthouse
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4371Introduction to Biotechnology
67891011
18TuTh870Full

Introduction to Biotechnology close

Photograph of Introduction to Biotechnology during class
For current middle schoolers preparing for high school biology. Introduces concepts through hands-on lab work and modern research technologies. This course takes place in a campus lab and requires strict adherence to safety procedures.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7 or 8.
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345

Full course description

In this course, students will be introduced to the principles and techniques of molecular biology that are used to study and manipulate DNA in basic research, medicine, forensics, and agriculture. We will begin by studying the structure and chemistry of DNA, and we will then learn about many of the laboratory techniques used in recombinant DNA technology, including restriction digests, PCR, bacterial transformation, and immunological assays. In each class meeting, students will conduct hands-on experiments and learn about the real-world uses and implications of biotechnology. Additionally, students will complete weekly current events reports and examine the ethical considerations raised by advances in the field.

Schedules

SD4371.1
MTWTF
TuTh
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMLata Mistry
Full
SD4371.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMLata Mistry
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
Understanding Climate Change - Canceled

Understanding Climate Change close

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For students interested in an interdisciplinary exploration of climate change, ecological issues, and environmental science. A strong background in natural science (biology, chemistry, physics), math, and writing is recommended.
Prerequisite: None; fundamentals in biology, chemistry, and algebra recommended.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 21 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 24 and ends July 19.

Full course description

Climate change is the defining crisis of our time, and today's students are the last generation that can mitigate its worst effects. In this class, we will study the causes, effects and feedback loops of climate change, then take a deep dive into solutions. Students will learn how they can work for the climate at the personal, regional and global scale. We will start with some key questions: "what is important to you?" and "how do you know what information to trust?" Students will conduct independent research on electricity production, regional scale solutions and a topic of personal interest, and present their work through writing, slides and posters. We will take field trips to the botanical garden and an energy efficient building that houses several climate friendly projects. Lectures, discussions, and educational videos round out the class.

Schedules

SD4372.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMStaff
Canceled
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4373Exploring Chemistry
67891011
25MWF870Almost full

Exploring Chemistry close

Photograph of Exploring Chemistry during class
For middle schoolers who want a preview of high school chemistry topics and labs. This course takes place in a campus lab and requires strict adherence to safety procedures.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7 or 8.
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 17 and ends July 12.

Full course description

In this exploratory chemistry course, we will focus on developing analytical and quantitative skills to investigate how matter changes. Through hands-on laboratory experiments students will observe properties of matter, investigate chemical/physical changes and prove the conservation of mass during chemical change. The focus of the lab activities is to understand how to use data to make explicit claims that are based on evidence and are backed up with chemical principles. These goals are achieved through daily lectures, labs, and discussions. First half of the class is dedicated to discussion of homework followed by a lecture on the chemistry principle behind the day's lab investigation. The second half of the time will be dedicated to an inquiry-based laboratory experiment. Students will develop their observational and analytical skills by recording their results and performing quantitative analysis. Through their analysis, they will learn about some of the fundamental concepts in chemistry, such as atomic structure, the periodic table, molarity of aqueous solutions, the natural tendencies and forces that make chemicals react with one another. Students will leave this course with laboratory chemistry skills and a greater understanding of how chemistry is at work in the world around them.

Schedules

SD4373.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMFatemeh Mizbani
Almost Full
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SD4374Electronics LabClick for details25MWF870Full

Electronics Lab close

A project based approach to electronics engineering and circuitry

Photograph of Electronics Lab during class
Students who are interested in learning the guiding principles of electronics and designing circuits from basic components and microchips would enjoy and learn from this course.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 or Integrated Math 1
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 17 and ends July 12.

Full course description

This course is an invitation to discovering electronics by creating successively complex projects, through the iterative process of refining, troubleshooting, and modifying circuit designs and creating meaningful extensions. The course emphasizes group work among students and promoting modular design principles, where students create barebones circuits with limited functionality and then add features based on user-friendliness, interface requirements, and practical and economic considerations, and then learn to integrate modules. This lies at the heart of engineering design. In the process, they arrive at an operational understanding of currents and voltages as it relates to passive components like resistors and capacitors as well as the semiconductor behavior underlying transistors, diodes and microchips. Students will learn about the basics of electrical engineering principles through a visceral understanding about how body resistance affects current by shorting batteries, intentionally destroying some components to understand the reasons behind their failure, and then graduate to understanding the basics of analog circuits through the switching operations of electromechanical relays. They will then connect and extend their ideas about timing circuits controlled by capacitors and explore the electrical equivalent of a spring by building oscillators. The principles underlying this behavior are then extended to solid state devices like the transistor, where students will explore and learn about the advantages of using it as a switching device. The first project will be to build a light and sound modulator, the principle behind the operation of a radio. Finally, we will explore the operation of integrated circuits using the versatile 555 timer and put it to work in interesting projects like an intrusion alarm and a reflex tester. Time permitting, we will delve into the world of digital electronics by understanding the operation of logic gates and building projects using digital logic and interface it with the analog electronics we have learnt.

Schedules

SD4374.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMKaushik Basu
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4375Applied PhysicsClick for details25MWF870Almost full

Applied Physics close

Photograph of Applied Physics during class
For high school students who want to experiment with Newtonian physics prior to beginning their study of calculus.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II/Trigonometry or Integrated Math 3.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 17 and ends July 12.

Full course description

This class will explore Newton's laws and its applications in their full generality. We will use cell phone sensors and run experiments from simple materials. Students will collaboratively on both experiments and problem sets and will learn to film experiments in slow motion to capture and analyze events that happen too fast for the eye. We will explore the stability of teeter toys and learn how ubiquitous springs can be used to model solids, as well as working to understand complex forces like air drag. Their work will culminate in a final project of their choice where they will share their findings with a presentation to the class.

Schedules

SD4375.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMKaushik Basu
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4377Advanced Robotics EngineeringClick for details24MWF1190Full

Advanced Robotics Engineering close

Photograph of Advanced Robotics Engineering during class
For high school students with a keen interest in robotics, programming and design.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I or Integrated Math I.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 24 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Science (D)
Tuition Total: $1190 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$400

Full course description

This hands-on, project-based robotics class is designed to develop students' creativity, technological savvy, and engineering skills through the process of building, programming and operating robots designed to perform specific tasks/challenges. The course begins with simple experiments involving sensors and motors. More-complicated tasks involve building integrated prototype devices that collect data using sensors, process this data using computer-language code (blockCode, C++, Python), and execute tasks via computer-controlled motorized manipulation of simple machines follow. Students are responsible for developing projects in teams and communicating the reasons why they chose a particular method for achieving their goals. This will be done in various ways, including maintaining an engineering notebook, designing websites/blogs/posters and making presentations. The course fosters cooperative interaction and emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of robotics and the social and real-world application of technical enterprise.

Schedules

SD4377.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMAmber Young
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SD4381Cognitive NeuroscienceClick for details25TuF710Full

Cognitive Neuroscience close

Photograph of Cognitive Neuroscience during class
For advanced high school students with a strong science background and a keen interest in the human brain. Students study college-level primary source material.
Prerequisite: Completion of high school Chemistry, or Biology, or AP Psychology. Applicants must include a report card showing this prerequisite.
On site(UC Berkeley campus)
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-8 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

Cognitive neuroscientists aim to answer one of the last remaining fundamental questions of science: how does a three-pound lump of organic material—the brain—support such a wide array of functions, such as perception, thinking and reasoning, emotion, movement, and consciousness? In this class we will explore modern theories and applications of adult and developmental neuroscience, along with the research methodologies used by cognitive neuroscientists (e.g., single unit recording, fMRI, EEG, psychophysics) to do answer just these questions. We will use diverse college-level reading materials to introduce key topic areas of the field, including cells and systems, sensation and perception, attention, learning and memory, emotion, and development. An end-of-year project will provide the opportunity to learn how to read and evaluate primary research articles directly from scientists in the field and propose a hypothesis-driven study in an area of interest.

Schedules

SD4381.1
MTWTF
TuF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMMaura McDonagh
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
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Secondary Division Online
Writing & LiteraturePrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SDR0500The Writing Process
691011
18MTh710Full

The Writing Process close

Photograph of The Writing Process during class
For students mastering middle school writing skills and transitioning to high school. Explores various methods of analysis and the stages of writing persuasively. Also offered on-site (UC Berkeley campus).
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
This course is recommended for students completing Grades 7 and 8.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
Exceptionally well-prepared Sixth Graders may apply for this course.

Full course description

This course is meant for students who are mastering their middle school writing and analytical skills and transitioning to high school. Students will engage in the full process of writing, including pre-writing, drafting, editing and revising. Emphasis will be placed on drawing evidence and insights from close readings of model literary works and multimedia texts (e.g., film, documentaries, interviews). Students will investigate the many purposes for which authors write and will become purposeful readers and writers. They will also study qualities of good writing, consider how to write persuasively on different topics, and become thoughtful readers and reviewers of their classmates' work.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Class format will vary. Students will spend 2-3 hours per session together with substantial breaks throughout. Class meetings will have a highly interactive, interdependent, and collaborative structure which may include whole-group meetings, small group discussions and writing critique sessions, self-directed writing lab time, short film viewings, and partnered work, depending on the session.

Schedules

SDR0500.1
MTWTF
MTh
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMTyleen Kelly
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
Reading for Creative Writing - Canceled

Reading for Creative Writing close

Photograph of Reading for Creative Writing during class
For middle school students with a keen interest in fiction and creative writing. Critical reading and varied activities inspire student work.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7 or 8.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This class will focus on reading critically and passionately while fostering creative writing skills. Students will read poetry, short stories, and other works of literature, and write responses to the readings. They will visualize the imagery and explore the themes of literature in relation to their own lives. For more inspiration, class activities may include drawing and art, film, and simple nature explorations. Students will share their insights into the mind of the author and seek to understand their own writing processes. Through improvisation, class discussion, and writing exercises, students will learn to identify and experiment with various narrative techniques. They will develop a portfolio of their own creative writing and may also write one analytic essay that will reflect their growing expertise as readers and writers.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
The class format will vary. Students will often spend 2-3 hours per class in interactive lecture and discussion over Zoom. Occasionally the class plan may shift to include longer segments of self-directed writing assignments with live help available or to incorporate short film viewings. We will take substantial breaks throughout.

Schedules

SDR0501.1
MTWTF
TuF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMStaff
Canceled
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0503Crafting Effective Essays
671011
20MTh710Full

Crafting Effective Essays close

Photograph of Crafting Effective Essays during class
For students developing high school reading and writing skills. Focuses on essay development and revision.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 20 hours
This course is recommended for students completing Grades 8 and 9.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:English (B)
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This class will provide a vehicle for students to sharpen their high school level reading and writing skills. Students will mold facts, speculations, beliefs, and opinions into cogent, powerful statements. Through readings, class discussions, and group work, students will learn how to develop arguments to answer complex questions and then support their original claims with sufficient and significant evidence. From carefully constructed paragraphs to complete essays, successive assignments will allow students to investigate different approaches to their writing. Emphasis will be on learning to refine thinking and on improving writing through outlining, editing and rewriting.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will spend 2-3 hours per class in interactive lecture over Zoom. We will take substantial breaks throughout

Schedules

SDR0503.1
MTWTF
MTh
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMGabriella Wyatt
Full
SDR0503.2
MTWTF
MTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMStaff
Canceled
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0504Analytical WritingClick for details20TuF710Almost full

Analytical Writing close

Photograph of Analytical Writing during class
For students mastering high school writing skills and transitioning to college-level textual analysis. This course is also offered in-person (UC Berkeley campus).
Prerequisite: Completion of 1 year of high school English, or permission of the Director.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 20 hours
This course is recommended for students completing Grades 9 and 10.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:English (B) ‑ UC Honors designation
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This course, taught at the advanced high school level, will allow students to strengthen their analytical reading and writing skills. Students will practice reading with care and will hold meaningful discussions about the texts they study, which may include visual texts as well as written texts. They will learn to incorporate critical thought and deep textual analysis to produce well-organized, well-written, well-developed, and intellectually complex essays. They will perform the stages of writing from clarification of the assignment to final revision, working on research, composition, and editing.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will spend two to three hours of class time engaged in synchronous, interactive lecture over Zoom, including participation in structured, task-oriented break-out rooms. Students will be afforded generous breaks as well as offered multiple opportunities to seek feedback and support from the instructor and TA interns.

Schedules

SDR0504.2
MTWTF
TuF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMElizabeth Scherman
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
Computer SciencePrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SDR0530Introduction to Computer Science
67891011
18MWF870Full

Introduction to Computer Science close

Solving Problems with Python

Photograph of Introduction to Computer Science during class
For students new to coding with no computer science experience. Covers fundamental concepts in a semester-equivalent programming course. This course was previously titled Introduction to Programming.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified SD students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts July 1 and ends July 26.

Full course description

This course is designed for complete beginners with no previous background in computer science. The course is highly visual, dynamic, and interactive, making it engaging for new coders. This course teaches the foundations of computer science and basic programming, with an emphasis on students developing logical thinking and problem solving skills. In this course students will learn material equivalent to a semester high school introductory course in Computer Science and be able to program in Python. Conditionals, looping, functions and data structures are all covered extensively. The course utilizes a blended classroom approach. The content is fully web-based, with students writing and running code in the browser. Teachers utilize tools and resources to give focused one-on-one attention to students.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will spend 2-3 hours per class in interactive coding exercises over Zoom. We will take substantial breaks throughout. Additionally, fun and engaging activities are interspersed to foster community and provide the opportunity for social connections to be formed during the course.

Schedules

SDR0530.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMAndy Doolittle
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0535Computer Science AClick for details30MWF1190Full

Computer Science A close

Photograph of Computer Science A during class
For students who want to master object-oriented programming. Coding experience recommended but not required. Covers the majority of topics in AP Computer Science A in six weeks. With additional self-study and review, students will be prepared to take the AP exam in May. This course was previously titled Programming in Java.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I or Integrated Math 1 required. Completion of an introductory computer science course recommended.
Online
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 30 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $1190 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$400
ATDP does not provide AP testing. Students who want to register for the AP CS A test will need to check with high schools in their area.

Full course description

This course will introduce students to object-oriented programming in Java. Programming experience is highly recommended; students applying for this course must already feel comfortable with file systems, rules of syntax, and mathematical thinking, particularly the ideas of variables and functions. Students learn about object-oriented structures like classes very early in the course, along with basic Java syntax and graphics. Students will also learn how to process data structures like arrays and lists. Students will use searching and sorting algorithms to create powerful programs. Throughout the course, students will demonstrate their creative skills through various labs and projects that explore advanced applications, such as graphical user interfaces, as well as their ability to write formal documentation.


ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Online classes will be synchronous but students will watch the lecture videos on their own (to allow self-pacing and minimize the effects of remote teaching). However a brief introduction/overview will be provided by the instructor. Following lectures, some lesson exercises will be done individually and some in groups of two. The instructor may provide live solutions to some of the exercises as necessary. Plenty of help will be available from the instructor and teaching interns.

Schedules

SDR0535.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMJennifer Newell
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
MathematicsPrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SDR0540Foundations of Algebra
691011
18WF710Open

Foundations of Algebra close

Photograph of Foundations of Algebra during class
For students planning to enter Algebra I or Integrated Math 1 in the fall. Develop problem-solving skills for algebra based on the Common Core approach.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7 or 8.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
Exceptionally well-prepared Sixth Graders may apply for this course.

Full course description

This course is designed to strengthen and develop skills that are essential for students who will be entering an Algebra I course in the fall. We will study strategies for problem solving, patterns, graphing, equations, properties, and exponents, with a focus on explaining and justifying our thinking. During the six-week course, we will identify individual student curricular needs and then design instruction to challenge all students in the class. Students will approach problem-solving to be more in tune with their original way of thinking: defining the problem, making predictions and hypotheses, testing assertions, using algebra to generalize from specifics, making conclusions and supporting them with logical arguments. Working with the Common Core Curriculum, student work will entail writing the process of the solution in complete form, thus demonstrating students’ mastery of the curriculum. Community building through mathematical problem-solving will also be a focus of this class with students working in small groups/pairs on problems. This class is for students who have not taken Algebra I.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will meet as a whole class for the first 30-60 minutes (synchronous). Following that, students will be self-directed, participating in project-based learning as pairs or small groups with live help available and structured breaks, before returning for the last 30-60 minutes of class to showcase their work with a full class discussion.

Schedules

SDR0540.1
MTWTF
WF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMSiqi HuangOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0542Algebra IClick for details36MWF1080Open

Algebra I close

Photograph of Algebra I during class
For students planning to enter Geometry in the fall. Complete the full year of Algebra I in six weeks, aligned with Common Core high school standards. Recommended only for students who are seeking acceleration at their school.
Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Algebra, grade of A in current math class, Teacher Referral Form completed by current math instructor, and passing score on placement test. See math application & placement.
Online
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 6-10 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 36 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Mathematics (C)
Tuition Total: $1080 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$340
Accelerated

Full course description

This six-week course covers a full year of Algebra I and is aligned with Common Core standards for high school Algebra classes. Topics to be covered include patterns and graphs; writing and solving equations; numeric, geometric, and algebraic ratios; slopes and rates of change; linear functions and graphing; factoring quadratics and other polynomials; systems of linear equations and inequalities; radicals and exponents; rational and irrational numbers; and graphing quadratic functions and finding roots. Students frequently spend eight hours outside of class preparing for each class session. The atmosphere of the class is cooperative; the emphasis is on working together.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will have 2.5-3 hours of interactive lecture and small group work over Zoom. Students will be required to complete independent work on non-instructional days.

Schedules

SDR0542.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMStephen RubyOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0544GeometryClick for details40MWF1080Almost full

Geometry close

Photograph of Geometry during class
For students planning to enter Algebra II/Trigonometry in the fall. Complete the full year of Geometry in six weeks. Recommended only for students who are seeking credit or acceleration at their school.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I, grade of A in current math class, Teacher Referral Form completed by current math instructor, and passing score on placement test. See math application & placement.
Online
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 6-10 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 40 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Mathematics (C)
Tuition Total: $1080 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$340
Accelerated

Full course description

This fast-paced course completes all topics of first-year Geometry: points, lines, planes, and angles; deductive reasoning; parallel lines and planes; congruent triangles; quadrilaterals; inequalities in geometry; similar polygons; right triangles; circles; constructions and loci; areas of plane figures; areas and volumes of solids; coordinate geometry; transformations; and an introduction to trigonometry. Because the course covers a full year of Geometry, students spend at least eight hours outside of class preparing for each class session.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will spend 2-3 hours per class in interactive lecture and group work time over Zoom. We will take substantial breaks throughout.

Schedules

SDR0544.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMTerence Rollerson
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0546Algebra II/TrigonometryClick for details40MWF1080Open

Algebra II/Trigonometry close

Photograph of Algebra II/Trigonometry during class
For students planning to enter Precalculus in the fall. Complete the full year of Algebra II/Trigonometry in six weeks. Recommended only for students who are seeking credit or acceleration at their school.
Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry, grade of A in current math class, Teacher Referral Form completed by current math instructor, and passing score on placement test. See math application & placement.
Online
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 6-10 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 40 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Mathematics (C)
Tuition Total: $1080 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$340
Accelerated

Full course description

This extremely fast-paced course completes all topics of second-year Algebra with trigonometry: linear functions and relations; systems of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic functions and complex numbers; exponential and logarithmic functions; rational and irrational algebraic functions; quadratic relations and systems; higher degree functions and polynomials; sequences and series; graphing techniques; circular and trigonometric functions; and use of mathematical models for applications and problem solving. Because the course covers a full year of material, students spend a great deal of time outside class preparing for each class session and memorizing trigonometry formulas.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will spend 2-3 hours per class in interactive lecture and group work time over Zoom. We will take substantial breaks throughout.

Schedules

SDR0546.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMTerence RollersonOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0548PrecalculusClick for details36MWF1080Open

Precalculus close

Photograph of Precalculus during class
For students planning to enter AP Calculus in the fall. Complete the full year of Precalculus in six weeks. Recommended only for students who are seeking credit or acceleration at their school.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II or Integrated Math III, grade of A in current math class, Teacher Referral Form completed by current math instructor, and passing score on placement test. See math application & placement.
Online
Course load:Full year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 6-10 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 36 hours
Grade requirement:Open to all qualified students.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Mathematics (C)
Tuition Total: $1080 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$340
Accelerated

Full course description

This course guides you through the fundamental ideas that build a foundation for calculus. Topics include elementary functions including inverses and transformations; polynomial and rational functions and their graphs; and exponential and logarithmic functions. We will analyze trigonometric functions and their inverses, identities and equations. We will introduce complex numbers, polar coordinates, conic sections, and vectors. The course will conclude with a preview of calculus topics, including arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, the definition of the limit, and rates of change of functions using the derivative. The course emphasizes collaborative problem-solving, conceptual understanding, and using mathematics to model the real world.

Schedules

SDR0548.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMIan AllenOpen
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
SDR0550Exploring Data Science with Python
691011
25MW710Full

Exploring Data Science with Python close

Photograph of Exploring Data Science with Python during class
For students who are curious about the burgeoning field of data science, including learning what data science is, finding patterns in data, the math behind it, and what you can do with it.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 7, 8 or 9.
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210
Students will need to install freely available software onto their computers in order to complete coursework.

Full course description

Data science is all about patterns, and foundational to learning the skill of analyzing information and communicating results. This course introduces examples of the applications of data science, allowing us to explore the three basics of data science: (1) collecting data, (2) finding patterns in the data, and (3) making decisions from data. Data can be collected using databases, observational data, or conducting surveys. Once the data has been collected, coding is important for statistical analysis and visualizing the data. From there, visualizations should allow data scientists to recognize trends to predict best courses of action for the future. The skills required for data science are programming, statistics, and communication, all of which we will investigate during the course.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE

Course meetings will be a mix of lecture, discussion, and lab work done individually or in small groups, with breaks throughout. Students will spend 2-3 hours each class day in live online meetings.

Schedules

SDR0550.1
MTWTF
MW
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMIan Allen
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0552Social Psychology
67891011
16TuTh710Full

Social Psychology close

Photograph of Social Psychology during class
Introduces topics, research methods, and findings in the field of social psychology. College-level texts are used.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 16 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

Social psychology is the scientific study of the way people think about, feel, and behave in social situations. It involves understanding how people influence, and are influenced by, others around them. A primary goal of this course is to introduce you to the perspectives, research methods, and empirical findings of social psychology. We will use a college-level textbook along with supplementary readings to cover topics including: impression formation, conformity, pro-social behavior, interpersonal attraction, persuasion, stereotyping and prejudice. Equally important is the goal of cultivating your skills for analyzing the social situations and events that you encounter in your everyday lives. Finally, throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on developing critical and integrative ways of thinking about theory and research in social psychology.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
For the first two hours of each class, students will participate in synchronous discussion-based lecture. For the last hour of of each class, students will work in small groups and/or collaborate on learning projects with live help from the instructor. We will also take three scheduled breaks throughout.

Schedules

SDR0552.1
MTWTF
TuTh
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMElaine Luo
Full
SDR0552.2
MTWTF
TuTh
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMElaine Luo
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0560Philosophy & Critical Thinking
67891011
18TuF710Full

Philosophy & Critical Thinking close

Photograph of Philosophy & Critical Thinking during class
For students with a keen interest in philosophy and ethics. Covers introductory topics of philosophy, while exploring the intersection of critical thinking, analytical writing, and logic.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 18 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

This course is an introduction to the interrelated fields of philosophy and critical thinking. Philosophy is the exploration of the fundamental questions of existence, mind and reality, aiming to reconcile our understanding of things from various domains of inquiry. Philosophers seek to address philosophical problems, such as the problem of free will and the problem of consciousness, and construct philosophical systems that enable us meaningfully to organize our knowledge. Critical thinking is the activity of taking a critical look at our beliefs, and at the method by which we form and justify these beliefs and convey them—in writing, speech and debate—within a community of knowers and inquirers. Critical thinking offers guidance in logic and reasoning, and helps us gain awareness of the ways in which we can be led astray in the search for truth. The study of philosophy and critical thinking provides students with the resources and experience to become deeper and clearer thinkers and more capable writers, learners and researchers.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will collaborate in groups in project-based learning, attend interactive lectures, and participate in guided seminar discussions.

Schedules

SDR0560.2
MTWTF
TuF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMAlex James
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0562Clinical Psychology
67891011
16MW710Full

Clinical Psychology close

Mental Health Diagnosis, Treatment, and Research

Photograph of Clinical Psychology during class
This course is for high school students who are interested in delving deep into the topic of clinical psychology. It is appropriate both for students who are new to psychology and for students who are preparing for or have already taken a general psychology or AP psychology course.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-4 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 16 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G)
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

Clinical psychology is the scientific study of mental illness, abnormal behavior, and psychiatric problems. It involves understanding how to assess, treat, and even prevent psychological distress and promote an individual’s well-being and development. The primary goal of this course is to introduce you to major perspectives, diagnostic criteria, treatments, and empirical findings of clinical psychology. We will use a college-level textbook along with supplementary readings to cover various topics: definitions of abnormality, types of disorders (mood disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorder etc.), types of psychotherapies, and resilience. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on developing critical and integrative ways of thinking about the positive and negative consequences of diagnostic labels and the role of culture/social environment on mental health.

Schedules

SDR0562.1
MTWTF
MW
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMUmara Hansen
Full
SDR0562.2
MTWTF
MW
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMStaff
Canceled
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0568Data Science Lab with RClick for details26MWF1030Full

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For advanced high schoolers who want to explore the intersections of social science, computer science, and statistics. Students should have a basic background in understanding linear regression.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II/Trigonometry or Integrated Math 3. Prior experience with computer programming is strongly recommended but not required.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-5 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 26 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up; completion of Grade 10 recommended.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designation
Tuition Total: $1030 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$290
Students will need to install freely available software onto their computers in order to complete coursework.

Full course description

Data science is the practice of extracting knowledge from data in a reproducible fashion and then effectively communicating the results. This course introduces college-level data science concepts, combining three perspectives: (1) inferential thinking, (2) computational thinking and (3) real-world relevance. Given data arising from some real-world phenomenon, how do you analyze that data so as to understand that phenomenon? The course teaches critical concepts and skills in computer programming and statistical inference, in conjunction with hands-on analysis of real-world datasets, using technology platforms common to research teams. The course will also explore social issues surrounding data analysis such as privacy and bias.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Course meetings will be a mix of lecture, discussion, and lab work done individually or in small groups, with breaks throughout. Students will spend 2-3 hours each class day in live online meetings. Optional workshops may be available for students who want additional skill-building in programming.

Schedules

SDR0568.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMJose Aveldanes
Full
SDR0568.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMJose Aveldanes
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.
Natural SciencesPrerequisitesHrs. per weekAvailable
schedules
Total feeAvailability
SDR0574Introduction to Astronomy & AstrophysicsClick for details27MWF800Almost full

Introduction to Astronomy & Astrophysics close

Photograph of Introduction to Astronomy & Astrophysics during class
For advanced high schoolers with a keen interest in extending fundamental astronomy concepts into an understanding of astrophysics and modern exploration. Requires a strong math background.
Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry or Integrated Math II.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 2-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 27 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Science (D)
Tuition Total: $800 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$340
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts July 1 and ends July 26.

Full course description

In this course, students will learn about many of the objects that make up our solar system and surrounding galaxy, as well as some of the physics responsible for the appearance, behavior, and interactions of these objects. Students will gain a quantitative understanding of the movement of celestial objects through the sky and how astronomical tools such as telescopes, astronomical cameras, spectroscopy, space probes, and orbital observatories help gather data to support claims. Topics include interactions of the Earth, Sun, and Moon; Kepler’s Laws and bodies of the solar system; types of stars; nebulae and stellar evolution; discovery of extrasolar planets; galactic structure; and relevant cosmology. Students will utilize authentic astronomical data and interpretation tools using current statistical techniques to establish the identity of objects in our Local Group. This course will include multiple observations of the sun, late-night sky observations, virtual feild trips, and even a potential interview with a practicing astrophysicist.

ONLINE COURSE FORMAT
Students will have 2-3 hours of synchronous lessons via Zoom each day. This time will be a mix of whole-class instruction, discussion, and presentations, along with small group breakout sessions and off-screen individual work time, with break periods throughout.

Schedules

SDR0574.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMMaafi Cook
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0576Chemistry: Theory and PracticeClick for details25TuTh870Almost full

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For students who want to learn how to read and understand primary science research literature, and to perform quantitative and qualitative lab procedures for high school chemistry. The course will cover a semester's worth of a traditional chemistry course, and will require homework and pre-reading.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I or Integrated Math 1.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-6 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 8 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Science (D)
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
Students will receive a supply list for consumables and equipment. These will be household items that can be purchased from grocery stores or pharmacies.

Full course description

Through daily lectures, labs, and discussions, we will investigate how chemists describe matter and its changes. Students will develop their writing skills, reading comprehension, and critical thinking through labs, daily news readings, and formative assessments. Lab work will require the application of algebra to solve problems; a strong math background is highly recommended. This course provides a grounding in scientific principles equivalent to the first-semester high school chemistry curriculum which include measurements, significant figures, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, electron configuration, quantum numbers, the periodic table, trends, chemical bonding, chemical compounds, chemical equations, and reactions, and stoichiometry.

ONLINE CLASS FORMAT
A typical day will consist of the following activities conducted in Google Meet:
- One-minute flash talk presented by students over their choice of daily science news
- One-hour presentation covering the material for the day's topic
- Thirty-minute break
- One hour daily lab exploring the day's topic
- One-hour discussion and review of the day's presentation and lab, practice, and formative assessment

List of course topics

  • Primary Literature
  • Precision and Accuracy
  • Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
  • Atomic Structure
  • Electromagnetic Spectrum
  • Electron Configuration
  • Quantum Numbers
  • Periodic Table and Trends
  • Chemical Compounds and Nomenclature
  • Empirical Formula
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Stoichiometry

Schedules

SDR0576.1
MTWTF
TuTh
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMKaty Kuei
Almost Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0578Advanced BiotechnologyClick for details32MWF870Almost full

Advanced Biotechnology close

Photograph of Advanced Biotechnology during class
For advanced high school students with a keen interest in cutting-edge life science.
Prerequisite: Completion of high school Biology AND Algebra I or Integrated Math 1. Applicants must include a report card showing this prerequisite. Background in Chemistry recommended.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 3-7 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 32 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:Science (D)
Tuition Total: $870 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$345
This course has a four-week schedule. It starts June 17 and ends July 12.

Full course description

In this relevant and engaging course, we will explore the essential principles and techniques of molecular biology, which are used to study and manipulate living material. Applications reach far and wide: research, medicine, forensics, and agriculture, to name a few. Students will conduct authentic experiments, involving DNA extraction, PCR, bacterial transformation, gel electrophoresis, antibody testing, genetic manipulation, and so much more! And because the topics from our class are so interdisciplinary in nature, we will engage in several whole class and small group conversations to discuss the social, ethical, political, economic, and psychological implications of biotechnology practices (for example, genetically modified organisms, COVID-19 vaccine development, stem cell research, CRISPR gene editing, disease-gene testing, and designer baby technology). After taking this class, students will feel exceptionally prepared to pursue advanced life science courses in college and beyond.

ONLINE CLASS STRUCTURE
Students will have 60-75 minutes of synchronous lessons via Zoom each day. This time will be an even mix of whole class instruction and group collaborations via breakout rooms to discuss case studies and application problems. The asynchronous time will be spent on readings, virtual labs, and guided inquiry.

Schedules

SDR0578.1
MTWTF
MWF
8:30 AM - 12:00 PMLata Mistry
Almost Full
SDR0578.2
MTWTF
MWF
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMStaff
Canceled
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
SDR0583Introduction to Cancer ResearchClick for details25MW710Full

Introduction to Cancer Research close

Photograph of Introduction to Cancer Research during class
For advanced high school students with a keen interest in medical research and oncology. Covers both cancer biology fundamentals and recent developments.
Prerequisite: Completion of 1 year of high school Biology. Applicants must include a report card showing this prerequisite.
Online
Course load:Half year equivalent
Self-study and homework required: 4-8 hours per class meetingTime commitment per week:Up to 25 hours
Grade requirement:For students completing Grade 9 and up.
Counts toward UC/CSU A–G requirement:College‑Preparatory Elective (G) ‑ UC Honors designated
Tuition Total: $710 Total with full aid award (estimated):
$210

Full course description

Researchers are working harder than ever to understand the mystery behind the unregulated growth of cells, otherwise known as cancer. They strive daily to develop novel ways to detect and stop the growth of these rogue cells in the body. In this course, key topics of study will include the regulation of cell division, including how cell regulation goes awry in organisms, the metabolic needs of cancer cells, the molecular basis of metastasis or spread of cancer, and how cancer cells escape detection by the immune system. In addition to understanding the basic cell division processes, higher level analytical case studies, experimental data analysis drawn from primary research articles, and genetic pedigree analysis will also be used to augment understanding. An end-of-class project will allow students to explore treatment strategies in use, such as CAR T-cell immunotherapy, and other innovations under development. Students will showcase their understanding of the research methodologies by presenting on a topic of their choice in the field of oncology.

Schedules

SDR0583.2
MTWTF
MW
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMAnu Murthy
Full
Please make a selection above This course has more than one schedule available
No courses in this department match your selected filter.

Hours per Week Estimate

The Hrs. per week column indicates the approximate time commitment per week, including class sessions, homework, and self-study, based on reports from previous years’ students.

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Prerequisites

It is important to note course prerequisites and grade level requirements when you are selecting your course choices, as not all courses are open to all students.

The course is open to students completing the listed grade levels this year. Grades listed in blue are recommended.

If no grade levels are listed, the course has prerequisites in addition to or instead of a grade level requirement; refer to the individual course description for details.

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Explorations Fees

If the Explorations fee has an asterisk, please be aware that this is a reduced amount due to currently being in the Earlybird discount period.

Please see the Explorations calendar for information on when the discount may no longer be available.

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Meeting times

Unless otherwise noted, all AM courses meet 8:30 AM to 12:00 noon and all PM courses meet 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

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Availability updates

ATDP continues to update course availability every day as information changes. Courses can close quickly (or sometimes even reopen) depending on the number of applicants, the maximum size of the class, and whether any students decline their course placement.

Before application postmark deadlines: we project course availability based on the rate of applications for each class.

After the deadlines and before placement decisions are finalized: we project availability based on the number of applications for each class.

After placement decisions are finalized and admissions letters are sent out: we list actual availability based on the current number of enrolled students.

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