LSU Pre-College Programs: Summer Program Spotlight
May 6, 2025
Hands-on learning…just one of the terms you might be seeing everywhere as you research summer programs. But what does this term really mean? Well, that varies from program to program, but at LSU’s STEM-focused Pre-College Summer Programs, it’s simple. Here, “hands-on learning” means that you quite literally touch, feel, and create with your hands throughout your course—an experience that not only builds actual skills but also provides authentic insight into what a particular major or career field might entail. Curious about what subjects you could be diving into at LSU—and how their immersive, on-campus programs will set you up for long-term success? Today, we’re taking you through all the ins and outs of LSU’s extensive summer program offerings. Let’s get started!
Note: This is a sponsored post written on behalf of LSU’s Pre-College Summer Programs. Our site only partners with programs that bring significant value to students and the material in this blog is 100% the genuine opinion of College Transitions.
What is LSU’s Pre-College Summer Program?
Fascinated by cybersecurity? AI? 3D printing? Sound engineering? High school is a perfect time to test those interests and refine them, which is why LSU’s Pre-College Programs offer over a dozen two-week-long, college-level enrichment courses that enable you to do just that. Accordingly, every single program is highly interactive, providing a rare chance to design and build actual projects, conduct experiments, and utilize industry-standard software within a supportive environment. Whether you’re dissecting specimens in Fundamentals of Anatomy, coding your own 2D game in Game Design in JavaScript, or programming and piloting drones through an indoor racing course in Survey of Drones, you’ll gain meaningful, relevant skills & experience at LSU.
And with courses in a diverse range of subjects—many of which are difficult to find at the high school level—you’re bound to find one that you’re excited about!
Let’s check out the current lineup:
Adventures in 3D Printing
Using Autodesk Inventor, you’ll design, model, and 3D print unique parts that bring your passions to life.
AI Adventures: Fun, Games, and Learning
Explore the world of AI and machine learning, experimenting with real AI tools and how they can be used in fun and creative ways.
Cybersecurity
From identifying phishing emails to exploring computer networks and cryptography, you’ll learn how bad actors obtain information as well as what you can do to protect yourself and your community.
Esports: The World of Esports
In addition to learning about the history of competitive gaming and rise of professional leagues, expect to dive into game design and game feel within a variety of genres.
Fundamentals of Anatomy
Explore the inner workings of the human body in this course, which features a variety of dissections as well as a tour of the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.
Fundamentals of Sound Engineering
In this course, learn how to use industry recording software and recording techniques, study music theory, and even record your own original music to be used in a game or short film.
Game Design in JavaScript
If you’re interested in coding, check out this course. After learning the basics of JavaScript, code your own 2D video game—including character interactions, keyboard controls, soundtrack, and more.
Geometry: Where Math Meets Design
While creating geometric art structures and using geometry to design your ideal living space, you’ll learn how to apply geometry to real life and prepare for college courses like trigonometry, architecture, and engineering.
Human Health and Environment
In this course, immerse yourself in real-world scenarios, scientific inquiry, knowledge of human health, and associated consequences of environmental change and challenges.
Interactive Computing
Through fun and engaging projects related to autonomous robots and front-end web applications, you’ll learn how to code software models, write test suites, and systematically debug programs.
Introduction to Engineering
Explore the differences in engineering disciplines through guest speakers, tours, and activities. You’ll also develop skills essential to the profession—problem-solving, communication, decision-making, and teamwork.
Robotics
If you hope to explore topics like motor speed, gear ratios, and program loops, this course is an excellent choice. Here, you’ll work with a team to develop, build, and program robots that can complete various tasks.
Survey of Drones
After learning about the basics of flight and signal transmissions, you’ll be assembling, programming, and ultimately piloting a drone through an indoor racing course.
What type of experience can I expect at LSU’s Pre-College Programs?
All of LSU’s high school offerings are held in person, so whether you choose to commute to LSU each day or live in an on-campus dormitory for the duration of your STEM-focused summer program, you’re guaranteed a true taste of the college experience.
Want the ultimate immersion into college living? Select the residential option, and you’ll have a roommate, live on the same floor as other students in the program, eat at campus dining facilities, and have access to a wide variety of fun and inclusive evening and weekend social activities. In the process, you’ll also foster relationships built in class, create new connections, and soak up everything LSU’s dynamic campus has to offer. Essentially, you’ll live like a real college student for two weeks!
How much do LSU’s summer programs cost?
Whether you live within driving distance of campus or will be flying in from out of state, LSU’s Pre-College Summer Programs are highly accessible. Program tuition is an affordable $1,250 for each two-week course.
Planning to live on campus? A $1,500 residential fee covers two weeks of on-campus housing, three meals per day, and evening/weekend activities.
Next Steps
If you’re curious about majoring in a STEM discipline, we highly recommend participating in a high-quality experience like LSU’s Pre-College Summer Programs. In addition to new knowledge and skills, you’ll gain long-term insight into your subject of choice that will significantly benefit you as you prepare for college.
Have your eye on one of LSU’s hands-on summer courses? Registration is first-come, first-served. Accordingly, you’ll want to apply as early as possible for the best shot at your preferred program.
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