Wheaton Pre-College launches for summer 2024

Program offers a complete college experience—academics, residential life and athletics

High school students who attend Wheaton Pre-College this summer will get a taste of the adventure of college-level study, the experience of living on campus, and if they desire, athletic training from NCAA coaches. 

The four-week program, which runs from July 6 through Aug. 2, offers students a range of academic subjects to explore, from artificial intelligence and nursing and healthcare to neuroscience, environmental science and electronic music production. Students may take the courses strictly to explore a topic of interest, or earn Wheaton College credit for their work. The program includes both residential and commuter options.

The program, which is open to rising high school juniors and seniors, also includes a unique offering: students may choose to enroll in the student experience pathway, enrolling in two classes or select the athlete experience pathway, which includes one course plus training with NCAA coaches in fencing, swimming or strength & conditioning. 

“Wheaton believes in educating the whole student, and we view athletics as complementary to academic pursuits. It can promote habits of mind that contribute greatly to success in the classroom and beyond,” said Joy McLaughlin, executive director of summer programming at Wheaton. 

Wheaton fields both men’s and women’s teams in swimming and diving and in fencing. The pre-college program will have full use of Wheaton’s competition-quality pool and other athletic facilities, including a recently developed strength and conditioning center for varsity athletes. 

Regardless of the pathway chosen, all students who are enrolled in Wheaton Pre-College will learn by doing, as well as through traditional study, reflecting the college’s historic commitment to experiential learning in undergraduate education.  

“All our classes combine study and discussion with hands-on experiences because it’s the most impactful approach to learning,” McLaughlin said. “Whether working in the nursing lab using our patient virtual reality system or at an Audubon wildlife sanctuary collecting samples, our courses provide practical engagement that enriches student learning.” 

Beyond classes, all pre-college students participate in college-life workshops designed to help them prepare for the transition from high school to college, covering topics from study/life balance, time management mastery and crafting compelling admission essays. 

Wheaton Pre-College also includes the full campus living experience with its residential offering, as well as a commuter option. Students will have access to the college’s state-of-the-art classrooms and labs, live in its newest residence hall and eat in our award-winning dining facilities. Students also will have ample opportunity to connect with their peers outside of class time, particularly those who choose to live on campus. In addition, the program includes evening activities and weekend trips to nearby destinations, such as Boston, MA, and beaches in Newport, RI. 

The application for admission to the program is currently open. The application deadline is May 20, 2024 for U.S. citizens, permanent residents and non-U.S. citizens living in the United States; and March 4, 2024 for non-U.S. citizens located outside of the United States. Apply Early.  Space is limited.