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The Collegiate Scholars Program is a three-year enrichment program offered by the University of Chicago specifically for Chicago Public School students. Ninth-graders who have distinguished themselves through their academic achievements and contributions to their school and community are encouraged to apply.
The summer after ninth grade, Collegiate Scholars will select from a series of classes in literature, mathematics, science, social sciences and writing taught primarily by University of Chicago faculty. Scholars return in subsequent summers and during the school year to build on this course work.
During the academic year, Collegiate Scholars participate in a series of enrichment seminars and prepare for the SAT and ACT. These programs emphasize interaction with University faculty and staff in a lecture/discussion format. The seminars are also open to the Collegiate Scholars’ parents, as well as current and former teachers who have particularly influenced the students.
Regular undergraduate courses at the University of Chicago are open to Collegiate Scholars during their senior year and the summer preceding. Offered through the College Bridge Program of the Chicago Public Schools, these courses are tuition-free and may be taken for credit.
Programming
The Collegiate Scholars Program prepares students to apply and compete in admission into highly competitive colleges and universities. This is realized by focusing on three main areas: Advanced Academics, Top-Tier College Prep and Career Exploration.
Advanced Academics
We offer courses from four collegiate divisions at the University of Chicago. Examples include: Introduction to Humanities, Economics, American Government, Advanced Calculus, Documentary Filmmaking, Hip Hop and Politics, as well as the Young Scholars Program (math).
College Prep
All students receive individualized support and guidance as they improve their academic performance, select colleges to which to apply, and complete the application process. High school juniors enroll in a standardized test preparation course. They also stay on campus during College Boot Camp- engaging in all aspects of college life- and then participate in College Countdown. With the help of teaching assistants, their goal is to complete five to ten applications by the end of the summer.
Creative Collaborations
CSP goes well beyond educating students in the traditional realm of academics to enable experiences in a wide range of cultural activities. While nurturing our ongoing relationship with the University of Chicago, we also provide access to programs and venues across the city.
During the academic year 2006-07 the Collegiate Scholars Program launched a new initiative that provided a series of arts integration activities using a thematic approach to cultural arts programming for (3) consecutive years. Each year a different genre will be presented for a new and exciting cultural experience that will connect with UC faculty and student organizations on campus.
- 2006-07: Dance
- 2007-08: Theatre
- 2008-09: Music
This initiative will evoke a deeper meaning by exposing students to a variety of workshops, lecture demonstrations, and other activities that focus on various cultures around the world. This Academic Year our theme is World Express: Theatre.
