Youth Academy High School Classes

Career Academy courses are week-long camps that are offered during the summer term. These courses are taught by COD faculty and are a great way to introduce career pathways and college majors to high school students. These career-focused courses enable a student to gain an in-depth, hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at inspiring fields and programs. Check back in February for New Summer 2026 offerings.

Cybersecurity

Understand the implications of the choices we make in our everyday lives when using technology. Engage in discussions regarding online safety, privacy, risks, vulnerabilities, cryptography and networking.

Drone Flying for Teens

Come fly with us! Explore the many uses of drones in real estate, law enforcement, photography and more. Learn about drone safety and FAA regulations. Students will have hands-on experience flying mini drones and will gain the skills necessary to prepare for the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Students must be at least 13 years of age to fly a drone and take the exam. Instructor: Dan Chong

Graphic Design Boot Camp

Gain an introduction to basic design concepts using both digital and traditional media. Build experience and learn about the creative process graphic designers use in their work. Create a hands-on project from initial concept to final print.

Adobe Illustrator Boot Camp

Learn how graphic designers use Adobe Illustrator to create complex illustrations from pencil sketches. Gain an introduction to basic illustration and color theory principles as you create a complex illustration and present it in three color versions. No prior Illustrator experience is required.

Adobe Photoshop Boot Camp

Explore the use of design principles and basic Photoshop tools to create image composites. Experiment with the fundamentals of Photoshop compositing with a variety of exercises leading to the completion of a final collage. No prior Photoshop experience is required.

Crafting With Cricut

Students will use Adobe Illustrator to create their own unique designs. Using a Cricut digital die cut machine, students will bring their project to life by creating their own sticker series.

Digital Illustration With Procreate® 

Procreate® is a powerful and intuitive digital illustration app used by many industry professionals. Students will learn to use Procreate® software on provided iPads to create a series of three related illustrations.

Laser Cut Technology Exploration

Laser cut technology is a unique way to precisely cut various materials. Students will design, sketch and complete a laser cut project.

Healthcare Exploration

Experience healthcare firsthand in this immersive program for high school students! Explore nursing, ophthalmology, sterile processing, and surgical technology using professional equipment in our state-of-the-art simulated labs. Gain hands-on skills, interact with healthcare professionals, and discover potential career paths in this limited enrollment camp.

Make to Market

Gain essential skills in product creation, social media marketing, and branding and turn your ideas into a custom product! In this hands-on course, you’ll design and create your own bag—a stylish tote, sleek computer case, or versatile pouch—and learn how to promote it like industry professionals. Master styling techniques and fine tune your communication skills that will empower you to build, market, and sell your unique creation with confidence.

Merchandising Magic 

Unleash your creativity in this hands-on workshop and learn to design eye-catching store windows from start to finish! Using mannequins, props, and DIY setups, learn how to style and showcase apparel and accessories with your unique touch. Pick a theme, build a backdrop, and bring your vision to life with outfits, accessories, and props to activate a store (campus) window. Family members are invited to see the windows and celebrate the completed work at the end of the camp. 

Pattern Design for Fashion

Dive into the exciting world of fashion print design! Students will create a unique theme and then bring it to life with hand-drawn art using traditional coloring media. Learn essential Adobe Photoshop skills such as cleaning print elements, using layer palette and mastering the basics of creating seamless repeat prints! By the end, you’ll have a 45" x 1-yard printed fabric featuring your custom design! You will learn how to utilize a digital fabric printer to print out a 45” x 1 yard fabric. Students will have the opportunity to showcase their masterpieces to family and friends at the final presentation.

Fashion Design–Printed Tote Bag

Looking for a creative outlet to show off your style? Learn the basics of cutting fabric and using a sewing machine, and then dive into designing your own artwork and logos to print and create your own unique tote bag. Gain an understanding of design elements, fashion principles, screen printing and material assembly. Wrap up the experience by showcasing your one-of-a-kind creation at a mini-exhibition for friends and family. 

CompTIA A+

Enhance your knowledge of computer hardware and software. Take a deeper dive into the inner workings of computer systems, from laptops to desktops. In addition, enhance your knowledge on how to work with Windows, from the settings of the system to its built-in repair tools. Explore what makes Windows tick and how to make the most popular operating system in the world work for you.

IT Administration

Understand what it takes to be an IT administrator. Explore the growing industry of computer technology and get hands-on experience with PC hardware, network setup, virtualization, servers and security.

PC Break It/Fix It

Gain insights into desktop and laptop computer maintenance and repair. Learn about data recovery, system restore, and virus detection and removal. Learn how to disassemble and assemble a traditional desktop computer, along with laptop systems. Understand the importance of tuning up your PC to get it running like new again. Also, learn how to create system images and backup your most important data, including pictures, documents and music.

Teen Improv

Have you ever imagined yourself on stage? Maybe you want to practice being comfortable speaking in front of a group. Take the plunge in a supportive, fun-filled environment! Explore the fundamentals of acting through improvisation, including character development, creative thinking, confidence building, active listening and team building. Build foundational skills through interactive games and exercises.

Social Media Marketing

Don’t miss this overview of social media marketing tools, platforms and strategies used to increase awareness, expand customer base and promote business. Learn about brand image and how to form a marketing message using social media simulations to boost image awareness. Explore the differences between features and benefits and identify ways to problem-solve and use emotions in marketing messages. Instructor: Mary Carlson

Culinary Boot Camp

Start your food journey at COD! Whether you are interested in becoming a food critic, professional chef or restaurateur, this is the place to be. Our summer camps are taught by industry professionals and give passionate culinarians a preview of careers in the culinary arts. The four-day camp, held in COD’s state-of-the-art Culinary & Hospitality Center, offers hands-on experience in knife skills and culinary and baking techniques. On days one through three, we’ll focus on a specific discipline (cooking, baking or cold food preparation), and on day four, we’ll showcase student creations. Parents must notify the Youth Academy of any food allergies no later than one week prior to class start. Email youthacademy@cod.edu with any allergies or concerns.

Pastry Chef 101

Explore pastry arts this summer! Geared toward high school students and taught by industry professionals, our summer camp provides passionate young culinarians with a preview of careers in the pastry arts. The four-day camp, held in COD’s state-of-the- art Culinary & Hospitality Center, offers hands-on experience in the basics of baking techniques. Each day, we will focus on a different recipe and the skills needed for making cupcakes, chocolate caramel tarts and much more. Parents must notify the Youth Academy of any food allergies no later than one week prior to class start. Email youthacademy@cod.edu with any allergies or concerns.

Photography Exploration

Gain hands-on training for a career in photography. During photographic shoots both inside a studio and on location, you’ll practice composition, lighting and DSLR camera operation. Learn about basic Photoshop processing and printing. Produce your own mini portfolio of creative images and feature them in a pop-up photography show at the end of the week. Please bring a DSLR camera. If you do not have a camera, one can be provided for use during class time.

Business and Entrepreneurship Boot Camp 

Gain an intensive introduction to business and entrepreneurship in the real world—and discover how both can be fun and exciting. Explore the basics of major business disciplines, including accounting, marketing, finance and management. Study the core concepts of business, including leadership, professional image, etiquette, team building and strategy. Learn what it takes to embody an entrepreneurial mindset, which benefits you now and in the future. A Shark Tank-style pitch competition will take place on the final day of the session!

Stock Market Boot Camp

Delve into the stock market and learn about different types of stocks and how to analyze them. Practice stock analysis and learn about the risks and benefits involved when selecting a stock and portfolio.

3D CAD Solid Modeling

Learn SolidWorks software and techniques to produce three-dimensional solids. Emphasis will be placed on creating and rendering 3D solid models, modifying, editing commands and dimensioning. This exploratory course is a good starting point for students interested in design and/or engineering.

Weld On!

Students learn about welding, metal fabrication and safety measures from COD faculty through a mixture of lectures and hands-on competencies designed to foster a deeper appreciation of the trade. The program highlights training and helps students map out career goals.

To register call (630) 942-2208 or online via Instant Enrollment. Always register your student using the parent email and cellphone number. All parents must submit a Emergency Medical Release Form to youthacademy@cod.edu upon registration. 

College of DuPage Continuing Education provides a summer school program that offers high school credit courses to incoming freshmen and current high school students. The summer program is an extension of the regular academic program, designed to provide students with opportunities to gain academic credit, for advancement or to explore interests by auditing a class. 

One day in the summer program equates to one week in the regular school year. Each course is equivalent to 60 contact hours. Students need to complete both semesters to qualify for one year of credit. 

Check back for new Summer 2026 offerings that will be available in February.

Before registering, please make sure you read the attendance and refund policy outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook and the Program Guide.

First Semester Dates

Monday through Friday,

• AM classes: 7:45 a.m. - 12:05 p.m.
• PM classes: 12:30 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.

Second Semester Dates

Monday through Friday

• AM classes: 8 a.m. - noon
• PM classes: 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

In-Person Class Offerings

• Algebra 1
• Algebra 2 with Trigonometry
• Geometry
• Pre-Calculus

Hybrid Class Offerings

(part in-person, part asynchronous online)

• Chemistry
• Physics

Online Class Offerings

(asynchronous via Blackboard)

• US History
• Spanish 1, 2 and 3
• Consumer Economics
• American Government

To register call (630) 942-2208 or online via Instant Enrollment. 

Reach your highest potential with test prep and private tutoring options. Prepare for the new digital format for the SAT. We recommend registering for a group test prep session before requesting private tutoring. Group test prep courses focus on test taking strategies.

Now offered in three locations: Glen Ellyn, Naperville and Westmont

SAT Test Preparation

Review math, reading and English usage in preparation for the SAT exam. Students become familiar with SAT questions, develop test-taking strategies, increase confidence and speed, and get a review of test content. Students must bring writing utensil, calculator and paper for the course. Course will address strategies for the new online format. All students will receive a workbook. 

Mondays and Wednesdays, Sept. 8 to 17
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-110, $189
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Oct. 14 to 23 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-111, $189
Naperville Center

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nov. 4 to 13 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-114, $189
Westmont Center

ACT Test Preparation

Review math, science reasoning, reading and English usage in preparation for the ACT exam. The course includes an introduction to the ACT writing section. Students become familiar with ACT questions, develop test-taking strategies, increase confidence and speed, and get a review of test content. All students will receive a workbook. 

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 9 to 18 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-103, $189
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Mondays and Wednesdays, Oct. 6 to 15 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-104, $189
Naperville Center

Mondays and Wednesdays, Nov. 10 to 19 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-105, $189
Westmont Center

To register call (630) 942-2208 or online via Instant Enrollment. Always register your student using the parent email and cellphone number. All parents must submit a Emergency Medical Release Form to youthacademy@cod.edu upon registration. 

Success Series

Prepare for the next step of your academic success and learn how to manage the workload and expectations of high school and college courses. For grade 9 through 12.

Note-Taking and Outlining

Taking high-quality class notes is imperative for academic success and it is important to master the fundamentals of note-taking. Learn to discern important and relevant material and concentrate on the process of effectively organizing notes.

Monday, Oct. 6
5:30 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-140, $29
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Professional Communication 

With the use of digital devices so prominent in young people’s lives, many students lack the communication skills necessary to interact appropriately and professionally with adults. In this course, students learn to compose professional electronic communications, including emails to professors; requests for letters of recommendation; and inquiries about jobs, internships and scholarships. ‘Netiquette’ skills, such as the use of social media, discussion boards and text messaging will also be discussed. Instructor: Jeremiah Donovan

Wednesday, Oct. 1
6 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-123, $39
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Test-Taking and Group Study Strategies

Understand how to better prepare for tests, learn techniques to improve exam performance and minimize test anxiety. Learn how to improve your test scores by taking specific actions, like practicing critical reading, making margin notes and following strategies based on types of questions. This project-based course involves group assignments to help students develop interpersonal skills, navigate group dynamics and gain strategies for organization and task completion.

Monday, Sept. 29
5:30 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-145, $29
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Monday, Oct. 6
7:15 to 8:45 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-141, $29
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Time Management

There’s no better time than high school to learn how to wisely manage your schedule. Mastering strategies now will help you attain a healthy work/ life balance that will benefit you during high school and for the rest of your life.

Monday, Sept. 29
7:15 to 8:45 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-143, $29
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Common App Essay Workshop

Elevate your college and scholarship applications in this writing workshop for the Common App essay. Review current prompts and work one-on- one with an expert instructor with peer review to develop and fine-tune your essay. Students will leave with a strong submission ready for final review. Time permitting, we may also workshop supplement essays. Get a head start on the Nov. 1 Early Decision deadlines!

Monday and Wednesday, Sept. 22 and 24 
6 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-302, $59
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesday and Thursday, Oct. 7 and 9 
6 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-304, $59
Naperville Center

Private tutoring is available for ACT and SAT test prep. We recommend that students enroll in a group test prep class first. If there are certain content areas that the student would like to focus on, then private tutoring is recommended. 

Tutoring is also available for most High School level courses (Algebra, Geometry, Chemistry, Physics, ELA, Spanish, etc..).

Tutoring can be conducted in-person at any one of our campuses, online or a mutually agreed upon public location between tutor and student can be also be used.

Tutoring is available in the Fall and Spring terms with limited availability in the summer.  

If you are interested in private tutoring for high school, you must complete a Student Inquiry Form.  

Tutoring is enrolled in total package hours and sessions are usually conducted in one-hour increments but scheduling is flexible.  All tutors are subject matter experts and hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree.

• 2 Hours - $119
• 4 Hours - $225
• 6 Hours - $299
• 8 Hours - $389

In partnership with Innovation DuPage and COD’s Business and Applied Technology division, E2 Emerging Entrepreneurs is a free, six-week workshop series for entrepreneurial-curious high school and college students (ages 16+).