Youth Academy High School Classes

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, Feb. 2 to 11 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-110, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 24 to March  5
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-112, $199
Naperville Center

Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 23 to 30 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-113, $199
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. 

Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 26 to Feb. 4
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-103, $199
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 10 to 19 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-105, $199
Westmont Center

**Just added**
Mondays and Wednesdays, March 16 to 25
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-106, $199
Naperville Center

Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 7 to 16 
6 to 8:30 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-104, $199
Naperville Center

To register call (630) 942-2208 or online viaInstant 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.

Saturday, January 31
9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
YEHSC-0004-142, $29
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.

Saturday, January 31
11:30 a.m. to 1 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.

Saturday, Feb. 7
9:00 to 10:30 a.m.
YEHSC-0004-143, $29
On campus in Glen Ellyn

Writing Workshop

Writing papers is an integral part of high school and college. The process and expectations in high school are different from those in middle school. Learn strategies to improve your writing and generate fresh and compelling ideas. Focus on sentence structure, punctuation and grammar.

Saturday, Feb. 7
10:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-144, $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. 

See upcoming Summer '26 schedule for new dates!

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 viaInstant 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. 

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:
Starts Thursday June 4th through 26th (no classes 6/18 and 6/19)

• AM classes: 8 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• PM classes: 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Second Semester Dates

Monday through Friday:
Monday July 6th through 24th

• AM classes: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• 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 viaInstant Enrollment. 

Mathematics

Algebra I, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is equivalent to high school Algebra I and promotes the sequential study of variables and variable expressions encompassing operations of real numbers, systems of equations and inequalities, graphs of linear relations, rules of exponents, work with quadratic functions and equations, operations with polynomials, including factoring techniques, operations with rational expressions and radical expressions and equations. The course is designed to strengthen students’ skills and attitudes toward quantitative reasoning. This course will help prepare students for Honors Algebra. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Common Core Algebra 1,” Pearson High School Math, ©2015, ISBN: 9780133281149

Algebra II with Trigonometry, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is the equivalent of high school Algebra II with Trigonometry and reviews and extends the main concepts of algebra by examining linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations, quadratic functions and complex numbers, polynomial functions, rational exponents, exponential and logarithmic functions, arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, combinations, permutations and probability, right triangle trigonometry, graphing trigonometric functions and solving trigonometric equations. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Common Core Algebra 2,” Pearson High School Math, ©2015, ISBN: 9780133281163

Geometry, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is equivalent to one year of high school geometry and promotes the sequential study of coordinate geometry, measurement, inductive and deductive reasoning, parallel line relationships, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, proportions related to similarity, right triangle relationships, circles and their related angles and segments, area formula for planar figures, surface area and volume formulas for solids, and equations and graphs of lines. The course is designed to strengthen students’ skills and attitudes toward quantitative reasoning. This course will help prepare students for Honors Geometry. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Common Core Geometry,” Pearson High School Math, ©2015, ISBN: 9780133281156

Precalculus, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is equivalent to one year of high school precalculus and reviews and extends the main concepts of advanced algebra by examining functions, equations and inequalities that include linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational and radical, as well as sequences and series. The course is designed to strengthen students’ skills and attitudes toward quantitative reasoning. Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Precalculus with Limits,” Houghton Mifflin, ©2005, ISBN: 9780618394784

Language Arts: World Language

Spanish I, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is the equivalent of one year of high school Spanish I. It serves as an introduction to the sound system, pronunciation, basic vocabulary, verb structure and other grammatical concepts of the language. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Avancemos!, Holt McDougal,” Level 1, ©2010, ISBN: 9780554025315

Spanish II, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is the equivalent of one year of high school Spanish II. It builds and expands on the concepts covered in Spanish I, while introducing more advanced structures and vocabulary. Listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing skills are practiced through small group and teacher-directed activities. Prerequisite: Spanish I. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook:” Avancemos!, Holt McDougal,” Level 2, ©2010, ISBN: 9780554025322

Spanish III, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is the equivalent of one year of high school Spanish III. It integrates the concepts covered in Spanish I and II with more complex structures and advanced vocabulary. Increased fluency and enhanced communication skills are achieved through the reading of short stories and through writing exercises. Prerequisite: Spanish II. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Avancemos!, Holt McDougal,” Level 3, ©2010, ISBN: 9780554025339

Sciences

Chemistry, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is the equivalent of one year of high school chemistry, covering fundamental lab skills through the periodic table and kinetic molecular theory through an understanding of acid-base reactions. It focuses on understanding the different forms of matter that comprise our physical world and the many changes these forms of matter undergo in our universe. District 204 students have a geometry prerequisite. This course will help prepare students for Honors Chemistry. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Living by Chemistry,” Second Edition, Angelica M. Stacy, ©2010, ISBN: 9781464142314

Physics, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is equivalent to one year of high school physics and is designed to give the student an overview of various areas of the physical universe. Laboratory experiences permit inquiry into the nature of physical science and the nature of physical law, a process that is transferable to any discipline. Some problem- solving is included. District 204 students have a geometry prerequisite. This course will help prepare students for Honors Physics. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “Conceptual Physics,” Prentice Hall, ©2006, ISBN: 9780131663015

Social Studies

American Government
This course is equivalent to one semester of high school American government and provides students with a critical perspective on government and politics in American life. Attention is given to the political system, how it works and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. The U.S. and Illinois Constitution tests are administered during this course. Required textbook: “U.S. Government: Democracy in Action,” Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, ©2010, ISBN: 9780078799822

U.S. History, Semesters 1 and 2
This course is equivalent to one year of high school U.S. history. Attention is given to Colonial America, the American Revolution, the rise of American political thought, Federalist and Republic eras, westward expansion, manifest destiny, slavery, Civil War, Reconstruction, Progressive movement, economics, Post War, Cold War, Civil Rights, Vietnam, Watergate and recent administrations. The U.S. and Illinois Constitution exams are given during the first semester of the class. Students must have successfully completed semester 1 coursework before continuing with semester 2. Students who have received a failing grade in semester 1 will be withdrawn from semester 2. Required textbook: “The Americans,” McDougal-Littell, ©2012, ISBN: 9780547491158

Consumer Education
This course is equivalent to one semester of high school consumer education and promotes the study of financial principles and consumer practices on which individual and family welfare depend. Topics include career planning, budgeting, taxes, insurance, housing, investments, buying techniques, product evaluation and consumer resources. No textbook is required. The instructor will provide materials.

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+).