Learn about Summer 2025 Pre-College opportunities at UMass Amherst. Our residential and online pre-college programs are designed to give you a preview of the UMass student experience, including college-level academics and being part of a learning community of high school students from all across the U.S. and the world. Our programs feature faculty-led courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and the #1 campus dining in the U.S., as ranked by the Princeton Review. Find out more!
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This two-week pre-college lab course provides a college-level introduction to matter's physical and chemical behavior in the general and organic chemistry fields. Topics covered will include stoichiometry, chemical bonding, acid-base reaction, gas-forming reaction, ester hydrolysis, thermochemistry, and forms of energy.
Students will be introduced to hands-on application of chemical principles in solar energy, food science, science of soap, and environmental chemistry. The course helps you develop transferable skills that will prepare you for college. Skills include lab techniques, analytical reasoning, problem-solving, logical argument, and scientific communication skills.
Course Learning Outcomes:
- Demonstrate understanding of core chemical principles, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, states of matter, and chemical reactions.
- Understand, apply, and perform (hands-on) acid-base, gas-forming, and hydrolysis of esters reactions.
- Learn the uses of additives in soaps and the effect of those chemicals on the environment.
- Recognize the practical applications of chemistry in various fields, such as solar energy, food science, and environmental science.
- Acquire proficiency in basic laboratory techniques, including measurements, data collection, and analysis.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through scientific experimentation.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
- Effectively communicate scientific findings, both orally and in writing.
- Use a virtual reality (VR) debate training app in the Digital Media Lab (DML) to learn best practices in scientific debate.
- Understand the role of chemistry in environmental issues and develop a sense of responsibility for sustainable practices.
- Work effectively in a team setting to achieve common goals.
Course Structure
Each day, the class will start with a thought-provoking presentation on a chemistry theme, such as energy, light, or food. Following the presentation, students will work in pairs to conduct hands-on experiments related to the day's topic. Throughout the experiments, they will carefully collect data and record their observations. To conclude the day, students will share their findings with the class, discuss their observations, and ask questions. This daily routine will provide a dynamic and engaging learning environment, allowing students to explore chemistry concepts through practical experience.
Guest Speakers and Field Trips
Dr. Steve Acquah, a former postdoctoral researcher and director of the research group of Sir Harold Kroto (the 1996 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry), will present on the discovery of fullerenes and lead a hands-on workshop on constructing buckyballs.
There will be two field trips:
- Digital Media Lab (DML): Explore the uses of virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D printing in chemistry education and scientific communication. You'll get to 3D print a molecular model of your favorite molecule and create a short video about your scientific findings.
- Common Lab Facility in the Chemistry Department: Gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory setting.
By the end of this course, students will have a solid foundation in chemistry, including both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will develop a positive attitude towards science and an appreciation for its impact on society.
Prerequisite: High school chemistry
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This course is offered at the UMass Amherst campus as a residential program. Local students may apply to attend as a commuter.
Cost and Session Information
Dates: July 27 - August 9, 2025
Two-Week Residential Intensives: $3,907 residential / $2,262 commuter
*Program fees listed above include tuition and room & board; materials and software may be required.
*All programs require submission of $45 application fee.
Dates: July 27 - August 9, 2025
Two-Week Residential Intensives: $3,907 residential / $2,262 commuter
*Program fees listed above include tuition and room & board; materials and software may be required.
*All programs require submission of $45 application fee.
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