Pre-College Summer Academy
Villanova University's College of Professional Studies educates learners of all ages, including high school students and those preparing to enter college. Villanova's Pre-College Summer Academy (PCSA) allows high school students and incoming college freshmen the opportunity to have a unique and exciting pre-college educational experience.
Explore all college has to offer during our four-week summer program! This immersive program is designed to introduce exceptional high school rising juniors and seniors, as well as incoming college students to the multifaceted experience of attending college.
PCSA students will select one 3-credit course from a list of approved options. These courses will be taught by esteemed Villanova faculty and allow PCSA students to learn alongside current undergraduate students. This college-level classroom experience is augmented with PCAC 1000: College Pathways, a 1-credit college preparatory course, with assignments specifically designed to prepare students for successful college life. PCSA Students will have the opportunity to earn four college credits by the end of the program.
Applications must be submitted by June 6, 2025.
Space is limited. We encourage you to apply early.
SUMMER 2025
COURSE OPTIONS
June 30 - July 28, 2025
Move in: June 29, 2025
Move out: July 29, 2025
See all official dates and deadlines, according to the University Academic Calendar.
THREE-CREDIT COURSE OPTIONS MAY INCLUDE:
• Bioengineering Microorganisms as Novel Technologies (Chemical Engineering)
• Introduction to Cybersecurity (Computer Science)
• Programming for All (Computer Science)
• Public Speaking (Communications)
• Survey of Communication Studies (Communications)
More to be announced soon!
If you are interested in a course not offered in our Pre-College Summer Academy, learn more about our single-course offerings for high school scholars.
PCAC 1000 TOPIC EXAMPLES
• Metacognition and the Science of Studying
• Navigating the Financial Landscape of College
• The College Essay
• Academic Advising 101 and the Logic of Curriculum
• Finding Your Team on Campus: Cultivating Agency and Self-Advocacy
PCAC 1000: College Pathways
During the PCSA program, students will work closely with academic advisors and undergraduate academic mentors, as well as receive access to support services across campus. Through the holistic and intentional curriculum of PCAC 1000: College Pathways, students will learn and practice various academic, social, professional and intrapersonal skills to help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.
- Gain an understanding of the expectations and practice the necessary skills to be successful before you enter college
Explore different majors and how they translate to potential careers
Learn how to engage with professors and peers within a vibrant campus community
Freedom to experience and participate in campus activities with current undergraduates
Build an internal inventory of the available resources to draw upon when you are in college
Work on a culminating final project demonstrating the interdisciplinary learning that took place throughout the summer
*Planned activities may include museums, sporting events, etc.*
For more, see our FAQ section.
TUITION, FEES AND APPLICATION
Residential Students: $8,000
- Tuition (4-credits)
- Program fee
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner from campus dining
- Double room (shared with roommate)
Non-Residential Students: $6,000
- Tuition (4-credits)
- Program fee
- Lunch from campus dining
A deposit of $2,000 is due at time of acceptance, regardless of residence choice.
General Semester Fee ($15) + Book Fee ($70)
*Application, acceptance or participation in the Pre-College Summer Academy does not guarantee acceptance or preferential treatment for students applying for future admission to Villanova University.
- Fill out the Pre-College Summer Academy Application
* Post-Secondary Education (Write high school name)
* Must select Pre-College Summer Academy within the application ($50 application fee). - Please upload a recent writing sample (which can include something you’ve used for your High School courses) that showcases your strongest work. The piece should demonstrate your research, analytical skills, or creativity, and highlight your ability to craft clear, persuasive, and compelling arguments.
(If you don’t have a recent writing assignment, please submit a reflection essay (approximately 350 words). Reflect on a significant experience, accomplishment, or challenge that has shaped who you are today. How has this aspect of your life influenced your goals and aspirations for the future? Discuss the skills, values, or lessons you have gained from this experience and how they contribute to your personal and academic growth. How do you feel this Pre-College Summer Academy program will support that growth and further help you to accomplish your goals and make a positive impact in your community?)
- Letter of Recommendation from a current or former teacher, guidance counselor, coach or community member.
- Official High School Transcript (sent directly from the school to cps.info@villanova.edu) Or mail to: Patricia Ertwine, CPS Villanova University 800 E Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085
- Once admitted, you will need to complete a CPS Admission Reply Form to confirm your intent to enroll. After your intention is confirmed, you will be prompted to submit a $2,000 deposit to reserve your spot in the program.
- Parent Permission Letter stating permission to take classes at Villanova. (upload to application)
All application materials are required by the deadline of June 6, 2025.
If you are interested in a course not available as part of our Pre-College Summer Academy, learn more about our single-course offerings for high school scholars.
High School Scholars are charged a different tuition rate versus Pre-College Summer Academy
VALUE OF THE SUMMER ACADEMY
Enhance your resume.
Summer Academy courses provide new skills to add to your resume or college application, while exploring future academic pathways.
Expand your network.
Communicating and building relationships with classmates and faculty scholars can open new doors for your future.
Learn from distinguished faculty.
All programs are taught by experienced Villanova faculty who are dedicated teacher-scholars and among the most distinguished in their fields.