Tulane Summer Enrichment Institute Courses

Course Offered: June 22 – 26, June 29 – July 2

Students will explore encryption/decryption techniques and methods of mathematical modeling through hands-on experience with codes, biological systems, and financial markets. Math areas covered include logic and set theory, number theory, and linear modeling. Additionally, students will learn to apply these mathematical concepts to analyze complex real-world problems and develop innovative solutions.

Course Offered: June 29 – July 2, July 13 – 17

This course offers an overview of key biomedical concepts and human body measurements, designed to pique the interest of high school students exploring diverse career paths from medicine to engineering and beyond. Students will delve into muscles, bones, and other body systems, and how they all interact. Through interactive sessions, students will cover a wide array of topics, make hands-on body measurements, and innovate in biomedical design labs. Students will gain valuable insights into how the human body works and learn more about potential career avenues.

Course Offered: July 6 – 10, July 20 – 24

For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Students will investigate how engineers apply Newton's third law of motion to studying the causes of traumatic brain injuries and design solutions to prevent them. Students will collaboratively apply that knowledge to design and test helmets for Quidditch players in Harry Potter’s world and undergraduate muggles.

Course Offered: June 15 - 18, July 20 – 24

This course will teach students the basics of arthropod identification, and most importantly, it will be a fun way to challenge students’ perceptions of one of the most abundant and important groups of animals: arthropods!

Course Offered: July 13 – 17

Can you predict the future? In this course, students will expand their understanding of climate change and the impact that factors such as rising global sea-surface temperatures have on our communities. They will be challenged to propose solutions on how humans can counteract climate change and develop safeguards for their own future.

Course Offered: July 20 – 24

Can you picture yourself solving critical issues along our coastal waterways? As our climate changes and we see the sea levels rise, scientists and engineers must work together to create practical solutions for the future. Students will explore the current issues that impact coastal communities and collaboratively strategize how they can make positive changes for resilience and sustainability now and moving forward.

Course Offered: June 29 – July 2

Do you have a passion for data and a love for working with fibers? If so, this unique class is perfect for you! In this innovative course you’ll learn to tell compelling stories through data, using the beautiful and tactile mediums of textile arts. We’ll dive into various techniques such as weaving, felting, knitting, and quilting to creatively represent data. By the end of the course, you’ll have completed a unique piece that combines your love for data and textiles, showcasing your ability to merge art and information in a visually captivating way. Join us and bring your data to life through the art of textiles!

Course Offered: June 15 - 18

Ever wondered what satellites high above can observe—or if they can see you walking down the street? Curious how scientists track hurricanes like Katrina and warn people before they strike? In this course, you will get hands-on experience exploring these questions and more. You’ll analyze real satellite images to track hurricanes and examine environmental changes like wetland loss, deforestation and urban growth, fly drones over New Orleans to study local changes, and participate in discussions around solutions to protect our planet.

Course Offered: July 13 – 17

In this course, students will learn about common engineering disciplines by exploring engineering projects local to the New Orleans area. From the St. Louis Cathedral to the Superdome, the Crescent City Connection to the Causeway, the Lapeyre Shrimp Peeler to Mardi Gras Megafloats, Oil & Gas to Wind & Solar Energy, NASA Rockets to Nerves-On-A-Chip, New Orleans has a wide array of engineering interests. These projects, advancements, and industries will be introduced and put into perspective with discussions of their technology, histories, economic impacts, and cultural influence. The topics will be brought to life by local guest speakers and trips to one or more of the following: NASA Michoud, Mardi Gras World, the Superdome, and the French Quarter.

Course Offered: June 15 - 18

Entrepreneurship in the Big Easy and Beyond is a Tulane Summer Programs course designed to introduce New Orleans high school students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship through hands-on learning. Students will explore idea generation, business model development, and the entrepreneurial mindset while gaining insights from local founders and industry leaders shaping the region’s economy. The class culminates in a live pitch competition, giving students the opportunity to showcase their ventures and practice real-world communication skills.

Note: This course is only open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors who currently attend high school in the city of New Orleans.

Course Offered: June 15 - 18

Have you ever wondered how neuroscientists learn more about the brain? In this course, students will be introduced to laboratory techniques fundamental to the study of neuroscience. These techniques will range from processing brain tissue for microscopy to recording electrical activity from living neurons. Students will gain practical experience that will provide them with a frame of reference for how research is conducted, as well as gain skills that are translatable to other scientific fields.

Course Offered: June 22 – 26, June 29 – July 2

Did you know Tulane has an observatory? Look for the dome on the roof of Jones Hall! We will observe the moon and the planets with their moons. We will begin by surveying the history of astronomy up to the present day and take part in some current research classifying galaxy shapes. We’ll study the formation and attributes of the sun and other stars, of the eight planets and their moons, plus the dwarf planets. Finally, we’ll situate our solar system in the galaxy and the universe.

Course Offered: June 22 – 26, June 29 – July 2

Embark on an exhilarating journey into the realm of molecular and cellular biology with our dynamic hands-on course! Dive deep into essential lab techniques such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and microscopy, all while unraveling the fundamental concepts of biology. Through captivating experiments, you’ll not only gain practical skills but also build the confidence to excel in the lab. This course is designed for high school students aspiring to a future in science, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to prepare you for success in advanced biological studies. Join us and uncover the incredible processes that sustain life—unlock your potential as a future scientist and let your curiosity thrive!

Course Offered: June 29 – July 2

This four-day workshop introduces students to the diversity and evolution of Louisiana’s fishes. Students will learn how to recognize common fish families using visible traits, explore how morphology reflects ecology, and connect those traits to evolutionary relationships through a simplified phylogeny. The course culminates in a field-based visit to the Tulane Biodiversity Research Institute (TUBRI), where participants will see how biodiversity data, specimens, and digital imaging come together to tell the story of fish evolution. This course emphasizes hands-on learning, team-based inquiry, and scientific communication. Students will practice observation, critical thinking, and visual reasoning while engaging directly with real specimens and digital tools used by researchers. No prior experience with fish biology is required; just curiosity and a willingness to explore!

Course Offered: July 6 - 10

Maps are where science meets art! Maps are more than 2D representations of geography. They can convey so much data without any words. Historically, humans have created and used maps to convey information. From ancient civilizations to modern times, maps can convey a wealth of knowledge. Join the fun and truly learn the meaning of the old phrase - a picture is worth a thousand words!

Course Offered: July 6 - 10

This course offers high school students an exciting opportunity to explore the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians native to Louisiana. Through engaging activities, including hands-on habitat modeling, species identification, and interactive discussions, participants will learn about the local herpetofauna's unique adaptations and ecological roles, such as green anoles and American alligators. The course will also highlight the importance of conservation and introduce students to citizen science projects that allow them to contribute to herpetological research. This course aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and conservationists committed to protecting local ecosystems.

Course Offered: July 6 - 10, July 20 – 24

This course introduces a wide range of tools and technologies used by today’s forensic scientists. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, students will learn how evidence is collected, preserved, and interpreted. You’ll explore topics like DNA, trace materials, and basic crime-scene protocols to learn how patterns, observations, and scientific reasoning guide investigators toward accurate conclusions. By the end of the week, you’ll have a stronger understanding of laboratory methods, analytical thinking, and the role of science in real-world investigations.

Course Offered: June 22 – 26

Throughout this week-long course, we will discuss taxonomy, diversity/adaptations, behavior, conservation, and monitoring techniques as they relate to Louisiana mammals. By the end of this course, students will be familiar with the mammalian species of Louisiana, as well as the unique challenges that face mammalian conservationists in order to empower and inspire a future career in biology.

Course Offered: June 15 – 18, June 29 – July 2, July 13 – 17

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey through the fascinating world of medicine? In this engaging course, students will explore diverse specialties—from pediatrics to surgery— through hands-on experiences, and opportunities for self-reflection. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and daily challenges faced by providers in different fields. This course encourages personal growth and self-discovery, inviting students to reflect on their strengths and interests while considering various career paths within the medical field. By the end of the course, students will have a clearer vision of their future and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a doctor.

Course Offered: June 22 – 26, July 6 – 10, July 20 – 24

Medical professionals play one of the most critical roles in our society, improving the lives and well-being of those in need - but how do they get to a diagnosis? Students will get firsthand experience with how doctors process information to formulate their next steps, gaining insight into how doctors think. Along the way, students will practice seeing patients to collect history, learn potentially life-saving medical skills, and get a glimpse into what medical training really entails. Students will be challenged to use what they learn to present their own mystery case to their peers.

Course Offered: July 13 – 17

In this immersive course, students will explore the evolution of plants from algae to angiosperms, tracing key milestones that shaped modern plant lineages. We’ll take a field trip to visit the City Park Botanical Garden, where students will investigate diverse plant forms. Back in class, we’ll study floral morphology and pollination through hands-on data collection and analysis of local plants and pollinators. Diving into plant genetics, we’ll examine the roles of inbreeding and gene flow through interactive activities. A hands-on DNA extraction lab will allow students to compare DNA yields from various plants, like strawberries and bananas. Finally, students will collaborate in a mock poster session to analyze local adaptation data, honing their scientific communication skills and deepening their understanding of how plants evolve in response to environmental pressures.

Course Offered: June 15 – 18, June 22 – 26

In this course, students work with experienced faculty to learn techniques for music and audio production using Digital Audio Workstation software like Ableton, Logic, and Reaper. Students engage in critical listening and work on daily creative projects, culminating in a concert of student work at the end of the week. Topics and techniques covered in the class include Sound Synthesis, Sample Manipulation, Songwriting and Arranging, Mixing and Mastering.

Course Offered: June 15 – 18

Remember the times we get warned about a hurricane—when everyone rushes to buy and stock up on bottled water, emptying the shelves? Those moments are reality checks that remind us how essential water is in our lives: hurricanes destroy water systems, leaving communities without clean water for days. Across the world, over 2 billion people face similar challenges, lacking access to safe, clean water for days, months, or even years. In this course, you’ll explore water as both a vital local resource and a global challenge, investigate solutions, and reflect on your own role in creating a more water-secure future.

Course Offered: July 6 – 10

Social psychology is the captivating scientific journey into how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are shaped by interactions with other people and the world around you. In this course we will talk about personality, emotions, relationships, judgements, and more. New topics will be discussed each day; you'll leave this class with a better understanding of the social world.

Course Offered: June 29 – July 2

This course will explore the science of well-being and what influences happiness. Specifically, research has found that happiness is strongly tied to our social connections and feelings of meaning, and that happiness can be influenced by intentional behaviors. In this course, we will address how psychologists define and measure happiness, identify specific psychological factors related to happiness, and examine research-based interventions that improve happiness. This course will provide opportunities for students to apply this science to their own lives to promote well-being, as well as consider how we can more broadly implement these findings to better our communities.

Course Offered: June 22 - 26

Did you know rocks are silent storytellers? It’s true – rocks can tell us about the history of the Earth. In this course students will unlock the mysteries of the Earth by learning to understand what the physical characteristics of rocks tell us about Earth’s dynamic processes throughout its history.

Course Offered: July 6 - 10

Should a football team punt on 4th down or go for it? How much money should a team invest on its starting shortstop? Does home-court advantage really matter? These questions were once answered by a coach’s gut-instinct, player’s skill, or perhaps even team tradition. The sports industry is now turning to statistical analysis and data-driven reasoning for answers. In this course, students will focus on how analytics is utilized to guide different aspects of sports teams from game strategy to team operations and management. Students will learn foundational analytical skills and apply them in a variety of situations in the sports industry, ranging from in-game play calling to salary negotiations.

Course Offered: June 15 - 18

How do we know that the Pythagorean Theorem is true or that there are infinitely many prime numbers? It is not based on any measurement or scientific experiment. Instead, mathematical truths are known by constructing logical proofs. In this course, you will solve challenging problems and discover new truths the way mathematicians do.

Pre-requisite: Algebra I