When you compare pre-college summer programs, the people leading the classroom shape much of what a student takes home. Who teaches at a pre-college summer program depends on the program itself, and at Tulane Pre-College Programs, credit-bearing courses are taught by Tulane faculty while enrichment courses are taught by Tulane faculty, lecturers and graduate students. Our residential students also receive support from live-in professional staff, program counselors, and Tulane student mentors to further enrich their experience.
Instructors Vary From One Pre-College Program to the Next
There is no single standard for who teaches pre-college courses. Pre-college programs hosted by a university may draw instructors from that school, while programs run by outside organizations may hire their own teaching staff. Because the answer changes from program to program, it helps to read course descriptions closely and ask admissions staff directly about instructors.
For a broader look at what to weigh when comparing pre-college options, U.S. News offers an overview of pre-college summer programs that families can use alongside program websites. If you have questions about who teaches at Tulane Pre-College Programs, keep reading or contact our office by emailing summer@tulane.edu or calling (504) 314-7619.
Our Pre-College Courses Are Taught by Tulane Instructors
Whether a student chooses an enrichment course or a credit-bearing course from Tulane Pre-College Programs, they learn from members of the Tulane faculty and academic community, and who leads a course depends on its type. You can browse the full list of classes on our courses page or explore each of our academic programs in more detail.
Credit-Bearing Courses from Tulane Pre-College Programs
All of our credit-bearing courses are taught by Tulane faculty. Open to rising juniors and seniors, these courses are designed to mirror Tulane undergraduate courses. Class lectures take place in the morning, with lab or studio time in the afternoon, and students complete assignments outside of class. Students who complete a course earn three transferable college credits on an official Tulane University transcript. Each college sets its own transfer policies, so students should check with the schools they plan to attend.
Enrichment Courses from Tulane Pre-College Programs
Our noncredit enrichment courses —, taught by Tulane faculty, lecturers and graduate students—, let rising 9th to 12th graders explore college-level subjects without the pressure of exams and grades. Enrichment students complete a culminating project and receive a certificate of completion. Many enrichment courses include weekly field excursions connected to the course content. Some courses also bring in outside voices through local guest speakers and panels.
Residential Pre-College Students Also Work With Tulane Staff and Student Mentors
Learning still continues after class ends in Tulane Pre-College Programs. Students in our residential experience live on campus with support from several groups of people.
| Role | What They Do in Tulane Pre-College Programs | Which Pre-College Students Work With Them |
|---|---|---|
| Tulane faculty | Lead all credit-bearing courses and some enrichment courses | All students |
| Tulane lecturers and graduate students | Lead enrichment courses | Enrichment students |
| Guest speakers | Join select courses to connect topics to local industries and sites | Students in those specific courses |
| Live-in professional staff | Build an inclusive community and enforce curfew and other safety policies | Residential students |
| Residential counselors | Offer guidance as students adjust to campus life | Residential students |
| Tulane student mentors | Help students form connections on excursions and during Krewe meetings | Residential students |
| Tulane Pre-College office | Acts as the main point of contact during the program | All students and their families |
We expect Tulane Pre-College residential students to live independently, much like a first-year college student. Staff provide support, and students are encouraged to self-advocate and take care of their basic needs.
What Past Students Say About Their Tulane Pre-College Summer Program Instructors
Past participants often mention their instructors when they look back on the summer.
- “The highlight of my experience was interacting with the instructors because they seemed genuinely excited to help and share their knowledge,” shared Dominic E., Summer 2026.
- Maycen D., Summer 2026, said, “The professors were really nice and helpful and they clearly enjoy what they do which made my experience better.”
- “I had two of the most knowledgeable professors who displayed the information in such a cool way,” said Sam Y., Summer 2025. “The small class size plus the incredible professors made the course so personal.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Pre-College Instructors
Who leads Tulane Pre-College courses?
All of our credit-bearing courses are taught by Tulane faculty, and our enrichment courses are taught by Tulane faculty, lecturers and graduate students. Each course description on our courses page shares more about what students will study.
Do credit-bearing courses in Tulane Pre-College Programs feel like college classes?
Yes. Our credit-bearing courses are designed to mirror Tulane undergraduate courses and include assignments outside of class, which can take up to several hours per day.
Who supports pre-college residential students outside of class?
At Tulane Pre-College Programs, live-in professional staff and program counselors support residential students, and Tulane students serve as mentors during excursions and Krewe meetings.
Can commuter students take the same courses as residential students?
Yes. All credit-bearing and enrichment courses from Tulane Pre-College Programs are available through both the residential and commuter experiences.
Who should we contact with questions during a pre-college summer program?
The Tulane Pre-College office is the main point of contact, open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can reach us at summer@tulane.edu or (504) 314-7619, and our FAQ page answers many common questions as well.