Courses

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.

At the root of the architecture discipline is the study of design. In this two-week course, students will focus on analog techniques of design utilizing hand drawing, mixed media exploration, shadow studies, and physical model making. The course will embolden students to embrace the tactile facets of the creative process as a foundation of Architecture and its allied fields. Students will explore the built environment from a haptic perspective, experiencing the universal spatial, environmental, and social elements of architecture while creating beautiful work that will be digitally archived for their professional portfolio.

Jump into the digital realm exploring the intersection of digital design, representation, and documentation using the Adobe Creative Suite, as well as Rhino (a 3d modeling software). In this two-week course, students will focus on visual and spatial communication through digital media and express their design ideas in the digital laboratory using laser cutters and 3d printers. They will work with innovative digital tools to compile a portfolio of work that is lively, relevant and professional reflecting a strong understanding of translating architectural design through orthographics and three-dimensional space.

Explore architecture through a futuristic lens in this two-week design studio. Students will discover how AI can become an active partner in an iterative design process, guiding decisions from concept to proposal with opportunities for deeper analysis. Through hands-on assignments and collaborative projects, the course emphasizes developing human-centered narratives and sustainable solutions that harmonize with their surroundings. By the end, students will understand how AI-assisted design enhances creativity, supports informed decision-making, and deepens exploration in architecture.

What would it mean to design a park for a deer? Or to consider the local songbirds when building the eaves of a house? In this course, we will explore all the different life forms— plants, trees, animals, fungi, bacteria…and humans— which interact with the built environment. Students will conduct field research of New Orleans’ urban ecologies using the techniques of naturalists, architects, and artists. This sketchbook-based research will culminate in the design of a small architectural project that serves both human and nonhuman users.

Graphic design is about mixing creativity + strategy to communicate visually. Images, fonts, and colors combine to tell a story, catch attention, or solve a problem. From logos to posters to app layouts, it’s art with a purpose! Typography is a big part of graphic design. The style of letters changes how we understand a message—bold letters can be powerful, curvy ones can be playful. It’s not just about reading—it’s about feeling what the words say! Also: Adobe Illustrator + Photoshop—AND THE ART OF SEEING!

Cities have become the indispensable crucible toward synthesis of collected human experience; an architectural constructed response to great challenges facing humanity. We seek to better understand spatial conditioners of the urban experience. Urban spatial character will be visited through curated imagery; from which to identify constraining forms. We will synthesize forms, craft models, and evaluate human interactive potentiality in varied experimental modeled configurations.

Architecture sits at the intersection of economic, social, and environmental injustices, often using speculative mediums to explore and communicate these realities. From sketches to animations, architectural practices engage with evolving tools to reach broader audiences beyond architects. Historically, speculative projects by groups like Superstudio and Archigram critiqued societal issues through utopian visions, effectively holding a mirror up to society so it could look at itself. This course introduces video games as a new medium for architectural thinking, offering an immersive platform for imagining alternative futures. Using Unreal Engine, students will create interactive worlds that allow others to explore these speculative scenarios through a first-person experience.

Introduction to Site Forces on Architecture and the Built Environment introduces how natural, physical and social systems impact the design of buildings and the built environment. Students will learn about these systems and how they can be addressed through the design of a building through a survey of these forces, of historic movements addressing similar challenges, and current methods to address the same. Architecture is only one part of the built environment and must be considered in this larger context to effectively engage with nature and with the community, and to design for an uncertain future in the face of climate change.

Do you have something to say? Want to celebrate something you see? Should you drop it into the vast morass of hyperspace, or rather craft it into a compelling tangible narrative, a pocket treatise? Zines [fanzines] have propagated from science fiction fervor to exquisite canons, fluctuating from cultural mania [fanzini] to socio-political protest [riot grrrl]. Learn how movements took root from tangible and immediate self-publication and straightaway manifest a conspicuous richness to your own voice.

What do the director of Hellboy II and the French Romantic Delacroix have in common? Fantastic sketchbooks! Just like you did from the age of two to ten years old [and perhaps further], these creative powerhouses documented their places and their thoughts in sketchbooks, extensions of their limbs, and in words, lines and washes. For these two weeks, you will be doing the same, demystifying mark and stroke, and you will leave with the capacity to articulate space and place through a two-dimensional device.

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.

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.

This course will introduce students to basic biomedical concepts and measurements, as well as lay a foundation for understanding and using technical terminology employed by pre-clinical students and medical professionals. We will focus on the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal systems and their interplay with other systems in the human body. In addition to lectures, students will gain practical experience in biomedical measurements utilizing modern techniques and engage in hands-on biomedical design experience through labs and activities.

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of human metabolism! This course is your gateway to understanding how your body transforms food into energy and keeps you going every day. You'll uncover the secrets of what makes up our bodies, how our cells are like tiny power plants using different fuel sources, and what really makes some foods healthier than others.  Expect engaging discussions, hands-on lab experiments, and exciting environmental explorations that bring science to life! Whether you're a future health professional or just curious about how your body works, this course is your chance to discover the amazing chemistry behind the meals you eat and the energy you need to thrive. Join us and unlock the science of YOU!

Get ready to unlock the secrets of genetics in this hands-on course where you'll explore the amazing relationship between genes, proteins, and the traits that make us unique! Discover the fascinating world of chromosomes and genes, and learn how the processes of transcription and translation shape everything from your eye color to your favorite hobbies. But that’s not all! In the lab, you’ll roll up your sleeves and dive into molecular techniques like DNA extraction, PCR, and DNA digestion. Ever wondered what’s really in your dinner? You’ll even analyze your own genes and investigate seafood species at a genetic level to uncover the truth about seafood mislabeling. Join us on this thrilling adventure through the building blocks of life and become a real-life genetic detective!

Explore how chemical engineers have transformed our world and uncover the cutting-edge innovations driving solutions to some of the planet’s greatest challenges. From developing sustainable energy solutions and revolutionizing medicine to pioneering food production, creating cutting-edge materials, and advancing environmental protection—this course highlights the powerful global impact of chemical engineering. Through thought-provoking readings, interactive discussions, hands-on projects, and guest lectures and tours led by industry leaders, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how these innovations are transforming industries and improving lives. Discover how you can join the next wave of engineers driving change for a better future!

We are all continually surrounded by chemicals, from drugs to plastics and from fuel to food additives. Ensuring these materials are free of dangerous contaminants is essential for human health and development. This course will introduce students to the most important techniques for purifying and analyzing chemicals. We will use what we have learned in the classroom to isolate a number of different molecules in the lab, from nylon to inorganic materials of eye-catching color.

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.

Computational tools are a critical part of our everyday lives. Software is the driving force behind cutting edge scientific discovery, blockbuster entertainment, and today’s fast‐paced marketplace ‐ and will continue to become even more important. This course introduces students to techniques and problem‐solving approaches used to develop some of these computational tools. Students will use Python programming language to implement foundational models of computation, like the Turing machine. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to design, implement and test computational solutions to problems.

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.

Is it wrong to enjoy true crime media because it’s based on harm done to real people? Is it ok for one country to threaten another with nuclear warfare, to avoid world destruction? Should some books be banned from schools? Such ethical questions surround us, and each one comes with a range of reasonable answers. Through lectures, discussions, and practice drills based on Ethics Bowl cases, students will learn to develop the foundational skills required to discuss complex issues productively, build strong arguments, respond to objections, and explore ethical theories. The course will conclude with a tournament-style scrimmage where students will apply their newly acquired understanding of public speaking, argumentation, and ethical theory. This course has no prerequisites, though current or future Ethics Bowlers and Debaters are especially encouraged to attend.

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!

What makes a species vulnerable to extinction? How does evolution actually work? What can we do to help endangered species recover? We explore these questions and more in Introduction to Conservation Genetics. This two-part course focuses on how genetics are used in the understanding of and response to conservation threats in animal and plant species. The first section investigates the mechanisms of evolutionary change and their effects on threatened wildlife and flora. The second section of the course explores how conservation managers address genetic issues in wild and captive populations. The class will cover these topics in assignments, lectures, hands-on lab activities, and field trips.

How do coastal plants, animals, and microbes respond to climate change? Are coastal ecosystems resilient to climate change? This course will introduce students to the complex ways that climate change affects ecological systems in coastal areas. We will explore topics through lectures, readings, debates, field trips, and group research projects. We will learn about restoration and mitigation techniques and discuss ways students can act on behalf of threatened ecosystems.

This course offers an exciting introduction to the world of robotics, blending foundational principles with hands-on experience in designing and building real-world robotic systems. Students will dive into the practical application of electronics, where they’ll craft innovative projects through engaging labs and interactive design challenges. The curriculum also integrates computer programming, empowering you to bring your robotic creations to life and solve real-world problems with cutting-edge technology.

Dive into the world of making at Tulane’s MakerSpace! In this session, students will discover the software and tools that power modern rapid prototyping. We’ll explore the design process, turning your creative ideas into tangible projects through a hands-on lab experience.  Unleash your imagination as you familiarize yourself with the design software and machinery of the Tulane MakerSpace. From the precision of our laser cutter—capable of etching and cutting wood, acrylic, and glass—to the versatile 3D printer that transmutes your thoughts and ideas into  plastic, you’ll make your imagination become reality. We’ll also explore basic circuitry in order to add lights, sound, and movement to your projects. By the end of the session, you’ll have designed and built your very own inventions, whether it’s a prototype for a groundbreaking product or a stunning piece of art or costume. Get ready to innovate and create!

Unleash your inner innovator in this dynamic engineering course! Dive into the world of the engineering design process, solving real-world problems with a team. Engaging lectures guide you through problem-solving phases, while hands-on experience with Fusion 360 and rapid prototyping tools like 3-D printing and laser cutting elevates your skills. Along the way, you'll also cultivate teamwork and project management abilities. Join us and embark on a journey to unlock your creative potential and shape the future!

The world is facing many global challenges in the 21st century. One of the most significant is global climate change, which is an existential threat to humans – and the planet. Within this challenge are issues related to environmental injustices. These are concerns about how local communities – usually working-class, lower income and, very often, BIPOC communities – are the most likely to carry the burdens of industrial production, consumption, and waste. In this course, we will explore the role of science, politics, and society in both creating – and, hopefully, solving – these challenges.

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.

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!

This is the Way. Science fiction enables us to study the contemporary political world from a distance -- to shed light on its problems and its weaknesses, and to be imaginative about alternatives, both hope-filled and deeply troubling. Through science fiction, we will consider ideas like power, authority, legitimacy, equality, and identity. Many of the readings, television shows, and movies we examine in this course will reflect upon the current political, social, cultural, and religious environment we reside in; whereas the technology may be from a distant future, the struggles the characters face all find their roots in our collective human existence.

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.

From changing social norms to transforming economies, epidemics have left a lasting impact on society. This hands-on, discussion-driven course explores how culture, society, politics, and the environment shape the spread and control of epidemics—and how public health experts use data to inform policies that protect us all. In this cross-disciplinary experience, students will explore the history of major epidemics like the Spanish Flu, cholera, HIV, SARS-CoV-2, and the plague, gain foundational skills in detecting and controlling disease, and learn effective communication strategies to combat misinformation. Discover for yourself how epidemics not only affect our lives but shape our world.

As a leader in public health for over a century, Tulane University recognizes the importance of community outreach and action. Students will examine the factors leading to outbreaks of disease and the impact that infectious diseases have on our society. Empowered with this information, they will design public health campaigns to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

Step into the thrilling world of forensic science, where you’ll become a detective in your own right! In this exciting course, you’ll explore the fascinating techniques used to solve crimes and uncover the truth. From analyzing fingerprints and DNA to examining blood spatter and trace evidence, you’ll learn how forensic scientists bring justice to light. Gain hands-on experience with real-life case studies, engaging experiments, and interactive activities that will challenge your critical thinking skills. You’ll dive into the methods used by crime scene investigators, learn how to gather and analyze evidence, and explore the role of forensics in the criminal justice system. Join us and start your journey to becoming a forensic expert!

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. This course will cover a variety of topics that medical practitioners engage in, including patient education on preventative care, contraception, postoperative care, and palliative care.

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.

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.

Do you like playing games with strategy in them? Ever wonder how chess experts figure out winning moves? Then this is the course for you! You will explore a range of games -- many of which will be completely new to you -- and learn how to apply mathematical concepts to determine the optimal strategy in the game. In doing so, you’ll learn how to think like a mathematician and discover that mathematics is much more interesting than memorizing a bunch of formulas! No prior mathematical knowledge is required -- all you need is curiosity and a willingness to work hard.

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.

In "Music, Gender, and Sexuality in New Orleans," we will use Black feminism and queer theory as a means to analyze and understand a variety of the city's music genres including bounce, brass band, Black Masking Indian funk, hip-hop, and R&B. How do musicians use music and sound to contest and enforce ideas about gender and sexuality? And how do these gender expressions intersect with other identity categories such as race and class? In asking these and other questions, this course makes a case for the intimate and inseparable relationship between gender performance and sexual expression in contemporary and historical music in New Orleans.

Neuroscientists study everything from the electrical activity of individual brain cells to the behavior of animals and people. In the course, students will learn how to measure human brain waves, interpret data using statistical analysis, and read, write and think like a scientist. Activities include learning basic brain anatomy by studying actual human brain specimens, and preparing brain tissue for study under a microscope.

Spend the week diving into the history, mechanics, and ethics of visual journalism with hands-on time dedicated to making a cohesive, sequenced photo story with an award-winning National Geographic photographer. Emphasis will be placed on developing story, strengthening technical ability, and learning how to develop specialized skills like intimate portraiture and compelling narrative. No specialized equipment required — smartphone cameras welcome and encouraged.

This course focuses on the field of materials, an interdisciplinary area that applies the properties of matter to various areas of science and engineering. Students will rotate between five materials science research laboratories, combining lectures with hands-on laboratory activities to excite and introduce students to contemporary methods in superconductivity, optics and lasers, biomaterials, nanotechnology, and energy harvesting technologies. This course will also cover contemporary methods of biomaterials engineering from stem cells to regenerative medicine to cancer therapy.

This course covers a wide variety of topics from the nervous system and the brain, to learning and memory, disorders and treatment, and social psychology. Through class lectures and a hands-on laboratory component, we will examine real human brain specimens, understand why we sleep and what dreams are for, observe childhood development in action, explore how psychological disorders are treated, and examine how prejudice plays out in the courtroom. Students will learn to read, write, and think like a psychologist and understand how psychologists ask their research questions.

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.

The disproportionate impact that climate change has on marginalized communities is one of the most critical issues of the climate crisis. Many of these communities—particularly low-income, Indigenous, Black, and people of color—are the least responsible for the emissions driving climate change, yet they often bear the heaviest burdens, whether through extreme weather events or pollution. We will begin this course by exploring the relationship between environmental degradation and inequality. We will then dive into ways in which social equity and climate justice can be integrated into climate solutions. Although climate change is undoubtedly a crisis, it offers us a unique opportunity to rethink the way society is organized.

This course introduces an array of tools, techniques and motivations associated with Computer Music Composition and Creative Audio Programming. Students will gain familiarity with the Digital Music Studio and Audio Workstation environments as they prepare frequent short composition assignments. Music Production paradigms to be explored in the course include MIDI Arranging, Sampling and Audio Editing, Sound Spatialization, Sonification Techniques and Process Music. We will also explore basic sound synthesis techniques including FM synthesis, ring modulation, granular synthesis, additive and subtractive synthesis.

The internet is all around us, and coding for it has never been easier and more accessible, thanks to open source and free software. In this introductory course, students will learn how to code for the web using p5.js (a JavaScript Library) to create interactive and fun applications. Along with the students' own designs, we will explore the work of artists, designers and online communities who have been creating experimental works with code over the last 50 years. By the end of the course, students will have a basic to intermediate understanding of coding structure, logic and syntax in addition to a final project. No prior coding experience is necessary to take this course.

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.

Everyone seems to be expressing themselves online, telling their story, and trying to explain their point of view. But rarely is someone’s authentic voice able to come through. In this course, students will develop their unique voices and tell meaningful stories about current socio-political issues. Students will learn how various art forms have been used to shape social change, theories of social change; as well as marketing, advertising and public relations tactics that can be utilized for promoting certain social issues to become leaders for their community. How will you develop your authentic voice to create messages that are meaningful and surprising, creative, and simply true—your truth?

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

Students are passionate about social issues in their communities. But how can they get the word out and effect change? In this course, students will learn the tactics of persuasive communications necessary to advocate for causes they believe in. Students will practice these methods, from effective public speaking to strategic social media, to create effective communications. Seminar discussions will focus on contemporary issues of gender, politics, and advocacy work.