The University of Chicago Summer
Biology and Its Modern Applications - Session 1

Biology and Its Modern Applications - Session 1


Course Status: Pre-College Application: Jan 2026

Applications for Pre-College courses will open in early January. We encourage you to review the courses offered below. Remember: you can select up to 3 in your application. We look forward to seeing you!

Course Description

This course aims at developing the basic concepts that form the crux of life from both structural and functional perspectives. It will cover cellular functioning and organization and the transformation of energy. In addition, concepts of evolution and natural selection will be investigated. Biology and Its Modern Applications also introduces the student to the continuity of life from genetic and molecular perspectives.

The course will extrapolate to demonstrate how cells communicate through cell signaling and how defects in such communication often lead to diseases. The course will conclude by discussing various aspects of current applications of biology in medicine, drug discovery, nanotechnology, forensics, and bioengineering.

The goals of this course will be realized through various course activities including labs, group projects and presentations, and team-based learning. Both synchronous and asynchronous modes of interaction and communication will be used in this course. This course would be particularly appealing to students who would like to learn more about principles of biology and the multiple innovative careers that the study of biology can prepare them for.

Writing Intensive
Students will be required to write at least 3 essays or papers during the duration of the course.

Academic Interest

Biological Sciences

Application Materials

A complete application includes a transcript, two short essays, a letter of recommendation, writing sample, application fee, and a submitted parent confirmation. If you are seeking need-based financial aid, you must indicate that in your application before it is submitted. Please refer to the Application Instructions for complete details.

Instructor(s)

Jeni Gifford

Cost

$9,300

Need-based financial aid is available. Students should refer the Costs & Aid page and apply for aid when they submit their application to Summer Session.

Course Duration

3 Week Immersion

Session

Session 1

Arrival & Departure Dates

June 13th - July 3rd

Course Dates

June 15th - July 2nd

Class Days

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

Class Time

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Eligibility

9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade

Course Code

BIOS 10002 32

Modality

Residential

Syllabus

Preview Sample Syllabus

Other Courses to Consider

These courses might also be of interest.

  • Research in the Biological Sciences
    Research in the Biological Sciences

    This four-week intensive training program is designed to expose students to a broad range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological techniques currently used in research laboratories. Students are immersed in the research experience, giving them a taste of "life at the bench".

    Using a project-based approach, the course progresses from a survey of basic lab techniques to the application of current molecular techniques in cell biology, genetics, developmental biology and cancer biology. After two weeks of basic training, the students spend the remainder of the course working on an independent project.

    Most of a typical RIBS day is spent in lab with lectures given when needed to provide background and context for the experiments. Communication skills are important in science. RIBS students will have weekly writing assignments, and will keep a detailed lab notebook. We will read original research articles and students will participate in group presentations. Students will also attend weekly lunch time seminars given by research faculty.

    The course ends with a research forum in which the students present the results of their projects. Successful completion of the course will give participants the experience and confidence to work in a research laboratory.

    Residential
  • Career Insight: Healthcare and Biological Sciences
    Career Insight: Healthcare and Biological Sciences

    Delve into medicine, public health, or research!

    Explore possible paths to follow during and after college, as you look deeper into how you might pursue your passions. Whether your interests will take you into the OR and examining room or behind the bench, your journey begins here at UChicago.

    • In the morning, UChicago professors, lecturers, and researchers will introduce you to key concepts and practices in the biological sciences through lectures, discussions, readings, and hands-on activities designed to reveal a range of possible pursuits.

    • In the afternoon, connect with practitioners through presentations, informational interviews, and career treks around the city, and with Career Advancement staff who will help you consider what various career paths you might follow within the world of healthcare and the biological sciences and cultivate the skills you need to begin to pursue those opportunities.

    You will put your skills and knowledge into practice in a small-group final project as well as individual reflection essays and other assignments.

    Residential