Elmhurst STEM Academy

The program is ideal for students in high school who are considering careers in fields like biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and nursing. At a minimum, students should have taken coursework in algebra, geometry, biology, and chemistry.

Classes expand on what you’ve already learned during your first two years of high school. You will sharpen your skills in advanced algebra and trigonometry, and discover the real-world applications of STEM.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to use computers and the internet to explore STEM. You’ll become familiar with major software packages used in STEM, including Matlab and Maple.

But that’s not all. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to excel, in college and beyond. And you’ll experience a great university with an expanding reputation for excellence. You’ll meet our top-notch faculty, learn to code in the programs mentioned above and other software, and gain confidence in your ability to succeed in college.

The Academy is under the direction of Professor of Mathematics Evans Afenya, Ph.D., and classes are taught by our outstanding STEM faculty. You will work closely with Elmhurst faculty members and form teams to explore issues in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics and physics.

• Registration fee: $70 (scholarships available)
• Fee for optional college credit: $300

Click the “apply” button on this page. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program is full.

To qualify for the Academy, students must clearly demonstrate their interest in mathematics and the sciences. Specifically, students will be expected to have a good college preparatory background in mathematics, biology and chemistry courses in high school and be recommended by their high school mathematics or science teachers. In certain circumstances, prospective participants may be invited for an interview with the Academy director to determine eligibility.

The 2023 Academy is in a hybrid format with online and in-person residential parts. It begins on July 17 at 9:00 a.m. (please check the tentative schedule by clicking “View the Schedule” below). Feel free to contact us in the meantime to express your interest (see “What if I have more questions?” below).

We encourage your parents to watch because their participation in the Academy will help them be active partners in your college experience.

Need-based scholarships are available to students who qualify. If you’d like to explore this option, please submit a letter of eligibility from your high school counselor indicating that you qualify for free or reduced lunch.

If you have questions about the STEM Academy, please contact Admission Counselor Lillian Solis at (630) 617-3355 or lillian.solis@elmhurst.edu for more information.