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Montclair’s Pre-College Summer Programs Give High School Students a Head Start on College and Careers

Applications now open for hands-on programs in Film, Pre-Med, Business, Wall Street and more – featuring NYC field trips and college-level academics

Posted in: Homepage News, Press Releases, University

Three high school students watch television monitors, gaining hands-on experience at Montclair’s state-of-the-art School of Communication and Media.
High school students gain hands-on experience at Montclair’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the nationally recognized School of Communication and Media. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

High school students can jump-start their college journey this summer through Montclair State University’s Pre-College Summer Programs – offering hands-on courses in Film, Pre-Med, Business, Wall Street and more. With immersive, college-level academics and exclusive field trips to iconic New York City destinations like Wall Street, the United Nations and Broadway, students gain real-world experience while living on campus and learning from expert faculty.

Applications are now open for this opportunity to explore future careers and experience college life firsthand.

“This transformative experience leaves a lasting impact, fostering students’ confidence and providing a clear pathway to future academic and personal success,” says Dominique Houze, Montclair’s senior director for Strategy and Program Development.

Three students in the pre-med program gather around an interactive 3D anatomy visualization system to study and understand the human body.
Students in the pre-med program use an interactive 3D anatomy visualization system to understand the human body. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

What Students Are Saying

“I really appreciated the depth and detail of my program. The balance between class time and enjoying the campus was well thought out.”

“I admired how much effort the professors put into teaching us things we hadn’t learned before.”

“I came here not knowing anyone, but I quickly met new friends through classes and events.”

A line of high school students and their parents walk past balloons as they move into residence halls, experiencing campus life firsthand.
High school students experience campus life firsthand as they move into residence halls. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

Start Early, Succeed Big

As New Jersey’s fastest-growing and most affordable residential pre-college program, Montclair’s offerings challenge students in academic courses while preparing them for college life – regardless of where they ultimately choose to enroll.

  • Session I: Sunday, July 13 – Saturday, July 19, 2025
  • Session II: Sunday, July 20 – Saturday, July 26, 2025
    • Students can choose to attend for one or two weeks, selecting from a variety of courses tailored to their interests.
A group of students walks past the New York Stock Exchange in NYC’s Financial District, with a large American flag hanging above the entrance.
Students visit the New York Stock Exchange in NYC’s Financial District. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)
  • NYC Adventures Await
    • Located just 12 miles from NYC, Montclair takes full advantage of its proximity to one of the world’s most dynamic metropolitan regions.
  • Major & Career Exploration
    • With 19 college-level courses, students can explore potential academic majors and career paths. They also master life’s must-haves and essential skills for college and beyond.
Four high school students operate professional video cameras during the Sports Communication program at Montclair’s Pre-College Summer.
High school students use advanced cameras as part of the Sports Communication program at Montclair’s Pre-College Summer. (Photo by John J. LaRosa)

“Not only are students experiencing college-level academics, but they’re also learning to be independent and autonomous,” says Bradley Litchfield, co-managing director of Pre-College Summer. “They immerse themselves in the full college experience, including Broadway shows, diverse dining experiences, and visits to iconic NYC locations. These experiences will stay with them for a lifetime and help shape their sense of identity.”

Session Offerings

Session I: Sunday, July 13 – Saturday, July 19, 2025

Session II: Sunday, July 20 – Saturday, July 26, 2025

Looking for More? Explore Dual Enrollment

Through Montclair’s Dual Enrollment Program, students from participating New Jersey high schools can earn college credits while completing high school coursework. Courses are available in the fall and spring at reduced rates, with credits transferable to most colleges in New Jersey.

I’m a ______, tell me more…

Prospective Student / Parent: Learn how to apply for Pre-College Summer and more about the full list of programs; plan a visit to our campus and take the first step in applying to become a Red Hawk!

Journalist: Contact the Media Relations team for assets or to schedule an interview about this topic.