Learn how to maximize your potential by taking advantage of the many youth offerings at College of DuPage. It's never too early to develop an appreciation of lifelong learning.
Youth courses will take place virtually and in-person during the Fall 2021 semester. Information on Spring 2022 programming to be announced soon. Share your contact information here to receive program updates via email.
Online Opportunities
All online courses require access to a reliable internet connection, a personal computer, webcam, and microphone. Registered students are required to submit online waivers for program.
Please be advised: registration closes one week prior to the start of online courses. All students must have a completed copy of the Youth Academy Online Waiver on file at least 2 business days prior to the start of class. Completed forms should be emailed to youthacademy@cod.edu.
Click on the "+" sign next to each grade level below to see specific program details.
Fall 2021
Fall courses will be offered virtually. A sample of Elementary Enrichment courses is listed below. Check out pages 60 to 63 of the Fall 2021 Schedule of Classes for additional details and the full list of programs for students in grades 1 to 5 this fall.
Fractal Fun
Infinite self-similar patterns, known as fractals, are a window into exploring geometry, art and patterns in nature. Learn mathematical concepts aligned with the common core standards while recreating the art behind the Sierpinski Triangle, the Koch Curve and other famous fractals. Join this fun math class where you are encouraged to color! Students need a ruler, protractor, compass and coloring supplies such as markers or colored pencils. Instructor: Ayesha Ahmed
Grades 3 to 5
Thursday, Oct. 28 to Nov. 18
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEEL-0001-004, $75
Yoga
Research shows that yoga can improve physical and mental health, and, best of all, children report that they love participating in this non-competitive physical activity that can be practiced almost anywhere without the need for expensive equipment. Breathe, focus and relax in this fun and active yoga class. A yoga mat is recommended, not required. Instructor: Kelly McFadden
Grades 3 to 5
Wednesday, Sept. 15 to Nov. 17
4 to 5 p.m.
YEEL-0001-100, $129
Sir Cumference and Medieval Geometry
Explore geometric concepts through the fun math adventure books by Neuschwander and
Geehan
and discover exciting ways to remember concepts such as coordinate planes, parts of
a circle, the ratio of pi and more. Students should have a basic understanding of
the four fundamental operations with whole numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication
and division. Students need a measuring tape, ruler and protractor to participate
in hands-on math activities. Instructor: Ayesha Ahmed
Grades 3 to 5
Thursday, Sept. 30 to Oct. 21
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEEL-0001-103, $75
PowerPoint
Explore the ins and outs of Microsoft PowerPoint. Learn how to make intriguing presentations, add animation and use various features to enhance your school and personal projects. Impress your teachers and peers through your master PowerPoint skills. Students need access to Microsoft PowerPoint. Instructor: Richard Morton
Grades 3 to 5
Monday, Sept. 27 to Oct. 18
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEEL-0001-101, $75
Register online today by visiting myaccess.cod.edu or call (630) 942-2208.
Fall 2021
Fall courses will be offered virtually. A sample of Middle School Enrichment courses is listed below. Check out pages 60 to 63 of the Fall 2021 Schedule of Classes for additional details and the full list of programs for students in grades 6 to 8 this fall.
Digital Painting
Learn how to digitally paint including how to use digital brushes and layer styles to create amazing images. Students use either Photoshop or pixlr.com during class. A drawing tablet is recommended, not required. Instructor: Richard Morton
Grades 6 to 8
Monday, Nov. 1 to 22
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEMS-0001-105, $75
Dungeons and Dragons
Join us on a quest for adventure and monster destruction. Use your imagination, create your own character, work as a team and develop group problem-solving skills as you attempt to complete a quest led by the Dungeon Master, Mr. Morty. A Dungeons & Dragons 7-Die Dice Set is recommended, not required. Instructor: Richard Morton
Grades 6 to 8
Tuesday, Sept. 9 to 30
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEMS-0001-106, $75
Order of Operations
Hone in your algebra skills and become an expert on the order of operations! Course topics include variables, review of the four fundamental operations and solving one-, two- and three-step equations. Instructor: Charles Roberson
Grades 6 to 8
Monday, Sept. 20 to Oct. 11
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEMS-0001-102, $75
Trigonometry Basics
Explore the unique angle and side relationships in triangles and gain an introduction to the key ratios known as sine, cosine and tangent. Students need a calculator for class. This class uses desmos.com for math practice activities. Instructor: Charles Roberson
Grades 6 to 8
Tuesday and Thursday, Sept. 14 to Oct. 7
4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEMS-0001-100, $149
Solving Linear Equations
Discover the three methods to solving linear equations: substitution, elimination
and graphing. Gain extra practice with one of the more challenging math concepts in
middle school. This class uses desmos.com for math practice activities.
Instructor: Charles Roberson
Tuesday and Thursday, Oct. 19 to 28 4 to 5:30 p.m.
YEMS-0001-104, $75
Yoga
Research shows that yoga can improve physical and mental health, and, best of all, children report that they love participating in this non-competitive physical activity that can be practiced almost anywhere without the need for expensive equipment. Breathe, focus and relax in this fun and active yoga class. A yoga mat is recommended, not required. Instructor: Kelly McFadden
Grades 6 to 8
Wednesday, Sept. 15 to Nov. 17
5:15 to 6:15 p.m.
YEMS-0001-101, $129
Register online today by visiting myaccess.cod.edu or call (630) 942-2208.
Spring 2022
Beginning Conversational
Japanese I
Students learn practical, elementary conversational skills based on comprehension of basic grammar and correct pronunciation. This level is for students who have not studied Japanese before. In this seven-week class, learn some basic conversational skills, such as greetings, counting and simple everyday phrases. Learn to read and recognize hiragana characters. The goal of the class is to begin to speak Japanese and enjoy the process of learning. Required book: Japanese for Busy People (ISBN: 978 1568363844).
Friday, Jan. 28 to March 11
5 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-800, $299
Virtual Classroom
The Art of Spirited Away
The 2001 Japanese animated fantasy-adventure film, “Spirited Away,” was written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This coming-of-age film focuses on the story of Chihiro Ogino, a 10-year-old girl who becomes trapped in an alternate reality when she moves into a new neighborhood inhabited by monsters and spirits. This class reviews the Japanese Shinto folklore spirit realm known as Kami and similar famous works of literature and film by Japanese artists. It is recommended students watch “Spirited Away” prior to the first class session.
Wednesday, Feb. 16 to March 30
5 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-801, $299
Virtual Classroom
Online Waiver must be submitted to youthacademy@cod.edu.
Courses are designed to review high school coursework, not to replace a course required
by your school district.
• No credit awarded
• No letter grades given
• Courses are not eligible for official /
student transcripts
• No homework, quizzes or tests will be assigned
Algebra Spotlight: Polynomials
This Algebra Spotlight Series highlights operations with polynomials. Using Zoom, preview and review the following concepts: types of polynomials, adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials as well as factoring polynomials. The instructor and students work through various problems together, allowing the student to gain confidence in polynomials before the beginning of the next school year! No homework will be assigned, but practice problems are available for independent study.
Monday to Thursday, Feb. 28 to March 3
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
YEHSC 0005-001, Fee: $99
Virtual Classroom
Algebra Spotlight: Quadratics
This Algebra Spotlight Series reviews solving quadratics. Using Zoom, class meetings preview and review the following concepts: solving and graphing quadratic equations and using the quadratic formula. No homework is assigned, but practice problems are available for independent study.
Monday to Thursday, April 4 to 7
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
YEHSC 0005-002, Fee: $99
Virtual Classroom
Spring 2022
Beginning Conversational Hindi I
Beginning Conversational Hindi I
Explore Hindi language and Indian culture through the consideration of cultural themes,
vocabulary, and phrases. Learn about this rich and complex culture as you explore
basic vocabulary and phrases. This class is for participants with little or no knowledge
of the Hindi language and Indian culture. Textbook: Living Language Hindi, Complete
Edition (ISBN :978-0307972415).
Saturday, Feb. 5 to March 19
1 to 4 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-600, $299
Virtual Classroom
Beginning Conversational
Japanese I
Students learn practical, elementary conversational skills based on comprehension
of basic grammar
and correct pronunciation. This level is for students who have not studied Japanese
before. In this seven-week class, learn some basic conversational skills, such as
greetings, counting and simple everyday phrases. Learn to read and recognize hiragana
characters. The goal of the class is to begin to speak Japanese and enjoy the process
of
learning. Required book: Japanese for Busy People (ISBN: 978-1568363844).
Friday, Jan. 28 to March 11
5 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-800, $299
Virtual Classroom
The Art of Spirited Away
The 2001 Japanese animated fantasy-adventure film, “Spirited Away,” was written and
directed by
Hayao Miyazaki. This coming-of-age film focuses on the story of Chihiro Ogino, a 10-year-old
girl who becomes trapped in an alternate reality when she moves into a new neighborhood
inhabited by monsters and spirits. This class reviews the Japanese Shinto folklore
spirit realm known as Kami and similar famous works of literature and film by Japanese
artists. It is recommended students watch “Spirited Away” prior to the first class
session.
Wednesday, Feb. 16 to March 30
5 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-801, $299
Virtual Classroom
Beginning Conversational Korean I
Whether you want to learn to speak Korean to sing along to your favorite K-Pop songs
or follow along on Korean television shows, our beginning classes will kick-start
your learning. Topics covered include
basic Korean structure, conversation and simple everyday phrase pronunciation to acquire
a small
working vocabulary which they use in conversation and writing. This course is designed
for those with little or no knowledge of Korean Language. Textbook: Living Language
Korean (ISBN 978-0307972231).
Sunday, Feb. 6 to March 20
1 to 4 p.m.
YEHSC-0001-900, $299
Virtual Classroom
SAT Comprehensive Test Preparation
Review math, reading and English usage in preparation for the SAT exam. Students become familiar with SAT questions, develop test-taking strategies, increase confidence and speed, and get a review of test content. Students must bring writing utensil, calculator and paper for the course. No textbook.
Monday to Wednesday, March 7 to 9
5 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC 0004-110, $199
Virtual Classroom
Monday to Wednesday, May 2 to 4
5 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC 0004-111, $199
Virtual Classroom
ACT Comprehensive Test Preparation
Review math, science reasoning, reading and English usage in preparation for the ACT exam. The course includes an introduction to the ACT writing section. Students become familiar with ACT questions, develop test-taking strategies, increase confidence and speed, and get a review of test content. No textbook.
Monday to Wednesday, Feb.7 to 9
5 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC 0004-102, $199
Virtual Classroom
Monday to Wednesday, March 28 to 30
5 to 7 p.m.
YEHSC 0004-103, $199
Virtual Classroom
Common App Essay Workshop
Get help with your college applications by creating a working draft of your Common
App essay in this writing workshop. Address this year’s prompts, develop a draft and
begin the editing process in a
comfortable, supportive setting. Work one-on-one with the instructor and with your
peers to create this important personal essay. Leave the class with a working draft
that’s ready for a final review by a parent, teacher or counselor. Time permitting,
you
may also workshop supplement essays. Students are encouraged to bring a rough draft
or outline of ideas to class.
Tuesday and Thursday, April 19 and 21
6 to 8 p.m.
YEHSC-0004-001, $119
Virtual Classroom
Students who have already participated in a test preparation class and are interested in honing in on specific subject areas of their choosing can benefit from one-on-one instruction. Textbooks are included in the tutoring fee.
Four hours—$325
Six hours—$399
All interested community members must submit a tutor request by clicking on this link. Note individuals will be contacted by a tutor within 5 business days for a consultation on tutoring needs.
Review our tutoring process online at cod.edu/test-prep-tutoring
Submit an online waiver prior to the start of class.
Register online today by visiting myaccess.cod.edu or call (630) 942-2208.
The College of DuPage Youth Academy provided free youth activity content during Summer 2020. Check out the links below!
Video Archive
June 1 - Kids in the Kitchen: Fruit Kabobs
June 2 - Math-E-Magic: Circles
June 3 - Yogic Math
June 4 - Kids in the Kitchen: Veggie Omelet
June 8 - Kids in the Kitchen: English Muffin Pizzas
June 9 - Logic Puzzles: Elimination
June 10 - ACT & SAT Readiness
June 11 - Kids in the Kitchen: Banana Bread
June 15 - Caring For Your Pets
June 16 - Simple Meme Creation
June 17 - ACT & SAT Test Prep Tips: English Section
June 18 - Kids in the Kitchen: Pancakes
June 22 - Kids in the Kitchen: Easy Bean Burrito
June 23 - Math-E-Magic: Looping Numbers
June 24 - ACT & SAT Test Prep: Reading Section
June 25 - Kids in the Kitchen: Healthy Breakfast Smoothie
June 29 - Kids in the Kitchen: Rice Krispie Mug Treat
June 30- Amusement Park Physics
July 1- ACT & SAT Test Prep Tips: Math Section
July 2- Kids in the Kitchen: Baked Chicken Tenders
July 6 - All About Animals: Frozen Yogurt Dog Treats
July 7 - Logic Puzzles: Rebus Puzzles
July 8 - ACT Test Prep Tips: Science Section
July 9 - Kids in the Kitchen: Guacamole
July 13 - Kids in the Kitchen: Confetti Popcorn
July 14 - Math- E- Magic: Consecutive Numbers
July 15 - Act & Test Prep Tips: Essay Section
July 16 - Kids in the Kitchen: Fruit Salad
July 20 - Kids in the Kitchen: Berry Dip
July 21 - Logic Puzzles: Sudoku
July 22- High School Success : Time Management
July 23 - Kids in the Kitchen: Quesadilla
July 27 - All About Animals : My Dog Does What?
July 28 - Math-E-Magic: The Calculator Argument
July 29 - Test Prep Series: Cornell Note-Taking
July 30 - Kids in the Kitchen: Cake in a Mug
Aug. 3 - Kids in the Kitchen: Quick Energy Trail Mix
Aug. 4 - Reading Comprehension: Fix the Fuzziness
Aug. 5 - ACT/SAT Best Practices
Youth Academy students exploring culinary arts in our Culinary Center.
Explorers Day Camp field trip.
Youth Academy students soldering as part of our manufacturing camp.
Youth Academy students expanding their scientific skills while learning how to use a microscope.
Summer Camp fun, Youth Academy students trying they hand at archery.
Youth and High School Programs
Click on the program titles below to find more information about our summer offerings for students in Kindergarten through High School.
Youth Enrichment: Academic and enrichment classes for students in elementary and middle school. Explore exciting STEM topics or gain additional practice in school subjects.
Junior High Achievers: Students entering grades 7 and 8 are invited to explore high school curriculum among a group of peers in classes modeled after high school standards.
High School Programs: Elective and academic options throughout the year include test preparation, tutoring and our new summer refresher series.
Talent Search: Courses for academically gifted students scoring in the ninetieth percentile.
Summer Camps: Explorer Camps provide all-day fun for students entering kindergarten to grade six. Students entering grades seven to ten can participate in the Counselor Training program or Teen X-Treme Camps.
Tutoring: Professional tutoring is available in a variety of topics including English, Math, Science and Standardized ACT and SAT Test Prep.
Merit Badges
Earn your Boy Scouts of America merit badges at College of DuPage. Camps are led by a certified merit badge counselor and different topics will be offered throughout the year.
All Merit Badge camps are currently at full capacity. To be contacted when additional sessions are created, email the Youth Coordinator at youthacademy@cod.edu and include the student's name, age and a phone number at which you can be reached.
In-Person Required Forms
All students registered in Youth Enrichment, Talent Search or Summer Camp in-person programs must have a completed Student Code of Conduct and Medical Release Form on file on the first day of their camp or class. Parents and guardians may bring completed copies of these required forms on the first day or complete them during sign-in. The high school programs have a separate set of required forms, find more information at cod.edu/cehighschool.
Cancellations & Refunds
In the event of a class cancellation or student drop, College of DuPage Continuing Education will issue a refund to the name associated with the enrolled course. In order for a parent to receive the refund in their name, they will need to complete the following Parent Refund Form for Youth Academy Participants. This form needs to be completed no later than one week after the payment has been made for the course.
Contact Information
Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110, (630) 942-2208
Email: CE@cod.edu
Fax: (630) 942-3785