Duke Pre-College (Middle School Courses)

Course Overview

Animal Cognition explores how animals perceive, learn, solve problems, and communicate. Students examine case studies across species—from primates and dolphins to birds and insects—to better understand intelligence and behavior in the animal world. Through interactive activities and experiments, students investigate memory, decision-making, and social behavior while considering ethical questions about animal research and conservation. The course builds scientific thinking skills while fostering curiosity about the natural world.

What Students Will Do

• Study animal behavior and problem-solving
• Analyze case studies across species
• Conduct simple experiments and observations
• Discuss ethics in animal research

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: An Animal Intelligence Investigation
Students design and present a mini research study or case analysis exploring how a chosen animal species learns, communicates, or solves problems, supported by scientific evidence.

Skills You’ll Build

Scientific reasoning • Observation • Critical thinking • Ethical awareness

Who Should Enroll

Students curious about animals, biology, psychology, or the natural sciences.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

In Forensic Science, students step into the role of investigators solving scientific mysteries. They learn how biology, chemistry, and physics are used to analyze evidence such as fingerprints, fibers, blood spatter, and DNA. Students apply critical thinking and observation skills to mock crime scenes and case studies, learning how evidence is collected, tested, and interpreted. 

What Students Will Do

• Analyze fingerprints, fibers, and mock DNA
• Reconstruct crime scenes
• Apply scientific reasoning to case studies
• Practice evidence-based conclusions

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Solved Case File Presentation
Teams analyze evidence from a simulated crime scene and present their findings, explaining how scientific methods led them to a conclusion—just like real forensic experts.

Skills You’ll Build

Analytical thinking • Problem-solving • Scientific inquiry • Attention to detail

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in science, mystery-solving, or real-world STEM applications.

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

This course examines the biology, behavior, and conservation of primates around the world. Students learn about primate habitats, social structures, and evolutionary history while exploring the challenges these species face, including habitat loss and climate change. Through case studies and interactive projects, students consider how science, policy, and community action intersect in conservation efforts. 

What Students Will Do

• Study primate species and ecosystems
• Explore conservation case studies
• Evaluate global environmental challenges
• Propose conservation solutions

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Conservation Action Proposal
Students develop a conservation awareness or protection plan for a primate species, combining science, ethics, and global impact into a persuasive presentation.

Skills You’ll Build

Environmental responsibility • Research • Global thinking • Problem-solving

Who Should Enroll

Students passionate about animals, conservation, or environmental science.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Pathways to Health Professions introduces students to careers in medicine, healthcare, and public health. Students explore human body systems, medical technology, ethics, and the wide range of roles involved in caring for individuals and communities. Guest case studies and hands-on activities help students understand what it takes to work in health-related fields.

What Students Will Do

• Learn about human body systems
• Explore medical careers and pathways
• Discuss medical ethics and decision-making
• Engage in hands-on health science activities

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Healthcare Career Pathway Map
Students create a visual and written roadmap exploring a health-related career, including education pathways, ethical challenges, and real-world impact.

Skills You’ll Build

Scientific literacy • Ethical reasoning • Career awareness • Collaboration

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in medicine, science, or helping others.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Psychology 101 provides a foundational introduction to the scientific study of the mind and behavior. Students explore topics such as learning, memory, emotion, perception, and social interaction through interactive demonstrations and experiments. The course emphasizes how psychology applies to everyday life, from decision-making to relationships. Students build analytical skills while gaining insight into how humans think, feel, and act.

What Students Will Do

• Participate in demonstrations and experiments
• Study memory, emotion, and perception
• Analyze human behavior and decision-making
• Apply psychology to real-world situations

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Psychology Experiment Showcase
Students design a simple, ethical psychology experiment or case study and present their research question, method, results, and conclusions.

Skills You’ll Build

Critical thinking • Observation • Analysis • Self-awareness

Who Should Enroll

Students curious about people, behavior, and how the mind works.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

International Relations introduces students to how countries interact on the global stage. Students explore diplomacy, alliances, conflict, and global cooperation through case studies and simulations. The course helps students understand current events while building skills in analysis, negotiation, and global citizenship.

What Students Will Do

• Study global case studies
• Participate in simulations
• Analyze current events
• Practice negotiation skills

CAPSTONE

Simulation: A Global Summit Simulation
Students represent countries or organizations in a simulated international summit, negotiating solutions to global challenges and presenting agreements.

Skills You’ll Build

Global awareness • Analysis • Communication • Perspective-taking

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in world affairs or global issues.

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Mock Trial immerses students in the fundamentals of the legal system through hands-on simulation. Students take on roles such as attorneys, witnesses, and jurors while learning courtroom procedures and legal reasoning. The course builds public speaking, confidence, teamwork, and critical thinking skills in an engaging, experiential format.

What Students Will Do

• Prepare legal arguments
• Perform courtroom roles
• Practice public speaking
• Analyze legal evidence

CAPSTONE

Simulation: Mock Trial Performance 
Students participate in a complete mock trial, assuming roles such as attorneys, witnesses, and jurors, and presenting arguments before a judge.

Skills You’ll Build

Public speaking • Critical thinking • Collaboration • Reasoning

Who Should Enroll

Students who enjoy debate, acting, or law-related topics.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

This course examines how laws are created and how individuals and groups advocate for change. Students explore civic engagement, public policy, and legal frameworks through debates, case studies, and role-playing activities. The course empowers students to understand their role in a democratic society and how ideas can lead to action.

What Students Will Do

• Study public policy and law
• Participate in debates and simulations
• Analyze advocacy strategies
• Explore civic engagement

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: An Advocacy Campaign
Students design a persuasive advocacy campaign on a real issue, creating messaging, strategies, and presentations aimed at influencing public opinion or policy.

Skills You’ll Build

Civic literacy • Argumentation • Leadership • Critical thinking

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in government, justice, or making an impact.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

In Aerospace Engineering, students explore the science behind flight, rockets, and space exploration. Topics include forces, aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft design. Through hands-on challenges and simulations, students test ideas and learn how engineers solve complex problems. The course fosters curiosity about engineering and space science while building teamwork and design-thinking skills.

What Students Will Do

• Study aerodynamics and propulsion
• Design and test flight models
• Explore space technology concepts
• Solve engineering design challenges

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Flight or Spacecraft Design Challenge
Teams design, test, and refine a model aircraft or spacecraft concept, presenting how engineering principles influenced their final design.

Skills You’ll Build

Engineering thinking • Teamwork • Creativity • Problem-solving

Who Should Enroll

Students curious about space, engineering, or how things fly.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Audio Engineering introduces students to the technology behind sound production. Students learn about sound waves, recording techniques, microphones, mixing, and editing. Through hands-on projects, they create original audio content while learning how sound is used in music, media, and film. The course blends creativity with technical skills and problem-solving.

What Students Will Do

• Learn about sound waves and acoustics
• Record and edit audio
• Experiment with microphones and mixing
• Create original audio projects

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Professional Audio Production
Students produce a polished audio project—such as a soundscape, music mix, or short audio story—demonstrating recording and editing skills.

Skills You’ll Build

Technical skills • Creativity • Attention to detail • Collaboration

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in music, media, or sound technology.

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Smart Cities explores how engineering, technology, and data can improve urban life. Students examine topics such as transportation systems, energy use, sustainability, and infrastructure design. Through collaborative projects, students propose solutions to real-world city challenges while learning how technology shapes communities. The course encourages systems thinking and innovation.

What Students Will Do

• Study city systems and design
• Analyze urban challenges
• Propose technology-based solutions
• Work in collaborative teams

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Future City Design Proposal
Teams design a smart city solution addressing transportation, sustainability, or infrastructure challenges, presenting maps, models, or digital mockups.

Skills You’ll Build

Systems thinking • Innovation • Collaboration • Civic awareness

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in engineering, cities, or problem-solving for communities.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Technology & AI introduces students to the foundations of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Students learn how algorithms work, where AI is used in daily life, and the ethical questions surrounding technology. Through interactive projects and discussions, students develop digital literacy and critical thinking skills while exploring the future of innovation.

What Students Will Do

• Explore AI concepts and applications
• Discuss ethics and technology
• Complete interactive tech projects
• Analyze technology’s impact on society

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: An AI Use-Case Project
Students design and present an AI-based solution to a real-world problem, explaining how the technology works and discussing ethical considerations.

Skills You’ll Build

Digital literacy • Critical thinking • Ethical reasoning

Who Should Enroll

Students curious about technology and the future.

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Entrepreneurship challenges students to think like innovators and problem-solvers. Students learn how entrepreneurs identify needs, develop ideas, and turn concepts into viable ventures. Through collaborative projects, students explore market research, branding, budgeting, and pitching ideas.

What Students Will Do

• Brainstorm business ideas
• Conduct basic market research
• Develop a business proposal
• Pitch ideas to peers

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Startup Pitch
Teams develop an original business idea and pitch it to a panel, highlighting the problem, solution, target market, and branding—just like real entrepreneurs.

Skills You’ll Build

Innovation • Leadership • Communication • Financial thinking

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in business, creativity, or problem-solving.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

This course equips students with essential money-management skills they can use throughout life. Topics include budgeting, saving, spending, investing basics, and understanding financial choices. Students engage in simulations and real-world scenarios that illustrate how financial decisions affect short- and long-term goals. The course empowers students to become informed, responsible consumers and decision-makers.

What Students Will Do

• Create budgets and savings plans
• Learn basics of investing and spending
• Explore real-world financial scenarios
• Practice responsible decision-making

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Real-Life Financial Plan
Students design a practical financial plan for a simulated scenario (such as budgeting for a goal or planning future expenses) and explain their decision-making process.

Skills You’ll Build

Money management • Planning • Critical thinking • Responsibility

Who Should Enroll

All students interested in building confidence with money and finances.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Sports Analytics introduces students to how data and statistics shape decisions in athletics. Students analyze player performance, team strategies, and trends using real-world sports data. Through hands-on activities, students learn how numbers tell stories and influence coaching, management, and fan engagement. The course blends math, critical thinking, and sports enthusiasm in an engaging, applied setting.

What Students Will Do

• Analyze sports statistics
• Compare player and team performance
• Explore data-driven decision-making
• Apply math to real-world sports examples

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Data-Driven Sports Strategy Report
Students analyze real sports data to uncover trends, evaluate performance, and present recommendations for teams, players, or coaches.

Skills You’ll Build

Data analysis • Logical reasoning • Quantitative thinking

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

In Creative Writing, students explore how ideas become powerful stories, poems, and personal narratives. Through guided writing exercises, mentor texts, and collaborative workshops, students experiment with character, imagery, structure, and voice. Emphasis is placed on drafting, revising, and sharing work in a supportive studio environment that builds confidence and creativity. By the end of the course, students develop a polished portfolio of original writing and gain tools they can use in any academic or creative setting.

What Students Will Do

• Write original poems, short stories, and personal pieces
• Participate in collaborative writing workshops
• Revise drafts using peer and instructor feedback
• Build a polished portfolio of creative work

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Personal Writing Portfolio & Author Reading
Students curate a portfolio of their best poems, short stories, and personal narratives, complete with revisions and reflections. The session culminates in a celebratory author reading where students share selected pieces aloud.

Skills You’ll Build

Creative expression • Written communication • Critical thinking • Revision & reflection

Who Should Enroll

Students who enjoy writing, storytelling, reading, or expressing ideas creatively—no prior experience required.

OFFERED

• Session 3: July 13 - July 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the fast-growing world of audio storytelling through podcast creation. Students learn how to develop compelling story ideas, conduct interviews, write scripts, and record and edit audio using professional techniques. Along the way, they explore how sound, pacing, and tone shape a listener’s experience. The course culminates in the production of an original podcast episode, giving students hands-on experience with both creative expression and digital media literacy.

What Students Will Do

• Develop podcast story ideas and scripts
• Conduct interviews and record audio
• Learn basic audio editing techniques
• Produce an original podcast episode

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: An Original Podcast Episode
Students work in small teams to produce a fully edited podcast episode—complete with intro music, interviews, narration, and sound effects—designed for a real audience.

Skills You’ll Build

Digital media literacy • Story structure • Communication • Creative technology

Who Should Enroll

Students interested in media, storytelling, journalism, or technology-driven creativity.

OFFERED

• Session 1: June 13 - June 24
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.  

Course Overview

Writers’ Studio focuses on crafting vivid, engaging scenes that bring stories to life. Students learn how writers use dialogue, sensory detail, and action to reveal character and advance plot. Through close reading of short excerpts and structured writing workshops, students practice turning ideas into immersive moments on the page. Peer feedback and revision are central to the course, helping students develop strong storytelling habits and a deeper appreciation for narrative craft.

What Students Will Do

• Write short narrative scenes
• Study mentor texts from published writers
• Practice dialogue, pacing, and sensory detail
• Revise work through structured feedback

CAPSTONE

What You’ll Create: A Scene Collection & Dramatic Reading
Students will work in teams and submit a polished collection of original scenes showcasing character, dialogue, and setting. Selected scenes are shared through dramatic readings or staged table reads.

Skills You’ll Build

Narrative writing • Attention to detail • Creative confidence • Peer collaboration

Who Should Enroll

Students who enjoy fiction, storytelling, or creative writing workshops.

OFFERED

• Session 2: June 28 - July 9
   

Disclaimer:
The course descriptions, activities, and capstone project outlined above are preliminary and may be modified throughout the spring as instructors finalize their syllabi, refine learning goals, and develop program materials.  This course may be lead by a single instructor or a team of guest lecturers from the Duke community and local industry leaders.