Pre-College Summer Academy Courses
For high school students entering 10th, 11th and 12th grade.
- All courses provide 4 units of college credit
- Taught by Cal Lutheran faculty members
- Cost: $2,000 per course
- Location: Cal Lutheran campus in Thousand Oaks
Questions? Contact us at summeracademy@callutheran.edu
Summer 2026 Courses
Principles of Business Strategy
School of Management
Session 1: June 1-12
Session 2: June 15-26
Days & Times:
Mon-Fri, 9:00am-3:00pm
Instructor:
Kyle McIntosh
Gain the mindset of a strategist. In this hands-on course, students learn how great companies identify opportunities, solve complex problems, and create value. Through real-world case studies and simulations, participants develop critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making skills that prepare them for success in college and beyond.
Principles of Entrepreneurship
School of Management
Turn ideas into impact. This dynamic course introduces students to the world of innovation and startups, from generating breakthrough ideas to pitching investors. Students will design a business concept, work collaboratively in teams, and explore what it means to lead with creativity and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Personal Finance and Investing in the Digital Age
School of Management
Build confidence with money and the markets. Students learn essential financial literacy skills—from budgeting and credit to investing, crypto, and digital finance. With practical tools and engaging discussions, this course empowers tomorrow’s leaders to make smart, informed choices about their financial future.
Spanish Language Intensive
Languages and Cultures
Immerse yourself in Spanish language and culture through an engaging, fast-paced program designed to accelerate proficiency and confidence. With interactive lessons and cultural exploration, students not only meet university language requirements but gain valuable global communication skills.
Law, Justice and Human Rights
Political Science / Pre-Law
Investigate pressing legal and political issues shaping our world today. Students learn foundational research methods while exploring topics such as diplomacy, governance, justice, and civic responsibility. Ideal for aspiring leaders and changemakers with interests in law, political science, or public service.
Philosophy & Critical Thinking
Philosophy
An immersive experience for intellectually curious students who love asking “why?”. Participants engage in college-level discussion, debate, and writing on timeless philosophical questions about truth, justice, and meaning. The institute fosters critical reflection, academic confidence, and a strong foundation for humanities study in college.
Lead Your Next Chapter: Confidence, Clarity, and Purpose
Leadership Development
Session 1:June 1-12
Session 3: July 6-17
Days & Times:
Mon-Fri, 9:00am-3:00pm
Instructor:
Obi Uzoma
Taught by a former Navy Officer, graduate of Pepperdine’s MBA program, and Certified Professional Coach, this powerful course helps students strengthen self-leadership, decision-making, and resilience as they prepare for college and beyond. Through reflective exercises, group dialogue, and practical goal-setting frameworks, students will clarify their values, identify their unique strengths, and develop confidence in navigating change. Families will appreciate how the course fosters accountability, emotional intelligence, and a mindset for success—skills that translate far beyond the college application process.
Voice, Vision, and Brand: Building the Story Only You Can Tell
Leadership Development
Session 1:June 1-12
Session 2: June 15-26
Session 3:July 6-17
Days & Times:
Mon-Fri, 9:00am-3:00pm
Instructor:
JD Slajchert
In this experiential course, JD Slajchert—athlete turned author, philanthropist, and TED speaker—helps students transform their lived experiences into powerful stories. Through writing labs and performance workshops, participants will develop their communication style, define their personal mission, and learn to express their unique brand voice across diverse platforms.
The Art of Modern Communication: Storytelling, Media, and Influence in a Digital World
Digital Media, Business Strategy and Brand Development
Explore how ideas spread, stories shape perception, and voices build influence in today’s connected world. Through hands-on projects in digital storytelling, visual communication, and persuasive messaging, students learn to express themselves with clarity, authenticity, and impact—on screen, online, and in person. Perfect for aspiring leaders, creators, and innovators who want to strengthen their confidence and presence in any medium.
Careers Pathways to Medicine, Wellness, and Human Performance
Exercise Science / Public Health
Discover the diverse and dynamic world of health-related professions—from medicine and nursing to physical therapy, psychology, public health, and emerging wellness technologies. Through hands-on activities, guest speakers, and real-world case studies, students gain insight into what it takes to thrive in health and human service careers. They’ll explore connections between science, compassion, and leadership while developing a clearer vision of their future college and career goals.
Introduction to Engineering Pathways
Computer Science / Chemistry / Physics
This course introduces students to the diverse world of engineering—its disciplines, foundational principles, and impact on society. Students explore major fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, environmental, and biomedical engineering while examining the core scientific, mathematical, and design coursework required for each. Through guest speakers, project-based learning, and case studies, students gain insight into real-world engineering problems, teamwork dynamics, and ethical responsibilities in the profession. The course also familiarizes students with essential academic and professional skills such as technical communication, systems thinking, and problem-solving. By the end of the course, students will understand the educational pathways, career options, and societal contributions of engineers and will be prepared to make informed decisions about pursuing future studies in engineering or related fields.
Beginning Cinema Production
Film & TV
An introduction to single-camera film and television production, including electronic news gathering, electronic field production, basic cinematic storytelling, beginning video and audio editing, introductory lighting, and on-camera performance for television. Students will write, film, and produce short video packages for student media outlets such as student newspapers, radio podcasts and local news outlets.