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University of Michigan

Curricula & Classes

  • TopActing
    • Creative Expression Through Acting:  What no script? No scenery?! No need to worry. Through extensive game and role playing, using a variety of acting techniques from across the world, a short play is developed using the characters you and your peers create. The course culminates in a presentation for the entire Summer Discovery group. No prior acting or improvisational experience necessary - attitude is much more important than aptitude.
  • TopAdvertising
    • AdCult: Advertising and American Culture:  How effective is advertising in shaping public opinion? Does subliminal advertising really work? Is advertising worth the investment? What makes ads work and why? Learn the keys to effective advertising as you prepare an advertising campaign for a business or non-profit organization in the Ann Arbor community.
  • TopArchitecture and Design
    • Architectural Design:  Offered during the 3 week session only. A unique opportunity to design buildings, and explore spaces and places. Working in both the studio and the workshop you will prepare design proposals by exploring space and form. You will learn how to make drawings, build models and mock-ups to develop your ideas and plans as well as to make presentations of them to others. Explore architecture, the process of becoming an architect, and the relationship between the two. Field trips, panel discussions, and hands-on demonstrations include tours of architectural offices, and a building walk-through via computer. No experience necessary.
      Approximately $75 will be needed to purchase materials on campus.
    • Introduction to Graphic Design:  Offered during the 3 week session only. Students explore the use of text and image, the building blocks of graphic design through several two-dimensional projects. Discover the elements of color, texture, design, and layout. To bring together technology, image and text, a computer design component is included. Through interactive learning, students learn about the exciting field of graphic design, including various professional applications, the printing process and discussions with graphic designers. No experience necessary. Approximately $75 will be needed to purchase materials on campus.
      Courses may be taken separately.
  • TopArts in Ann Arbor
    • Painting and Drawing - Inside and Out:  Ann Arbor and its environs are the ideal “outdoor classroom” for this studio class. You will have the opportunity to learn a variety of painting and drawing techniques focusing on the fundamental of observation and the perception of space. Students work in various media that includes pencil, charcoal, and watercolor. Emphasis is placed on each student’s individual artistic direction and development of technical skills. Students exhibit their work in the Alice Lloyd Hall gallery.
    • Computer Enhancement & Digital Photography:  Digital Photography, a radically different technique from conventional photography, has changed the world of photography. This class will help you understand how film images are digitally captured, processed, stored and retrieved. You will learn how to enhance your own photographs and how to express yourself through captured and edited images. If you like computers and cameras, this course is for you.
      Students are required to bring their own digital cameras and connection cables.
  • TopBusiness
    • Personal Finance and Entrepreneurship:  Students learn the principles of investing and saving, including stocks and bonds. Discuss credit and investment, the difference between the NYSE and the NASDAQ, and how to deal with interest rates in an easy to understand way. Students make their own individual mock stock portfolios, and will monitor them throughout the class. Then, take your new found investing knowledge and research how to start a business of your own. This program is designed to help students take charge of their own financial life.
  • TopCommunications
    • Introduction to Mass Communications:  An introduction to the fields of mass communication, group and interpersonal communication. Modes of media and effects of mass communication, interpersonal processes and communication theory on individuals and society are explored. Varied media including newspapers, magazines, books, radio, television, film and advertising are covered. One of our most popular courses.
    • Interpersonal Communication:  What factors affect communication between two people? Why is it that communication skills are the number one element that employers look for in job applicants? Students explore the basic elements of interpersonal communication in today’s society. Special attention is given to perception, culture, emotion, listening, gender differences, self-disclosure, and conflict management. Students will be given the “tools” to improve their communication skills and personal relationships through techniques, exercises, and discussion. The study of Interpersonal Communication is known to help individuals get to know themselves better and enhance our day-to-day interactions by assessing our own strengths and weaknesses.
    • The Turbulent 60’s in Film, Music and Literature:  “The whole world is watching, the whole world is watching,” chanted the young activist demonstrators outside the 1968 Democratic National Convention. And, indeed they were. The 1960’s were a time of tremendous social change in the USA and abroad. From civil rights, women’s rights, anti-war sentiment, substance experimentation, to the sexual revolution, it was a time of great upheaval. How were these times reflected in the media of the day? We examine the films, the music and lyrics, and the writings of the day - and look for some answers.
  • TopESL
    • ESL - English as a Second Language for Our International Students:  If you want to improve your English language skills, you’ll find this course of special interest. Taught by a certified ESL instructor, classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and conversation skills. Students will have the opportunity to improve their English language skills by exploring and experiencing the Michigan campus and the greater Ann Arbor community.
  • TopExploring Medicine
    • An Introduction to Careers in Medicine and Health Science:  Exploring the exciting world of medicine and health science is made easy with the world renown University of Michigan Medical Center and state-of-the-art Cardiovascular Center directly across the street from our residence hall. This course is a combination of lectures, informational guest speakers from a variety of medical specialties (nurses, physicians, clinicians, administrators), as well as field trips through some of the nine health centers that comprise the University of Michigan Medical Center campus. Discussions of current medical topics of interest include medical ethics, managed care, cardiovascular medicine, AIDS and cancer research, and health care reform. Medical and health science preparation and practice are explored in this unique and useful pre-college experience.
  • TopFilm and Video
    • Film Analysis and Critique:  Look closer. Why do filmmakers make the casting, location, and narrative choices they do? How do directors tell stories with camera angles? How are movies marketed and how does that affect the viewing experience? Learn how to look for deeper meaning in movies by screening and discussing contemporary films. Get equipped with the terminology and observational skills to talk (and write) about movies in a more meaningful way. Note: Some R rated films may be viewed.
    • Screenwriting: Writing a Screenplay for a Film:  Why not try your hand at becoming the next great screenwriter? This course will teach you the basic concepts of screenwriting: structure, character, plot and dialogue. You will also screen movies with traditional three-act structure to better understand how a script is broken down. Brainstorm with actors and fellow students to create a screenplay draft by the end of the session.
    • Lights, Camera, Action! Video Production:  Capture a bit of Hollywood and take your places for an all-out experience. You’ll learn multi-camera video production while you act, write, direct or produce an original production. Be it soap opera dramatics, thriller scenes, comedy sketches or music videos, you’re part of the creative process leading to your very own video to showcase at your private screening.
  • TopFitness, Sports & Health
    • Healthy Lifestyle:  Experience health and fitness a-la SHAPE Magazine. This class is designed to capture all of the appeal of a state-of-the-art health spa in a class format (with an actual visit to a spa). This course utilizes guest speakers, trainers, fitness instructors and nutritionists to create a total mind-body wellness experience. The class will be broken up into a series of mini-units:
      •Fitness fitness testing and an aerobic sampler (cardio combat, cardio hip hop).
      •Strength Training work with a trainer to create a moderate impact personal weight training program.
      •Spirit learn about the effects of stress on the body and about the benefits of a stretching and meditation program. Attend a yoga and Pilates sampler class
      •Nutrition attend a nutrition class and learn about the components of a healthy and balanced diet.
      •Natural Body Care aromatherapy, essential oils, organic beauty product workshop.
      •Personal Services spend one class at an actual spa where you will experience at least one aspect (manicure/pedicure, facial, massage, or reflexology) of the spa lifestyle.

      $195 supplement
  • TopLaw & Order
    • Truth, Justice, and the American Way:  Explore the criminal justice system in the U.S. from the perspective of the courts, law enforcement officials, victims, and criminals. Class discusses contemporary moral and legal problems directly affecting today’s high school and college students, including family issues, abortion, AIDS, and teenagers place within the American legal system, and society at large.
    • American Government and Current Events:  Through a study of our governmental institutions in action, students gain an understanding of our national identity, constitutional heritage, civic values, individual rights and responsibilities. We also discuss what’s happening now, including today’s headlines, civil liberties and their effect on you. Class sessions incorporate primary sources, guest speakers, role-playing, debates, and panel discussions to encourage student participation and promote active citizenship in a democracy.
    • Crime Scene Investigation / CSI:Michigan:  Successful CSI utilizes a step-by-step process in the discovery, preservation, and collection of physical evidence. Examine the techniques professionals use to collect and preserve evidence from crime scenes. Learn about crime scene management; diagramming and sketching; photography; fingerprint, trace, physiological and firearms evidence; arson and explosives, and safety issues.
  • TopMusic - Listen & Play
    • Play that Guitar (for Beginners and Advanced Players):  Have you ever played “air guitar” or Guitar Hero? Now you have the opportunity to learn for real. Master basic guitar techniques including fingering, chords, and sight reading with an emphasis on popular music. The course will culminate in a performance for the entire Summer Discovery group. Bring your own acoustic guitar, or rental equipment is available for approximately $30. There will be separate beginner and advanced sections. Please specify which section on the Course Registration Form.
    • Play the Electric Bass:  Popular music without a bass line is like a day without sunshine. Instructors from the Ann Arbor Music Center teach the complex mastery of this basic four string instrument. Equipment rentals are available for approximately $30.
  • TopPhilosophy
    • Everyday Philosophy: Thinking About Life:  Ever wonder what your own philosophy of life would be? Stumped about how to win more arguments against your parents? What does it mean to be happy? Philosophy is a subject that helps people find understanding in everyday ideas. Historically, great thinkers have used philosophy to find a greater appreciation for life. Course develops critical thinking skills by covering topics that are relevant to your life including goal setting, the college experience, empowerment, leadership, logical reasoning and volunteering. Learn more about life, prepare for your future, and how to live everyday to its fullest!
  • TopPsychology / Sociology
    • Introduction to Psychology:  You’ll gain an understanding of the basics of psychology with this introductory survey of the field. Topics include: psychological development, sensory processes, perception, motivation, emotion, learning, thinking, intelligence, attitudes, social problems, and personality. Psychological experiments are conducted to enhance the classroom experience.
    • Sociology and Society:  The study of human behavior within a group or culture. This course will look at childhood development, family and social relationships, deviance (gangs, drugs, crime), race relations, population explosion, sexuality and gender identification, and large scale social change. Sociological experiments are conducted to enhance the classroom experience.
    • Sports in Society:  Explore the impact that professional and collegiate athletics have on American society as you read and discuss key issues with university coaches and athletes. Topics include: race and sports, women in sports, violence in sports, drug use and abuse, recruitment ethics and higher education and the college athlete.
  • TopSAT or ACT Preparation
    • SAT Prep Classroom Course (with an ACT Boost) by The Princeton Review (5 weeks only):  This SAT course is structured to produce higher score improvements through updated and expanded verbal skill-building and math instruction. Princeton Review teachers will cover relevant, frequently occurring topics that impact scores the most. Students will receive The Princeton Review’s Hit Parade (250 most tested vocabulary words), ten additional practice SAT exams as well as hundreds of practice questions and drills in their student manual and online student center. Small class size and personal attention, combined with compelling teachers, make class time productive and fun. Students take proctored practice exams and receive individualized score reports to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. Once back at home, students will complete the final piece of their review – an online Fall Wrap Up. Students will be able to log onto this online review session from their home or anywhere they can get an internet connection. Students throughout the country are realizing that they have a choice when it comes to college entrance exams and accordingly, many of them are now taking the ACT in addition to (or instead of) the SAT. With the ACT Boost, The Princeton Review will cover the content and strategies that are unique to the ACT while also reviewing the test taking strategies common to both the SAT and ACT. Students who participate in this concise and interactive program will receive a full set of Princeton Review ACT course materials. Satisfaction Guaranteed: The Princeton Review guarantees that students who attend all classes and tests, complete all assigned homework, attend their online Fall Wrap-up and sit for the October or November SAT will be satisfied with their scores on their actual exam. Any student not satisfied with his or her fall SAT scores may attend a Refresher course at no fee at a Princeton Review location. ($795 Supplement - includes all books and classroom materials)
      $795 Supplement - includes all books and classroom materials
    • SAT Prep Classroom Courses by The Princeton Review (3 weeks only):  This improved course is geared to produce higher and quicker score improvements and includes updated and expanded vocabulary, verbal skill-building and math instruction. The course covers relevant, frequently-occurring topics that impact scores the most and includes ten additional practice SAT exams, and hundreds of practice questions and drills in the manual and online student center. Also featured is a revised SAT “Hit Parade”, a list of 250 vocabulary words most often found in the Reading section of the test, plus mini vocabulary lists specific to the Math and Reading sections. Small class size and personal attention, combined with compelling teachers, make course time productive and fun. Students take proctored practice exams and receive individualized score reports to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. In addition, a new college admissions component teaches students how to research, apply and get in to the best college for their abilities. Includes a Fall Wrap-up session of an additional practice test plus a three hour review session prior to the fall tests. Satisfaction Guaranteed: Students who complete all classes, tests and homework, and attend the Fall Wrap-up, will be satisfied with their scores. If not, the student may attend a Refresher course at no fee at a Princeton Review location.
      $695 Supplement - includes all books and classroom materials.
    • Beat the SAT by the Princeton Review (2 weeks only):  (Choose preparation for either the PSAT/SAT or the ACT.) Getting into college can be a challenge, but it doesn’t need to be stressful. The Princeton Review’s PSAT/SAT preparation program provides thorough instruction in the math, critical reading and writing skills tested by these exams, plus test taking techniques and strategies you will need to perform at your best. You won’t find higher teacher standards than at The Princeton Review. Teachers have not only insanely high test scores, but superior teaching and communication skills. They undergo an intense Princeton Review certification program which only the best survive. Each class is limited in size and, where possible, students are grouped according to shared test-taking strengths and weaknesses. Personalized attention gets superior results. Throughout your program you will take proctored practice diagnostic tests to simulate the experience of taking the real SAT. Following each exam, you will receive a personalized score report that provides detailed analysis of your performance, and makes recommendations to help you focus subsequent study. Your program includes a Fall Wrap-up session scheduled just prior to the actual fall tests. The Wrap-up session consists of an additional proctored practice diagnostic test plus a three hour review session.
      $595 Supplement - includes all books and classroom materials
    • SAT or ACT Small Group Tutoring (3 Students Maximum) by The Princeton Review (5 weeks only):  Choose preparation for either the PSAT/SAT or the ACT by The Princeton Review. Take the structure of our classroom course, combine it with the personalization of a tutor and you get Small Group Tutoring. This program groups three students with an experienced tutor, handpicked from our most gifted teachers, in a preparation program that’s built around you. As in the classroom course, students will receive thorough instruction in all skills tested by these exams. Students will also take proctored practice tests and receive personalized score reports pinpointing their strengths and weaknesses. If you learn best with personal instruction and enjoy working with a small group, this is right for you. Your program includes a Fall Wrap-up session that consists of an additional proctored practice test plus a three hour review session prior to the Fall tests.
      $1,500 Supplement - includes all books and classroom materials
  • TopSkill Building
    • Skills For Academic Success:  Students develop skills that will help them succeed in high school and college. Topics include: Time management, note taking, listening, test taking, improving memory skills, using a college library, the effects of caffeine and other stimulants, and setting personal and academic goals. Being a good student requires special skills before you enter the classroom, while you are in class and after you leave class. Acquire these skills and improve your academic abilities and success.
    • Reading for Comprehension (and Speed):  Increase your reading speed dramatically while improving your ability to understand what you read. Learn and practice proven reading techniques that enable you to acquire skills that benefit you for life. Course is enhanced by individualized computer work that accurately measures improvement in reading speed, accuracy and retention.
    • Public Speaking and Debate:  Do you avoid speaking in public? Want to prepare yourself for college interviews? Would you like to increase your chances at winning an argument with your parents? Learn the fundamentals of public speaking including verbal and non-verbal techniques, delivery styles, audience analysis, speech topic selection and proven methods for overcoming speech and interview anxieties. Course is offered in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.
  • TopSpecial Coed Class in Golf
    • Intensive Golf:  The University of Michigan’s award winning Alister MacKenzie designed golf course and intercollegiate golf program are among the best in the USA. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn, practice, and play under the expert instruction of Cheryl Stacy, U-M’s women’s golf coach. Coach Stacy and her assistants instruct small co-ed groups at Michigan’s state-of-the-art practice/ training facility which includes a new million dollar driving range, putting greens and sand traps.

      The course meets each morning and included two 9-hole rounds and one 18 hole round on the U. of Michigan golf course during each session (rounds require early morning wake-up). The course recently underwent a 3.3 million dollar restoration under the guidance of famed golf course architect Arthur Hills. The program is open to motivated golfers of all ability levels. PLEASE NOTE: Inform us of your playing ability on your Course Registration Form.

      Additional weekend rounds of golf are available at the par-72 Huron Ills and Leslie Park golf courses, green fees are additional.
      $375 supplement
  • TopSpecial Program in Dance
    • Jazz Dance:  This dance class approaches jazz dance as creative art and technical dance forms. It also provides a dynamic and exciting learning environment where students can expand their concept and understanding of the definition and limits of jazz dance. Essentially, this class will inspire, renew and ignite a greater passion for dance. Open to beginner and advanced students. No audition is necessary for this great class! All that is required is a strong desire to learn something exciting.
      Dance classes may be taken individually.
    • Improvisational Dance:  An introduction to the process of spontaneous movement discovery involving solo and group movement experiences. In this course, students will explore basic improvisational concepts dealing with space, time, and energy, as well as contact improvisation, music improvisation, the use of text and authentic movement. Open to beginner and advanced students. No audition is necessary for this great class! All that is required is a strong desire to learn something exciting.
      Dance classes may be taken individually.
  • TopSport Management
    • Sport Management: When Big Business Meets Fun and Games - Behind the Marketing of Sport in the USA:  If you’re interested in business and have a passion for sports, take a time-out this summer and make the U. of Michigan’s Sport Management Program your goal. Students score big learning about one of the most high stakes games in American business, the marketing of sport.

      Topics include: the evolution of sport marketing in the United States; consumer identification with sport teams, players, and sporting goods companies; women and the business of sport; the influence of sport marketing on racial ideology; the relationship between sport marketing and big-time college sport; selling the Olympic Games, etc. Students will have the opportunity to tour the Palace of Auburn Hills (home of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons and the WBNA’s Detroit Shock) and University of Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic facilities, including Michigan Stadium (a.k.a., “The Big House). In addition, students learn from a number of guest speakers from a variety of sectors of the sport industry. Previous visitors have included U of M’s Associate Director of Athletics and Director of Media Relations, a director of sponsorship for a pro hockey team, a former NFL star running back, and a legendary University of Michigan football coach. The course is led by Dr. Jay Basten, a dynamic senior lecturer in Michigan’s Sport Management Program.
      This program uses faculty of the School of Kinesiology’s Sport Management Program at the prestigious U. of Michigan. Students may attend the course for 2, 3 or a full 5 weeks.
  • TopThe Art of Rock Performance
    • Intensive Rock 'N Roll Boot Camp & Performance Institute:  Have you dreamed of playing in a band? Honing your skills on guitar, bass, drums, keyboards or saxophone? Write, perform and record original songs, and your favorite covers in this acclaimed course. The first hour will be spent in private or small group lessons to master the instrument of your choice. The Ann Arbor Music Center teachers are experienced, superb musicians and band members who are committed to the belief that every student learns differently, and inspire creativity in each individual. The second hour students gather in the “well appointed” practice /performance rooms at the Music Center (complete with amps, PA’s, mics, drums, and keyboards), and bands are formed based on skill level and musical interest. Students learn every element of rock band rehearsal and performance. In addition, students learn songs for rhythm, melody, style, improvisation, soloing, and ensemble playing.
      The program culminates with performances for the entire Summer Discovery group at Starbucks in downtown Ann Arbor and the beautiful Mendelssohn Theater. Be a rock star this summer!
    • Rock N' Roll University:  School was never like this. Learn everything there is to know about rock music and the instruments which drive it.
      Instrument Class: Strengthen your skills on your instrument in a small group setting. Focus will be given to music vocabulary and stage performance.
      Music Business and Marketing: Learn the structure of this vast and ever-changing field and how to work in and around the biz. Learn to create your band image, find gigs and promote your band.
      Rock History: Rock and roll is more than 50 years old. One way to understand where it is going is to know where it came from. We'll learn about learn about music from Blues to Heavy Metal.
      Music Tech: Modern music is increasingly dependent upon the technology that drives it. Students will learn fundamentals of sound reinforcement (e.g. mixing board operation), amplification and stage setup. Discover how to achieve the right sound for your musical style.
    • Classic Rock Band Camp featuring The Beatles and Led Zeppelin:  Learn what it takes to play like the most influential rock bands in history. Embellish on the sounds of the 60’s and 70’s through the libraries of these two legendary rock bands. Students will learn to emulate the Beatles, note for note, as well as learn every step of Stairway to Heaven and other Led Zeppelin songs. This class is open to singers, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, and drummers.
    • Jazz Now - Improvisation and Performance:  This program, for intermediate to advanced level musicians, offers a diverse, unique journey into the world of jazz with group courses and workshops in Jazz History and Theory, Improvisation, Ensemble Performance, Composition and Arranging. Students will attend jam sessions, private lessons and exciting local jazz performances. Work on soloing, mastering melodies, sharpening your performance skills. (Students must be able to read music for their instrument and have basic skills. Instruments may include: Saxophone, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Flute, Bass, Guitar, Drums, Piano/Keyboard.
  • TopWriting
    • Essay Writing Workshop:  Write your way to self-discovery as you practice writing the personal essay. This workshop will prepare you for the writing of college application essays, but more importantly, it will arm you with the tools, techniques and attitudes essential to successful writing in high school and college.
    • Imaginative Writing Workshop:  What you might know as “creative writing”, this is a workshop in which you will cultivate your imagination as you explore writing as art. You will experiment and collaborate as you investigate some of the writing practices of published poets, novelists, and short story writers. Participants will write pieces for inclusion in our student literary magazine.
    • Journalism and Reporting:  Designed to provide an understanding of how to gather material from a variety of sources and weave it into a clear, organized, and complete news story. Students will learn how to report and write hard news, features, and profiles and explore the differences between print and broadcast journalism. Journalists share tips for polishing writing, reporting for college newspapers, and breaking into the profession. See if you have the news bug!
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