The University of Chicago Summer
Biomolecules of Life - Session 2

Biomolecules of Life - Session 2


Course Status: Pre-College Application: Jan 2026

Applications for Pre-College courses will open in early January. We encourage you to review the courses offered below. Remember: you can select up to 3 in your application. We look forward to seeing you!

Course Description

This course will introduce students to the molecular building blocks of life (i.e., proteins, including enzymes, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids) and explain their structure and function.

You will also learn how these molecules impact human health and contribute to disorders and diseases. Lab work will involve modern techniques used in biochemical and molecular biology research such as molecular modeling, rational drug design, and enzymatic assays.

At the end of the course, students will work in groups to prepare a final project focused on a disease or biological process of interest. Exams will also be used to assess students' understanding.

Course Criteria

Students who have completed one year of high school chemistry are more likely to be successful in this course. In particular, students should have some familiarity with chemical bonding and acid-base reactions.

Lab Intensive
The majority of class time will be spent in the lab.

Academic Interest

Biological Sciences

Application Materials

A complete application includes a transcript, two short essays, a letter of recommendation, writing sample, application fee, and a submitted parent confirmation. If you are seeking need-based financial aid, you must indicate that in your application before it is submitted. Please refer to the Application Instructions for complete details.

Instructor(s)

Wen Yi Low

Cost

$9,300

Need-based financial aid is available. Students should refer the Costs & Aid page and apply for aid when they submit their application to Summer Session.

Course Duration

3 Week Immersion

Session

Session 2

Arrival & Departure Dates

July 5th - July 24th

Course Dates

July 7th - July 23rd

Class Days

Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

Class Time

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Eligibility

9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade

Course Code

BIOS 10016 31

Modality

Residential

Syllabus

Preview Sample Syllabus

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