The University of Chicago Summer
Creating Computer Games for Learning

Creating Computer Games for Learning


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

As the computing field continues to advance, interdisciplinary applications of computer science are of increasing importance. This class focuses on a fun approach to the challenge and necessity of designing for human users: creating computer games for learning.

We will learn game programming and explore concepts in game design, psychology, and education theory as we create our own educational computer games, where incorporating personal experiences and interests will be highly encouraged. During this process, we will meet active researchers in the field to discuss what they are using computer games to teach and how their games are effectively teaching it.

Discussion Intensive
The majority of class time will be devoted to seminar-style learning.
Coding Intensive
Students should expect daily class and homework activities to involve coding.

Academic Interest

Computer Science, Data Science, Math, and Statistics, Physical Sciences (e.g., astronomy, physics), Technology (e.g., Computer Science, Molecular Engineering)

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)

Minh Tran

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

CMSC 19929 30

Modality

Residential