Center for Talent Development
CTD supports gifted youth through a variety of educational programs for students in Pre-K through high school.
Pre-Collegiate Programs
Instilling a love of learning.
In our many pre-collegiate programs, education and fun go hand in hand.
Even though it looks like fun, Northwestern takes its supplemental enrichment programs seriously. From credit-granting coursework to weekend music lessons, children and teens can take advantage of Northwestern faculty, resources and academic expertise.
Programs for K-12 Students
Bienen School of Music's Music Academy
Bienen faculty provide private and group lessons in piano, violin, viola, cello and guitar. Play-based Kindermusik classes are also available.
Northwestern Pre-College Online Program
The year-round programs features dynamic video lessons covering a wide range of subjects taught by our renowned faculty and includes support from an expert mentor.
Programs for High School Students
Bienen Summer Performance Workshops
These one-week, intensive summer programs are designed to challenge young musicians and advance musical skills.
College Preparation Program
In this program, high school students may enroll in undergraduate courses for credit, and online and on-campus certificate programs.
Medill-Northwestern Journalism Institute
This summer program gives rising seniors, or "Cherubs," experience in print, broadcast and digital media.
National High School Institute
NHSI offers summer programs with concentrations in theater, musical theater, film & video, playwriting and debate.
Northwestern Academy for Chicago Public Schools
This free multi-year college preparation program is for Chicago public high school students.
Research Experiences in Astronomy at CIERA for High School Students
REACH summer program provides Chicagoland high school students with experience in astronomy research with mentorship from professional scientists.
The caliber of students far exceeded my expectations. They came from a diverse range of areas and backgrounds, and each brought unique perspectives to the table. It was my first time being around peers who truly understood my passion and love for journalism, and it was incredible to feel that connection instantly. In a group of 90, we got to know one another quickly, sharing ideas, insights and excitement in a way that made the program feel both challenging and deeply energizing.”
Ruby Kilar, Summer 2025 student, Medill-Northwestern Journalism Institute