Pre-College Experience in Physics

PREP is a summer science program for selected students currently in 9th or 10th grade from Rochester area public and private high schools. Our aim is to encourage young women's interest in science. Occasionally 8th grade students are accepted.

                                       THE 2023 PREP PROGRAM IS CANCELED.

The two week commuter program, on the University of Rochester campus, provides an introduction to physics and science through a sequence of hands-on, inquiry-driven activities with experienced instructors. Tours of many of the University's research facilities and presentations by researchers give PREP students exposure to a range of science and technology careers.

Participants will:

  • Learn about the "laws of physics" by seeing them in action
  • See how these skills and concepts relate to real life
  • Meet real scientists as an exploration of scientific careers
  • Find out new things and get a taste of college science
  • HAVE FUN with other students interested in science!

Please note:

  • Tuition is free to all participants (thanks to the support of our sponsors listed below).
  • Students are expected to commute to the program; housing is not provided.
  • Participants provide their own transportation and lunch.
  • Attendance required: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
  • No previous physics is required. NO HOMEWORK!
  • No college credit is awarded for participation. However, PREP does provide exposure to the college environment, including sessions with current undergraduates and an admissions counselor.

Application to this program can be done using our web-based application form.

The program will NOT run in 2023. 

Alternatively, applicants can also download an application, with current program dates and application deadline. A recent report card should be included in the application package sent to the University. All application materials will be held in confidence by the screening committee and will not be returned. The application deadline is April 30 and acceptance notices will be sent out in early May.

Previous year's flyer are available in black and white (PDF) or color (PDF). You can also check out the report on the 2019 program

For more information, contact:

Ms. Connie Jones, Administrative Assistant
PREP Program
Department of Physics and Astronomy
Bausch and Lomb 253
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY 14627-0171
Voice mail: (585) 275-5306
FAX: (585) 273-3237
Email: connie@pas.rochester.edu

Program Director
Professor Steven Manly
manly@pas.rochester.edu

PREP is organized and supported by: