Science Honors Program (SHP)

The Columbia University Science Honors Program (SHP) is highly selective for students with exceptional talent in mathematics and the sciences. Interested students may apply during their ninth, tenth, or eleventh grade to enter the program the following academic year. Students must apply online.

Application to the program is via our online portal. Students should use a non-school affiliated email to ensure messages are not filtered to spam folders. The application will open in early February. 

Your information is transmitted through a secured server and is kept confidential until you submit your application. Your application will only be reviewed after submission. If you have any questions about the Science Honors application, please email [email protected].

After a complete application is submitted, the applicant should receive a confirmation e-mail indicating successful submission. 

You must pay an application fee by credit card or request a fee waiver prior to application submission. Applications can only be processed once the application fee is paid.

Your recommendation provider will be automatically notified and asked to submit their recommendation online. You can subsequently track the status of the submitted application and the receipt of the associated recommendation using your Status Portal. After the close of the application period, applicants will be notified of instructions to sign up for a preferred examination date. The exam is administered online and takes about two-hours to complete.

We are pleased that we are continuing into our 68th year in the Science Honors Program. The annual tuition for the 2025-2026 school year will be $700 per year (with $350 due at the beginning of each semester). Tuition waivers may be available for students with documented financial hardships; waivers will be granted after the admissions process, and all applications will receive equal consideration regardless of need.

You must pay an application fee by credit card or request a fee waiver prior to application submission. Applications can only be processed once the application fee is paid.

Your recommendation provider will be automatically notified and asked to submit their recommendation online. You can subsequently track the status of the submitted application and the receipt of the associated recommendation using your Status Portal. After the close of the application period, applicants will be notified of which examination date they have been assigned and will be able to print out an examination admission form that must be brought to the examination on the given date. 

We are pleased that we are continuing into our 69th year in the Science Honors Program. The annual tuition for the 2026-2027 school year will be $900 per year (with $450 due at the beginning of each semester). Returning students will continue with $700 per year (with $350 due at the beginning of each semester).

Tuition waivers may be available for students with documented financial hardships; waivers will be granted after the admissions process, and all applications will receive equal consideration regardless of need.

To apply, indicate interest on the SHP program application and complete the following documents:

1. Individual recent pay stubs for parent(s). Indicate if weekly, bi-weekly or monthly pay period.
2. Family Income and Expense Worksheet
3. Parent Non Tax-Filer Certification Form (this is only applicable if not filing a tax return)

Astronomy and Astrophysics: This course will trace our knowledge of the Universe from astronomy's ancient roots in naked-eye observations of the sky to the twenty-first-century studies of extrasolar planetary systems, black holes, and cosmology. Initial topics will include: Newton's laws of motion and gravitation, orbits and space travel, and the properties of planets' surfaces, interiors, and atmospheres. The course will then combine atomic and nuclear physics with stellar and galactic astronomy to describe stars, supernovae, black holes, the interstellar medium, galaxies, the creation of the elements, and the evolution of the universe.

Relativistic Astrophysics: How do black holes launch powerful jets of plasma? Why do pulsars and magnetars shine across the Universe? This course introduces the physics behind some of the most extreme cosmic phenomena, starting from first principles. We will begin with the basics of fluids and plasmas, and then build up the foundations of special and general relativity. From there, we will explore how plasmas behave in strong gravitational and magnetic fields. Finally, we will apply these ideas to understand high-energy astrophysical objects such as pulsars, magnetars, and black holes, as well as the accretion disks and jets that surround supermassive black holes. The course will emphasize both physical intuition and the connections between fundamental physics and cutting-edge astrophysical observations. Students should have completed pre-calculus.

Quantum Physics: The course begins with a historical introduction to quantum physics. We first review the three major areas of classical physics developed before the 20th century: Mechanics, electromagnetism and classical statistical physics. We discuss basics of wave phenomena such as interference and the wave uncertainty principle. We then move on to two major problems that challenged the 20th century physicists and eventually led to the development of quantum theory: The ultraviolet catastrophe and the instability of the classical atomic model. We introduce Bohr's atomic model, the concept of a wavefunction, the Born rule and Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Photoelectric effect, Einstein-Planck formula, De Broglie hypothesis are discussed in the context of wave-particle duality.  We state the postulates of quantum mechanics. If time permits, we briefly introduce the mathematical apparatus of quantum mechanics: Vector spaces. In the rest of the course, we study simple quantum mechanical systems: Particle in a box, two-state systems, quantum tunneling. If time permits, we touch upon the Bohr-Einstein debates, interpretations of Quantum Mechanics and give a brief overview of a research frontier: Quantum Foundations. Students should have completed pre-calculus.

Particle Physics: This course offers an introduction to particle physics. It begins with the history of the field and then develops the core ideas of special relativity and quantum mechanics. Students learn how detectors work and how they allow us to study particles in practice. The Standard Model is presented in detail, followed by its open questions and the search for new physics. Neutrinos receive special attention, with a look at both theory and experiments. The course also explores the role of the Large Hadron Collider, the Higgs boson, and what lies beyond current knowledge. It concludes by connecting particle physics to cosmology, showing how fundamental particles shape the universe on the largest scales.

Classical and Quantum Computing Devices: The course will start by discussing semiconductor devices, including transistors, and how they form the fundamental building block of classical computation. Students will next learn about the fabrication techniques used to build classical and quantum computing devices. We will then discuss the principles of quantum mechanics, showing how entanglement and superposition could usher in a new era of quantum information devices. Students will be exposed to the math underlying quantum physics, learn about the many platforms being used to build qubits in research and industry, and have the opportunity to visit a quantum optics lab at Columbia.

Organic Chemistry with Laboratory: This course combines lectures, laboratory experiments, and demonstrations to provide an introduction to the principles and exciting frontiers of organic chemistry. Students will be introduced to the synthesis of organic compounds and the reaction mechanisms. Lecture topics will include: chemical bonds, structural theory and reactivity, design and synthesis of organic molecules, and spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, IR, NMR) for structure determination. Experiments will introduce common techniques employed in organic chemistry and will include: extraction, recrystallization, thin layer and column chromatography, reflux, and distillation. Note that students must be present for one of the first two classes for mandatory safety training.

Introduction to Organic Chemistry: This lecture course is designed for high school students with a basic understanding of chemistry who are curious about how molecules shape the world around us. In the first half of the course, we will build a fundamental understanding of atomic structure, bonding, and molecular structure using tools like molecular orbital theory. In the second half, we’ll use this background to explore how and why different chemical reactions happen, from simple substitutions to the chemistry behind biomolecules. Each class will begin with new concepts and then move into a hands-on problem-solving session where students collaborate and apply what they’ve learned. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, visualization, and active problem-solving, offering valuable skills and insights for students interested in any STEM pathway.

Introduction to Bioengineering Design: This course will introduce students not only to the background and conceptual workings of modern biotechnology, but also will allow students to design their own biological system for an application of their choice. In this design course, students will learn computer-aided design (CAD), how to incorporate stakeholders’ needs into design, how to virtually build, model and test a genetic circuit, and how to effectively communicate and present their work. This course will also include a panel made up of bioengineering professionals, as well as lab tours of a synthetic biology laboratory on campus.

Introduction to Quantitative Biotechnology: We usually imagine bioengineers in white lab coats, mixing chemicals and working with cells, but there exists a whole aspect of bioengineering that we can do from our computers. In this quantitative biotechnology course, students will learn the computational skills and bioengineering knowledge they need to perform cutting edge genomics techniques, create comprehensive computational models of dynamic biological systems, and more. By the end of this course, students will utilize the skills and knowledge learned to develop their own quantitative biotechnology research project. Note: this course will require the use of a computer. If assistance is needed in acquiring a device for the course, please reach out to the course instructors.

Human Physiology: Drawing on content taught during the first semester of medical school, this lecture-based course provides a systematic introduction to the major systems of the human body, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. Classes cover foundational knowledge regarding the anatomy and physiology of each system and then apply this knowledge to the study of high-yield diseases, showing how molecular mechanisms inform the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of illness. Group discussions and simulated clinical cases complement lecture material in this course, and serve to both reinforce basic science concepts and introduce students to the foundations of clinical medicine. There are no prerequisites for this course, although previous or concurrent coursework in biology (preferably at the AP level) would be helpful.

Immunology and Toxicology: This course will provide students with an overview of the immune system. Students will learn the cellular and non-cellular components of the immune system and how they respond in different contexts such as infection, cancer, and autoimmunity. Students will also learn about the intersection of the immune system with toxicants that impact the immune system and cause adverse effects such as immunosuppression and hypersensitivity. During our survey of these topics, students will engage directly with primary literature, practicing how to read scientific papers, discuss experimental design, and analyze data. This will culminate in a final group presentation on a topic of choice.

The Science of Discovery: This course explores some of the most groundbreaking Nobel Prize–winning discoveries in biology and chemistry, from the structure of DNA to CRISPR genome editing and mRNA vaccines. Together, we will look at what scientists knew at the time, the creative experiments they designed, and the techniques that made their discoveries possible—giving you an introduction to how modern science is actually done. Just as importantly, we will connect these breakthroughs to their impact today, from advances in medicine and biotechnology to the way we understand life at the molecular level. By the end of the course, you’ll not only appreciate the science behind these Nobel Prizes, but also gain insight into how scientists think, design experiments, and push the boundaries of knowledge.

Social Science Research Techniques for STEM Projects: It is necessary for social science research to be part of most STEM research and development. The course teaches students how to think socially about STEM research projects and interests through human centered approaches to research, and ethics in research. Students will learn about various social science research methods (i.e., survey, interview, content analysis, and ethnography) and get hands-on experience with these methods through workshops and educational exercises for their own individual social science mock-research project. At the end of the course the students will have knowledge of how to apply social science research methods to STEM research projects.

Computer Programming in Python: Students will learn the basics of programming using Python. Topics will include: variables, operators, loops, conditionals, input/output, objects, classes, methods, basic graphics, and fundamental principles of computer science. Approximately half of the class time will be spent working on the computer to experiment with the topics covered. Some previous programming experience will be helpful but is not required.

Applied Data Structures in Python: This course introduces students to the design, analysis, and implementation of fundamental data structures using Python. Students will strengthen their syntactic fluency and algorithmic thinking by engaging with classic programming problems and hands-on coding practice. The course integrates brief mathematical and logical foundations to provide a deeper understanding of efficiency and complexity. It is designed to be cumulative, with each new concept building upon previous material to reinforce retention and mastery. Class sessions emphasize supervised implementation and guided exercises, ensuring students build confidence and independence in problem-solving. Particular attention is given to developing not only accuracy but also speed, a crucial skill for both competitive and real-world programming.

Powering the Future: The Physics of Fusion Energy: Climate change and growing global energy demand have in recent years driven research into new forms of electricity production that are more sustainable than coal, oil, and gas. Due to its relative safety, cleanliness, flexibility, and fuel availability, fusion has long been sought after as the optimal method of power generation. In order to achieve fusion, matter needs to be heated up to temperatures exceeding that of the sun. Matter this hot generally exists as a plasma, known as the fourth state of matter. This course, which aims to give students a background in fusion energy, will be taught by members of the Columbia Plasma Physics Laboratory. The course will cover the potential importance of fusion energy, historical and current approaches to fusion, and basic plasma physics necessary to understanding fusion-relevant plasmas. The course will involve lectures, but will heavily incorporate interactive demonstrations and labs that will give students the tools to prepare them for further study of plasma physics and fusion.

Bench to Broadcast: Science Communication: Bill Nye, Carl Sagan, Stephen Hawking, Sabine Hossenfelder, Mythbusters, Kurzgesagt… You may have heard of some of these science communicators or been inspired by them to pursue science yourself! In this course, we will examine different forms of science communication, from live talks to written content to movies and games, to learn how to make science interesting, understandable, and memorable. Incorporating lessons from science communication examples, students will develop a talk about a science topic of their choice and present it to the class in the style of a TED talk.

Theoretical Physics from the Geometric Point of View: The central theme of this course is the relationship between geometry and theoretical physics. In contrast to the geometry of lines, circles, and triangles in the plane we learn in high school, modern geometry starts with the idea of a space as a manifold. According to Einstein, this abstract notion describes the physical space we live in and the force of gravity. Remarkably the other forces of nature, the electromagnetic, strong, and weak nuclear forces, can also be understood in a geometrical manner. The main goal of this course is to get a flavour for this geometrical reformulation.

We will start by explaining the notion of a manifold and explore the related ideas of metrics and fibre bundles. We will then see how this mathematical language is used in relativity, Einstein's famous theory of gravity. After a minor detour through group theory, the mathematical study of symmetry, we will see how geometry can be applied to give a description of the other forces. 

All of the above areas fall under the umbrella of classical physics, in contrast to quantum physics, a revolutionary theory of how microscopic objects behave. The tension between classical and quantum physics is most apparent for the force of gravity. The synthesis of the two subjects is known as quantum gravity. Is there a quantum version of geometry? Time permitting we will explore potential answers to this question. 

Social Statistics: Sociology is the study of human societies, and statistics is one of the primary tools used to understand social patterns and relationships. This course provides an introduction to both sociology and statistics, with an emphasis on how they work together in social research. Students will learn how to analyze population and survey data, and how to design studies that allow researchers to draw accurate conclusions. The course includes a strong discussion component, encouraging students to critically evaluate institutional assumptions and consider how default research methods can be modified to better represent social realities. By the end of the course, students will be able to critique existing social statistical studies and develop their own.

Classical Statistics for Scientific Data Analysis: This course introduces the mathematical foundations and practical applications of classical statistics, following the structure of Glen Cowan’s Statistical Data Analysis. Topics include probability theory, common probability distributions, Monte Carlo methods, parameter estimation, hypothesis testing, regression, interval estimation, and the treatment of systematic uncertainties. We will also briefly touch on Bayesian concepts and modern extensions. Students will practice applying these tools to simulated events, gaining an appreciation of how statistical inference is performed in real scientific analyses. 

Fall 2025

September 20 - First day of classes, plenary talks

Sept 27 - Classes

Oct 4 - Classes

Oct 11 - Classes

Oct 18 - Classes

Oct 25 - Classes

Nov 1 - Classes

Nov 8 - Classes

Nov 15 - Classes

Nov 22 - Classes

Nov 29 - No classes, Thanksgiving weekend

Dec 6 - Classes

Dec 13 - Last day of classes

Spring 2026

Jan 24 - First day of classes, plenary talks

Jan 31 - Classes

Feb 7 - Classes

Feb 14 - Classes

Feb 21 - Classes

Feb 28 - Classes

Mar 7 - Classes

Mar 14 - Classes

Mar 21 - No classes, Columbia Spring break

Mar 28 - Classes

Apr 4 - No classes, Easter weekend

Apr 11 - Classes

Apr 18 - Classes

Apr 25 - Last day of classes