Summer Session

Summer Session at Bryn Mawr offers co-ed, credit-bearing summer courses for any student entering grades 9-12.

Details & Costs

The full Summer Session will run for five weeks in June and July 2023. Students may complete a one semester/half credit or full credit course during the Summer Session.

Holidays and Break:
School Closed: Juneteenth – June 19, 2023;
Semester Break (Where Applicable): Monday, July 3-4; Classes Resume Wednesday, July 5

Tuition:

  • Half credit courses (2.5 weeks) cost $1150
  • Full credit courses (5 weeks) cost $1650


Need-Based Awards:

Ten $500 need-based awards will be given to students who will currently receive financial aid from The Bryn Mawr School. The application for need-based awards will open on Monday, February 6th and close on  Monday, February 27th. Families will be notified if they have received one of the awards by Monday, March 6th.   

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Offerings by Grade Level

Click on the course title for descriptions.

Rising Grade 9

Accordion Content

Physics – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12 pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

This course stresses methods of inquiry and investigative techniques; it promotes modern scientific literacy, and provides a foundation for advanced work in physics. Major topics explored are the characteristics of, and interaction between, matter and energy, kinematics, forces, momentum, thermodynamics, wave phenomena, electromagnetic waves, electrostatics, electricity, and magnetism. The relationship between physics and the community is emphasized, as is the connection with mathematics and other branches of science.

Geometry – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12 pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

The primary topic of this course is Euclidean geometry. Students learn about lines, angles, triangles, polygons, circles, solids, perimeter, area, and volume. Students develop inductive reasoning skills to help them ascertain geometric properties and deductive reasoning skills to help them write and follow valid geometric proofs and arguments. Strong emphasis is placed on logic and accurate justification of process, as well as spatial visualization.
(Mathematics Department approval is required.)

Introduction to Computer Science – ½ Credit – 2.5 Weeks – Meets 8-12 pm
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement

This project-based course examines computers and computing as they relate to the emerging technologies of today’s world. Students will learn to think algorithmically and methodically to solve problems and write efficient programs. Students program in Python before switching to physical computing with Arduino boards through the C language. Additionally, students will apply these skills to tangible projects. Throughout the course, students will have an opportunity to discuss trends in technology and the future of technology based on current research. Troubleshooting skills will be addressed for all platforms used.

Studio Art Foundations  – ½ Credit, 2.5 Weeks Meets 12:30-4:30 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Studio Art Foundations is an introductory art course designed to teach the four components of art education: production, criticism, history, and aesthetics. Emphasis is placed on the teaching of the Elements and Principles of Art. Through presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and one-on-one check-ins, students will be given the artistic knowledge needed to complete various studio assignments. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a wide variety of materials and learn how to effectively use these media. They will also grow in visual literacy as they learn how to “read,” discuss, and critique works of art.

Graphic Design – ½ Credit – 2.5 Weeks – Meets 8-12 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement

This ½ credit course teaches students the basics of graphic design, including visual cohesiveness, layout, and color usage. Students will use these design concepts to create projects using the software applications Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign and develop a portfolio of pieces ranging from a book cover to a logo design to a magazine. This course will also cover basic advertising principles and teach students how to analyze print design. No previous art or computer knowledge is required.

Rising Grade 10

Accordion Content

AP Statistics – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12pm (OK TO PUBLISH)
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

Statistics is a branch of mathematics that almost all students will find useful as statistics is required for many college majors. Statistics enables one to become a critical reader of articles on research. Topics in both descriptive and inferential statistics are covered, as well as ideas concerning probability. Some of the data explored is collected by students; other information may come from newspapers, government databases, medical data, political and environmental surveys. Simulations and many uses of computer software and graphing calculators are included. Interpretation of statistical results is emphasized. Students are expected to make a considerable commitment of time to this course. All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

AP Computer Science Principles (Asynchronous) – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Asynchronous with bi-weekly student check ins
Dates: June 14 – July 21

In AP Computer Science Principles, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course includes programming, but it also covers other big ideas in computer science: creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, the Internet, and global impact. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

Studio Art Foundations  – ½ Credit, 2.5 Weeks Meets 12:30-4:30 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Studio Art Foundations is an introductory art course designed to teach the four components of art education: production, criticism, history, and aesthetics. Emphasis is placed on the teaching of the Elements and Principles of Art. Through presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and one-on-one check-ins, students will be given the artistic knowledge needed to complete various studio assignments. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a wide variety of materials and learn how to effectively use these media. They will also grow in visual literacy as they learn how to “read,” discuss, and critique works of art.

Graphic Design – ½ Credit – 2.5 Weeks – Meets 8-12 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement

This ½ credit course teaches students the basics of graphic design, including visual cohesiveness, layout, and color usage. Students will use these design concepts to create projects using the software applications Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign and develop a portfolio of pieces ranging from a book cover to a logo design to a magazine. This course will also cover basic advertising principles and teach students how to analyze print design. No previous art or computer knowledge is required.

Geometry – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12 pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

The primary topic of this course is Euclidean geometry. Students learn about lines, angles, triangles, polygons, circles, solids, perimeter, area, and volume. Students develop inductive reasoning skills to help them ascertain geometric properties and deductive reasoning skills to help them write and follow valid geometric proofs and arguments. Strong emphasis is placed on logic and accurate justification of process, as well as spatial visualization.
(Mathematics Department approval is required.)

Rising Grade 11

Accordion Content

Honors Biology –  1 Credit – 5 weeks Meets 8-12 pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
This course will have an in-person lab requirements.
Dates: June 14 – July 21

Topics in cell biology, animal and plant diversity, genetics, behavior, ecology, and evolution, as well as detailed study of plant and animal physiology and anatomy are included. As an honors course, topics are explored in considerable depth, molecular and chemical aspects of biological reactions are considered extensively, and students are expected to learn some material independently. Laboratory activities and the practice of mathematical basic skills are an essential part of the course, as well as scientific method and experimental design. (Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Chemistry or approval of Science Department)

US History –  1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

This course is an introduction to the history of the various peoples who have inhabited the geographical boundaries of the United States from the diverse Native American societies of the 15th century to the contentious groups of Americans of the early 21st century. The interactions, both positive and negative, of these peoples drive forward the narrative of U.S. history and have made the United States what it is today.  We will explore these interactions through the lens of a series of themes, including the balance of the individual and community, struggles for liberty and power, and complex diversity.  The course will also focus on developing key critical thinking and analytical writing skills.  Students will participate in historical simulations, write analytical essays, and complete at least one research paper. The course will conclude with an exam that covers the period from 1865 to the present.

AP Statistics – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12pm (OK TO PUBLISH)
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

Statistics is a branch of mathematics that almost all students will find useful as statistics is required for many college majors. Statistics enables one to become a critical reader of articles on research. Topics in both descriptive and inferential statistics are covered, as well as ideas concerning probability. Some of the data explored is collected by students; other information may come from newspapers, government databases, medical data, political and environmental surveys. Simulations and many uses of computer software and graphing calculators are included. Interpretation of statistical results is emphasized. Students are expected to make a considerable commitment of time to this course. All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

AP Computer Science Principles (Asynchronous) – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Asynchronous with bi-weekly student check ins
Dates: June 14 – July 21

In AP Computer Science Principles, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course includes programming, but it also covers other big ideas in computer science: creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, the Internet, and global impact. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

Studio Art Foundations  – ½ Credit, 2.5 Weeks Meets 12:30-4:30 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Studio Art Foundations is an introductory art course designed to teach the four components of art education: production, criticism, history, and aesthetics. Emphasis is placed on the teaching of the Elements and Principles of Art. Through presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and one-on-one check-ins, students will be given the artistic knowledge needed to complete various studio assignments. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a wide variety of materials and learn how to effectively use these media. They will also grow in visual literacy as they learn how to “read,” discuss, and critique works of art.

Graphic Design – ½ Credit – 2.5 Weeks – Meets 8-12 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement

This ½ credit course teaches students the basics of graphic design, including visual cohesiveness, layout, and color usage. Students will use these design concepts to create projects using the software applications Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign and develop a portfolio of pieces ranging from a book cover to a logo design to a magazine. This course will also cover basic advertising principles and teach students how to analyze print design. No previous art or computer knowledge is required.

Rising Grade 12

Accordion Content

AP Computer Science Principles (Asynchronous) – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Asynchronous with bi-weekly student check ins
Dates: June 14 – July 21

In AP Computer Science Principles, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course includes programming, but it also covers other big ideas in computer science: creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, the Internet, and global impact. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

US History –  1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12pm
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

This course is an introduction to the history of the various peoples who have inhabited the geographical boundaries of the United States from the diverse Native American societies of the 15th century to the contentious groups of Americans of the early 21st century. The interactions, both positive and negative, of these peoples drive forward the narrative of U.S. history and have made the United States what it is today.  We will explore these interactions through the lens of a series of themes, including the balance of the individual and community, struggles for liberty and power, and complex diversity.  The course will also focus on developing key critical thinking and analytical writing skills.  Students will participate in historical simulations, write analytical essays, and complete at least one research paper. The course will conclude with an exam that covers the period from 1865 to the present.

AP Statistics – 1 Credit – 5 weeks – Meets 8-12pm (OK TO PUBLISH)
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Dates: June 14 – July 21

Statistics is a branch of mathematics that almost all students will find useful as statistics is required for many college majors. Statistics enables one to become a critical reader of articles on research. Topics in both descriptive and inferential statistics are covered, as well as ideas concerning probability. Some of the data explored is collected by students; other information may come from newspapers, government databases, medical data, political and environmental surveys. Simulations and many uses of computer software and graphing calculators are included. Interpretation of statistical results is emphasized. Students are expected to make a considerable commitment of time to this course. All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

Studio Art Foundations  – ½ Credit, 2.5 Weeks Meets 12:30-4:30 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement
Studio Art Foundations is an introductory art course designed to teach the four components of art education: production, criticism, history, and aesthetics. Emphasis is placed on the teaching of the Elements and Principles of Art. Through presentations, discussions, demonstrations, and one-on-one check-ins, students will be given the artistic knowledge needed to complete various studio assignments. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a wide variety of materials and learn how to effectively use these media. They will also grow in visual literacy as they learn how to “read,” discuss, and critique works of art.

Graphic Design – ½ Credit – 2.5 Weeks – Meets 8-12 pm EST
Dates: June 14 – June 30
Fulfills Graduation Requirement

This ½ credit course teaches students the basics of graphic design, including visual cohesiveness, layout, and color usage. Students will use these design concepts to create projects using the software applications Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign and develop a portfolio of pieces ranging from a book cover to a logo design to a magazine. This course will also cover basic advertising principles and teach students how to analyze print design. No previous art or computer knowledge is required.

KEY
  1. denotes ½ credit class running from June 14 – June 30 
  2. denotes 1 credit class running from June 14 – July 21
  3. not for credit, run Monday – Thursday. Dates to be announced.

"I really liked being able to work at my own pace and not have to worry about getting everything turned in by a certain time each day. Having assignments due by the end of the week prevented me from worrying about being behind."

—Summer Session Student

Questions? Contact Us

Justin Curtis
Senior Director of Academic and Strategic Initiatives
410-323-8800, x1387

FAQs

Students taking a summer course will be able to concentrate on one subject at a time and immerse herself in a particular area of interest. By fulfilling graduation requirements over the summer, students can opt to take additional classes that relate to their interests during the school year or create more balance and flexibility in their schedule.

Yes! Students from other schools are welcome to sign up for the Summer Session. We ask that students provide a transcript and contact information for their current teacher in the relevant discipline. This information will help us support the student in their summer class.

If the student is enrolling in our summer class for credit at their home school, we recommend the family confirm that credit will be issued upon completing the course with the home school. Bryn Mawr will issue a transcript to the family upon completion of the course, and if needed, will send an official transcript to the home school. 

Students are expected to attend all class hours to maximize the learning experience. For a half-credit course, students may not miss more than four hours of class time. For a full-credit course, students may not miss more than eight hours of class time.

Yes, a student may elect to audit the course, however, a refund will not be provided for the course’s tuition.

No, lunch is not provided for Summer Session students.

Yes, new incoming Upper School students can register for the summer courses provided all prerequisites are met.

Course registration will close on May 20, 2022, but it is possible that a few spots remain after that date. Please check the individual course to see if any spots remain.

Ten $500 need-based awards will be awarded to students who currently receive financial aid from the Bryn Mawr School. The deadline to submit your financial assistance request for the Summer Session is Monday, March 15th. Families will be notified if they have received one of the ten awards by Friday, March 26th. Please click here to apply for a need-based award. 

Bryn Mawr reserves the right to cancel a Summer Session class if the minimum student numbers are not reached.

Questions?

If you have questions not answered here, fill out the form below.

Meet Mallory Pladus

English Teacher

Where do you live?
Lancaster, Pennsylvania

What do you like about teaching online?
I like the small school environment, the ambitious students BMOS attracts, and the
flexibility learning and teaching online affords students and faculty.

What do you like to do when you’re NOT in school?
Hike, travel, play frisbee, and spend time on the Jersey Shore.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Japan. My dad is half Japanese, and there is a rumor in our family that he and my aunt
relinquished property rights to a small portion of a mountain in Japan. I’d like to go see
that mountain.

Best way to spend a Saturday?
Reading outside.

What do you want students to remember about you?
I want them to remember that I did my best to make literature open up for them in
surprising, intriguing ways and that I cared about their ideas.

Personal catchphrase?
“Let’s reflect on this.”

Who inspires you?
Writers I love: James Baldwin, Marilynne Robinson, Louise Erdrich, to name a few.

What activity/class have you enjoyed the most through BMOS (and why)?
The poet Sarah Ali visited our English 9 and 10 classes to discuss her poem about
animal roadkill. The students asked great questions, and she gave thoughtful answers.
We broached a topic that often feels too intractable to talk about.