Course Offerings

Master List of Course Offerings (PDF)

As a camper, you'll select two major courses and one minor course from our course offerings. Explore the courses below and start mapping out your camp experience!

Majors

Video Game Development	Students will gain experience in level design and game development in the Unity game engine through use and extension of prebuilt game assets and tools.
Short filmmaking	Discover the art of storytelling through short films! This course will guide you through the essentials of scripting, cinematography, sound, and editing as you bring your ideas to life. You’ll learn hands-on techniques to create impactful short films, exploring creative approaches to visual storytelling. Collaborate with classmates, experiment with film language, and develop the skills to share your stories on screen. Perfect for those ready to dive into filmmaking and explore the fundamentals of production.
Cybersecurity	Students will learn best practices for security and privacy, such as the adoption of password managers and mulifactor authentication, safe social media use, and how to minimize the impact of emerging technology.
Music for Video Games	Have you ever imagined what your favorite video game or movie would sound like with different music? Join us to learn about creating your own music, soundscapes, and sound effects for media projects. Participants will create music for game projects, images, and cinematic clips in digital audio workstations, as well as learn about scene spotting and hits in media projects. Participants are encouraged to bring their own device with their preferred digital audio workstation and headphones.
Engineering Exploration	In this immersion program for engineering, students will have one day per department (rotation) and the fifth day will be "convergence day" with engineering and business.
Painting	In this course, students will create two paintings: one from a photograph, and one from direct observation. Students will gain technical knowledge on how to handle the materials, and learn about safe methods of painting. We will learn how to paint with value, how to create an underpainting, and how to mix color.
Graphic Design & Design Thinking	Innovation by Design introduces participants to the fundamentals of Design Thinking, a creative problem-solving approach that encourages innovation through collaboration and iterative processes. This course is designed for young, aspiring designers eager to explore how design can impact industries and everyday life.
Experimentation in Biology	N/A
Competitive Speech & Debate Major	Three Focuses: Writing, Performance, Research. Hosted by the Bradley University Speech Team, the winningest collegiate speech program in history, our summer camp offers high school students the opportunity to learn from the best. Each week-long session is designed to develop your skills in writing, performance, and research with expert guidance from nationally celebrated college coaches and faculty. Whether you’re looking to excel in competitive speech or strengthen skills for future success, this camp provides the tools and techniques to help you thrive.

Minors

Animation	Students will gain a foundational understanding of Animation (the industry and technique) through mini lectures, demos, examples, and a practical application/creative final project.
Tabletop Games	Students will play a variety of tabletop games and learn some of the fundamentals of bringing their own game ideas to life.
User Experience Design	Students will gain a foundational understanding of user experience design through design thinking, ideation, and creating an interactive prototype design. Focus on humanity and human centered design methods and practices will be utilized.
Video for Broadcasting	Get an introduction to the dynamic world of broadcast video! In this minor, you’ll learn the basics of live production and on-camera operation tailored for broadcasts. Through team projects, you’ll gain experience in planning and producing content for a live audience, building skills in communication and quick decision-making. This course is ideal for anyone interested in the energy and precision of creating video for broadcast.
Digital Music Technology	Take a hands-on approach to audio production and sound design in this intensive set of sessions about Digital Music Technology. Engage in an exploration of the theory and practice of electronic music as we delve into common techniques for sound synthesis, signal processing, and Digital-Audio-Workstation music production. Gain insight into the use of computer systems for sound manipulation and musical creativity.
Improv for All	This will focus on some of the techniques for both short-form and long-form improv including Improv games, teamwork, movement, and making specific choices. Open to all interested students regardless of experience.
Entertaining Engineering	N/A
Accident Investigation & Organizational Learning	Organizational accidents and disasters have a lot to teach us. Most improved processes, training, and new technologies we use today have emerged from major accidents that traumatized communities and made them promise to not let happen again. You will learn about the role of (mis)communication in historical accidents in the High Reliability Organizations (HRO) family - aviation, medicine, firefighting, space travel, and energy industry. By the end of the week, you'll try your hand at analyzing a serious accident like an accident investigator would.
Art for Comics and Graphic Novels	This minor introduces comics and sequential storytelling. We will cover the basic materials and techniques of comics art/cartooning using traditional media
Experimentation in Biology	N/A
Art Exploration	This minor is an exploration of studio art disciplines.
Fundamentals of Public Speaking & Communication	Build the essential skills that every great communicator needs in our Fundamentals of Public Speaking and Communication Focus. Perfect for students of all experience levels, this track emphasizes the core principles of effective speaking, from structuring your message to engaging your audience with clarity and confidence. Over the course of the week, you’ll work with experienced coaches to refine your delivery, improve vocal variety and body language, and overcome public speaking anxiety. Sessions will also cover strategies for active listening, adapting to different audiences, and fostering meaningful connections through communication. Whether you're preparing for competitions, leadership roles, or everyday interactions, this focus provides the foundation for success in any speaking environment.
Competitive Speech & Debate	Develop your skills across every aspect of speech and debate in this comprehensive camp experience. Whether you're crafting compelling speeches, perfecting dynamic performances, or mastering in-depth research and argumentation, you’ll receive expert guidance from accomplished college coaches and faculty. Throughout the week, you’ll explore techniques for writing impactful content, delivering powerful performances, and building confidence in limited preparation events. With training in public address, interpretive events, and debate, this camp provides a well-rounded foundation to excel in competitions and beyond. From storytelling and creative writing to character development and persuasive argumentation, this minor equips you with the tools to succeed as a communicator and performer.
Slam Poetry	Unleash your voice and bring your words to life in our Slam Poetry Minor. Designed for students passionate about spoken word and original performance, this track explores the art of crafting powerful, emotionally resonant poetry and delivering it with confidence and flair. You’ll work with expert coaches to develop your writing, hone your performance skills, and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Throughout the week, you’ll explore topics like rhythm and flow, imagery, stage presence, and audience engagement. Whether you’re new to slam or a seasoned performer, this minor helps you channel your creativity into unforgettable performances.