Quinnipiac University

Pre-College Summer Programs

Hacker High School: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Student Cynthia Clemont sitting at a desk in front of a laptop in the Graduate Student Affairs Office.

Pre-College Summer Programs

Hacker High School: Introduction to Cybersecurity

This 2-week program provides a deep, 360-degree understanding of how computer and digital information works, its connection to the field of cybersecurity and how you can protect yourself and your information.

Overview

Hacker High School is a chance for high school students to learn how to protect themselves and their information from cybercriminals and get ahead within the fast-growing, high-potential industry of cybersecurity. This program is a great fit for students interested in pursuing a career in computer science, cybersecurity or IT as well as students interested in learning the tools and techniques to keep information secure in today’s digital world. This knowledge isn’t just essential to your own personal safety but incredibly valuable to employers in almost every field all over the world.

This 2-week program was developed in partnership with the Institute for Security and Open Methodologies (ISECOM) and taught by Quinnipiac’s own Information Security professionals. You will learn cybersecurity fundamentals and skills to keep your identity and personal devices safe from attackers using the same tools and techniques the professionals use, as well as gain a deep understanding of what “hacking” — the ability to figure out computer systems — is all about. Specific topics covered include internet infrastructure, malware, attack analysis, digital forensics, email safety, web security and privacy.

At the end of this program, you’ll walk away with:
  • A 360-degree understanding of how computer and digital information works and the fundamentals of cybersecurity to keep your information secure

  • The preparation needed to take the official certification exam for Certified Hacker Analyst sponsored by the Institute for Security and Open Methodologies (exam not included in the program)

  • A certificate of completion with a QU instructor-written review and assessment

Hands-on Experience

Program Dates and Schedule

Session 1: July 14, 2025 - July 25, 2025

Sample Daily Schedule: This is only a sample schedule and is subject to change due to a variety of factors.

Time Activity Detail

9 a.m.

Morning Meeting

Check-in with the group, quick introduction to the day’s theme, and short challenge or game to get excited and motivated for the day!

10 a.m.

Daily Lesson

Faculty will teach and discuss the key topic for the day, incorporating hands-on learning, group discussions and case studies.

Noon

Lunch

Eat and socialize with your classmates.

1 p.m.

Independent/Team Production Work Time

This is a chance to put your hacker skills to the test in both independent and group challenges.

3 p.m.

Feedback and Work Block

Get feedback on your afternoon’s work, review key skills, get help with tough concepts, and build on your learning

4 p.m.

End-of-Day Review and Debrief Meeting

A chance to reflect and discuss the day as well as look to the days ahead.

4:30 p.m.

Dismissal

Dismissal for commuter students.

5 p.m.

Dinner

Dinner will be provided for those students with full room and board.

6 p.m.

Evening Activities (Group Recreation in our new Recreation and Wellness Center, Games, Guest Speakers, Independent and Group Enrichment Projects)

The evening is reserved for overnight students to have fun, experience our on-campus amenities, and bond with each other and staff through organized group enrichment activities.

10 p.m.

Quiet Time

 

 

Weekend Programming and Excursions

In addition to the daily schedule listed above, our two-week programs offer organized trips and excursions during the weekends. Last summer, program attendees spent time in our local community while mini golfing, visiting the Mystic Aquarium and shopping in New Haven. 

Field trips and weekend excursions may vary by program and session. 

Participation Requirements

Participants must be current high school students. Typically, participants are between the ages of 15 to 18 years of age at the start of the program. 

Equipment and Materials

Quinnipiac University will provide all necessary laptops or computers, software and other devices for students in this program. Students may bring their own devices for use outside of program instruction periods.

Program Costs

Option 1: 2-week overnight program from Sunday to Saturday. Includes full room and board as well as evening and weekend activities: $3,360

Option 2: 2-week on-campus commuter program from Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Includes lunch daily: $2,400

Both options offer:

  • Two weeks of faculty-designed programs taught on-campus with educational support staff

  • Technology and software support

  • A Quinnipiac T-shirt

  • A digital badge for use on social media, resumes or portfolios

  • Access to special Quinnipiac Admissions events

 

Discounts and Financial Aid

Partial financial support may be available for those who indicate the need for financial assistance in their online application. Financial support awards are based on a combination of financial need and academic merit.

We are pleased to offer a 10% discount on all summer camps and experiences to current Quinnipiac employees, Quinnipiac alumni and employees of our corporate partners.

Our Program Instructors

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions among prospective students and families regarding our summer programs. If you can't find an answer to your question, please contact us and we'd be happy to chat.

Review all FAQ's

Accommodations

Quinnipiac University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as an institution of higher education. Students who have a current IEP or 504 plan are encouraged to share any accommodations or modifications they may require in order to access the fundamentals of a QU summer program or camp they plan to attend.

Students requesting disability-based accommodations should indicate this within the application as well as email summerprograms@qu.edu about any and all specific accommodation needs.

 

Rules & Regulations

Read Quinnipiac University’s Summer Camp and Pre-College Program Policies