High School Summer Enrichment: Pre Business Program

Inside the Howard University Pre-Business Program

High School Summer Enrichment Programs

The Pre-Business Program (PBP) is a two-week residential summer experience at Howard University’s School of Business for motivated high school students interested in pursuing a business degree. Sessions run July 18 to 24, 2026, and July 25 to 31, 2026. Students may only participate in one week of programming.

Students choose one of six tracks: Accounting (has two tracks, described below), Information Systems, Actuarial Science, Music Business, Finance, or Entrepreneurship. They gain hands on experience through classroom instruction, corporate visits, and group projects. The program emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and college readiness while introducing students to real world business concepts.

By the end of PBP, participants leave with practical skills, critical thinking exposure, and a deeper understanding of business disciplines, preparing them for future academic and professional success.

HUSB Summer Enrichment Application Deadline:

Early Decision: March 16th, 2026
Regular Decision: April 3rd, 2026

Office Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. ET, T–F
Email: HUSB-Students@howard.edu

Jasmine.Taylor3@howard.edu

Live on campus and experience college life.
Attend workshops led by experienced faculty and professionals.
Engage in professional development activities.
Network with business leaders, alumni, and peers.
Take part in exciting site visits and cultural excursions.
Celebrate their achievements at a closing gala (date and time TBD).

Tuition is $2,000 per student, covering housing, meals, instruction, site visits, and the gala, with limited tuition waivers and reductions available for qualified students based on demonstrated financial need.

Program Description

The AltFinance Pre-College Program is a selective, one-week summer experience designed specifically for rising high school seniors (students who are currently juniors should apply) interested in investing and exploring potential careers in finance. Participants gain hands-on exposure to how investors evaluate companies and markets through engaging case discussions, real-world examples, and conversations with industry professionals.

Geared toward academically motivated students, the program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and confidence—skills essential for success in college-level coursework and competitive future opportunities. Students will deepen their understanding of business operations, market dynamics, and how to construct clear, well-supported analyses and perspectives.

The George S. Willie Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP) is a highly selective, one-week summer residency designed for rising high school juniors and seniors (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) interested in accounting. The program introduces students to diverse career pathways in accounting while fostering leadership skills, critical thinking, and personal brand development.

Participants engage in case discussions, real-world business scenarios, site visits, and conversations with industry professionals. ACAP equips academically motivated students with the confidence and foundational knowledge necessary for college-level coursework and future career success, while highlighting the essential role accountants play in business operations and market dynamics.

The Student-Athlete Name, Image & Likeness (NIL) Pre-College Program is a highly selective, one-week summer experience designed for rising high school juniors and seniors (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) interested in understanding the business of sports in the age of NIL. Participants explore the fundamentals of personal branding, financial literacy, and contract basics through real-world NIL scenarios.

Through interactive workshops, case discussions, and conversations with sports lawyers, agents, and industry professionals, students gain insight into how athletes can responsibly build, protect, and leverage their brand. Geared toward motivated student-athletes and students interested in sports management, the program equips participants with the critical thinking and decision-

making skills needed to navigate NIL opportunities while preparing for future academic, athletic, and career success.

The Summer Entrepreneurship & Experiential Program (SEEP) offers rising high school juniors and seniors (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) a one-week immersive experience in entrepreneurial thinking and practice. Participants explore the entrepreneurial process, including opportunity identification, feasibility analysis, business model development, business planning, and financial resource mobilization. The program combines experiential learning activities with case studies and site visits, providing students with hands-on exposure to the challenges, excitement, and rewards of entrepreneurial life.

Students learn ideation techniques to generate innovative solutions and business models for real-world customers. They also develop skills in risk evaluation, feasibility analysis, customer development, and elevator pitching. A culminating team project allows participants to integrate the program’s knowledge and skills while refining collaboration and teamwork abilities.

The Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business Pre-College Program is a selective, one-week summer experience for rising high school juniors and seniors (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) interested in the global creative industries. Housed within an award-winning center recognized by Billboard as a Top Music Business School, and led by a Billboard Global Power Player, the program offers unique insight into how the music industry operates.

Students engage in case discussions, real-world projects, and conversations with recording artists and industry professionals, while developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and financial literacy. Participants explore artist deals, catalog valuations, and global market strategies, building the professional awareness, strategic mindset, and confidence needed to thrive in music, culture, and creative entrepreneurship.

The CISCAP (Computer Information Systems Career Awareness Program) is a one-week summer experience for rising high school juniors and seniors (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) interested in careers in Information Systems. Participants explore advanced technologies and develop the skills needed to succeed in the field through interactive discussions and hands-on exercises. Topics include data analytics, programming,

cybersecurity, networking, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other emerging technologies.

Designed for students curious about the integration of technology into business and society, the program builds problem-solving and technical skills that prepare participants for college-level studies and future career opportunities.

The Actuarial Science experience is designed for rising high school juniors and seniors, (students who are currently sophomores and juniors should apply) who are interested in mathematics, statistics, and data driven decision making. The program introduces students to the actuarial profession and how actuaries assess quantity and manage risk across industries such as insurance, finance, healthcare, and consulting.

Participants engage in case discussions about real world risk scenarios and interactive problem-solving activities that highlight how data probability and financial theory are applied to complex business challenges. Through exposure to industry professionals and academic mentors, students gain insight into actuarial career pathways, professional exams and college preparation. Geared toward academically motivated students, the program builds analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and confidence skills essential for success in rigorous college coursework and future careers in actuarial science and related fields.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Pre-Business Program (PBP)?

The Pre-Business Program (PBP) introduces high school students to the world of business and college life through engaging instruction, professional development, and real-world experiences. The program allows students to explore various business disciplines, develop leadership skills, and gain exposure to campus life at Howard University.

Who can apply?

Motivated high school sophomores and juniors with strong academic potential and an interest in pursuing a degree in business at Howard University are encouraged to apply.

When does the program take place?

The program runs for one week during the summer. The first session, from July 18–24, includes programs in Accounting, Music Business, Computer Information Systems, and Finance. The second session, from July 25–31, includes programs in Accounting, Actuarial Science, Entrepreneurship, and Finance. Accepted students will receive detailed check-in and program schedules prior to arrival.

Where is the program held?

The program is hosted on the Howard University campus, School of Business Building, 2600 6th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20059.

How do I apply?

Complete the application form by clicking the link on our website.

When will I be notified of acceptance?

Applicants will receive a confirmation email once their full application has been submitted and reviewed. Students who are accepted will be contacted via email with payment instructions and next steps. Tuition waiver/reduction applications will also be available to applicants.

How much does the program cost?

Tuition for the 2026 program is $2,000 per student, which covers all housing, meals, field trips, and instructional materials.

What does tuition include?

Housing, meals, site visits, instructions, a Howard T-shirt, and the gala.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Limited tuition waivers and reductions are available for qualified students based on proven financial need.

How do I pay my tuition?

Once accepted, students will receive instructions for submitting tuition payments online. Payment must be received by the deadline to secure enrollment.

Do students need spending money?

All necessities will be covered, including meals and transportation once students arrive to campus. Students may want to spend money as the group visits different locations in Washington, DC.

Is transportation provided?

No. Students are responsible for their own travel to and from the program on Saturday (check-in) and Friday (check-out). Transportation will be provided for official field trips only.

When should I arrive?

Check-in takes place on Saturday between 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and orientation.

When is dismissal?

The final presentations and closing ceremony take place Friday afternoon, followed by check-out.

Where will students stay?

Participants will stay in Howard University residence halls under the supervision of program counselors.

Are meals provided?

Yes. All meals will be provided in the Howard University cafeteria.

Can I stay on campus after my program ends?

No. Students must check out of the residence hall by 1:00 PM on the final day of the program. You are encouraged to depart campus after the closing ceremony. If you need to leave early, please email husbsummerprograms@gmail.com at least two weeks before the start of the program.

What types of activities are offered?

Students will participate in business workshops, networking sessions, site visits, and college readiness seminars. Activities are designed to build confidence, teamwork, and professional skills.

Are uniforms required?

Yes. Students will receive an official Howard University T-shirt, which must be worn during designated activities and field trips.
Smart causal dress code unless otherwise notated
Mandatory Business attire for each program during presentations