High School Summer Program

High School Students: Join us in Castel Gandolfo, Italy for four transformative weeks of study and adventure!

Learn the basics of Computer Science or Space Sciences in an intensive introductory course with CatholicTech faculty, attend Papal Masses in the Pope’s summer residence of Castel Gandolfo, explore Rome during field trips into the city, and make life-long friendships with other STEM-minded high school students.

CatholicTech’s high school summer program launched in 2025 with great success and offers an excellent opportunity to expand your abilities and perspective while making memories of a lifetime! Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while immersing themselves into Italian culture and experiencing life as a student in Castel Gandolfo

Apply now!

Courses + Dates:

Session 1: Introduction to Computer Science, June 17th-July 15th, 2026
Session 2: Introduction to Space Sciences + Engineering, July 15th-August 12, 2026

Eligibility: rising Juniors and Seniors

Location: CatholicTech’s campus in Castel Gandolfo, Italy

Cost: $5,000 for one session, $9,000 for both sessions. This cost includes full tuition, room & board, and activities, but does not include airfare and any incidental personal expenses. $500 will be taken off the price for a second child attending from the same family. A scholarship equal to the cost of the program will be awarded to each participating student upon their enrollment in CatholicTech as a freshman.

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis until spots are full or until April 15.

FAQ’s:

Is any prior experience necessary for the courses? No, no prior experience is required – beginners welcome!
I did the program last year, can I do it again? Yes, we’d love to welcome you back! You cannot take the same course again but you are welcome to join a different one.
What is covered by the program cost? The program cost covers instruction, room and board, and all meals and travel costs on field trips. Airfare is not included. While all costs are covered for students during the program, we recommend bringing around $300 for any personal purchases (souvenirs, toiletries, snacks) or in case of emergency.
I’m a current senior in high school, can I still apply? The program is designed for incoming juniors and seniors, but current seniors are welcome to apply to the program or to email admissions@catholic.tech with their interest.
What kinds of field trips will be offered? Every weekend will bring excursions into Rome to visit the holy and historic sites there. We also plan to make a day trip to Assisi. The Castelli Romani region surrounding us also has beautiful scenery and history, so we will spend some afternoons exploring our local area.
What days should I get my plane tickets for? Keep in mind that travel from the U.S. to Italy adds a day, so make sure to get a ticket departing the day before you plan to arrive. Students attending Session 1 should arrive on Wednesday, June 17 and depart on Wednesday, July 15. Students attending Session 2 should arrive on Wednesday, July 15 and depart on Wednesday, August 12. We highly encourage students to travel with a parent, but we will coordinate airport pickups for students who are traveling alone.
For any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions@catholic.tech

Check out our gallery to see photos from last year’s program!

Course Descriptions:

1. Intro to Computer Science (June 17-July 15)

This course introduces fundamental programming concepts, covering topics such as programming basics, computational concepts, software engineering, algorithmic techniques, data types, and recursion. The lab component focuses on software design, construction, and implementation. The course will culminate with a hackathon and a creative programming project.

Computation is a fundamental tool used extensively throughout science and engineering. Understanding what computation is, its limitations, and how to use it to solve problems are fundamental skills for being a productive participant in these areas. These skills help us to think better as we learn how to structure our thinking in a more orderly way. As we improve our understanding and learn different ways to be productive, we are able to grow more fully into God’s plan for us.

2. Intro to Space Sciences + Engineering (July 15-August 12)

This course will introduce students to the foundational and applied sciences behind space exploration. Grounded in physics and astrophysics, the program bridges theoretical knowledge and hands-on experimentation, inspiring students to pursue opportunities in science, engineering, and technology. We will explore four core pillars of space science: rocket propulsion, orbital mechanics, planetary science, and mission design. The program is directed by Professor Rodrigo Negreiros, and he will also bring in other faculty with advanced backgrounds in Physics and Astrophysics to lead some of the lectures and labs.