Program Overview

Introduction to The Clarkson School

The Clarkson School is a unique educational program that offers students a head start on their future by providing transferable college credits, real-world experiences, and guidance as they think about what's next.

Program Details

Earn Your High School Diploma

The Clarkson School allows students to pursue requirements toward a high school diploma during the semester or year, while also obtaining academic and college advising and receiving financial aid.

One of a Kind Experience

Clarkson School students are united by a drive to innovate and solve real-world problems at the intersection of science, engineering, mathematics, and technology. With dedicated housing and personalized mentorship, they quickly form a close-knit, supportive community rooted in shared curiosity, exploration, and the exchange of bold ideas.

Safe and Supportive Environment

The program provides a structured transition that balances independence with responsibility, setting the foundation for a successful college experience. The close-knit community forms lifelong friendships and keeps alumni connected well beyond their time on campus.

Make an Impact on Campus

Clarkson School students are known for their drive, leadership, and academic excellence. Professors value their active engagement, and it shows—students consistently earn some of the highest first-year GPAs, with over half achieving Dean's List or Presidential Scholar honors each semester.

Support Network and Competitive Advantage

The program is committed to developing the whole person. The first-year fall seminar course (PE100) helps students build essential personal, professional, and college transition skills. Students also gain next-level support for college applications and career readiness through workshops focused on essay writing, resume building, interview preparation, and effective communication.

Access the Full Clarkson Experience

Clarkson School students choose their course of study from Clarkson University's extensive selection of industry-relevant programs, gaining access to faculty-led research, on-campus clubs and organizations, and competitive projects. Many also explore potential career paths through internships, co-ops, and immersive global experiences.

Areas of Study

• Business
• Engineering
• Arts and sciences
• Healthcare
• Interdisciplinary certificates
• Exploratory options Students take a full course load of 15 to 18 credit hours each semester and can challenge themselves further by joining the Honors Program or cross-registering at other nearby colleges and universities to broaden their academic horizons.

Research

Undergraduates, including Clarkson School students, are actively involved in research alongside faculty mentors. Projects span engineering, science, technology, healthcare, business, and sustainable development, employing an interdisciplinary approach to innovation and discovery.

Career Preparation

The Kevin '81 and Annie Parker Career Center offers comprehensive career development support. Students can collaborate with fellow Clarkson University students on SPEED teams, experience entrepreneurship, or experiment with media production and prototyping tools at Clarkson Ignite, the university's premier innovation hub. Gain global perspective through the UNIV399 Global Experience course or other study abroad programs.

Alumni Testimonials

The Clarkson School has graduated over 2,000 students since 1978. Alumni are making their mark as leaders and innovators across healthcare, media, academia, technology, politics, and beyond. One alum, Jason Dorsey, credits The Clarkson School with helping him build a career he couldn't have imagined, including writing his first bestselling book at 18 and keynoting events around the world.