PREP: Condition for admission

Is PREP a condition for your admission?  You’re in the right place! Here you will learn more about the program, frequently asked questions and fill out the form to confirm that you’ll be joining us for the program. Meet some of our past “PREP-ies” and hear why they enjoyed being a part of program.

The Pre-Engineering Program (PREP) begins with a three week summer program offered to incoming Berkeley Engineering students. PREP continues throughout the year with professional development opportunities, community building events, and a PREP seminar you can take for units that will set you up for success. We in Engineering Student Services prioritize the 4 C’s: Community, Collaboration, Capital, and Confidence. Through this program, you will build Community with like-minded peers, learn how to Collaborate with others in your learning and design process, develop the professional and cultural Capital necessary to navigate the engineering world, and gain Confidence in your skills and growth as a Berkeley Engineer!

PREP is one of the many support services offered by Engineering Student Services. Through the generous support of our corporate partners, PREP is provided at no cost to participating students.

There are three main thrusts of Berkeley Engineering’s Pre-Engineering Program:

• Academic component: You will attend classes in subjects like math, chemistry, and computer science in order to build a solid foundation before going into your freshman year. These classes are crafted to teach you critical prerequisite knowledge you’ll need for classes you’ll be taking in the Fall and beyond. During these classes, you’ll engage in a connected and collaborative learning community with your peers, all while setting yourself up for academic success.
• Professional development component: Even if you have never created a resume, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running just in time for UC Berkeley’s fall career fairs. Landing your Dream Job is a journey and it starts at PREP!
• Design component: You will work with engineering Professor Scott Moura in the Jacobs Institute of Design Innovation.  Working with a team, you will create a prototype using the SPRINT design process. At the end of the program you’ll showcase your product at the Design Expo to industry representatives (such as Chevron and Micron) and Berkeley Engineering faculty.

What happens after PREP?

The PREP summer experience is just the beginning. In the Fall and Spring semesters, you’ll participate in a 2-unit seminar exclusively for PREP students.

When does PREP take place?

This year PREP takes place from July 22-August 9, 2024.

What is the cost of PREP?

Through the generous support of our sponsors — RECARE Foundation, Chevron, GM, Boeing and the College of Engineering — PREP is free to all participants. Lodging, food, books and class time are all provided. A small amount of spending money is all you’ll need.

What’s next?

Fill out our short questionnaire so we can get to know you better and get ready for you to begin an awesome four-years with Berkeley Engineering.