How to Choose a Precollege Course

High school student working on a cylindrical sculpture

Consider This

Selecting a Precollege course takes a bit of research on the student's part. Course selection is based on your major of interest, abilities, overall passion for the subject and availability. Choose a course you'll be excited about and one that fits your schedule!

Step 1: Time Commitment

Choose between 10-day high school classes (HAC, HAD, HAR, HFA, etc.) or 4-day workshops (HSX, JSX).    

Ten-day classes are designed for high school students and relate to specific FIT majors. These immersive experiences are especially popular with students preparing portfolios or exploring college-level study in art and design.

Four-day workshops focus on developing a particular skill or interest that may span several majors. They’re ideal for high school and middle school students who are hobbyists, exploring new interests, or experiencing Precollege for the first time.

View Precollege Offerings

Step 2: Area of Interest

Select a course related to a major you’re curious about, or one that focuses on a skill you’d like to strengthen.

If you know which industry/skill/topic you'd like to explore, click on our advanced search option. Make sure to specify 'Precollege Programs' when using search terms or keywords.

Search Precollege Courses 

If you do not have a major in mind, but have a topic you'd like to learn more about, let us help. Email us at [email protected] and the Precollege team will get back to you shortly.

When you’ve chosen your class, visit High School and Middle School Classes to access our online registration system.

If you are working on a portfolio for one of FIT's majors, we recommend reviewing the portfolio requirements before enrolling in a Precollege class. If you have any specific questions about a major, portfolio or the application process please reach out to our Admissions team at [email protected].

Step 3: Course Expectations

Each class begins with a course syllabus outlining the schedule, assignments, and learning objectives. Precollege courses generally fall into one of three formats: making, design, or business.

  • In making classes (e.g., sewing), students learn essential techniques before moving on to complete personal projects.
  • In design classes (e.g., Interior Design), students study key design principles and develop their own creative concepts.
  • In business classes, students explore industry trends, ideas, and strategies through research, collaboration, and presentations.

All in-person classes take place in FIT facilities such as design labs, sewing rooms, and classrooms, giving students a true college experience. Some courses include visits to on-campus resources like the Museum at FIT and the Gladys Marcus Library.

With flexible options and a variety of subjects, FIT’s Precollege courses let each student design their own learning journey.