About the Course
What if the rising global temperatures and shifting weather patterns aren't just impacting coastlines and ecosystems, but are directly altering the very organ that defines us: the brain? Could rising temperatures be blamed for low test scores, short attention spans, and short tempers? How does a changing climate increase our likelihood of developing a neurological or psychological disorder? In this course, we will answer these questions and more. Students will identify risk factors, symptoms, and treatments for disorders. We will practice public health messaging and create public service announcements to improve community awareness of these conditions. And we will determine which communities are likely to be most at risk for each disorder and will address the importance of advocating for environmental justice and health equity.
Learning Objectives
- Examine and explain how elevated temperatures alter neural processes, cognitive performance, and overall brain function using evidence from neuroscience and environmental health research
- Evaluate how shifts in climate envelopes for vector-borne diseases influence transmission patterns and neurological outcomes, drawing connections among ecological, biological, and public health systems
- Analyze and interpret the psychological and social impacts of climate change, including the mechanisms by which environmental stressors affect mental health across populations
- Design and justify a series of data-informed public service announcements that raise awareness and promote community preparedness for climate-related health risks in each region
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
Online
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Wed for 6 weeks
Times: 3 - 4:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
Register by: June 8, 2026
Filling up fast! 4 spots left
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Families will be notified by email of any required materials one week prior to the course start date.
Time Commitment: 2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). The course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
All online course times are Eastern time.
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Wed for 6 weeks
Times: 7 - 8:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
Register by: August 11, 2026
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Families will be notified by email of any required materials one week prior to the course start date.
Time Commitment: 2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). The course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
All online course times are Eastern time.
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Thu for 6 weeks
Times: 8 - 9:30 p.m. (Eastern time)
Register by: September 15, 2026
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Families will be notified by email of any required materials one week prior to the course start date.
Time Commitment: 2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). The course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
All online course times are Eastern time.
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid