Academic Departments

Computer Science and Digital Media

English

University High’s English program integrates literature, writing, public speaking, and media. Our critical conversations engage contemporary social and cultural issues in large and small group conversations that build community as students navigate different viewpoints. The English faculty approaches writing as a recursive process and instrument for discovery, allowing students to practice creative and academic modes of writing. Our pedagogy empowers students through choice-oriented projects that enable them to think, discover, and own their learning. We strive to keep English class relevant and urgent to students.

Fine Arts

Uni Fine Arts Provides opportunities in Visual Arts, Music and Dramatic Arts. All sub-freshmen participate in the Interrelated Arts class: a team-taught introduction to the three art forms. In the following years students may choose from a wide variety of classes in the three art areas. Each faculty member sponsors an honor club or activity in their discipline including the National Arts Honor Society, The International Thespian Society, and The Illinois Music Education Association’s All State Music Festival. The Fine Arts Department welcomes students at all ability and skill levels. 

Social Studies

Our courses ask students to think like historians and social scientists to grasp complex explanations of human social behavior. We foster students’ capacities to critically locate, understand, and evaluate information. Our classes include a focus on civics to empower students to participate in democratic processes, understand the experiences of historically marginalized groups, and reflect on their own places within larger communities. Our teachers create an environment of intellectual challenge and respect through diverse classroom activities like discussion, research projects, simulations, and student-led instruction.

Mathematics

Uni’s math classes integrate best practices. Students work collaboratively to solve and critically analyze problems. Our diverse student population encourages student efficacy, agency and authority in learning. We value a deep understanding of the material which is enhanced when students share a variety of solving methods. We provide multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate understanding of topics, and use standards-based grading which reflects student understanding of the learning objectives. 

Physical Education and Health

Our Physical Education department aims to develop physically literate individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy lifelong physical movement. Students learn skills to participate in a variety of activities, understand the benefits of regular exercise, and build habits that support lifelong fitness and well being. Each spring, students participate in the Illinois Marathon 5K, applying their training and celebrating the value of community

Science

World Languages

The World and Classical Languages Department offers five vibrant 4-year language programs in French, German, Japanese, Latin, and Spanish. After the first two years, students may continue, change, or add an additional language. They test their growth through annual National Language Exams. Students can also explore languages and culture through independent study, clubs, our Heritage and Dual Language Program, and group international travel as well as connections with partnered schools abroad, virtually or through exchanges. Our goal is to empower students to express themselves in a new language with communicative strategies and to foster in them a sense of global cultural awareness.