12 Engineering Courses for High School Students
If you’re looking to build a strong foundation for a career in engineering, getting started early can make a significant difference. High school engineering courses offer students the opportunity to engage with advanced topics in fields like mechanical engineering, computer science, and aerospace, often before stepping into a college classroom. These courses bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving you a head start on the kind of work typically encountered at the university level.
Engineering courses aren’t just about building technical skills; they allow you to apply academic theories in real-world settings, giving you the kind of hands-on experience universities value. Whether it’s designing sustainable energy solutions, building functional prototypes, or optimizing algorithms, these courses push you to think critically and foster resilience—two key qualities that top universities and future employers highly value.
Furthermore, completing engineering courses in high school strengthens college applications significantly. Universities look for students who have taken the initiative to challenge themselves academically and have demonstrated a capacity to handle rigorous coursework. These programs also often offer project-based learning, which allows students to create tangible outcomes that can be showcased in portfolios or during interviews. Gaining early exposure to the field can also help clarify career goals and make the transition to college-level engineering programs smoother and more informed.
High school engineering courses offer a direct path to not only mastering foundational technical skills but also developing the mindset required for long-term success in a rapidly evolving field. Here is a curated list of 12 engineering courses for high school students, designed to equip aspiring engineers with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in both academic and professional settings.
Kode With Klossy is a series of 2-week coding-intensive camps designed for students of traditionally underrepresented genders in the STEM fields. The program is open to young women and gender-expansive teens with no coding experience and aims to teach students the fundamentals of coding and also encourage a lifelong passion for STEM.
As a scholar, you can choose to learn about web development, machine learning, data science, or mobile app development. You will get to work on projects that foster creativity and practical application of coding skills and will have a functional project at the end of your two weeks. You will also have access to a supportive community of fellow students and industry professionals who all share a similar passion for technology.
Cost: Free
Location: Virtual | In-person camps in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles
Application Deadline: April (tentatively) | Fill out this form for updates on the upcoming session.
Program Dates: 2 weeks | June to August
Eligibility: Open to students between the ages 13 and 18 who identify as female, gender-nonconforming, and transgender
2. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
Designed by the University of California schools, COSMOS (California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science) is a four-week residential summer program aimed at high school students who have shown exceptional interest and achievement in math and science. Hosted at four campuses—UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and UC Santa Cruz—COSMOS offers an opportunity to participate in an intensive curriculum that emphasizes advanced STEM topics.
During the program, you will engage in hands-on, lab-intensive projects and collaborate with esteemed faculty, researchers, and scientists in state-of-the-art facilities. As participants, you’ll enhance your problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and awareness of potential educational and career paths in STEM fields.
Cost:
Application Fee: $44 (Non-refundable)
Program Cost for Admitted Students: $5,256 (Non-refundable)
Location: University of California campuses (Davis, Irvine, San Diego, Santa Cruz)
Application Deadline: Opens on January 8, 2025, and closes on February 7, 2025.
Program Dates: The program runs for four weeks during the summer. Please check the website for specific dates for 2025.
Eligibility: Only open to California high school students who have completed grades 8-12, with a competitive selection process requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5 or above.
3. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at TexasTech University
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program is an intensive seven-week summer research opportunity designed for highly qualified high school juniors and seniors. Hosted at Texas Tech University, this competitive program has an acceptance rate of below 3% and admits only 12 high school students annually.
Once selected, you will join a close-knit cohort, engaging in hands-on research across various fields, including engineering, under the mentorship of top scholars. In addition to personalized 1-on-1 mentorship, you will attend discussions, seminars, and field visits that deepen your understanding and enhance your practical skills. The program is structured to provide a robust research experience, allowing you to explore advanced topics and build valuable knowledge facilitated by experienced faculty members.
Research disciplines for the upcoming program will be updated on the website, but past options have included biology, physics, electrical and computer engineering, and chemistry. Furthermore, the program includes social activities and weekend programming to foster a sense of community among the scholars.
Cost/Stipend: Free | Participants also receive a $750 stipend upon successful completion of a research project report.
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024 program closed in April. Please check the website for updated information on the 2025 deadlines.
Program Dates: The 2024 programs were held from June to August. The dates for the 2025 program are to be announced.
Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 17 years of age by the program start date and should be a rising junior or rising senior. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required.
4. Boston University Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)
The Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) program at Boston University is an immersive six-week summer experience designed for high school juniors passionate about the sciences.
You can choose between two tracks: Internship and Practicum. The Internship track offers hands-on research opportunities where you will work closely with distinguished faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, dedicating 40 hours a week to research projects across various disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and more. You will present your findings at a culminating Poster Symposium. The Practicum track focuses on computational neurobiology and involves structured group research under a BU instructor, featuring lectures and hands-on experiments. Both tracks include workshops aimed at enhancing academic and professional skills.
The RISE program not only helps students deepen their understanding of the scientific process and research ethics but also fosters networking opportunities in the STEM fields.
Cost: $5,820 to $8,940 (as of Summer 2024); Summer 2025 expenses will be updated on Dec 15, 2024. Check here for updates.
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Application Deadline: Applications open on December 15, 2024, and close on Feb 14, 2025.
Program Dates:
Residential Program: June 29 to August 8, 2025
Commuter Program: June 30 to August 8, 2025
Eligibility: Open to high school students entering senior year in fall 2025 who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.
5. Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering Curriculum
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to engage high school students in hands-on, real-world challenges that cultivate essential skills for multiple career paths. The program will encourage you to adopt a problem-solving mindset as you work on interdisciplinary activities, such as designing homes, programming robotic devices, or exploring biofuels.
With a focus on collaboration and critical thinking, you will participate in courses like Engineering Essentials, Principles of Engineering, and Computer Science Principles, which will prepare you for future academic and career pursuits. PLTW Engineering emphasizes career readiness by equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in college and beyond, while also providing opportunities for college credit through partnerships with the American Council on Education.
Cost: The annual participation fee for PLTW is $3,200, which grants year-long access to the curriculum for teachers and students. High school programs can be combined with a maximum fee of $5,400.
Location: Various participating schools across the United States
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by school; contact your local PLTW representative for specific dates.
Program Dates: The program runs throughout the academic year; specific course dates are determined by participating schools.
Eligibility: The program is open to high school students, typically those in grades 9-12, depending on the school's implementation of the PLTW curriculum.
Credits Awarded: Students may earn college credit for PLTW courses through agreements with the American Council on Education—subject to individual college policies.
6. MIT School of Engineering Programs
The MIT School of Engineering offers a range of programs aimed at making science and engineering education accessible to high school students, especially those from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. These initiatives provide opportunities for you to engage in hands-on learning experiences, develop essential skills, and explore various STEM fields.
Here is a detailed overview of the key programs available for aspiring engineers:
Lemelson-MIT Program: Focuses on invention-based projects for high school students, including InvenTeams and JV InvenTeams.
MIT Introduction to Technology, Engineering, and Science (MITES): A six-week residential program for underrepresented high school seniors, offering an intense introduction to STEM.
MIT Online Science, Technology, and Engineering Community (MOSTEC): A six-month online program for high school seniors, culminating in a campus visit.
Saturday Engineering Enrichment and Discovery Academy (SEED): A multi-year program for middle and high school students in nearby communities, offering exposure to various engineering fields.
Women’s Technology Program: A four-week residential program focused on motivating female students to pursue mechanical engineering or computer science.
Cost: Free
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by program; specific dates can be found on the MIT School of Engineering website.
Program Dates: Program dates vary by initiative; please refer to individual program pages for details.
Eligibility: Eligibility criteria differ for each program; most target high school students, particularly those from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds.
Credits Awarded: Some programs, like MITES, may offer opportunities for college credit, while others focus on enriching educational experiences without formal credits.
7. Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) CAMP
The Summer Engineering Exploration Camp (SEE Camp) at the University of Michigan is a week-long residential program designed for high school students with limited access to engineering resources. Hosted by the Society of Women Engineers, this camp offers an immersive experience where campers can explore various engineering disciplines while engaging in hands-on activities.
As a participant, you will work in small teams to tackle a design challenge using the engineering design process, gain insights into the engineering field through campus tours and interactions with current students, and participate in team-building activities such as kayaking and tie-dying. The program aims to inspire and equip the next generation of engineers with essential skills and knowledge about the engineering industry.
Cost: $650 (tentatively)
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Application Deadline: Applications generally open in early spring. The specific deadline for 2025 will be announced on the official website.
Program Dates: The 2025 SEE Camp is scheduled from July 6, 2025, to July 12, 2025.
Eligibility: Open to high school students entering grades 10-11, with a particular focus on those who may have limited access to engineering resources.
The ESTEEM/SER-Quest Summer Program at the University of Maryland’s A. James Clark School of Engineering is a four-week commuter program designed for rising 12th graders. Sponsored by the Center for Minorities in Science and Engineering, this intensive program focuses on engineering research and aims to inspire students to pursue engineering careers.
As a participant, you will engage in a hands-on research project, develop a research proposal, and conduct a literature review. Additionally, the program provides valuable insights into the college application and financial aid processes, along with opportunities to connect with current undergraduate and graduate engineering students. While participation in the program does not guarantee admission to the university, it serves as a stepping stone for academically strong students looking to enhance their competitiveness in the application process.
Cost: No cost
Location: University of Maryland, College Park, MD
Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024 program closed in April. Application dates for the 2025 program are to be announced.
Program Dates: The 2024 program dates were July 8 – August 2, 2024. Specific dates for 2025 are to be announced.
Eligibility: The program is open to all students, but it specifically targets individuals from underrepresented ethnic groups, including African American, American Indian, Pacific Islander, and Latino/Hispanic students. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Minimum 3.2 GPA with no C's in Math and Science courses
Prepared to take Pre-Calculus by 12th grade
Completed Chemistry with a grade of B or better
Complete 11th grade by June 2025
9. Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) Program
The Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE) program is a two-week, hands-on workshop designed for rising high school seniors with a passion for science, math, and engineering. Hosted by MIT Lincoln Laboratory, this free summer program focuses on teaching students how to build small radar systems.
As a participant, you will collaborate to design and assemble a Doppler and range radar, utilizing creative problem-solving techniques alongside experienced scientists and engineers. The program offers you the opportunity to engage in real-world engineering challenges while also providing insights into advanced radar technology.
Cost: Free
Location: MIT campus in Cambridge, MA | Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA
Application Deadline: Applications for the 2025 program will open in January 2025.
Program Dates: Typically two weeks in June-July. Specific dates for the 2025 program are to be announced.
Eligibility: Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a U.S. citizen
Be passionate about science, math, and engineering
Be completing junior year in high school
10. Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation
The Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation Pre-College Programs offer high school students an immersive experience in engineering through three pathways. Each program is designed to help you cultivate problem-solving skills and foster creativity. You can choose from the following programs:
Explore Engineering Innovation:
You can collaborate on various engineering disciplines, engaging in hands-on projects like creating devices that enhance user well-being or designing structures like spaghetti bridges.Biomedical Engineering Innovation:
This program introduces you to biomedical concepts, allowing you to solve real-world medical problems while exploring the intersection of engineering and healthcare.Sustainable Energy Engineering:
Here, you focus on energy production methods, exploring the science and engineering behind energy sources, storage, and transfer, as well as the social and political impacts of energy use.
You can choose to live on campus, commute, or participate online, making these programs accessible to aspiring engineers from around the globe. All programs give you the chance to earn college credit while developing critical analytical and teamwork skills.
Cost: Application fee of $50 | Tuition varies by program; see here for more information. | Scholarships available
Location: Baltimore, Maryland | Online
Application Deadline: Rolling | Applications for Summer + Fall 2025 open in Dec 2024; be sure to check the website for details.
Program Dates: Summer & Fall 2025 | Specific dates should be updated by Dec 2024. Eligibility: The programs are open to high school students with a keen interest in engineering and related fields.
Credits Awarded: All programs offer three college credits from Johns Hopkins University upon successful completion.
11. Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP)
The Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP) is a highly selective and intensive three-week program designed for high school students curious to explore engineering on a college level. You can choose from courses like Biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Nanotechnology, and more.
As a participant, you will explore sophisticated engineering theory while gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies. You will also have the opportunity to work closely with leading faculty, earn college credit, and live on the historic University of Pennsylvania campus, all while making connections with peers from around the world.
Cost: Application Fee (Non-Refundable): $85 | Program Fee: $8,500 | No financial aid available | See here for more details.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Application Deadline:
Application Open: January 2, 2025
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
Program Dates: 3 weeks | July 6 – 26, 2025
Eligibility: Applicants must be rising sophomores to rising juniors and be at least 15 years old by the time the program starts. A minimum 3.0 GPA, or equivalent, is required. This program is also open to international students; here are the requirements.
Credits Awarded: Credits provided but unspecified
12. NSLC High School Summer Engineering Programs
The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) on Engineering invites high school students to explore a career in engineering through hands-on learning experiences. As a participant, you will engage in designing prototypes and building robots, gaining insights from industry leaders along the way.
The program emphasizes experiential simulations, allowing you to delve into various engineering disciplines. With interactive workshops, guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, and immersive field trips, you will discover the inner workings of the engineering field while developing essential leadership skills.
Cost: $4,095 – $5,550 (residential) | Scholarships available
Location: Multiple universities, including Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, University of California, Berkeley, University of Michigan, University of Oxford, and Yale University
Application Deadline: Enrollment is open for Summer 2025; register here!
Program Dates:
Duke University:
July 6 – July 14
July 18 – July 26
Johns Hopkins University:
June 15 – June 23
June 27 – July 5
July 10 – July 18
University of California, Berkeley:
June 13 – June 21
June 25 – July 3
July 7 – July 15
July 19 – July 27
University of Michigan:
June 16 – June 24
June 29 – July 7
July 12 – July 20
July 25 – August 2
University of Oxford:
July 6 – July 15
July 17 – July 26
July 28 – August 6
Yale University:
July 15 – July 23
July 26 – August 3
Eligibility: Open to high school students between the ages of 14-18 who have completed at least one year of high school
Credits Awarded: Participants can earn college credit through a partnership with American University by completing an online course tailored to complement their area of study.
Conclusion
In conclusion, high school engineering courses and programs present a great opportunity for you to explore your interests and prepare for future academic and professional careers. By engaging in projects that apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, you can develop a robust skill set that will serve you well in college and beyond.
Are you looking to start a project or research paper in the field of AI and ML? Consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI is an AI program designed for high schoolers. It’s founded and run by Harvard graduate students. The program aims to allow students to create unique projects in the field of AI. Participants will get to learn more about AI from researchers and experts and work 1-on-1 with mentors from Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and more. In just the past year, we’ve had over a thousand students learn with us! You too can apply!
Image Source - COSMOS Logo