13 Engineering Summer Camps for High School Students
As a high school student thinking about a future in engineering, spending your summer break delving into the field through specialized programs can be incredibly beneficial. Summer engineering programs offer a deep dive into the discipline, helping to build your knowledge and provide valuable hands-on experience.
These programs can enhance your college application significantly; admissions officers often favor applicants who demonstrate a dedicated and authentic interest in their chosen field, and attending a summer program is a strong indication of this commitment.
In this blog post, we explore 12 of the top summer engineering camps for high school students!
1. Lumiere Research Scholars Program - Engineering Track
The Lumiere Research Scholars Program is a distinctive initiative that pairs high school students with PhD mentors for a one-on-one independent research project. Over 12 weeks, students delve deep into their chosen fields, culminating in the development of an independent research paper.
This program is structured to include 9 individual sessions with a researcher, 2 sessions with a writing coach, and participation in 5 workshops focused on the research process. It's designed for students who are eager to learn about the cutting edge of their field and are committed to producing a significant piece of research work. The Lumiere Research Scholars Program offers a variety of research topics (including various engineering tracks) and allows students the flexibility to customize their own research topic.
If you’re interested in the program, read our review of Lumiere Education here!
Location: Virtual
Cost: Lumiere Individual Research Program – $2,800; Lumiere Premium Research and Publication Program – $4,800; Lumiere Research Fellowship – $8,400
Application Deadline: Upcoming summer cohort - May 12, 2024. You can apply here!
Program Dates: 12 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: High school students
2. Veritas AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase Program - Engineering Track
Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students and provides students with the opportunity to create unique, individual projects at the intersection of AI and data science. Through the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase program, you get a chance to work 1-1 with mentors from top universities to build AI projects over a period of 12-15 weeks.
Students can opt to work on projects across various engineering disciplines like mechanical, biomedical, computer engineering, and more! You can also take advantage of the in-house publication team to have your research published in a high-school level academic journal.
Location: Virtual
Cost: AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase - $4900; Combination (AI Scholars + AI Fellowship) - $5900
Application Deadline: Upcoming summer cohort deadlines - April 21, 2024 (regular admission I); May 19, 2024 (regular admission II). You can apply here!
Program Dates: You can find all available dates for the summer cohort here
Eligibility: High school students who have completed the AI Scholars program or have prior experience in Python programming.
3. Horizon Academic Research Program
Location: Virtual
Application Date: May 21, 2024 for the summer cohort, and September 25, 2024 for the fall cohort
Program Dates:
Summer seminar - June 24, 2024 - September 2, 2024
Fall seminar - October 23, 2024 - February 19, 2025
Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and on college applications. Apply here!
4. MIT WTP
The Women's Technology Program (WTP) at MIT is a highly sought-after four-week summer initiative aimed at introducing high school girls to the foundations of computer science and engineering. Throughout the duration of the program, participants will partake in classroom learning, laboratory sessions, and team-based projects. The program focuses on imparting core concepts and skills in computer science, with a significant emphasis on Python programming, alongside providing access to MIT’s state-of-the-art research facilities.
The program fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to explore diverse problem-solving strategies. It's important to note that in 2024, WTP will exclusively offer the Mechanical Engineering track, as the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science track will temporarily pause.
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Cost: No cost (Note. WTP is still deciding whether there should be a tuition fee charged. Currently, there is no cost – however, even if a fee was implemented, financial aid will be available).
Application Deadline: January 15 (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: June 29 to July 26, 2024 (subject to change as these are the projected key dates).
Eligibility:
This program is women-focused.
Applicants must be rising seniors in high school.
Students who have already covered WTP’s curriculum in their high school classes, after school activities, online courses, or other summer programs or internships will not be accepted.
5. Biotechnology Summer Camp at University of California, Berkeley
The Biotechnology Summer Camp, hosted at UC Berkeley, is an excellent opportunity for students looking for programs at the intersection of science, medicine, and technology. Designed to help students gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art biotech labs with real scientists, students will learn how to isolate proteins, how to create a molecule, and how to discover treatments for various diseases.
Over the course of the summer camp, you will also have a chance to engage with industry professionals and visit biotech incubators, to learn more about what your future as a biotech engineer could look like. With an emphasis on gene expression and genetic engineering, this summer program provides an unparalleled experience and the perfect head start before you head to college.
Location: University of Berkeley, California
Cost:
Residential tuition: $5,898
Commuter tuition: $3,198
Application Deadline: April 21, 2024
Program Dates:
Session 2: June 23 to July 5, 2024
Session 4: July 7 to 19, 2024
Session 6: July 21 to August 2, 2024
Eligibility: High school students between the ages of 15 and 17
6. Summer Engineering Institute at Georgia Tech
The Summer Engineering Institute, a 3-week residential program offered at Georgia Tech, is a highly sought after and selective program. The goal of the program is to provide students with real world engineering experience that prepares them as engineers of the future.
Through the program, students will work on major projects using programs such as Arduino, MATLAB, and Google Sketch-up. Assigned to teams, students will plan, design, and research the economic and social impacts of selected engineering problems, while gaining industry knowledge through corporate visits and skills workshops.
Location: Georgia Tech, Atlanta, Georgia
Cost: $1,800
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA; 3 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th grade students
7. National High School Game Academy at Carnegie Mellon University
For those aspiring for a career in game development or design, this program is tailor-made for you. It spans four unique tracks, covering everything from the fundamentals of game design to programming and graphic design, providing a holistic overview of the gaming industry and its current standards. Drawing from the educational approach of CMU’s Masters of Entertainment Technology program, it uniquely combines team-based projects with conventional classroom learning and lectures.
During the six-week course, participants will be introduced to the essentials of 2D and 3D art, software development, music composition, game design, and storytelling. As the course progresses, students will be grouped into teams and placed on a track that aligns with their strengths. Following this, each team will take on the challenge of developing two distinct games, applying the skills and knowledge they've acquired throughout the program.
Check out these other pre-college programs offered by CMU!
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Cost:
Residential program: $12,105
Commuter program: $8,998
Application Deadline: March (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: June - August (tentatively, based on previous years)
Eligibility: To be eligible for the NHSGA, students must:
Be at least 16 years old by the program start date.
Be a current sophomore or junior in high school at the time of application submission. Please note: talented sophomores are encouraged to apply, however, most of our admitted students will be juniors.
Have an academic average of B (3.0/4.0) or better.
8. The University of Arizona Summer Engineering Academy
Rising 10th through 12th graders have a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in engineering at the University of Arizona. As part of this enriching program, participants work closely with university professors, graduate students, and undergraduate peers on various design projects and practical activities. There are three unique programs that participants can consider: Women in Engineering, Engineer the Environment, and ChallENGe Accepted.
The interactive setup allows students to connect with mentors and learn more about different engineering degrees, research opportunities, and career paths in the field. In addition to the educational aspects, the program offers participants the chance to explore the University of Arizona’s campus, facilities, and vibrant community. This experience is invaluable for any high school student considering an engineering major in college.
Location: University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
Cost: $300
Application Deadline: March (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates:
Women in Engineering: June 18 to 20
Engineer the Environment: July 16 to 18
ChallENGe Accepted: July 23 to 25
Eligibility: Rising 9th through 12th grade students as well as class of 2024 seniors
9. Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP) at UPenn
This competitive program at the University of Pennsylvania admits approximately 230 students each year, ensuring an intimate learning environment with an instructor-to-student ratio of about 1:19. The program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, providing students access to the latest technologies and expert guidance from experienced UPenn faculty.
Offering a variety of tracks within the fields of engineering, technology, and computer science, the program includes specialized areas such as robotics, computer science, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. Each track is designed to foster both collaborative and independent learning experiences, ensuring that students not only grasp fundamental concepts but also gain a solid foundation geared towards a future career in engineering.
Here is everything you need to know about ESAP!
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cost: $8,500
Application Deadline: April 5 (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: July 7 to 27
Eligibility: Students must be at least 15 years old by the program start date. Different tracks in this program might have additional prerequisites.
10. Explore Engineering Innovation at Johns Hopkins University
The EEI pre-college program at Johns Hopkins University offers a unique three-credit college-level course tailored for high school students interested in engineering. The program offers a blend of classes, workshops, and hands-on laboratory experiences across various engineering disciplines, including materials science, civil, chemical, mechanical, and electrical/computer engineering.
Participants will tackle projects in small groups that apply practical engineering concepts. These projects might involve testing the material properties of everyday items like spaghetti, designing functional bridges, constructing electronic devices, or operating a small bioreactor to explore principles such as heat transfer and chemical reactions. Additionally, the program culminates with students pitching their innovative ideas and presenting their final projects, providing a real-world experience of what it's like to work and communicate in the field of engineering.
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
Cost: $3,575 (tuition) + $5,500/$5,800 (residential)
Application Deadline: May 17, 2024
Program Dates: July 1 to 26, 2024
Eligibility:
Current high school students or recent high school graduates
A’s and B’s in math and science classes
Completed Algebra II
Completed a trigonometry course
Completed a full year of high school level physics and chemistry, including lab work
11. Cornell University’s CURIE Academy
The CURIE Academy is a dynamic, week-long residential program hosted at Cornell University, specifically designed for high school girls who are exploring the possibility of pursuing engineering in college and as a career.
Participants are expected to engage in nine field sessions, each spearheaded by a member of Cornell’s Engineering faculty. These sessions delve into different engineering disciplines, offering insights into each field’s core concepts, associated coursework, and active research areas, all complemented by interactive activities. In 2023, CURIE Scholars were challenged to design and construct a small bioreactor with fluidic controls to support the survival and function of a chick heart ex-ovo, highlighting the practical and innovative aspects of engineering study and research.
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Cost: $1,850
Application Deadline: February (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: July 14 to 20
Eligibility: Must meet all the following academic criteria:
Have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with strong performance in math and science courses.
Be a current high school sophomore or junior at the time of application.
Be on an academic trajectory that will include the following courses prior to graduation:
AP Calculus AB or BC or its equivalent
AP Physics or its equivalent (calculus-based physics, such as AP Physics C, is preferred)
Honors or AP Chemistry or their equivalents
Additional rigorous math, science, computer science, or STEM-related courses
In addition, must meet one or more of the following:
Experienced situations or conditions that impacted your advancement or ability to advance in a STEM field based on being a woman in STEM.
Demonstrated commitment to address the barriers that prevent participation of women in STEM.
Demonstrated leadership potential to address the issues of underrepresentation of women in STEM.
12. MIT Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers
If radar systems pique your interest, the MIT LLRISE (Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers) program is an ideal choice. Specifically tailored for rising seniors, this program runs throughout July and focuses on the hands-on construction of small radar systems, including Doppler and range radars. Participants will have the unique opportunity to work alongside highly skilled scientists and engineers who provide guidance and support throughout the workshop.
The program takes place across two venues: the MIT campus in Cambridge, MA, and the Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA. This dual-location setup provides attendees with a rich, immersive experience, leveraging the resources and expertise of one of the world's leading institutions in technology and applied sciences.
Check out this guide to MIT LLRISE!
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts and Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, Massachusetts
Cost: None
Application Deadline: March 7 (tentatively, based on previous years)
Program Dates: July 14 to 27
Eligibility:
Be a U.S. citizen (foreign citizens who are permanent residents are not eligible)
Be passionate about science, math, and engineering
Be completing your junior year in high school
13. Engineering Design Summer Institute at UCLA
UCLA's pre-college summer sessions offer a dynamic program that immerses students in the world of engineering design. Participants engage in practical projects, learn vital skills for report writing, and develop compelling presentation techniques to showcase their results.
The program equips students with access to state-of-the-art engineering design software and materials, enabling them to effectively execute their projects. Students can select from four distinct tracks tailored to different interests: aerospace engineering with a focus on rockets, aerospace engineering concentrating on planes, mechanical engineering through GoKarts, and electrical engineering centered on rovers. Upon completion, students are evaluated and receive a grade that reflects their performance and understanding.
Location: University of California Los Angeles, California
Cost: $2,781
Application Deadline: June 1, 2024
Program Dates:
Session A: June 24 to July 12, 2024
Session B: July 15 to August 2, 2024
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-11 in spring 2024, who are at least 15 years old by the program start date, can apply
If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!
Image Source - Cornell University Logo