Top 20 Engineering Camps for High School Students

Engineering is a fascinating and rewarding field that involves designing, creating, and building structures, machines, and systems that make the world a better place. For high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), attending an engineering camp can be a great way to learn more about this field, meet like-minded students, and explore your interests. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of 20 engineering camps for high school students that are worth checking out.

For students who have a broad interdisciplinary STEM interest, be sure to also check out our previous blog posts on computer science internships and science competitions for high school students looking to take their research to the next level. Also, if you are a student interested in applying computer science or artificial intelligence to your engineering research, explore InspiritAI’s AI Scholars program. Alternatively, for high schoolers who already have an engineering project in mind, consider applying to the Inspirit AI + X Individual Research Mentorship/Fellowship to receive one-on-one guidance through the lifecycle of a research project and for support for entrance to academic competitions and submission to scientific journals.

20 Engineering Camps for High School Student

1. MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute

The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute is a four-week program that provides hands-on experience in electrical engineering, computer science, and mechanical engineering for high school juniors. Students work in teams to design and build a high-altitude balloon payload and learn about aerospace engineering concepts. The program is held on the MIT campus in Cambridge, MA, and is designed to give students an opportunity to experience life as a college student.

2. Engineering Innovation at Johns Hopkins

Engineering Innovation at Johns Hopkins is a four-week program that provides high school students with courses in computer science, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical engineering. Students work in teams to design and build their own projects with guidance from JHU faculty and teaching assistants. The program is available at JHU campuses in Baltimore, MD, and Santa Clara, CA, and is designed to give students a taste of college life and prepare them for the rigor of college engineering programs.

3. Inspirit AI Scholars

The AI Scholars program at Inspirit AI emphasizes thoughtful application of artificial intelligence to engineering projects through project-based learning and mentorship by AI professionals and university affiliates. Instructors hail from a wide range of top-flight universities including Stanford, Harvard, and MIT, and possess strong teaching backgrounds as well as experience in specialized fields like software and electrical engineering. The program includes 25 hours of synchronous online instruction with a large selection of program dates/times to accommodate students with busy schedules. Participants in the scholars program enjoy the benefits of a 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio, collaborative work environment, access to top university researchers, and plenty of continuing education opportunities.

4. Boston Leadership Institute Engineering Research Program

The Engineering Research program at Boston Leadership Institute is a three-week summer program designed for high school students interested in engineering. The program provides students with the opportunity to work with experienced engineers, conduct research in a variety of engineering fields, and develop skills in problem-solving and critical thinking. Students engage in hands-on projects and experiments, work in teams to develop solutions to engineering challenges, and participate in field trips to local engineering companies and research institutions.

5. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies offers a range of programs for high school students interested in engineering, computer science, and robotics. Courses are taught by Stanford faculty and industry experts and are available to students in grades 7-12. Students can attend residential or online programs, and the programs are held on the Stanford campus in Stanford, CA. The goal of the program is to inspire and prepare students for future studies and careers in STEM fields.

6. University of Michigan Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) Camp

The Michigan Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) Camp is a one-week residential program for high school students interested in engineering. The program is hosted by the University of Michigan's College of Engineering and provides students with an introduction to the various fields of engineering. Students attend lectures and participate in hands-on projects and experiments in areas such as robotics, environmental engineering, and computer science. They also have the opportunity to interact with current engineering students and faculty, visit engineering labs and facilities, and learn about the college admissions process.

7. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a four-week residential program for high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program is hosted by the University of California system and is offered at multiple campuses throughout the state. Students attend courses and participate in hands-on projects and research in areas such as physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. They also have the opportunity to interact with STEM professionals, visit research institutions and companies, and explore career pathways in STEM fields. COSMOS is a highly competitive program that selects students based on academic excellence and a passion for STEM.

8. Purdue University's Summer Programs for High School Students

Purdue University's Summer Programs for High School Students is a range of programs that offers courses in aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Students can choose from a variety of programs, including residential and non-residential options. The programs are held on the Purdue University campus in West Lafayette, IN, and are designed to give students a chance to explore STEM fields and engage in hands-on learning experiences.

9. Fundamentals of Engineering at UC Berkeley

The Teen Summer Engineering at Berkeley program is a two-week program for high school students interested in engineering with residential and commuter options. The program is hosted by Summer Springboard and is held on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley. Students participate in hands-on projects and experiments in a variety of engineering fields, including robotics, civil engineering, and computer science. They also attend workshops and seminars on topics such as college admissions, career pathways, and leadership development. 

10. High School Research Academy at UT Austin

The High School Research Academy at UT Austin is a summer program for high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The program is hosted by the University of Texas at Austin and provides students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research with UT Austin faculty and graduate students. Students participate in research projects in areas such as computer science, biomedical engineering, and environmental science, and attend workshops and seminars on research methods, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program culminates in a research symposium where students present their findings to peers, faculty, and STEM professionals. 

11. Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP)

The Engineering Summer Academy at Penn (ESAP) is a three-week residential program for high school students interested in engineering. The program is hosted by the University of Pennsylvania and provides students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects, attend lectures, and interact with faculty and engineering professionals. Students choose from a variety of engineering disciplines such as computer science, mechanical engineering, and biotechnology, and work in teams to develop solutions to real-world engineering problems. They also have the opportunity to explore the city of Philadelphia, visit local engineering companies and research institutions, and learn about the college admissions process. 

12. Brown Pre-College Programs

Summer@Brown is a four-week summer program for high school students that provides a variety of courses and workshops in different disciplines. For engineering, the program offers courses on different engineering fields such as robotics, biomedicine, environmental engineering, and computer science. The courses are designed to be intensive and project-based, allowing students to learn through hands-on experience. The program also provides opportunities for students to engage in research and visit local companies and research institutions. 

13. Saturday Morning STEM at NJIT

Saturday Morning STEM at NJIT is a five-class series of hands-on experiences designed to introduce high schoolers to engineering. The program offers weekly classes on topics such as coding, robotics, environmental science, and chemical engineering. Students work in teams on projects and experiments, and receive guidance and mentorship from NJIT faculty and students. The program aims to engage students in STEM fields, encourage teamwork and problem-solving skills, and provide hands-on learning opportunities. 

14. Summer Engineering Academy (SEA) at University of South Alabama

The Summer Engineering Academy at the University of South Alabama is a week-long program designed for high school students to learn about the various fields of engineering, including electrical, civil, computer and mechanical engineering. The program includes lectures, hands-on projects, and team-based activities, and is taught by faculty members and industry professionals. The students will have the opportunity to visit local companies and see firsthand how engineering concepts are applied in the real world.

15. University of Miami Summer Scholars Program

The Applications of Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil and Architectural Engineering course at the University of Miami is a three-week program that allows high school students to explore the world of engineering and earn college credits in the process. The course covers a variety of engineering topics, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, as well as their practical applications in mechanical, aerospace, civil, and architectural engineering. Through lectures, labs, and hands-on projects, students will develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. The program also includes site visits to local engineering firms, providing students with a glimpse into the industry and potential career paths. By the end of the program, students will have gained a better understanding of the field of engineering and be better prepared for their future studies and careers. Summer Scholars also offers courses on “Innovations in Biomedical, Computer, and Electrical Engineering” as well as “Industrial and Systems Engineering.” 

16. IN FOCUS Seminars at Northwestern

The IN FOCUS seminars are a part of the Northwestern College Preparation Program for high school students. Seminar topics include aerospace engineering, biomedical signals and circuits, and mechatronics and electromechanical design. These seminars are designed to help students develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving in a variety of fields, including engineering. Through hands-on projects, group activities, and expert-led lectures, students will gain a better understanding of engineering principles and their practical applications in the real world. 

17. Women's Technology Program at MIT

The Women's Technology Program at MIT is a four-week program that provides young women with the opportunity to explore electrical engineering and computer science. Students work on team projects, attend lectures, and participate in lab activities. The program is held on the MIT campus in Cambridge, MA, and is designed to inspire young women to pursue careers in STEM fields.

18. Summer Academy for Mathematics and Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon

SAMS at Carnegie Mellon is a six-week program that provides high school students with the opportunity to explore STEM fields, including engineering. Students participate in hands-on projects, attend lectures and seminars, and take courses in math, science, and computer science. The program is held on the Carnegie Mellon campus in Pittsburgh, PA, and is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in STEM fields.

19. Cornell CATALYST Academy

Targeting high school students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds in STEM, CATALYST is a one-week residential program at Cornell for rising high school juniors and seniors. The program seeks to develop literacy surrounding engineering as a collegiate course of study and to highlight career and graduate school pathways in engineering. Students will also participate in workshops to demystify the college admissions process.

20. Columbia Engineering Experience (CE2)

The Columbia Engineering Experience (CE2) is a three-week summer program designed to provide high school students with an immersive experience in the field of engineering. The program includes classes in fundamental engineering principles, as well as hands-on projects that allow students to apply these concepts in a practical setting. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops and lectures led by faculty and industry professionals, and to visit engineering firms and research labs.