10 UT Austin Summer Programs for High School Students
As summer approaches, high school students often look for productive and enriching ways to spend their break. The University of Texas at Austin offers a variety of summer programs that provide unique opportunities for academic growth, career exploration, and personal development. Here are ten exceptional summer programs at UT Austin for high school students, designed to cater to a wide range of interests and aspirations.
Interested in learning more about AI and its impacts ahead of college? Find out how YOU can apply artificial intelligence to the subjects that interest you in InspiritAI’s AI Scholars Program. Students in the Inspirit AI Scholars program craft interdisciplinary AI projects engaging subjects of personal interest to them. Additionally, many students who have participated in the AI+X Individual Research Mentorship have gone on to win prestigious awards at various science fair competitions!
10 UT Austin High School Summer Programs
1. Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) Summer Supercomputing Institute
The Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) Summer Supercomputing Institute is an immersive program that introduces high school students to the fascinating world of high-performance computing. Over the course of a week, participants dive deep into the applications of supercomputing across various fields such as science, engineering, medicine, and more.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school students with an interest in computing and technology
Cost: Free
Curriculum Highlights
Introduction to Supercomputing: Students learn the basics of supercomputing, including how these powerful machines are used to solve complex problems in different domains.
Hands-On Projects: Participants engage in hands-on projects that involve coding, data analysis, and simulations using advanced computing tools.
Expert Guidance: The program is led by TACC experts who provide mentorship and insights into the real-world applications of supercomputing.
Benefits
Skill Development: Gain practical skills in coding, data analysis, and problem-solving.
Career Insights: Explore potential career paths in computing and technology.
Networking: Connect with peers who share similar interests and passions.
2. UT High School Summer Online Courses
UT High School offers a range of online summer courses designed to help high school students earn credits or get ahead in their studies. These courses provide a flexible learning environment, allowing students to study at their own pace from the comfort of their own home.
Program Details
Duration: semester-long courses
Location: Online
Target Audience: High school students seeking academic advancement
Cost: $260 per course
Curriculum Highlights
Wide Range of Subjects: Courses are available in mathematics, science, humanities, social studies, and more.
Self-Paced Learning: Students can complete coursework according to their own schedules, making it easier to balance with other summer activities.
Accredited Courses: Earn high school credits that can be transferred to their regular school.
Benefits
Academic Advancement: Get ahead in subjects that interest you or need improvement.
Flexibility: Study from anywhere at any time.
Preparation for College: Develop independent study skills that are essential for college success.
3. Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders
Subiendo is a leadership academy that focuses on preparing the next generation of leaders. This week-long program is aimed at high school juniors who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community service.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school juniors
Cost: Free (students are selected through a competitive application process)
Curriculum Highlights
Leadership Workshops: Participate in workshops that cover various aspects of leadership, including communication, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
Group Projects: Work on group projects that address real-world challenges and present solutions to a panel of judges.
Networking Opportunities: Meet and interact with business and political leaders, as well as UT Austin faculty and alumni.
Benefits
Leadership Development: Enhance your leadership skills through practical experiences.
Networking: Build connections with influential leaders and peers.
Community Impact: Learn how to make a positive impact in your community.
4. UT PREP Summer STEM Pathway
The UT PREP program is designed for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This multi-year program starts with a summer camp that introduces students to STEM concepts through interactive classes, hands-on projects, and field trips.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: Middle and high school students interested in STEM
Cost: $2500; scholarships available
Curriculum Highlights
STEM Classes: Engage in classes that cover topics such as algebra, engineering, computer science, and physics.
Hands-On Projects: Participate in projects that involve designing and building models, conducting experiments, and solving real-world problems.
Field Trips: Visit research labs, tech companies, and other STEM-related sites.
Benefits
STEM Skills: Develop a strong foundation in STEM subjects.
Hands-On Experience: Apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects.
Future Opportunities: Continue with the multi-year program to deepen your STEM knowledge and skills.
5. McCombs Future Executive Academy (MFEA)
The McCombs Future Executive Academy (MFEA) provides high school students with an introduction to the world of business. Participants attend classes taught by UT McCombs School of Business faculty, engage in team projects, and gain insights into various business disciplines.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: Rising high school seniors
Cost: Free
Curriculum Highlights
Business Fundamentals: Learn about marketing, finance, management, and entrepreneurship through interactive lectures and case studies.
Team Projects: Collaborate with peers on business projects that involve developing business plans and pitching ideas.
Industry Insights: Hear from guest speakers who are leaders in the business world.
Benefits
Business Acumen: Gain a comprehensive understanding of key business concepts.
Teamwork: Develop teamwork and collaboration skills.
Career Exploration: Explore potential career paths in business and entrepreneurship.
6. Camp Shakespeare
Hosted by the Department of Theatre and Dance, Camp Shakespeare immerses students in the works of William Shakespeare. Participants receive training in acting, stage combat, and voice, culminating in a performance of a Shakespeare play.
Program Details
Duration: Two weeks
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school students interested in theatre
Cost: $1700
Curriculum Highlights
Acting Training: Receive professional training in acting techniques, character development, and scene work.
Stage Combat: Learn the basics of stage combat and how to safely perform fight scenes.
Voice and Diction: Improve vocal techniques and learn how to project and articulate clearly on stage.
Benefits
Theatrical Skills: Develop a range of skills essential for performing arts.
Performance Experience: Gain valuable experience by performing in a Shakespeare play.
Creative Expression: Explore your creativity and enhance your confidence on stage.
7. Summer Design Camps for Teens
The Summer Design Camps for Teens introduce students to creative problem-solving and innovation. Participants learn the principles of design thinking, work on real-world challenges, and develop solutions that they present at the end of the camp.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school students interested in design and innovation
Cost: $700-800
Curriculum Highlights
Design Thinking Principles: Learn about the design thinking process, including empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing.
Hands-On Challenges: Work on real-world problems and develop innovative solutions.
Presentation Skills: Present your solutions to peers and instructors, receiving constructive feedback.
Benefits
Problem-Solving Skills: Enhance your ability to think creatively and solve complex problems.
Innovation: Foster an innovative mindset that is valuable in any field.
Collaboration: Work collaboratively with peers to develop and refine ideas.
8. Jackson School of Geosciences GeoFORCE Texas
GeoFORCE Texas offers field experiences for high school students interested in geosciences. Students participate in week-long field trips to geological sites across Texas, learning about earth sciences and career opportunities in geosciences.
Program Details
Duration: One week per summer (multi-year program)
Location: Various geological sites in Texas
Target Audience: High school students from select Texas counties
Cost: Free (students are selected through a competitive application process)
Curriculum Highlights
Field Trips: Travel to significant geological sites and learn about the geological history and processes of the area.
Geoscience Education: Participate in hands-on activities and experiments that illustrate key concepts in geosciences.
Career Exploration: Learn about career opportunities in geosciences and related fields.
Benefits
Field Experience: Gain practical experience in the field of geosciences.
STEM Knowledge: Enhance your understanding of earth sciences.
Networking: Connect with professionals and peers interested in geosciences.
9. High School Summer Research Academy
The High School Summer Research Academy offers students the chance to engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside UT Austin faculty and graduate students. This program is ideal for students who are passionate about scientific inquiry and want to experience the rigor of academic research.
Program Details
Duration: Six weeks
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school students interested in research
Cost: $3500; need-based scholarships available
Curriculum Highlights
Research Projects: Participate in ongoing research projects across various disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Mentorship: Work closely with UT Austin faculty and graduate students who provide guidance and support throughout the research process.
Research Skills: Learn essential research skills, including literature review, data analysis, and scientific writing.
Benefits
Hands-On Research: Gain practical experience in academic research.
Mentorship: Receive mentorship from experienced researchers.
Preparation for College: Develop skills that are valuable for college-level research and beyond.
10. UT Austin Robotics Camp
The UT Austin Robotics Camp is perfect for students interested in robotics and engineering. Participants learn about robotics design and programming, work on team projects, and compete in a final robotics competition.
Program Details
Duration: One week
Location: On-campus
Target Audience: High school students interested in robotics and engineering
Cost: $2,100
Curriculum Highlights
Robotics Design: Learn about the fundamentals of robotics, including mechanics, electronics, and sensors.
Programming: Gain skills in programming languages used in robotics, such as Python and C++.
Team Projects: Work in teams to design, build, and program robots for specific tasks.
Robotics Competition: Compete in a final competition where teams showcase their robots' abilities.
Benefits
Technical Skills: Develop technical skills in robotics and programming.
Teamwork: Enhance your ability to work effectively in a team.
Competitive Spirit: Experience the excitement of competing and testing your creations.
Conclusion
These UT Austin summer programs offer high school students a chance to explore their interests, gain new skills, and experience college life. Whether you’re passionate about STEM, business, the arts, or leadership, there’s a program at UT Austin that can help you make the most of your summer. Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to learn and grow!
Attending a summer program at UT Austin can be a transformative experience for high school students. Not only do these programs provide valuable educational opportunities, but they also allow students to explore their passions, meet new friends, and get a taste of college life. Whether you’re looking to advance academically, develop leadership skills, or immerse yourself in the arts or sciences, UT Austin has a program that can meet your needs.
Tips for Applying
1. Research Early: Start researching programs early to ensure you meet application deadlines.
2. Prepare Your Application: Take time to prepare a strong application, including essays and recommendation letters if required.
3. Seek Financial Aid: Look into scholarship opportunities to help cover program costs.
By taking advantage of these summer programs, you can make your summer both productive and enjoyable, setting yourself up for future academic and personal success. Explore the options at UT Austin and find the program that’s right for you!
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1. Summer cohort applications will be accepted until May 30.
