For students considering majoring in engineering, enrolling in a summer program in engineering can help them to better understand the field, and also shows that they are demonstrating a serious interest in it. Showing a commitment to an intended engineering major can help to boost a student's profile on college applications.
Here are several programs to consider:
California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
Website: https://cosmos-ucop.ucdavis.edu/app/main/
Program Description: COSMOS is a four-week summer residential program for students who have demonstrated an aptitude for academic and professional careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Rising 9th through rising 12th graders have the opportunity to work with renowned faculty, researchers and scientists in state-of-the-art facilities,
Students apply to one of the four University of California’s COSMOS campuses — UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego or UC Santa Cruz. The curriculum of each program builds on the unique teaching and research expertise of its faculty and host campus. Review the offerings of each campus to determine which to apply to: https://cosmos-ucop.ucdavis.edu/app/main/page/campuses-and-clusters
A typical COSMOS student has a GPA of 3.5 or above.
To Apply: The application includes a personal statement, school transcript, one teacher recommendation required, two are recommended, with those from STEM teachers preferred. Optional materials: financial aid application.
Application Deadline: Feb. 7. Admissions decisions are sent on March 27.
Fee:
- In-State Student: $4,128
- Out-of-State Student: $6,500
Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering, Engineering Innovation
Website: : https://ei.jhu.edu/
Program Description: Held at campuses throughout the U.S., this four-to-five week college-level program is for rising juniors or seniors (talented rising sophomores may be considered) with an aptitude in math and science who have an interest in engineering. Students complete lab activities in civil, chemical, electrical/computer, mechanical engineering and materials science. They also prepare a presentation in response to a Request for Proposal, learn about engineering economics, write a research paper, take weekly quizzes, and complete a comprehensive final exam. Students have the opportunity to earn Johns Hopkins University credit.
To Apply: The application includes a 250-word essay explaining why you want to participate in the program and what you hope to gain from the experience. You also need to send recent standardized test scores (PSAT, SAT, ACT). You can still apply if you have not taken these tests. International students must also submit TOEFL, IELTS, or DET scores. In addition, a math or science teacher recommendation is required, and a high school transcript. Click here for complete details.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions. Students who submit an application by February 14 will have a decision by Feb. 28 and have until March 10 to enroll. Students requesting financial aid are encouraged to apply early.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Minority Introduction to Science and Engineering (MITES)
Website: http://oeop.mit.edu/programs/mites
Program Description: This six-week residential program is for rising high school seniors. Students from underrepresented or underserved communities with an interest in STEM are encouraged to apply. Students need to have a strong academic record and be interested in studying and exploring careers in science and engineering. The program is free. Students need to pay for their travel to and from the program. In addition to the academic aspects of the program, students will participate in social events.
To Apply: Apply during the fall semester of junior year. Click here to apply.
Application Deadline: Check website.
Fee: Free-includes all educational, food, and boarding costs. Students pay for transportation to and from MIT.
Michigan State University High School Honors, Science, Math and Engineering Program
Website: https://education.msu.edu/hshsp/
Program Description: This program was established in 1958 and is the oldest, continuously running program of its kind in the U.S. It is a seven-week program providing rising seniors with the opportunity to engage in intensive research.
To Apply: The application requires essays, list of books you have read during the past year that were not assigned by a teacher, recommendations from at least two teachers, high school transcript, and financial aid application, if applicable.
Application Deadline: March 1. Late applications will be considered if space is available.
Fee: $3,800-includes room, board, and some instructional costs.
Summer Springboard
Website: https://summerspringboard.com/
Program Description:Held on various campuses on the East and West coasts, the program allows teens to get a taste of college life while gaining valuable insights about engineering through hands-on learning, and career exploration. Engineering tracks include: Fundamentals of Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Civil Engineering; and Robotics. Summer Springboard also has programs in other fields besides engineering.
To Apply: Students must have 3.0 GPA for all programs, except Cal Poly location, which requires a 3.2 GPA. Application includes short answer essay questions. Students receive decision by email in seven to ten business days.
Application Deadlines:
- Early Decision: December 29
- First Wave Application: Feb. 26
- Final General Admission: April 26
Fee: Fees range from $2,798 to $4,998 depending on whether the student commutes or lives on campus. Tuition discounts and scholarships can be found on the program brochure, which can be requested on website.
University of Maryland, College Park, A. James Clark School of Engineering S.P.I.C.E Camp
Website: https://eng.umd.edu/pre-college-summer-programs
Program Description:
Engineering Summer Academy at the University of Pennsylvania
Website: https://esap.seas.upenn.edu/
