Summer engineering programs are more than just seasonal camps—they are life-changing opportunities for high school students who want to explore the world of engineering before stepping into college.
These programs combine classroom instruction, hands-on projects, and mentorship from industry leaders and university professors. They also help students build strong portfolios, gain real-world exposure, and enhance their college applications.
In 2025, several universities and institutions across the U.S. are offering top-tier summer engineering programs. From robotics and aerospace to biomedical and mechanical engineering, students can choose programs tailored to their interests and career goals.
Below are some of the best summer engineering programs for high school students in 2025 that stand out for their academic rigor, reputation, and student outcomes.
Best Summer Engineering Programs for High School Students
MITES Summer Program – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Eligibility: High-achieving high school juniors, especially from underrepresented groups in STEM
- Duration: 6 weeks (residential)
- Highlights:
- Courses in engineering, computer science, and mathematics
- Hands-on projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges
- Mentorship from MIT faculty and alumni
- No tuition cost – program is fully funded
MITES (Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science) is one of the most prestigious pre-college STEM programs in the world. It not only focuses on academic enrichment but also on leadership, teamwork, and preparing students for top-tier universities.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes – Stanford University, USA
- Location: Stanford, California
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–11)
- Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Specialized engineering courses in robotics, design thinking, and electrical engineering
- Collaborative projects in state-of-the-art labs
- Exposure to Silicon Valley’s innovation culture
- Opportunity to interact with Stanford professors and researchers
This program gives students a taste of life at Stanford, combining engineering problem-solving with creativity and teamwork.
Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation Program – Johns Hopkins University, USA
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland (and online options available)
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 10–12)
- Duration: 4–5 weeks
- Highlights:
- Introduction to multiple engineering fields (civil, mechanical, chemical, electrical)
- Lab-based projects and design challenges
- Curriculum designed by Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering
- Focus on critical thinking and problem-solving
Students completing this program may even receive college credits, making it a strong option for those planning ahead.
Carnegie Mellon Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)
- Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Eligibility: High school juniors from underrepresented communities
- Duration: 6 weeks (residential)
- Highlights:
- Intensive courses in engineering, computer science, and mathematics
- Team-based projects and research exposure
- College preparation workshops and mentoring
- Focus on increasing diversity in STEM fields
Carnegie Mellon’s program emphasizes both academic rigor and inclusivity, preparing students to succeed in engineering majors at top universities.
Best Summer Engineering Programs in California for High School Students
California remains a hub for innovation, technology, and engineering education. With world-class universities like Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, the state offers some of the most competitive and rewarding summer programs for aspiring engineers.
These programs provide not only academic enrichment but also exposure to Silicon Valley’s ecosystem and hands-on access to advanced research labs.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes (California, USA)
- Location: Stanford University, California
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–11)
- Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Specialized engineering design, robotics, and electrical engineering courses
- Group projects emphasizing collaboration and creativity
- Access to Stanford’s labs and faculty mentorship
- Exposure to the entrepreneurial culture of Silicon Valley
This program is one of the most prestigious pre-college experiences in California, giving students a glimpse into what it’s like to study at Stanford while connecting with peers from across the globe.
UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars Program
- Location: University of California, Berkeley
- Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors
- Duration: 4–6 weeks
- Highlights:
- Courses in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering
- Access to Berkeley’s renowned research centers and laboratories
- A chance to experience life on one of the world’s top public university campuses
- Opportunities for cultural and academic immersion in the Bay Area
UC Berkeley’s program gives students an opportunity to combine rigorous academics with real-world exposure, making it ideal for those considering engineering as a college major.
California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
- Location: UC campuses (UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, UC Santa Cruz)
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 8–12, highly competitive)
- Duration: 4 weeks
- Highlights:
- Cluster-based curriculum including robotics, aerospace, and computer engineering
- Research projects supervised by UC faculty
- College preparatory workshops and team-based design projects
- Highly selective with a reputation for academic excellence
COSMOS is considered one of the most competitive STEM summer programs in California, giving students the chance to work on advanced engineering topics while strengthening their college applications.
UCLA Engineering Research Program
- Location: University of California, Los Angeles
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
- Duration: 6 weeks (residential)
- Highlights:
- Faculty-led research in fields such as mechanical, civil, and bioengineering
- Hands-on experience in UCLA’s engineering labs
- Focus on building analytical, coding, and design skills
- Opportunities to present research findings at the program’s conclusion
UCLA’s program emphasizes engineering research experience, making it an excellent choice for students planning to pursue STEM majors at selective universities.
Best Aerospace Engineering Summer Programs for High School Students
For students passionate about aircraft, spacecraft, and space exploration, aerospace engineering programs provide hands-on learning and exposure to one of the most exciting fields of engineering. These programs combine theory with practical projects like rocket design, flight simulations, and satellite studies, preparing students for future careers in aviation and space sciences.
Aerospace Engineering Summer Program – University of Michigan
- Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Eligibility: High school sophomores to seniors
- Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Courses in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, and space systems
- Hands-on projects such as building and launching model rockets
- Faculty mentorship from the Department of Aerospace Engineering
- Exposure to advanced aerospace labs and facilities
The University of Michigan is ranked among the top aerospace schools in the U.S., making this program a valuable step for students considering aviation or astronautics.
Georgia Tech Summer Engineering Academy – Aerospace Module
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
- Duration: 2 weeks
- Highlights:
- Courses focused on aircraft design, spacecraft systems, and flight dynamics
- Problem-solving challenges in simulation environments
- Interaction with aerospace faculty and current engineering students
- An introduction to the aerospace industry’s role in innovation
Georgia Tech’s strong reputation in engineering ensures students gain exposure to real-world applications of aerospace principles while exploring career paths in aviation and space sciences.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Summer Camps
- Location: Daytona Beach, Florida & Prescott, Arizona
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
- Duration: 1–2 weeks
- Highlights:
- Specializations in aviation, space exploration, and flight technology
- Access to flight simulators, drone labs, and observatories
- Programs designed by one of the world’s most prestigious aviation universities
- A mix of classroom instruction and hands-on aerospace experiments
Embry-Riddle is globally recognized as the premier aviation and aerospace university, making its summer programs an excellent choice for future pilots, engineers, and space scientists.
NASA High School Internship Programs
- Location: NASA research centers across the U.S.
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (U.S. citizens only)
- Duration: 6–10 weeks (summer session)
- Highlights:
- Work directly with NASA scientists and engineers on aerospace projects
- Opportunities to contribute to satellite design, flight research, and robotics
- Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in space exploration
- Highly competitive, offering a real-world research experience
This program is considered one of the most prestigious opportunities for high school students, providing unmatched insight into the world of aerospace and space technology.
Best Biomedical Engineering Summer Programs for High School Students
Biomedical engineering is one of the fastest-growing fields, combining engineering, biology, and medicine to create life-saving innovations.
For high school students passionate about healthcare technology, medical devices, or biotechnology, summer programs in biomedical engineering provide hands-on lab experience, exposure to real-world research, and opportunities to learn from leading faculty.
Johns Hopkins Biomedical Engineering Innovation Program
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland (also available online)
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
- Duration: 4–5 weeks
- Highlights:
- Courses in tissue engineering, biomedical imaging, and medical devices
- Students work on lab-based experiments and design challenges
- Exposure to one of the top-ranked biomedical engineering departments in the world
- Prepares students for future STEM and medical research opportunities
Johns Hopkins is globally known for excellence in medicine and engineering, making this program a top choice for students interested in the intersection of healthcare and technology.
Columbia University Summer Immersion: Biomedical Engineering
- Location: New York City, New York
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
- Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Hands-on labs focused on biomechanics, biomaterials, and healthcare innovation
- Learn how engineering principles apply to medical problem-solving
- Mentorship from Columbia professors and graduate researchers
- Access to state-of-the-art labs in one of the world’s leading universities
This program is perfect for students who want to combine a world-class academic experience with the vibrant city life of New York.
Penn Engineering Summer Academy in Biomedical Science (SABIC)
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–11)
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Coursework in biotechnology, bioinformatics, and biomedical devices
- Students engage in team-based projects and present research findings
- Learn from Penn’s leading School of Engineering and Applied Science faculty
- Strong emphasis on how engineering shapes the future of medicine
Penn’s program is highly regarded for its focus on cutting-edge biomedical technologies and gives students valuable early exposure to research methods.
Boston University RISE Internship Program – Biomedical Track
- Location: Boston, Massachusetts
- Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
- Duration: 6 weeks
- Highlights:
- Students conduct independent biomedical research under faculty mentorship
- Focus areas include biomedical engineering, molecular biology, and biotechnology
- Opportunities to work in professional research labs alongside graduate students
- Culminates in a final research symposium
BU’s RISE program offers a true research-intensive experience, making it one of the most prestigious biomedical engineering summer opportunities for high schoolers.
Best Mechanical Engineering Summer Programs for High School Students
Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest and most versatile fields in engineering. It covers everything from designing machines and vehicles to robotics, energy systems, and materials science.
For high school students curious about how things work — and how to make them better — mechanical engineering summer programs provide hands-on labs, design projects, and mentorship from top professors.
MITES Summer Program (MIT)
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (highly competitive)
- Duration: 6 weeks (fully residential and tuition-free)
- Highlights:
- Courses in mechanical systems, robotics, and design engineering
- Hands-on challenges that encourage teamwork and innovation
- Access to MIT’s state-of-the-art labs and research environment
- Focus on preparing underrepresented students for STEM careers
MITES is considered one of the most prestigious pre-college STEM programs, giving students exposure to world-class mechanical engineering.
Northwestern University College Prep Engineering Program
- Location: Evanston, Illinois
- Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
- Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Highlights:
- Intensive introduction to mechanical systems and product design
- Learn CAD modeling, prototyping, and problem-solving skills
- Work on projects simulating real-world mechanical engineering applications
- Mentorship from Northwestern faculty and industry experts
This program is excellent for students who want to explore the design and innovation side of mechanical engineering.
University of Michigan Summer Engineering Academy (SEA)
- Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–11)
- Duration: 4 weeks
- Highlights:
- Courses in thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid mechanics
- Focus on engineering design and manufacturing principles
- Collaborative projects that encourage creative problem-solving
- Exposure to Michigan’s highly ranked engineering school
SEA gives students a solid foundation in core mechanical engineering concepts while building teamwork and leadership skills.
Virginia Tech C-Tech² Program
- Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
- Eligibility: Rising junior and senior girls in high school
- Duration: 2 weeks
- Highlights:
- Hands-on labs in mechanical, aerospace, and materials engineering
- Access to Virginia Tech’s world-class research facilities
- Team projects that emphasize design thinking and innovation
- A supportive environment to encourage young women in STEM
C-Tech² is particularly impactful for female students interested in engineering, offering mentorship and networking opportunities with successful women engineers.
FAQs:
Q1: What are the best summer engineering programs for high school students?
Some top programs include MITES (MIT), Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes, Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation, UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars, and University of Michigan Aerospace Program.
Q2: Are summer engineering programs worth it for high school students?
Yes! They provide hands-on lab experience, exposure to real engineering projects, mentorship from experts, and make college applications stand out.
Q3: Can international students apply to summer engineering programs in the USA?
Yes, many programs like Stanford, MIT, and Johns Hopkins welcome international students. Admission is competitive, so strong academic records are important.
Q4: Which summer engineering program is best for aerospace enthusiasts?
The University of Michigan Aerospace Program, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University camps, and NASA High School Internships are excellent choices.
Q5: Do summer engineering programs help with college admissions?
Absolutely! Participation in these programs highlights a student’s passion for STEM, initiative, and readiness for college-level engineering studies.
Conclusion:
Summer engineering programs are more than just academic opportunities — they are a launchpad for future success. By attending these programs, high school students gain:
- Hands-on experience in real engineering labs
- Mentorship from professors and industry experts
- Exposure to different engineering fields such as aerospace, biomedical, and mechanical
- Stronger college applications that highlight initiative and passion for STEM
- Confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills essential for success in engineering careers
Whether you dream of designing airplanes, building medical devices, or innovating sustainable technologies, the right summer program will help you explore your interests and prepare for college-level engineering.
Key Takeaway: The best summer engineering programs for high school students in 2025 — such as MITES, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, UC Berkeley, and University of Michigan — offer the perfect mix of academics, research, and fun. Choosing one that matches your passion will not only enrich your summer but also shape your future in engineering.
