Summer Enrichment Academies

2026 Summer Enrichment Academies

Middle & High: Honors Design Thinking Summer Academy

Design • Engineer • Prototype

This intensive 5-day honors academy immerses middle and high school students in the engineering design process, from identifying real-world problems to designing, building, testing, and presenting innovative solutions. Students explore human-centered design, systems thinking, and creative problem-solving while working in collaborative teams.

Using professional tools and maker technologies—CAD, 3D printing, laser cutting, electronics, and microcontrollers—students transform ideas into functional prototypes. Throughout the week, students document their process and create a STEM-focused digital portfolio showcasing design thinking, iteration, and technical skills.

The academy culminates in formal presentations, where students communicate their design decisions, constraints, and impact—building confidence and college- and career-ready engineering skills.


Week 1: August 3rd - 7th for 7th - 12th Graders

Week 2: August 10th - 14th for 6th - 9th Graders

Time:
 9:00 am - 4:00 pm		Price: $1,600
Early Bird Rate - $1,400 till 6/1/26
Location:
Rutgers Makerspace		 

Any Questions please reach out to cmsce@docs.rutgers.edu or 848-932-4915

Register for Week 1 Register for Week 2

Foundational Institute: Introduction to Design Thinking - Think Like an Engineer 

is a hands-on program offered for students in grades 3–5, running from July 20–24, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving. During this engaging week, students will explore engineering concepts, design thinking, and maker-centered activities through interactive investigations and creative challenges. Participants will use tools such as Sphero robots, Ozobots, and beginner-friendly microcontrollers to build, program, test, and improve their designs while learning to apply the engineering design process. Through collaboration and guided experimentation, students will strengthen critical thinking, perseverance, and innovation skills. This experience provides a strong foundation for future participation in middle and high school Maker programs while fostering confidence and excitement for STEM learning.

Date(s):
July 20 - 24, 2026		  Grades: 3rd - 5th Graders 
Time:
 9:00 am - 12:30 pm		Price: $950
  Early Bird Rate - $850 till 6/1/26
Location:
Rutgers Lifelong Learning Center		 

 Registration 

Any Questions please reach out to cmsce@docs.rutgers.edu or 848-932-4915