8 University of Washington Summer Programs for High School Students
If you're a high school student preparing for college, pre-college programs should definitely be on your radar. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences that go beyond what you can get in a regular classroom and demonstrate your dedication to your chosen field. Navigating the many available pre-college programs can be overwhelming, but understanding the details of each one can help you find a good fit.
In this blog, we’ll explore 8 summer programs offered by the University of Washington for high school students. Some of the programs listed below are free of cost too.
The Engineering Academy at the University of Washington is a free, one-week summer program aimed at introducing high school students to the world of engineering. Targeting students from underrepresented backgrounds and aspiring first-generation college students, the program offers an opportunity to explore various engineering fields through hands-on design challenges. You also have the chance to engage with UW engineering students and faculty, gaining valuable insights into how engineering shapes society.
Throughout the week, you'll dive into disciplines like Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, and Aeronautics. Workshops and design challenges are structured to teach the engineering design process, enhance problem-solving skills, and emphasize the importance of teamwork.
Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: July 22 – 26, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Students must:
Be a 10th or 11th grader
Attend high school in the greater Seattle area
Provide your own transportation to the UW-Seattle campus
No prior engineering experience required
Application Deadline: Applications for 2025 will open in March
Changemakers in Computing is a free summer program hosted by the University of Washington’s Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering aimed at increasing the participation of underrepresented, economically disadvantaged, and future first-generation college students in computer science. The program places students in Mentee groups led by UW undergraduates, where they develop coding skills through project-based learning. The program goes beyond technical training by exploring the societal impact of technology and fostering a supportive community.
You will receive direct mentorship from UW students and opportunities for career exploration in computing. You'll work on meaningful projects that link technology with social justice, learn problem-solving techniques, and connect with changemakers in the field. The program also offers guidance on navigating college pathways, including affordability and field selection, making computing more accessible.
Location: University of Washington’s Allen School, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1, 2025
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Students in 10th or 11th grade in a school in Washington State who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients
Application Deadline: April 2, 2025
DO-IT Scholars is a competitive program at the University of Washington for high school sophomores and juniors with disabilities in Washington State. It helps students prepare for college and careers by developing skills in self-advocacy, leadership, and independence. The program includes a two-week Summer Study, featuring both online and on-campus sessions, covering college applications, adaptive technologies, and career exploration. You’ll begin the program as a sophomore and attend two Summer Study sessions while receiving support and resources throughout the school year.
Each year, 15-20 students are selected to join the program. Scholars can engage in projects and internships throughout, with the option to become DO-IT Ambassadors after graduation. Funded by the National Science Foundation, the program aims to boost academic and career opportunities for students with disabilities.
Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: Two weeks in July for two consecutive years
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Students must be:
A high school sophomore or junior
Have a disability
Live or attend school in Washington State
Have aptitude and interest in studying at a college
Application Deadline: Rolling, with priority given to applications submitted before January 30, 2025
The University of Washington's "Coding in Java I" is a two-week summer program designed for high school students interested in learning computer science and programming. This introductory course covers key programming concepts like variables, conditionals, loops, and objects. No prior experience is required, but the program moves at a fast pace.
Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a digital badge, a credential you can share with colleges and employers. This program provides a solid Java programming foundation, preparing you for more advanced topics like AP Computer Science and other languages like Python and C++.
Location: Puget Sound Plaza, Downtown Seattle, WA
Program Dates: TBA for 2025. Three sessions were available in 2024:
July 1 – 12, 2024
July 15 – 26, 2024
July 29 – August 9, 2024
Cost: $760 – $950
Eligibility: Incoming 9th to 12th Graders
Application Deadline: Will open in March 2025
The University of Washington’s "Architectural Studies I" is an in-person summer course that introduces high school students to the fundamentals of architecture. During the course, you will engage in hands-on design prompts involving model making, drawing, and drafting techniques.
You will also learn observation and visual presentation skills, as well as design-specific vocabulary. The course concludes with an exhibition where you will present your projects to professionals from the architecture community, getting valuable feedback and exposure. Successful participants will receive a digital badge to showcase their accomplishments to colleges and employers.
Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: TBA for 2025. Two sessions were available in 2024:
July 1 – 12, 2024
July 15 – 26, 2024
Cost: $600 to $750
Eligibility: Incoming 9th to 12th Graders
Application Deadline: Will open in March 2025
The University of Washington's "Introduction to Astronomy" program is for students who are eager to explore the universe and uncover the mysteries of space. You'll dive into key concepts of astronomy, from the solar system to galaxies and the wider cosmos. With hands-on activities, telescope sessions, and engaging discussions, you’ll deepen your understanding of astronomical phenomena while collaborating with like-minded peers. This program encourages curiosity and critical thinking as you explore the wonders of space.
Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: July 1 – 12, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Cost: $760
Eligibility: Incoming 9th to 12th Graders
Application Deadline: Will open in March 2025
The "Algorithmic Thinking: Programming Logic Fundamentals" course at the University of Washington is designed for high schoolers to deepen their understanding of algorithms and data structures, key to solving complex computer engineering problems. You’ll cover essential topics like recursion, stacks, searching, sorting, and binary trees, all while developing the analytical mindset of a computer scientist. The course is language-agnostic, so you can complete assignments in languages such as Java, C++, or Python. Upon completion, you’ll earn a digital badge to highlight your skills for college applications or future employers.
Location: Online
Program Dates: TBA for 2025. Two sessions were available in 2024:
July 15 – 26, 2024
August 12 – 23, 2024
Cost: $950
Eligibility: Incoming 9th to 12th Graders
Application Deadline: Will open in March 2025
The "Introduction to Engineering Design & Process" course at the University of Washington is a hands-on, two-week summer program for high school students. You’ll explore the fundamentals of the engineering design process, enhancing your teamwork and problem-solving through lectures, open-ended design challenges, and a final robotics project. Throughout the course, you’ll learn about key concepts like electrical wiring, digital logic, sensors, and actuators, while learning how math, science, and engineering analysis come together in design. After completing the course, you’ll receive a digital badge to highlight your new engineering design skills for college or career opportunities.
Location: University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Program Dates: July 15 – 26, 2025 (tentative, based on the 2024 program)
Cost: $1,200
Eligibility: Incoming 10th to 12th Graders
Application Deadline: Will open in March 2025
One other option — the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.