The Best Summer Programs for High School Students Interested in Architecture

Summer programs are a great way for high school students interested in architecture to gain hands-on experience and explore their passion for design. These programs provide a unique opportunity for students to work with professionals in the field, develop their skills, and get a taste of what it’s like to study architecture at the college level.

With so many summer programs available out there, you may find it cumbersome to choose the right one. In this article, we will provide a list of the best summer programs for high school students interested in architecture, as well as tips on how to choose the right program based on individual interests and goals.

Merits of Summer Programs for High School Students

Attending a summer program can have several benefits for high school students interested in architecture. Here are some benefits of summer programs:

1. Gain Hands-on Experience: Summer programs offer hands-on experience that allows students to develop practical skills in architecture. They get to work on real projects and learn from professionals in the field.
2. Exposure to the Field: Summer programs expose students to the field of architecture and provide insights into the different career paths available in the industry. This can help students make informed decisions about their future careers.
3. Networking Opportunities: Students get to meet and network with other like-minded individuals and professionals in the industry. This can lead to future opportunities and collaborations.

Top Summer Programs for High School Students Interested in Architecture

Here are some of the best summer programs available for high school students interested in architecture:

• Harvard University Summer Program in Architecture

The Harvard University Summer Program in Architecture is a six-week program that provides students with an introduction to the field of architecture. Students get to work on projects, and attend lectures and workshops. This program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• Cornell University Summer College: Architecture, Art, and Design

Cornell University’s Summer College offers a three-week program in Architecture, Art, and Design. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. This program is open to high school juniors, seniors and sophomores.

• University of Notre Dame Architecture Discovery Program

The University of Notre Dame’s Architecture Discovery Program is a two-week program that offers hands-on experience in design, drawing, and model-making. Students get to work on real projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. The program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• California College of the Arts Pre-College Program in Architecture

The California College of the Arts offers a four-week Pre-College Program in Architecture that provides students with an introduction to the field. Students get to work on projects, attend lectures, and visit architectural sites. This program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• Columbia University Summer Immersion: New York City

Columbia University offers a three-week program in New York City that provides students with an introduction to architecture and urban planning. Students get to work on projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites in New York City. The program is open to high school juniors, seniors and sophomores.

• Rhode Island School of Design Pre-College Program in Architecture

The Rhode Island School of Design offers a six-week Pre-College Program in Architecture that provides students with an intensive introduction to the field. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. The program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• University of Virginia Architecture Summer Workshop

The University of Virginia offers a two-week Architecture Summer Workshop that provides students with an introduction to the field. Students get to work on projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. This program is open to high school juniors, seniors and sophomores.

• Carnegie Mellon University Pre-College Architecture Program

Carnegie Mellon University offers a six-week Pre-College Architecture Program that provides students with an intensive introduction to architecture. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. This program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• The University of Michigan Architecture Pre-College Program

The University of Michigan offers a three-week Architecture Pre-College Program that provides students with an introduction to the field. Students get to work on projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. The program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Architecture Camp

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a one-week Architecture Camp that provides students with an introduction to the field. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. This program is open to high school students of all grade levels.

• The Cooper Union Architecture Summer Program

The Cooper Union offers a six-week Architecture Summer Program that provides students with an intensive introduction to the field. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. The program is open to high school juniors and high school seniors.

• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Architecture Summer Program

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute offers a two-week Architecture Summer Program that provides students with an introduction to the field. Students get to work on design projects, attend lectures and workshops, and visit architectural sites. The program is open to high school students of all grade levels.

How to Choose the Right Summer Program

Choosing the right summer program can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on the right summer program to opt for:

1. Program Location: Consider the location of the program and whether it is accessible to you.
2. Program Duration: Some programs last for a few weeks, while others can last for a couple of months. Consider how long you want to be away from home and how much time you can commit.
3. Cost: Summer programs can be expensive, so consider the cost of the program and whether it fits within your budget.
4. Program Curriculum: Look at the program curriculum and consider whether it aligns with your interests and goals.
5. Program Reputation: Look at the program’s reputation and reviews to ensure it is a reputable and quality program.
6. Program focus: Consider the focus of the program and whether it aligns with your interests and goals. Some programs may focus on design, while others may focus on sustainable architecture or historic preservation. Make sure you choose a program that aligns with your interests and allows you to explore the areas of architecture that you are most interested in.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right summer program that aligns with your interests and goals, and provides you with the experience and skills you need to succeed in your future career in architecture.

Take Away:

Attending a summer program in architecture can be a great way for high school students to gain hands-on experience and explore their passion for design. By attending one of the top summer programs listed in this article, students can work with professionals in the field, develop their skills, and gain exposure to the industry. By considering the factors discussed, students can choose the right program that aligns with their interests and goals.

In conclusion, summer programs offer a unique opportunity for high school students interested in architecture to gain valuable experience and explore their passion for design. Attending a summer program can provide students with a competitive edge when applying to architecture programs in college and can help them make informed decisions about their future careers.