University of Michigan summer programs for high school students provide an early taste of college life while allowing participants to explore potential academic and career paths in greater depth. From business and engineering to medicine, art, and public policy, the university hosts specialised programmes across a range of disciplines. Examples include the Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy, the Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) Camp, and the Portfolio Prep programme at the Stamps School of Art & Design. We’ve broken down each option below.

Most of these programmes feature college-style coursework, hands-on workshops, and interactive sessions with university faculty. Students can expect to collaborate on group projects, attend lectures, and participate in discussions that mirror a real undergraduate classroom environment. Programmes often include sessions on college admissions and application tips, and students may live in residence halls to get a feel for campus life.

Designed for motivated students looking to challenge themselves over the summer, these programmes combine academic rigour with social and personal development. For many, the experience is a stepping stone to making informed decisions about future studies or career interests. With a prestigious name and access to one of the US’s top public universities, the University of Michigan’s offerings are both competitive and highly enriching.

What University of Michigan Summer Programs are Available to High Schoolers?

Michigan Math & Science Scholars (MMSS)

  • Who’s it for? Sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
  • How long, and is it residential? 2-week residential sessions; choose from three blocks across the summer
  • What will I learn? Advanced STEM topics like cryptography, brain behaviour, environmental instrumentation, and the intersection of art and maths, taught by UMich faculty
  • Cost? Starting at $2,400 per session

Power Up (Electrify Tech Camp)

  • Who’s it for? Current 9th–11th graders
  • How long, and is it residential? 5-day residential program, July 21–25
  • What will I learn? The basics of electrical engineering through hands-on work with circuits, solar cells, EV systems, motors, and wireless power
  • Cost? $900 (scholarships available)

Joy of Coding

  • Who’s it for? Students age 13+ who’ve completed Algebra
  • How long, and is it residential? 6-week online, self-paced course (June 18 – July 30)
  • What will I learn? Python programming for fun and creative applications, from filters and data visualisation to basic AI, with one-on-one coaching
  • Cost? $149 + tax (financial aid available)

Ross Summer Business Academy

  • Who’s it for? High school seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • How long, and is it residential? 2-week residential program (exact dates TBA)
  • What will I learn? Core business concepts and decision-making strategies, taught by Michigan Ross faculty, with workshops and experiential learning
  • Cost? $5,500 (scholarships available)

Stamps School of Art & Design Pre-College Program

  • Who’s it for? Students in grades 9–11
  • How long, and is it residential? Options for online or 4-week residential
  • What will I learn? Studio-based learning in drawing, 2D, 3D, and 4D art, with portfolio support and exposure to contemporary art practices
  • Cost? $750 (online) / $4,950 (residential)

ArcStart (Taubman College of Architecture)

  • Who’s it for? Sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
  • How long, and is it residential? 3-week residential, July 14 – August 1
  • What will I learn? Architectural thinking, project development, site visits, and studio work with expert guidance
  • Cost? $3,600 (scholarships available)

Girls in Music and Technology (GiMaT, MPulse)

  • Who’s it for? Girls in high school (open to all genders)
  • How long, and is it residential? Non-residential day camp, typically in July
  • What will I learn? Music production, creative coding, and sound design using computers, led by School of Music, Theatre & Dance faculty
  • Cost? $75 application fee

Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) Camp

  • Who’s it for? Students entering grades 10 and 11
  • How long, and is it residential? 1-week residential, July 6–12
  • What will I learn? Exposure to engineering disciplines through a hands-on team design challenge and exploration of college-level engineering
  • Cost? $700

Health Sciences Pre-College Exposure Academy (SPEA)

  • Who’s it for? 10th and 11th graders from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds
  • How long, and is it residential? 4-week hybrid (some online), July 7 – August 1
  • What will I learn? Intro to healthcare careers, health equity, and pre-med preparation based on AAMC core competencies
  • Cost? Free

Personal Finance & Investment (Summer Discovery at UMich)

  • Cost? Not publicly listed
  • Who’s it for? Students in grades 9–12
  • How long, and is it residential? 1-week residential, July 6–12
  • What will I learn? Basics of finance, including saving, credit, stocks, bonds, and financial planning, using simulations and virtual trading

Key Features of University of Michigan Summer Programs for High School Students

University of Michigan summer programmes for high school students are structured to be academically challenging while also immersive and supportive. Classes are typically small and led by experienced faculty or graduate instructors. Many programmes also include practical, hands-on components such as labs, design studios, or group-based projects, giving students the chance to apply new concepts. Living in residence halls, participating in campus activities, and attending admissions workshops round out the experience – giving students a real feel for university life.

Advantages

There are several reasons the University of Michigan summer programmes appeal to ambitious high school students. Academically, they introduce students to new fields or deepen understanding of a subject already studied at school. The teaching mirrors university standards, with expectations around independent thinking, participation, and collaboration. Students develop communication and problem-solving skills through interactive sessions, often working in teams to complete challenges or projects.

These programmes also help build confidence about university-level study. Living on campus, engaging with faculty, and accessing campus facilities offers a glimpse into the student experience, making the transition to college feel less daunting. The university also provides guidance on college admissions, helping students understand what institutions are looking for and how to present their achievements.

Finally, participation is a strong addition to a future university application. Having taken part in a selective academic programme at a respected institution signals drive, curiosity, and readiness for further study – all qualities admissions teams look for.

Disadvantages

While there are clear benefits to participating in a University of Michigan summer programme, there are also some important limitations to consider. One of the main challenges is cost. Many programmes charge fees that cover tuition, accommodation, meals, and materials, and these can add up quickly. Financial aid is sometimes available, but it’s not guaranteed and often limited to a small number of students.

Admission to certain programmes is highly competitive, which may mean that well-qualified students still miss out due to limited places. Some may also find the academic intensity or independence required a big jump from their usual classroom experience, especially if they are used to more structured or guided learning.

Additionally, programme lengths are often short – one or two weeks – which may not allow for deep engagement with more complex material. Students need to be ready to learn quickly and adapt to a new pace of study in a compressed timeframe. And although it’s an excellent taste of college life, attending a summer programme at Michigan doesn’t guarantee future admission to the university.

University of Michigan Summer Programs vs Immerse Education USA Programmes

While the University of Michigan summer programmes provide a deep dive into specific academic areas on a traditional college campus, they are mostly designed for students already confident in their subject interests and ready to manage a university-style workload. Many are also limited in terms of eligibility. In contrast, Immerse Education’s USA programmes are created for high school students from anywhere in the world aged 13-18 who are still exploring their academic passions and seeking support in preparing for university.

Immerse offers summer programmes in New York, San Francisco, and Boston – three cities with global relevance across business, technology, and academia. Students can choose between an academic and career focus, depending on where they are in their application and future-planning journey. Academic courses are structured to introduce students to advanced subject matter through small-group, discussion-led classes taught by expert tutors, whilst career programmes include work-based projects and industry visits to boost your portfolio. Subjects such as entrepreneurship, software development, and AI mirror many of the fields explored at Michigan, but are delivered in a more interactive and supportive setting tailored to high school students.

The Immerse format also includes enrichment workshops, guest speakers, and university preparation sessions. Students are encouraged to develop communication, critical thinking, and independent study skills – all within a safe, residential setting that combines academic depth with cultural and social exploration.

While Michigan’s programmes offer a more traditional university experience in a single location, Immerse Education provides flexibility. For students who want academic challenge, cultural variety, and a structured pathway to university-level study, Immerse Education delivers a more personalised and future-facing alternative.

Business Management

In-person

Cultivate leadership skills in New York, where multinational...

Career Insights
Provides a comprehensive introduction to various professions. Suitable for students starting to consider their future careers and wishing to explore different professions.
Ages: 15-18

Coding

In-person

Master the language of technology in Cambridge, a...

Academic Insights
Provides a thorough introduction to diverse academic fields. Ideal for students beginning to contemplate their future academic paths and eager to explore various disciplines.
A laptop that shows programming codes.
Ages: 16-18

Are University of Michigan Summer Programs Worth It?

For the right student, University of Michigan summer programs for high school students are a highly valuable experience. The chance to study on a top-tier university campus, meet peers with similar ambitions, and explore subjects in depth can be genuinely transformative. It’s especially worth it for students who are sure of their subject interests, ready to manage the academic challenge, and able to invest in the programme financially. However, it’s important to go in with clear expectations. The experience is intense, brief, and best suited to students who are ready for a fast-paced, independent environment.

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University of Michigan Summer Programmes Alternatives

For students looking for similar experiences with more flexibility or support, Immerse Education offers a range of programmes that align with many of the same academic areas. In San Francisco, students can explore entrepreneurship, sustainability, AI, and software development – closely mirroring the kind of content seen in Michigan’s engineering and STEM programmes. The New York programme offers business, marketing, and journalism and fashion options, ideal for those drawn to creative courses or the world of innovation. Boston, meanwhile, is home to classic academic courses in subjects like medicine, engineering, and business.

Immerse also stands apart in its structure and support. With small class sizes, individual feedback, and a blend of academic and personal development, the programmes are crafted for high school students looking to build confidence and university readiness. For those seeking more flexibility, the Online Research Programme allows students to work one-to-one with a subject expert over several weeks on a project of their choice—perfect for building depth and evidence of academic interest ahead of college applications. With the accredited Online Research Programme, students can earn 3 college credits.

For students who want a US-based summer programme but are looking for more locations, structured mentorship, and space to explore academic pathways, Immerse Education offers an excellent alternative.

How to Apply for University of Michigan Summer Programs

Each of the University of Michigan summer programs for high school students has its own admissions process, so students should begin by reviewing the application instructions on the specific programme’s webpage. Most will require a completed application form, a statement of interest or essay, and sometimes academic transcripts or teacher recommendations. Deadlines vary, with more competitive programmes often requiring early submissions.

Some programmes are open to students nationally or internationally, while others may prioritise Michigan residents. Applicants should also check for age requirements and prerequisites, especially for more advanced or specialised programmes. If financial aid is available, there is usually a separate form or additional documents required. Applying early is strongly advised, as places can fill quickly and financial support is often limited.

Final thoughts

University of Michigan summer programs for high school students offer a prestigious, structured way for to engage with academic subjects on a real university campus. But they aren’t the only route to an enriching summer of academic exploration. For students seeking more individual attention, wider subject choice, and additional mentorship, Immerse Education’s USA programmes provide a flexible, supportive, and equally rigorous alternative. Whether you’re building a future in business, science, or the humanities, there’s more than one path to discovering your potential – and summer is a great time to start.