Students gain hands-on design experience by building working prototypes and engaging with industry professionals through classroom learning and field experiences.
The Teen Summer Engineering Program at UC San Diego offers high school students an immersive two-week exploration of engineering fundamentals. Participants engage in hands-on design challenges across various disciplines, including mechanical, structural, civil, and biomedical engineering. Students will design and construct working prototypes, such as artificial limbs and scale model buildings, while adhering to real-world constraints like zoning regulations, structural codes, and budget limits. The program incorporates classroom learning with field experiences, allowing students to interact with industry professionals and visit engineering sites in San Diego. This exposure helps connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The program culminates in a capstone project where students can choose an engineering focus area for deeper exploration, gaining hands-on design experience and a clearer understanding of potential engineering career paths.
A typical day involves academic coursework in the morning, followed by recreational activities or academic excursions in the afternoon, and college readiness workshops or personal development sessions. Evenings for residential students include clubs or other planned activities.
This program is best for high school students interested in a hands-on introduction to various engineering disciplines and those looking to gain practical design experience and explore potential career pathways in engineering.
9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093
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