17 Summer Engineering Programs for High School Students in NYC
Joining a summer engineering program in high school is a great way to explore your interests in STEM, build skills, and get a head start on college-level learning. In a city like New York, you’ll find many programs that offer access to university labs, research projects, and mentorship from experts in the field. Whether you're interested in robotics, environmental engineering, computer science, or biomedical innovation, these programs let you apply your creativity to solve challenges.
Many engineering programs for high school students include career exploration sessions, design challenges, or even research opportunities. Participating can strengthen your college applications while giving you a clearer sense of your future goals. Plus, you will meet other motivated students who share your interests in engineering and technology.
Here are 17 summer engineering programs for high school students in NYC that you can check out!
1. ARISE (Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost/Stipend: Free; $1,000 stipend upon completion
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Application Deadline: Early Spring
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors who are full-time NYC residents and attending NYC high schools
ARISE is a competitive 10-week summer research program where you’ll gain firsthand experience conducting STEM research under the guidance of NYU faculty and graduate mentors. Hosted at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, the program places you in one of over 50 research labs, where you'll contribute to ongoing projects in fields such as biomedical engineering, AI, environmental science, and robotics. You’ll participate in workshops on scientific communication, lab safety, and professional development, culminating in a final research presentation. This is a fully-funded program with a $1,000 stipend. It’s designed to support motivated NYC students from underrepresented backgrounds who are exploring careers in STEM.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Program dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: High school students. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects.
Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here.
3. Simons Summer Research Program
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Cost/Stipend: Free; Includes stipend
Dates: July 1 – August 9
Application Deadline: February 7
Eligibility: U.S. citizens/permanent residents in 11th grade (Must be at least 16 by program start)
The Simons Summer Research Program is a competitive program that admits around 30-40 students annually. It allows you to conduct hands-on research in a STEM field under the guidance of a faculty mentor at Stony Brook University. During the program, you’ll be placed into a lab or research group, where you’ll contribute to an independent project while learning how to communicate complex ideas and explore advanced concepts in mathematics, computer science, or engineering. For aspiring engineers, placements may include working with faculty in areas like control systems, optimization, and machine learning for distributed networks. The program also includes faculty lectures, skill-building workshops, and career exploration events. By the end of the six weeks, you’ll complete a formal research abstract and present your findings via a poster presentation.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort.
Program Dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement.
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. The program pairs high school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
5. Summer Engineering Awareness Program
Location: Manhattan University, New York, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: July 7 – 11 and July 14 – 18; Optional extensions in late June and July
Application Deadline: April 25
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors, with emphasis on minority and female students in the NYC metro area
For over 40 years, Manhattan College’s Summer Engineering Awareness Program has introduced underrepresented students to careers in engineering, math, and science through immersive, hands-on learning. As a participant, you’ll explore fields such as aerospace, robotics, green building, geotechnical design, and structural engineering through lab experiments and team-based projects. The program includes guest lectures, college admissions workshops, and a site visit to a structural design firm. You'll also receive guidance on scholarships, financial aid, and Air Force ROTC opportunities. Led by faculty and sponsored by major NYC engineering organizations, this no-cost program offers a deep and practical introduction to STEM and college readiness.
6. Mechanical Engineering Summer Institute
Location: Manhattan University, New York, NY
Cost: $500 per week
Dates: July 7 – August 21
Application Deadline: May 16
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12); Open enrollment while space lasts
This flexible institute allows you to explore a different subfield of mechanical engineering each week, from aerospace and biomechanics to robotics and sustainable energy. Hosted by Manhattan College faculty, the program combines lectures, lab tours, and hands-on challenges such as design competitions and simulations. You’ll also gain exposure to student clubs, current projects, and guidance on college applications and career paths in mechanical engineering. You can choose to attend one or more weeks; completing any week earns a certificate and a waived college application fee to Manhattan’s engineering school. With limited seats and a modular design, this program offers an engaging and customizable way to learn mechanical engineering.
7. Chemical Engineering Summer Program
Location: Manhattan University, New York, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: July 30 – 31
Application Deadline: July 1
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors with an interest in STEM
This free two-day workshop introduces you to the diverse applications of chemical engineering, from biomedical devices to renewable energy production. Through interactive labs, hands-on competitions, and lectures by Manhattan College faculty, you’ll explore how chemical engineers shape industries like biopharma, food science, cosmetics, and green manufacturing. You’ll also interact with professionals and alumni, gaining insight into academic pathways and real-world careers in chemical engineering. The program includes lab tours, sessions on college admissions and financial aid, and a focus on computer-based design and process control. You will receive a Certificate of Completion and a waived application fee for Manhattan College’s chemical engineering program.
8. Computer Engineering for Good (CE4G)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: $4,500 tuition + optional housing ($957) and meals ($597); Additional fees apply
Dates: Session 1: June 16 – July 2; Session 2: July 14 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 15; Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students ages 15+ (grades 9-12 or recent graduates); U.S. and international applicants; See prerequisites here
CE4G is a three-week summer program at NYU Tandon where you’ll explore how computer engineering can be used to solve real-world social challenges. You’ll gain hands-on experience building embedded systems and internet-connected devices while learning about microcontrollers, sensors, and IoT design. Projects are guided by the theme of tech-for-good, encouraging you to apply your skills in a meaningful context. The curriculum is rigorous, with a preference for students who have completed Algebra II, Trigonometry, and Pre-Calculus. Lectures, labs, and collaborative projects are paired with campus events and optional residential life. This program is ideal for students interested in both engineering and social impact.
9. Residential Summer Engineering Program for High School Students
Location: Manhattan University, New York, NY
Cost: $2,500
Dates: August 3 – 9
Application Deadline: January 15 – March 17
Eligibility: High school students interested in engineering (grades 9-12)
Hosted by Manhattan College, this week-long residential program introduces you to multiple branches of engineering—including chemical, civil, mechanical, electrical, computer, and environmental—through hands-on sessions and faculty-led instruction. You’ll live on campus and follow a packed daily schedule of engineering workshops, guest presentations, and career development sessions. Afternoons are devoted to lab-based activities, while evenings include city exploration and networking opportunities. You'll also meet professionals in the field, who will give you insight into both college-level engineering and real-world applications. The program concludes with a closing ceremony after a full week of immersive STEM learning and team-building experiences.
10. Design, Invent & Innovate (DII)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: $3,150 tuition + optional housing ($638) and meals ($398); Additional fees applyDates: June 16 – June 27
Application Deadline: May 15; Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students ages 15+ (grades 9-12 or recent graduates); U.S. and international applicants
DII is a two-week summer program that immerses you in the engineering design process through rapid prototyping, CAD modeling, and real-world problem solving. You'll work in teams to identify challenges, brainstorm solutions, and build functional prototypes using tools commonly used in modern engineering practice. The curriculum combines design thinking with technical instruction, encouraging you to develop innovative solutions with practical applications. Led by faculty and student mentors at NYU Tandon, the program also includes presentations, feedback sessions, and optional residential life. It’s ideal for students with a strong STEM background who want to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills in an engineering context.
11. I-SITE (Immersive Summer Interacting with Technology and Engineering)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: $10,350 tuition + optional housing ($1,595) and meals ($995); Additional fees apply
Dates: June 30 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 15; Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students ages 15+ (grades 9-12 or recent graduates); U.S. and international applicants
I-SITE is a five-week summer program designed to equip you with advanced skills in computer science, physical computing, robotics, and machine learning. You'll tackle real-world engineering challenges by designing and programming tech-based solutions, all while developing teamwork and presentation skills. With access to NYU Tandon’s labs and instruction from experienced faculty, you’ll gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Projects are collaborative and often cross-disciplinary, encouraging you to think critically about technology’s role in solving societal problems. The program is ideal for students with strong STEM backgrounds seeking a deep dive into emerging tech in an academic, hands-on setting.
12. SPARC (Summer Program in Automation, Robotics, and Coding)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: $3,300 tuition + optional housing ($638) and meals ($398); Additional fees apply
Dates: Session 1: June 16 – June 27; Session 2: July 7 – July 18; Session 3: July 28 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 15; Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students ages 15+ (grades 9—12 or recent graduates); U.S. and international applicants; See prerequisites here
SPARC is a two-week intensive program where you’ll explore robotics, automation, and coding through hands-on engineering projects. Designed for students with a strong math background, the program covers both mechanical and electrical systems, giving you a foundation in robot design, programming, and troubleshooting. You’ll work in teams to build and test robots in competitive challenges, while developing technical fluency in circuits, sensors, and control systems. Instruction comes from NYU Tandon faculty and staff, and the experience includes exposure to college-level labs and tools. Recognized by Forbes as a top tech-focused summer program, SPARC is ideal for students who want to bridge coding and engineering in a dynamic learning environment.
13. WATTS (Wired, Applied, and Transformative Tech for Sustainability)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: July 28 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Rising 9th-grade students living in the New York metro area
WATTS is a new two-week summer program at NYU Tandon focused on teaching you how electrical engineering and physics intersect with sustainable design. Through project-based learning, you’ll explore core principles of electromagnetism and apply them to real-world challenges such as renewable energy and environmental monitoring. Hands-on activities include building devices and experimenting with sustainable materials in NYU’s engineering labs. You’ll also learn how physics concepts translate into solutions for modern global problems. Fully funded through a scholarship provided by the IEEE, this program provides early exposure to engineering and sustainability for rising 9th graders in the NYC metro region.
14. TryEngineering Summer Institute
Location: Morris A. Schapiro Hall, Columbia University, New York, NY
Cost: $4,295; Limited need-based scholarships available for U.S. residents
Dates: Session 1: July 12 – July 20; Session 2: July 24 – August 1
Application Deadline: Rolling admission until full
Eligibility: U.S. and international students ages 14-17 (residential only)
Offered in partnership with the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC), this residential program provides an immersive overview of engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, aerospace, and civil engineering. You'll engage in team-based design challenges like building circuit boards, creating robot arms, testing gliders, and constructing model bridges. Daily modules are taught by industry professionals and experienced faculty, with a strong emphasis on leadership, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Located at Columbia University, the program also offers structured opportunities to explore NYC with peers and resident advisors. This pre-college experience helps you develop technical, communication, and problem-solving skills in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
15. Cooper Union Summer STEM
Location: Cooper Union, New York, NY
Cost: 3-week sessions: $1,950; 6-week sessions: $3,950; Financial aid available
Dates: 3-week sessions: July 7 – 24 or July 28 – August 14; 6-week session: July 7 – August 14
Application Deadline: Applications open in December
Eligibility: Students currently in grades 9-11; rising 9th graders not eligible
Cooper Union’s Summer STEM program offers college-level engineering and research courses in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Whether you choose a 3-week or 6-week session, you’ll explore fields like embedded systems, 3D design and fabrication, data visualization, computational physics, and sustainable engineering. Courses are led by Cooper Union faculty and often mirror undergraduate-level projects or research. Held entirely in person at Cooper Union’s Manhattan campus, the program emphasizes creative problem-solving, teamwork, and design thinking. It’s a rigorous and supportive experience for students eager to dive deep into engineering while building technical and collaborative skills.
16. New York City School Construction Authority (SCA) High School Summer Internship
Location: Various businesses and agencies in New York City
Stipend: $16/hour
Dates: 6-week placement between June and August
Application Deadline: March 8
Eligibility: NYC public high school students are eligible to work in the U.S.
This six-week paid internship places you with SCA departments or business partners to explore careers in engineering, architecture, construction management, IT, and more. As a participant, you’ll spend most of the week working directly with your assigned host organization and attend enrichment programming one day per week. These sessions include professional development workshops, a design challenge, and career panels. If you're interested in civil or structural engineering, this program offers hands-on exposure to real-world infrastructure projects and insight into public sector careers. With a competitive hourly wage and strong mentorship component, the SCA internship is ideal for NYC students looking to gain professional engineering experience in a structured, supportive setting.
17. Hk Maker Lab – HypotheKids & Columbia University SHAPE
Location: Columbia University, New York City, NY
Cost: Free (includes full scholarship for SHAPE + 2-week digital media program)
Dates: July 7 – August 8
Application Deadline: Priority: December 18; Regular: January 8
Eligibility: 10th or 11th grade students attending NYC public/charter schools with economic need
Hk Maker Lab is a free, five-week summer engineering design program for NYC high school students from under-resourced backgrounds. It includes full participation in Columbia University's SHAPE program, where you'll take engineering courses from faculty, followed by a two-week digital media workshop. You'll gain experience in coding, app development, and design thinking, all while building a personal project. You will also receive mentorship and become part of the Hk alumni network, which offers long-term academic and career support. Completing Hk Maker Lab gives you priority access to NY Bioforce, a paid internship program the following summer.
Image source - NYU Tandon