If you’re a high school student in New York City with an interest in engineering, now’s a great time to start exploring the subject. One option you could consider is an engineering program or internship!
These programs will help you figure out which branch of engineering, whether mechanical, civil, or computer, interests you. You’ll learn to code, work with tools like CAD, and collaborate on team projects – all while honing your problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Through hands-on experiences in labs, workshops, and group projects, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of engineering and lay the groundwork for your academic and career goals. By the end, you’ll leave with practical experience, advanced skills, and a clearer idea of the engineering career paths that interest you.
If you’re looking for engineering summer programs in New York City, check out this list of the 10 best options for high school students!
10 Engineering Programs for High School Students in NYC
1. Columbia Engineering’s Summer High School Academic Program for Engineers (SHAPE)
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY.
Eligibility: High school students (rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent graduates). Residential option open to students aged 16 and older.
Application Deadline: March 3, (rolling admissions for completed applications until then).
Program Dates: Session 1: July 7–25; Session 2: July 28–August 15
Cost: $5,875 for commuters; $10,790 for residential students. Scholarships are available based on financial need.
Columbia Engineering’s Summer High School Academic Program for Engineers (SHAPE) allows high school students to explore college-level engineering courses. You’ll work on projects in areas like robotics, designing and programming a robotic car, or sustainable engineering, focusing on renewable energy and waste management.
The program includes hands-on learning with lab work and access to Columbia’s Makerspace, where you can use tools like 3D printers and laser cutters. Faculty-led courses cover topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and chemical engineering processes. You’ll gain practical skills and a solid foundation in the field of engineering.
2. NYU ARISE (Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering)
Subject Areas: Bio- and molecular engineering, chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, AI, machine learning, and more.
Location: Hybrid (remote evening workshops in June and in-person labs at NYU Tandon, Brooklyn, NY).
Eligibility: High school students living in NYC who will complete 10th or 11th grade by June.
Application Deadline: February 21
Program Dates: June 2 – August 8
Cost: Free; participants receive a full scholarship.
New York University Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (NYU ARISE) is a 10-week summer program for students interested in advanced STEM research. It begins with four weeks of remote evening workshops, where you’ll learn 3D modeling, ethical engineering, and data science tools like Python and C++.
The next six weeks are on campus, where you’ll join research labs led by New York University faculty, working on projects in fields like robotics, molecular engineering, and artificial intelligence. With lab tours, mentorship, and hands-on experience using technologies such as Arduino and augmented reality, you’ll strengthen your technical skills and critical thinking.
3. Boyce Thompson Institute Internships
Subject Areas: Plant science, plant molecular biology, bioinformatics, plant biotic interactions, and biological engineering.
Location: Boyce Thompson Institute, Cornell University campus, Ithaca, NY.
Eligibility: High school students who are year-round residents within a 1-hour commute of Ithaca, NY. Must be 16 years old by June 25, and cannot be graduating seniors.
Application Deadline: Opens Spring; exact deadline TBA.
Program Dates: June 30 – August 7
Cost: Free; participants receive a $4,200 stipend.
Boyce Thompson Institute Internships offer you the chance to work on a project that matches your interests and background, such as studying plant-microbial interactions, using bioinformatics techniques, or developing sustainable agricultural systems. You’ll take part in lab experiments, greenhouse work, and computational data analysis, all under the guidance of scientists and graduate students.
Throughout the program, you’ll attend weekly seminars that provide insights into scientific careers, academic pathways at Cornell University, and global research practices. You’ll also gain professional skills by drafting research proposals, presenting your findings at the Kohut Symposium, and engaging in peer reviews. This program is ideal for aspiring scientists passionate about sustainability and life sciences.
4. NYU ieSoSC (Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and the Science of Smart Cities)
Subject Areas: Urban infrastructure, computer science, engineering, internet of things (IoT), design thinking, and entrepreneurship.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY.
Eligibility: Students in NYC currently in 8th, 9th, or 10th grade with a strong interest in STEM.
Application Deadline: April 14
Program Dates: Orientation: June 28 (Online); Program: July 1 – August 2.
Cost: Free; tuition is covered by a full scholarship.
New York University Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and the Science of Smart Cities (NYU ieSoSC) is a program that gives high school students hands-on experience in designing and prototyping solutions for smart cities. You’ll learn about the Internet of Things (IoT), engineering, and entrepreneurship while working with NYU faculty and students to address urban challenges.
The program focuses on collaborative design, with teams developing devices or apps using tools like Arduino, sensors, and software platforms. You’ll also receive training in public presentation, in partnership with Irondale Theater, to help you effectively communicate your ideas. The program concludes with a public showcase where you’ll present your prototype to engineers, urban planners, and the community.
5. Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program
Subject Areas: Engineering disciplines, including AI, robotics, biomedical devices, and data management.
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors in the U.S. with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and strong performance in STEM courses. CURIE focuses on underrepresented women in STEM, while CATALYST is open to students from diverse, traditionally excluded backgrounds.
Application Deadline: February 15
Program Dates: July 13–19
Cost: $1,900 (includes room, meals, and research supplies). Scholarships are available for tuition and travel.
Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program is a week-long residential program that immerses students in the world of engineering while offering an authentic college experience at Cornell University. You’ll take part in daily field sessions led by Cornell faculty, exploring areas like biomedical engineering, robotics, and sustainable design.
Afternoons will be spent working on collaborative research projects under faculty mentorship, culminating in a final presentation. The program aims to inspire students from underrepresented groups to pursue STEM by building confidence, providing hands-on experience, and demystifying the college admissions process.
6. Engineering the Next Generation
Subject Areas: Engineering research in biomedical, computer science, environmental engineering, AI, urban technology, transportation engineering, coding, data science, and social science.
Location: Columbia University (NYC) and Florida Atlantic University (Palm Beach, FL).
Eligibility: Current 11th-grade students (rising seniors in summer ) attending school in NYC’s five boroughs or Palm Beach County, FL. The Foundations of Research track requires participation in the DYCD’s Ladders for Leaders program.
Application Deadline:
- Ladders for Leaders: February 7
- CS3 MyStreetscape Track: March 3. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: July 7–August 14, Monday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Compensation: Stipend of $15/hour for up to 25 hours per week.
Columbia Engineering the Next Generation (ENG) is a six-week summer research program where students work alongside Columbia Engineering faculty and researchers to gain hands-on experience in engineering fields. You will develop research skills, explore advanced topics in technology and engineering, and attend workshops on college preparation and science communication.
The program offers two tracks: the Foundations of Research (general engineering) and the CS3 MyStreetscape Summer Research Institute (urban technology and social science). Both tracks focus on collaboration, mentorship, and real-world impact, with potential opportunities to present findings to city officials or contribute to research publications.
7. City College STEM Academy
Subject Areas: Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Technology (App and Game Design, 3D Printing), Engineering (Robotics, Rocketry), Mathematics (Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry), and Arts (Creative Writing, Architecture).
Location: City College of New York, Shepard Hall Room 51, 259 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students (grades 6–12) residing in or attending schools in NYC, with priority given to students from Northern Manhattan. No prior STEM experience or GPA requirement.
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates:
- Summer Program: 4–5 weeks, Mondays–Thursdays, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
- Fall Program: 12 weeks, after school (3:30 PM–6:30 PM, twice a week)
- Spring Program: 5 months
- Saturday Program: Weekend sessions during the academic year
Cost: Free (includes all programs, materials, and research opportunities).
City College STEM Academy offers free, hands-on STEM programs designed to help underrepresented middle and high school students succeed academically. You’ll get exposure to college-level coursework and research opportunities with City College of New York (CCNY) faculty.
You’ll work on engineering-focused projects like robotics and rocketry while developing important skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Through the College Now program, you can even earn high school and college credits. The program also partners with organizations like BioBus and the NYC Public Library to provide more learning experiences.
8. Cooper Union – STEM
Location: Cooper Union, 41 Cooper Square, New York, NY.
Eligibility: Open to students entering grades 9, 10, or 11. Students must be able to commute to the NYC campus.
Application Deadline: March 26
Program Dates:
- 3-week courses: Session 1 (July 7–July 24), Session 2 (July 28–August 14).
- 6-week courses: July 7–August 14
Cost: 6-week courses: $3,950; 3-week courses: $1,950; Financial aid is available, with preference given to students from NYC public schools.
The Cooper Union Summer STEM Program gives high school students hands-on learning experiences in engineering, technology, and science. You’ll choose from courses like Embedded Systems, 3D Design, and Computational Physics, where you’ll develop skills in design, prototyping, and programming. You’ll also learn technical tools like Python and CAD and work in the Cooper Union Makerspace. By the end of the program, you’ll complete final projects or presentations, gaining practical STEM experience and improving your problem-solving skills.
9. Hk Maker Lab
Location: New York City, NY.
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors attending a NYC public or charter high school, with preference given to students historically excluded from STEAM fields (students of color, LGBTQ+, women, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities). Must demonstrate educational/economic disadvantage (e.g., qualify for Medicaid/SNAP, attend a school with an Economic Need Index of 80% or higher, or live in public housing).
Application Deadlines: Priority: December 18; Regular: January 8
Program Dates: July 7–August 8.
Cost: Free.
HK Maker Lab is a 5-week, free summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors that combines the first three weeks of Columbia University’s SHAPE program with a two-week digital media project. You’ll gain hands-on engineering experience through courses like Biomedical Engineering and work on group projects focused on global health disparities, such as creating apps or websites. Graduates can join NY Bioforce the following year for a paid internship in research or healthcare. The program also offers mentorship, a strong alumni network, and tools to help support future STEAM careers.
10. New York Tech High School Summer Maker Academy
Location: New York Institute of Technology, Long Island Campus, NY.
Eligibility: High school students aged 14–18.
Application Deadline: Registration for the program is not yet open; updates will be available in Spring
Program Dates: July 8–July 12
Cost: Not specified (check back during the registration period).
The New York Tech High School Summer Maker Academy is a one-week, hands-on engineering and technology program that teaches high school students skills in 3D modeling, electronics, and coding. Held in the university’s Maker Spaces and HIVE, the academy challenges you to design, build, and race technology-enhanced derby cars.
The program focuses on problem-solving and ends with a final derby competition judged on performance, design, and innovation. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll gain technical skills and teamwork experience while exploring the exciting possibilities of engineering and fabrication.
Bonus –
As a bonus, here are two remote engineering programs that offer flexible learning opportunities for those unable to attend in-person sessions.
1. Horizon Academic Research Program – Engineering Track
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Spring: February 16; Summer: February 16 (early), March 23 (priority), April 20 (regular-I), May 18 (regular-II)!
Program Dates: Spring: March 3; Summer: June 16! Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.
Eligibility: High school students with a 3.67+ GPA. Few tracks require formal prerequisites, more details can be found here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students in data science, public health and safety, social psychology, and medicine. You can also choose between quantitative and qualitative research.
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to journals for publication as a high school student.
The program includes a letter of recommendation for every student, plus comprehensive feedback on projects that can assist with future work and college applications. You can apply here.
2. Lumiere Research Scholar Program – Engineering Track
Location: Remote
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. The Spring Cohort application deadline is February 9!
Program Dates: Summer: June – August, fall: September – December, winter: December – February, spring: March – June
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum 3.3 out of 4 GPA
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 computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
Image source – Boyce Thompson Institute logo
