If you’re interested in architecture, pre-college programs and summer intensives are one of the best ways to figure out if the field is right for you. These programs let you try what architects actually do. You’ll practice drafting, freehand drawing, digital modeling, and rendering while learning how design ideas turn into real structures. Many programs include studio-style projects, feedback from faculty or practicing architects, and guidance on building a portfolio that can strengthen your college applications.
Why study architecture in Florida?
Florida offers a unique setting for learning architecture. You’ll see how design responds to climate, culture, and urban growth, from historic neighborhoods to modern coastal cities. Many programs include site visits, studio sessions, and hands-on design challenges that help you understand how architecture shapes real communities. Whether you want to sharpen your technical skills, explore career paths, or prepare for advanced study, these programs give you a structured and inspiring introduction to the field.
You can also check out our complete blog on architecture programs for high school students here.
15 Architecture Programs for High School Students in Florida
1. University of Florida Design Exploration Program (DEP)
Location: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Cost/Stipend: $3,000 (Includes 3 weeks of instruction, studio supplies, on-campus housing, and all travel expenses)
Program Dates: June 15 – July 3
Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: High school students interested in architecture
The University of Florida’s Design Exploration Program (DEP) is a three-week summer experience for high school students interested in architecture. You’ll take part in design studio projects led by UF faculty, building skills in Architectural Design development, Hand Drawing, Model Building, and Digital Rendering. The program also includes seminars on design processes, architectural history, theory, and digital tools. Field trips take you to significant buildings, urban spaces, and natural landscapes across Florida, giving you real-world context for your work. DEP offers on-campus housing and limited scholarships for students in financial need.
2. Summer Scholars, Explorations in Architecture and Design
Location: University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33124
Cost/Stipend: Residential Program: $9,532 (Tuition $7,137 + Program Fees $2,395); Commuter Program: $8,144 (Tuition $7,137 + Program Fees $1,007); Scholarships available
Program Dates: June 27 – July 17
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: High school students completing grades 10 or 11
This three-week, studio-based program immerses you in the principles, methods, and practices of architecture and urban design. Modeled after the University of Miami’s School of Architecture curriculum, the program blends creative exploration with academic challenges, focusing on Design Thinking, Drawing, Theory, and Architectural History. You’ll take on hands-on design challenges related to sustainability, urbanism, landscape design, and historic preservation, while developing your skills in digital tools and AI-assisted design. Students can choose between two tracks, viz. Urban and Landscape Design or Sustainable and Resilient Design, and complete the program with a polished digital portfolio.
3. Virtual Architecture Summer Camp
Location: Virtual, plus one optional in-person day in Milwaukee, WI
Cost/Stipend: Unavailable
Program Dates: July 19–22, 9 a.m.–12:15 p.m. (with July 19, 7–8 p.m. session); dates and times subject to change
Deadline: Registration coming soon
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9–12, including new graduates; ages 14–18
The UW-Milwaukee Architecture Summer Camp offers high school students an introduction to Architecture, Design, and 3D Design Technologies. With guidance from SARUP faculty and graduate students, you’ll take on design challenges and learn to communicate your ideas through models, drawings, writing, and presentations. Workshops cover Digital Modeling, Reading Architectural Drawings, and creating 2D Documentation. Families can choose an optional in-person visit to tour Milwaukee’s architectural landmarks and the School of Architecture & Urban Planning, giving you hands-on exposure to professional and academic architectural practices.
4. Project Pipeline regional camps at the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)
Location: Various across the U.S.
Cost/Stipend: Unavailable
Program Dates: Vary by city; generally 2–5 days during summer months (June–August)
Deadline: Varies by location; some sign-ups coming soon
Eligibility: 6th–12th grade students of color, with a focus on underrepresented groups in design
Project Pipeline empowers high school students to create positive change in their communities through architecture and design. You’ll work with architects and planners, learning Design Fundamentals through hands-on activities such as drawing, model building, site visits, and research. The program encourages Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Collaboration, preparing students for college and careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields. By program’s end, you’ll present a complete design project addressing real issues in your city. Project Pipeline has served over 10,000 students nationwide and offers summer camps in multiple cities, each with its own schedule and registration details.
5. Hip Hop Architecture Summer Camps
Location:Can be in any city. You choose location while filling the form
Cost/Stipend: Free
Program Dates: Varies as per program
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 6-12
This week-long program introduces high school students to Architecture, Urban Planning, and Creative Placemaking through the lens of hip hop culture. You’ll develop skills in Spatial Design, Conceptual Modeling, and Collaborative Problem-solving, while engaging in activities that encourage creativity, communication, and critical thinking. Sessions are led by architects, urban planners, designers, and community artists, giving you insights into professional practice and interdisciplinary design approaches. You’ll learn to integrate cultural narratives into design solutions, explore the impact of built environments on communities, and practice iterative design methods. The program fosters both technical skills and civic-minded design thinking, useful for future paths in architecture and urban planning.
6. 400 Forward
Location: Local options can be available
Cost/Stipend: Free
Program Dates: Varies as per the program chosen
Deadline: Varies as per the program chosen
Eligibility: Open to high school girls who identify as African-American
400 FORWARD provides art and architectural experiences designed to equip students with tools to engage with and improve urban environments. You’ll develop skills in Design Thinking, Community-based Project Planning, and Installation Creation, while collaborating with artists, makers, and urban planners. You’ll work on projects that combine real construction, civic engagement, and socially conscious design solutions. With mentorship from practicing architects and city-builders, you’ll practice iterative problem-solving, technical design, and presentation skills. The program also connects students to professional networks, workshops, and real-world urban projects, fostering competencies in both creative expression and applied architectural thinking within city contexts.
7. ASI — Architecture Summer Institute (FAU)
Location: Florida Atlantic University, Fort Lauderdale Campus, FL
Cost/Stipend: Tuition (With Lunch Option) – 4 Weeks: $2,250 | 3 Weeks: $1,650 | 2 Weeks: $1,150 | 1 Week: $600; Tuition (Without Lunch) – 4 Weeks: $2,050 | 3 Weeks: $1,500 | 2 Weeks: $1,050 | 1 Week: $550
Program Dates: Week 1: July 7 – 11 | Week 2: July 14 – 18 | Week 3: July 21 – 25 | Week 4: July 28 – August 1
Deadline: June 20 (Extended)
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, recent graduates, and students in their first two years of college
FAU’s Architecture Summer Institute (ASI) introduces high school students to the fundamentals of architecture and design through hands-on projects, drawing, model building, and digital fabrication technologies. You’ll visit local architecture firms, interact with faculty, and collaborate with architecture students, giving you a realistic preview of college studio life. You’ll create portfolio-ready work throughout the program and present it in a final critique. Enrollment is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited. The program offers flexible week packages, with or without lunch, but on-campus housing is not available.
8. Gulliver Prep’s Architecture Signature Academic Program
Location: Miami, FL
Cost/Stipend: Unavailable
Program Dates: Ongoing during Upper School academic year
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: High school students, Grades 9–12
Gulliver Prep’s Architecture Signature Academic Program prepares students for careers in architecture, interior design, and industrial design through a combination of hands-on learning and advanced technology. You’ll develop skills in Drafting, Scaled Model Building, and Virtual Design, while mastering tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) systems. The program encourages participation in national and international competitions, including the Scholastic Architecture + Design Competition, Cooper Hewitt Design Competition, and projects in Amsterdam and France. Through research, design, and construction projects, you’ll strengthen creativity and problem-solving, and develop portfolio-worthy projects that bring architectural ideas to life in both physical and digital spaces.
9. Miami Coral Park Senior High School
Location: Miami, FL
Cost/Stipend: Free (public school program)
Program Dates: Academic Year (ongoing)
Deadline: Off-cycle applications currently accepted
Eligibility: Middle and high school students meeting program requirements
Miami Coral Park Senior High’s Architecture Magnet Program prepares students for careers in Architecture, Construction, and Design through challenging coursework and professional experiences. You’ll connect with local architecture firms, Turner Construction, ACE, and Florida International University for mentorship, internships, and design competitions at the local and national levels. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, creative problem-solving, and building a strong portfolio. Applicants must have completed Algebra 1 (honors) in middle school, maintain a combined GPA of 3.0 or higher in math and science, and demonstrate strong conduct and effort. Students gain access to a collaborative learning environment that integrates design, engineering, and technology, offering a solid foundation for college and career pathways.
10. Syracuse University Summer College Online – Architecture
Location: Online / Syracuse, NY
Cost/Stipend: $3,165 (subject to change; discounts and scholarships available)
Program Dates: July 21 – August 8
Deadline: Apply early
Eligibility: Rising juniors or seniors, or 2025 high school graduates
Syracuse University’s online Summer College Architecture course introduces high school students to the fundamentals of architecture and design through conceptual and practical work. You’ll learn Spatial Definition, Form, and Spatial Relationships, progressing to a final project that involves designing a small pavilion in downtown Syracuse. Coursework includes physical model making, mechanical drafting, digital modeling in Rhino, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop. You’ll also participate in lectures, virtual tours, and discussions, gaining insights into architectural culture, portfolio development, and professional practice. The program concludes with a virtual exhibition and critique of student work.
11. PMHS Academy of Architectural Design & Technology
Location: St. Augustine, FL
Cost/Stipend: Unavailable
Program Dates: Academic year
Deadline: Rolling admissions through the school district
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
Pedro Menendez High School’s Academy of Architectural Design and Technology is a four-year, project-based program that introduces high school students to the fundamentals of architecture and design. You’ll gain experience in Architectural, Engineering, and Technical Drafting, with opportunities for summer internships (juniors) and part-time work with local drafting and engineering firms (seniors). The program emphasizes earning industry-standard certifications in AutoCAD, Revit, and Inventor, with advanced students eligible for Professional certification. Students also participate in SkillsUSA and the ACE Mentor Program to develop technical skills, leadership, and gain real-world project experience. The program prepares students for college pathways or direct entry into architecture and engineering careers.
12. Design & Architecture Senior High (DASH)
Location: Multiple campuses in Miami, FL (Wolfson Campus closest to downtown)
Cost/Stipend: Florida residents pay reduced tuition; scholarships available (Presidential Scholarship, American Dream Scholarship, Rising Scholars, Fast Track Sharks)
Program Dates: Rolling; next term begins January 5
Deadline: Varies by program; early enrollment recommended
Eligibility: High school students (dual enrollment)
Miami Dade College offers high school students opportunities to earn college credit through dual enrollment, Technical Program Courses, and specialized high school academies. With more than 300 academic pathways across arts, humanities, STEM, business, and health sciences, you can explore interests early while accelerating your degree and saving on tuition costs. Students learn from expert faculty, use state-of-the-art facilities, and choose from flexible class schedules. Financial aid and merit-based scholarships are available, with some programs covering full tuition for eligible students. The Wolfson Campus provides a comprehensive urban campus experience, integrating academic, cultural, and career-building opportunities.
13. MIT OpenCourseWare – Introduction to Architecture & Environmental Design
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Free
Program Dates: Varies as per program
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: Open to all regardless of experience
This course provides a foundational understanding of architecture, environmental design, and urbanism across scales, from objects to buildings to entire landscapes and cities. You’ll develop skills in spatial Analysis, Design Thinking and Visual Communication while using tools for sketching, modeling, and presenting ideas. Hands-on exercises guide you through translating abstract concepts into physical models, using materials such as wire, pencil, and bass wood. You’ll study historical and contemporary design precedents, and explore the interplay between architecture, landscape, and urban systems. Guest lectures and studio critiques help you strengthen public speaking, analytical reasoning, and project refinement skills, giving a holistic introduction to architectural thinking and environmental design.
14. Harvard University The Architectural Imagination
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Free* (Add Verified Certificate for $249)
Program Dates: December 11 – December 10 (a year-long program)
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: Introductory level; suitable for anyone interested in architecture; no prerequisites listed
This online course introduces high school students to fundamental Principles of Architecture by examining some of history’s most significant buildings. You’ll learn to read, analyze, and understand architectural drawings and representations, while exploring the social and historical contexts behind major works. The curriculum combines theoretical discussions with hands-on exercises in drawing and modeling, enabling students to produce their own architectural studies. You’ll also look at how technological advances shape architectural possibilities and aesthetic experiences. By the end of the program, you’ll have a deeper understanding of architecture’s cultural, technical, and aesthetic dimensions, which is relevant for academic study or a potential career in architecture.
15. Introduction to Freehand Drawing for Architecture, Interiors and Design – FutureLearn
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Unavailable
Program Dates: 3 weeks
Deadline: Varies as per program
Eligibility: Anyone interested in 3D design; suitable for beginners or those looking to refresh skills; no prerequisites listed
This online course teaches the fundamentals of freehand drawing for Architecture, Interiors, and Product Design, preparing students for undergraduate study in 3D design fields. You’ll learn the difference between constructed and observational drawings and develop skills in perspective, line work, tone, color, texture, and composition. You’ll create high-quality sketches and develop a small portfolio to showcase to universities, colleges, and employers. You’ll gain confidence in using thick and thin lines, creating professional sketch design sheets, and visually communicating ideas, thus strengthening your spatial awareness and foundational drawing abilities.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like architectural design theory, sustainable building systems, urban planning, and housing policy, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.
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