If you’re interested in engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, or product design, robotics programs can help you explore these fields in a hands-on manner. In these programs, you’ll build and program robots using tools such as Arduino, CAD software, and Raspberry Pi, along with programming languages including Java, Python, or C++. You might also design robot parts, wire circuits, troubleshoot hardware, and test autonomous systems through team-based projects and competitions. Many programs also introduce you to sensor integration, automation, machine learning, computer vision, and mechanical systems. Such experiences help you build technical skills while giving you hands-on experience that can strengthen your resume and college applications.
Why should you choose a program in Michigan?
Michigan is a great place to explore robotics because the state has a strong connection to engineering, manufacturing, and technology. Institutions such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University offer STEM outreach programs, engineering workshops, and robotics labs for high school students. You can also find robotics competitions, maker spaces, and student engineering communities across the state, making it easier for you to meet other students with similar interests and collaborate on projects. If you are looking for a combination of hands-on learning, industry exposure, and access to strong engineering resources, Michigan can be a great place to start exploring robotics.
Here are 15 robotics programs for high school students in Michigan.
If you’re looking for summer research opportunities for high school students in Michigan, you can find them here. You can also check out online robotics programs and internships here.
15 Robotics Programs for High School Students in Michigan
1. Michigan Tech University’s Women in Computer Science (WICS)
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: Free or offered at a reduced rate
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: June 28 – July 2
Application Deadline: February 15; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting March 1
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
Women in Computer Science is a week-long camp for students in grades 9–11 that introduces them to different areas of computing, including artificial intelligence, software development, data science, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, and robotics. During the program, you’ll work with other students on a group project, learn about computing careers across industries such as finance, healthcare, and retail, and hear from alumni and professionals about their experiences in the field. Although the program is designed to encourage more young women to pursue computing careers, students of all genders are welcome to apply. The program also offers hands-on experience with robotics, programming, and artificial intelligence through activities such as building and wiring the GUPPIE and Neu-pulator robots, with a focus on artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation. Other activities include learning Python, working on real-time data processing, designing sensors for robots, and using Python for data analysis and visualization.
2. Robotics 1 Summer Program at Lawrence Technological University
Location: College of Engineering, Lawrence Technological University, Southfield, MI
Cost: $1,250 (Commuter) | $1,400 (Residential); scholarships are available for students with financial need and strong academic performance
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Maximum 20 students
Dates: July 13 – 17
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; registration opens on November 17
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 14–18 can apply; no prior experience is required
Robotics 1 is a week-long program for high school students interested in learning the basics of robotics through hands-on projects and team activities. During the program, you’ll build and program robots using Arduino microcontrollers, sensors, motors, and basic electronic components, assemble circuits, and write simple code that allows robots to move and respond to their surroundings. Through guided projects and team challenges, you’ll develop problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking skills, while learning how robots react to real-world inputs. The camp also shows how robotics connects to engineering, automation, and emerging technologies. It also prepares you for the Robotics 2 Advanced program, where you’ll work on more complex robotic systems. You can also explore the RoboDog Adventures: Robotics and Python Programming Camp option, where you’ll learn Python programming while controlling and programming your own robotic dog.
3. Michigan Math and Science Scholars
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: $1,400 tuition + $1,100 housing + $100 non-refundable application fee; limited need-based financial aid is available. You can learn about additional fees here
Acceptance rate/cohort size: About 50% of applicants are accepted, and each class includes 15 students
Dates: June 21 – July 3 | July 5 – 17 | July 19 – 31
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; applications open in mid-January
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have completed at least one year of high school and have not yet graduated
The Michigan Math and Science Scholars program offers two-week courses for high school students in subjects such as computer science, astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics, earth and environmental sciences, mathematics, psychology, and art and music. If you are interested in robotics, the AI Ain’t Magic course introduces you to artificial intelligence, neural networks, and how they are trained; concepts that connect closely to autonomous robotics and machine learning. You can also explore courses in programming, graph theory, mathematics, calculus, and physics that can help you better understand robot navigation, control systems, mechanics, kinematic equations, data processing, and decision-making algorithms used in robotics. The program highlights how math and science work together across fields such as engineering and computer science, which are central to robotics and automation. You’ll also learn from faculty and graduate students, attend evening activities and dinners, use University of Michigan labs and technology, and join optional weekend trips with other students.
4. Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs — Mechatronics: Build & Program a Functional Robot
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: $1,175 base price (Residential) | $700 base price (Commuter) + $200 additional fee for the Mechatronics program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: June 14 – 19
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11 with basic programming knowledge, like loops, variables, and functions
Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs are one-week STEM, business, and career exploration programs for students in grades 9–11 that help you explore college pathways and real-world applications in different fields. If you are interested in robotics, the Mechatronics program introduces you to how electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science come together to build robotic systems. During the program, you’ll learn the basics of mechatronics and apply them through hands-on activities such as building and operating robots. The program covers robotics topics such as sensors, microcontrollers, actuators, programming, and control systems, while encouraging you to think about the ethical and social impact of robotics technology. You’ll gain practical experience in robotics engineering and automated systems by building and programming your own robot, which you can take home at the end of the program.
5. Michigan State University’s Quantum Motor City Camp
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: July 29 – 31
Application Deadline: April 18
Eligibility: High school students who have completed coursework in algebra and trigonometry
Michigan State University’s free Quantum Motor City summer camp introduces you to quantum computing and quantum technology through subjects such as computer science, physics, and mathematics. During the program, you’ll learn coding and computational concepts by programming real IBM quantum computers, solving problems that combine math, computing, and physics, and touring a quantum computing lab. The camp also helps you build skills connected to robotics, including programming, artificial intelligence, automation, computational logic, and data-driven technologies. You’ll gain hands-on experience with concepts used in robotics and advanced engineering and explore how quantum technology connects to modern automation systems and emerging technologies. The camp also includes college preparation guidance and opportunities to interact with professors, industry scientists, and students about STEM careers and emerging technology fields.
6. University of Michigan’s Joy of Coding — Intro to Training, Evaluating & Fine-tuning an AI
Location: Online (asynchronous)
Cost: $149 plus tax; need-based financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: 8 weeks; students can start anytime after June 17 and finish the program at their own pace by August 28
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students who are at least 13 years old and have knowledge of Algebra, like variables, functions, and basic manipulation
The University of Michigan’s Joy of Coding offers online, self-paced courses in coding, artificial intelligence, and data science taught by engineering faculty. In the Intro to Training, Evaluating & Fine-tuning an AI course, you’ll learn how supervised learning works, how information is represented using feature vectors, and how machine learning systems are trained using labeled data. Throughout the course, you’ll practice preprocessing data, measuring accuracy and loss, testing models, and improving performance through fine-tuning and iteration. You’ll also explore concepts such as overfitting and underfitting while learning about the entire AI workflow, from data preparation to evaluation and troubleshooting. These skills can help you better understand areas connected to robotics, including robotic navigation, sensor data processing, and interpreting inputs from cameras, sonar, and LIDAR systems used in autonomous robots and intelligent automation systems.
7. Michigan Tech University’s Engineering Scholars Program (ESP)
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: Free or offered at a reduced rate
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: June 21 – 26
Application Deadline: February 15; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting March 1
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
The Engineering Scholars Program is a week-long introduction to engineering and science careers for students in grades 9–11. During the program, you’ll take part in engineering sessions, competitions, presentations, and group projects alongside students from around the world. You’ll explore a range of engineering fields, including electrical and computer, aerospace, chemical, civil, materials science, mechanical, environmental, geohazards, and robotics engineering. Through hands-on projects in two selected areas, you might participate in applied lab sessions on robotics concepts such as programming, sensors, sensor data analysis, mechanical design, and real-time data processing. Past projects have included building artificial intelligence systems and exploring machine learning concepts connected to data science and automation. You’ll also learn robotics engineering fundamentals related to autonomous systems, visit industry sites to see automation and manufacturing in action, and connect with faculty and professionals working in engineering and robotics fields.
8. Anderson College of Engineering Summer Academy at Wayne State University
Location: James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering, Detroit, MI
Cost: Each camp session costs $200; limited scholarships are available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited spots are available
Dates: June 22 – July 9 | July 13 – 30
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; you can apply here
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th grade students
Wayne State University’s Anderson College of Engineering Summer Academy is a week-long day camp for rising 9th–12th grade students interested in computer science, engineering, technology, and innovation. During the program, you’ll work on real-world projects in coding, design, construction, and game development, while building collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The academy runs in two cohorts with the same curriculum, so you can choose any one cohort that works best for you. You can register for one, two, or all three camps within a single cohort. If you are interested in robotics, the Microbit camp is a good option because it introduces you to programming, electronics, hardware interaction, and coding micro:bit processors for automation and robotics. You can also choose the Smart Cities camp, which focuses on autonomous systems, sensors, and smart technology, or the Minecraft Game Design camp, where you’ll build coding, logic, and spatial design skills that connect to robotics and technology development.
9. Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Summer Program at Lawrence Technological University
Location: College of Engineering, Lawrence Technological University, Southfield, MI
Cost: $1,250 (Commuter) | $1,400 (Residential); scholarships are available for students with financial need and strong academic performance
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Maximum 20 students
Dates: July 13 – 17
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; registration opens on November 17
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 14–18
Lawrence Technological University’s week-long Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Summer Program introduces you to how networking, cybersecurity, AI, and robotics technologies work together in real-world systems. During the program, you’ll learn how computer networks are built, secured, monitored, and maintained, and use diagnostic tools to identify and troubleshoot security issues. The program also covers machine learning and basic AI programming for applications such as automotive systems and audio engineering. You’ll work in teams to build projects using Raspberry Pi microcontrollers, which are commonly used in robots and autonomous systems. The program will help you explore robotics concepts such as sensor data processing and computer vision, and gain practical skills in AI and emerging technologies. You’ll also visit local industry partners, tour university facilities, and learn real-world applications of networking, robotics, cybersecurity, and AI systems.
10. Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs — Mobile Robotics
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: $1,175 base price (Residential) | $700 base price (Commuter) + $75 additional fee for the Mobile Robotics program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: July 12 – 17
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs are one-week programs for high school students in grades 9–11, focused on STEM, business, career exploration, and college pathways. If you are interested in robotics, the Mobile Robotics program introduces you to how robotic systems are used to improve efficiency and precision in everyday life and modern technology. You’ll explore mobile robotics through hands-on activities that involve soldering, hacking, building and programming your own mini bot, while learning electrical and computer engineering concepts. The program also gives you experience designing, building, and programming autonomous vehicles in a college-level environment. Using sensors and cameras, you’ll work on robotics challenges involving obstacle avoidance and navigation, helping you gain practical experience with robotic systems and understand how robotics is used in real-world applications and modern technology.
11. Eastern Michigan University’s Terabytes AI Summer BootCamp
Location: Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI
Cost: $100 non-refundable registration fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: July 6 – 8
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school girls
Eastern Michigan University’s Terabytes AI is a three-day summer bootcamp for high school girls that introduces them to artificial intelligence, data science, machine learning, and Python programming. During the program, you’ll explore responsible uses of AI, learn how AI systems work, and complete hands-on projects that connect artificial intelligence to real-world applications and robotics. The program also highlights how machine learning and artificial intelligence are used in robotics and automation systems. In past versions of the related Gigabytes program, students have programmed robots and drones such as Ozobots and LEGO Prime robots, gaining experience with programming and automation concepts. Taught by EMU faculty with support from the Women in Computer Science club, the camp combines AI discussions, coding, and data science concepts and helps you build foundational Python skills that are widely used in robotics and AI development.
12. Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs — Autonomous Robotics: Computer Vision & Navigation
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: $1,175 base price (Residential) | $700 base price (Commuter) + $25 additional fee for the Autonomous Robotics program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: June 21 – 26
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11 who have some prior experience with coding and Python
Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs programs are one-week experiences for high school students in grades 9–11, offering hands-on exploration of STEM studies, college pathways and real-world applications of technology and engineering. In the Autonomous Robotics program, you’ll design and program small self-driving vehicles that use cameras and sensors similar to those found in autonomous cars to explore and respond to the surroundings. You’ll learn how to program and manage these systems and gain experience with real-time navigation, data processing, and obstacle avoidance. Through team projects and problem-solving challenges, you’ll develop critical thinking and technical skills connected to robotics, engineering, and computing. The program also introduces concepts such as robotics, innovation, creativity, and iterative development, helping you gain practical experience with autonomous robotic systems.
13, Ann Arbor STEM & Robotics Summer Camp — Arduino Robotics and Rock Climbing Camp
Location: Sunward Cohousing Common House, Ann Arbor, MI (Camp location) | Planet Rock Climbing Gym, Ann Arbor, MI (Climbing location)
Cost: $1,350 / week
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Only 3 spots are available each week
Dates: Weekly sessions run between June 15 and August 28
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students aged 11–16
The Arduino Robotics and Rock Climbing Camp gives high school students the opportunity to build and program an autonomous Arduino robot while learning about robotics, electronics, and coding through hands-on activities and competitions. Using an Arduino robot base, sensors, breadboards, driver boards, servos, custom 3D printed parts, and LEGO Technic elements, you’ll wire circuits, upload code, and improve your robot’s behavior through testing and redesign. The main challenge of the camp is a robot race in which each robot follows a closed-loop track and attempts to pop an opponent’s balloon with a front-mounted pin. Along the way, you’ll explore concepts such as sensor calibration, motor control, autonomous navigation, PID-style feedback systems, state-based coding, and debugging, and learn to read and modify real code. The camp also runs twice-weekly rock-climbing sessions to help you build communication, teamwork, and collaboration skills.
14. University of Michigan’s NAF Future Ready Scholars
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: July 5 – 17
Application Deadline: April 5
Eligibility: High school students from Southeast Michigan
Future Ready Scholars at the University of Michigan is a two-week STEM-focused college- and career-preparation program for local high school students. During the program, you’ll work with University of Michigan instructors and students and use the engineering design process to explore real-world challenges, STEM majors, and future careers. You’ll gain hands-on experience with coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, CAD, and computer science, and use resources and software developed at the University of Michigan. Some projects also introduce specialized technology in Detroit and help you explore skills related to engineering and robotics pathways. In addition to STEM learning, the program helps you strengthen your math, writing, reading, and study skills for college-level academics. You can also continue receiving mentorship and guidance for STEM-related careers through optional monthly Saturday sessions after the program ends.
15. Michigan Tech University’s Women in Engineering (WIE) Pathway Program
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: Free or offered at a reduced rate
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited cohort size
Dates: June 21 – 26
Application Deadline: February 15; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting March 1
Eligibility: All students in grades 9–11 can apply. Young women pursuing engineering careers are encouraged to apply
The Women in Engineering program offers high school students a week-long introduction to careers in engineering and science through sessions, group projects, presentations, and team-based activities alongside peers from around the world. During the program, you’ll explore fields such as civil, electrical & computer, environmental, aerospace, chemical, geohazards, materials science, mechanical, and robotics engineering through hands-on, project-based learning in two areas of your choice. If you choose robotics engineering, you’ll work on projects involving robotic systems, including building, programming, and troubleshooting robots in specialized workshops. You’ll also explore topics such as robot-human interaction and autonomous systems, while gaining practical experience through applied project sessions and team challenges. In addition to engineering activities, the program includes applied project sessions, outdoor activities in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, and team competitions that help you build collaboration and problem-solving skills. You’ll also receive guidance and mentorship from engineering professionals and industry role models working in robotics and related fields.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like robotics, coding, AI and ML, 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!
Image source: University of Michigan