Longhorn Engineering Summer Camp
The Longhorn Engineering Summer Camp 2027 (LESC 27) is an interactive learning experience designed to introduce rising 8th- and 9th-grade students to the possibilities of engineering. Through engaging presentations and guided, hands-on projects, campers will explore how engineers solve problems and make a difference in everyday life. Students will discover connections between engineering and areas such as art, sports, medicine, transportation, technology, and sustainability.
Each day, campers will learn key engineering fundamentals through presentations from UT Austin faculty and students, followed by activities that bring those concepts to life. Projects focus on a variety of engineering disciplines, giving students opportunities to explore different interests and understand how engineering fields work together. Campers will practice asking questions, brainstorming ideas, designing and building solutions, testing their work, and making improvements based on what they learn.
Along the way, students will strengthen their creativity, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Connecting with UT faculty and students will also help campers learn about studying engineering and the many paths an engineering education can open. No prior engineering experience is needed. Curiosity, a willingness to learn, and an interest in trying something new are encouraged.
Many students who apply to LESC demonstrate academic promise, leadership, and a commitment to their communities. Our application review considers these strengths alongside socioeconomic circumstances and access to educational opportunities. We aim to make engineering experiences accessible to students who may be overcoming social or economic hardships or who have had limited opportunities to explore STEM. Students attending schools without engineering courses or extracurricular STEM opportunities are particularly encouraged to apply.
LESC is not a first-come, first-served program. All complete applications are reviewed by a panel, with consideration given to each student’s interests, experiences, and circumstances. For the San Antonio session, students attending John Jay High School will receive first priority. Applicants who submit a complete application will receive an admissions decision by email no later than mid-May.
*Registration closes on March 12, 2027, at 11:59PM.
LESC 2027 Program Information
| SESSIONS | DATES | TIMES | LOCATIONS | COSTS |
| Austin Session 1 | Tuesday, July 6 – Friday, July 9, 2027 | 9 AM – 4 PM | UT Austin campus | $100 per participant |
| Austin Session 2 | Monday, July 12 – Thursday, July 15, 2027 | 9 AM – 4 PM | UT Austin campus | $100 per participant |
| San Antonio | Monday, July 19 – Thursday, July 22, 2027 | 9 AM – 4 PM | John Jay High School | $50 per participant (First priority goes to students attending John Jay High School) |
Orientation sessions for parents will be held prior to your camp session.
This is a day camp, and lodging will not be provided.
For more information, contact cseoutreach@utexas.edu.
It is our goal to host inclusive and accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please let us know if you would benefit from any accommodations for this event by contacting our office at cseoutreach@utexas.edu.