15 STEM Summer Programs in Utah for Middle School Students
- Stephen Turban
- 3 hours ago
- 11 min read
If you are in middle school and looking for something more meaningful to do over the summer, STEM programs are worth considering!
STEM summer programs give you a chance to explore science and technology in a hands-on way. They may involve activities where you build, test, and experiment with ideas. You might work on small projects or learn how systems function, which helps you understand concepts step by step.
Why should I do a STEM summer program in middle school?
These programs help you develop early thinking skills like logic, problem-solving, and structured learning. You also gain confidence in working independently and trying new topics. In Utah, local programs make it easier to attend without travel or housing costs. They also help you build a strong foundation early and give you a clearer idea of what you might want to explore later.
With that, here are 15 STEM summer programs in Utah for middle school students!
15 STEM Summer Programs in Utah for Middle School Students
Location: St. George, UT (local field trips through Utah Tech University)
Cost: $150
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Very limited spots available
Dates: Fridays beginning June 5
Application Deadline: Registration opens March 17
Eligibility: Students entering grades 5 - 7
STEM on the Move: Field Trip Fridays is a hands-on STEM summer camp hosted by Utah Tech University that takes you on weekly educational field trips to explore real-world science and engineering. You’ll visit local destinations such as Jellystone Park, Red Mountain Bricks, and Quail Creek State Park, where you’ll engage in activities related to engineering, environmental science, and outdoor ecology. The program emphasises experiential learning by allowing you to interact with local experts and observe STEM applications in community settings. Through creative building challenges, environmental investigations, and applied science activities, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how STEM concepts operate outside the classroom.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies | Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Eight weeks | Timing varies by cohort
Application deadline: Varies based on cohort
Eligibility: Students in grades 6 to 8
Lumiere’s Junior Explorers Program is a selective online research experience for middle school students, designed to build advanced academic writing and research skills. You begin by selecting a subject area, such as STEM, humanities, or social sciences, and are matched with a PhD-level mentor from a top university. Over the course of the program, you receive a structured introduction to your chosen field, then design and carry out an independent research project focused on a real-world question. To strengthen your writing and analytical abilities, you conclude the program by producing a formal research paper that presents your findings.
Location: Utah State University, Logan, UT
Cost: Not specified (program funded through the GEAR UP grant)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Two-day camp held in July (exact dates vary by year)
Application Deadline: No information available
Eligibility: Middle school students participating in the STARS GEAR UP program, particularly from under-resourced schools in Utah
Utah State’s biotechnology camp places you inside a university lab, where you work through experiments that introduce you to how modern biology is studied. You carry out activities like inserting jellyfish genes into bacteria and watching how fluorescence appears, which connects directly to gene transfer and CRISPR concepts. You also explore neurobiology by examining the human brain, which adds another layer to how biological systems are understood. Throughout the camp, undergraduate mentors and faculty guide you through each step, especially when the science becomes more complex. You also visit facilities like the Aggie Creamery and greenhouses, which show how science connects to production and industry.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies | Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/Cohort size: Highly selective
Application deadline: Rolling deadlines. You can apply to the program here.
Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (on weekends) during the spring cohort and 25 hours over 2 weeks (on weekdays) during the summer cohort.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is a virtual program that teaches middle school students the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over 25 hours, you will learn the basics of Python as well as topics like data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics. Students learn through lectures and group sessions with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. Previous student projects have included building a machine-learning model to classify music genres and creating a machine-learning algorithm to provide a custom list of educational resources based on selected specifications.
Location: Utah Tech University, St. George, UT
Cost: $125
Acceptance rate/cohort size: No information available
Dates: June 16 - 18 (AM or PM session); June 23 - 25 (AM session)
Application Deadline: Registration opens March 17
Eligibility: Students entering grades 5 - 7
Utah Tech’s Kendama lab takes a simple toy and turns it into a full engineering problem. You study how motion works by looking at gravity, energy transfer, and balance, then apply those ideas to redesign the kendama itself. You use CAD tools to build a new handle, which is later 3D printed and tested. Most of your time goes into experimenting, measuring performance, and adjusting your design when it doesn’t behave as expected. The process feels like a loop where you build, test, and refine again.
Location: University of Utah, Research Park, Salt Lake City, UT
Cost: $400 per camp (multi-camp and sibling discount available; 10% discount for University of Utah faculty, staff, and students)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: No information available
Dates: Genetic Survivor: June 8 - 12 or June 22 - 26; Brains & Biotech: July 6 - 10 or July 13 - 17; Chemistry Magic: July 27 - 31 or August 3 - 7
Application Deadline: Not specified (registration required until camps fill)
Eligibility: Students ages 10 - 14
STEAM@Stark places you inside research environments at the University of Utah, where you work through different science and engineering activities depending on the theme you choose. You might run bioengineering experiments, observe neurorobotics systems, or work through chemistry labs that require careful observation. The program also includes visits to places like the Natural History Museum and Tracy Aviary, which connect what you are learning to real systems. You keep track of your work in lab notebooks, which adds structure to the process. By the end, your work contributes to a video showcase that reflects what you explored.
Location: Southern Utah University, Cedar City, UT
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified (competitive program with limited space)
Dates: June 8 - July 2
Application Deadline: Primary deadline: February 25; Second round deadline (if space remains): March 25
Eligibility: Students completing 6th, 7th, or 8th grade (middle school students)
SUU PREP runs across multiple summers, where you return each year and build on what you learned before. You work through topics like engineering design, physics, logic, and cryptography, often through projects that require problem-solving rather than direct instruction. Activities include challenges like building a cardboard boat or solving applied engineering problems. You also meet STEM professionals and work with university students who guide you through projects. Over time, the program builds your understanding step by step instead of trying to cover everything at once.
Location: St. George, UT (local field trips through Utah Tech University)
Cost: $100
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Very limited spots available
Dates: June 23 - 25
Application Deadline: Registration opens March 17
Eligibility: Students entering grades 5 - 7 for the current academic year
Code and Create: Minecraft Edition! is a hands-on STEM summer camp designed for middle school students interested in coding, game design, and digital creativity. You’ll explore Minecraft modding while learning foundational computer science concepts such as coding logic, game mechanics, and digital design. You’ll also create custom characters and experiment with modifying game elements, gaining insight into how games are built and programmed. Beyond the digital environment, the camp incorporates physical maker activities where you’ll construct a working LED Redstone-style torch, introducing them to basic electronics and circuitry. By combining coding with tangible building projects, the program helps you connect virtual design with real-world engineering concepts.
Location: Code N Bots robotics program, UT
Cost: 5-day camps: $265 early bird (increases to $295 after March 25); 3-day camps: $165 early bird (increases to $180 after March 25)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10 students per coach
Dates: Multiple sessions throughout Summer: June 1 - 5, July 6 - 10, Aug 3 - 7 (Brick Battles); June 15 - 19 (Competition Robotics); June 22 - 26, July 13 - 17 (Product Design); June 29 - July 1, July 20 - 22 (Mechanical Engineering with LEGO)
Application Deadline: Registration opens March 2 (spots fill on a rolling basis)
Eligibility: Students ages 7 - 14, depending on the specific camp
Code N Bots Summer Camps are hands-on engineering and robotics programs designed for those interested in building, coding, and mechanical design. Across several themed camps, such as Brick Battles, Competition Robotics, Product Design, and Mechanical Engineering with LEGO, you’ll explore real engineering concepts, including gear ratios, torque, friction, and the engineering design process. You’ll work in small teams to design and build robots, develop mechanical systems, and program devices using LEGO SPIKE Prime and LEGO Mindstorms platforms. You’ll also learn programming fundamentals such as loops, variables, sensors, and autonomous navigation using block-based coding similar to Scratch. Projects may include robot competitions, 3D-printed inventions, and mechanical systems like catapults or mixers.
Location: South Salt Lake, UT
Cost: $150 (camp fee)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 8 - 12
Application Deadline: Not specified (registration through Eventbrite; refunds allowed up to 7 days before the event)
Eligibility: Students ages 8 - 15 with basic computer skills (clicking, dragging, typing) and basic reading and fine motor skills
Camp Innovate: Physics and Engineering is a week-long, hands-on STEM camp designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of physics through engineering-focused maker projects. Hosted by the Utah STEM Action Centre, the camp combines experimentation with design-based learning to help you understand how physical principles such as matter, energy, and motion influence real-world technologies. You’ll engage in collaborative activities, team-building exercises, and guided engineering challenges that connect scientific theory with practical construction and problem-solving. Throughout the week, campers explore physics concepts through interactive experiments and creative building tasks that emphasise inquiry and innovation. You’ll gain a stronger understanding of how engineering and physics work together to shape the technologies around us.
Location: Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, UT
Cost: $235 (includes experiments, supplies such as goggles and lab coats, snacks, and lunch)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified (participants are randomly selected from applicants)
Dates: Session 1 (Ages 9-10): June 23 - 24; Session 2 (Ages 9-10): June 25 - 26; Session 3 (Ages 11-12): June 29 - 30; Session 4 (Ages 11-12): July 1 - 2
Application Deadline: Not specified (applications currently open; acceptances sent March - April)
Eligibility: Students ages 9 - 12 at the time of camp
Chem Camp at Brigham Young University is a hands-on chemistry outreach program designed to introduce you to core scientific concepts through engaging laboratory experiments. You’ll explore chemistry by performing experiments such as titration, chromatography, electrolysis, ester synthesis, battery construction, and macromolecule testing. Under the guidance of BYU professors and trained student mentors, you’ll learn how chemistry connects to other sciences such as physics, biology, and medicine. The program emphasises experimentation, observation, and scientific reasoning while helping you understand molecular processes that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Through interactive labs and demonstrations, you’ll gain practical laboratory experience and develop curiosity about scientific research.
Location: Brigham Young University (BYU), Provo, UT
Cost: $325 (includes experiments, supplies such as goggles and lab coats, snacks, and lunch)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified (participants are randomly selected from applicants)
Dates: Session 5 (Ages 13–14): June 23 - 25; Session 6 (Ages 13–14): June 29 - July 1
Application Deadline: Not specified (applications open; acceptances sent March - April)
Eligibility: Students ages 13 - 14 at the time of camp (mature 12-year-olds who have completed a full year of junior high may also apply)
BioChem Camp at Brigham Young University is a hands-on summer program that introduces you to the fundamentals of biochemistry and molecular biology through laboratory experiments. You’ll explore the molecules that power living organisms, including DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes, and sugars. Guided by BYU professors and trained student mentors, you’ll conduct experiments such as protein analysis, genetic exploration, and molecular biology techniques while learning how biochemical processes operate within cells. The program also includes laboratory tours and discussions about careers in chemistry, biotechnology, and life sciences. Through interactive experiments and mentorship, you’ll gain early exposure to advanced biological science concepts and laboratory research. The camp is designed to spark curiosity about molecular science and provide practical experience with the tools and techniques used in modern biochemical research.
Location: Online
Cost: $1,365 tuition + $15 online registration fee (CTY membership fee of $55 may apply). Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: No information available
Dates: Summer A: June 17 - July 22; Summer B: July 13 - August 17
Application Deadline: May 11 (Summer A); June 8 (Summer B)
Eligibility: Students in grades 7 - 11 who meet the CTY Quantitative identification level (typically demonstrated through qualifying test scores)
Advanced Competitive Math is an online enrichment course offered by the Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented Youth (CTY), designed to prepare you for high school mathematics competitions such as the AMC 10 and AMC 12. The course introduces advanced problem-solving techniques across core competition topics, including algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. You’ll develop strategies for tackling non-routine mathematical problems through pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and creative thinking. The course also emphasises collaboration, allowing you to discuss different solution methods and communicate mathematical ideas effectively. You’ll learn contest strategies such as time management and strategic guessing while strengthening your mathematical confidence and analytical skills.
Location: Online (hosted by Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented Youth – CTY)
Cost: $1,850 tuition + $15 online registration fee (CTY membership fee of $55 may apply). Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: No information available
Dates: Summer A: June 16 - September 1
Application Deadline: May 11
Eligibility: Students in grades 7 - 11 who meet the CTY Quantitative identification level (typically demonstrated through qualifying standardised test scores)
Coding and Creating with Arduino is an advanced online technology course offered by the Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented Youth that introduces you to digital prototyping and embedded systems using Arduino microcontrollers. You’ll learn how hardware and software integrate to create automated electronic devices such as sensor-based systems and interactive prototypes. You’ll build projects using an Arduino microprocessor, breadboards, and sensor and actuator kits while learning how to interpret schematics and modify code. The course emphasises computational thinking and engineering design as you’ll investigate real-world challenges and develop functioning prototypes. Through hands-on experimentation and guided instruction, you’ll gain experience reading pseudocode, understanding electronics concepts, and building working automated systems.
Location: Online (Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies, Stanford University)
Cost: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 12 students per cohort
Dates: Summer Course: July 6 - July 24; Fall Semester Meetings: August 26 - December 9
Application Deadline: March 25; Admissions Notification: Mid-May
Eligibility: Students currently in grades 6 - 7 who live and attend school in the United States, typically from low-income households (admitted families generally have incomes under $90,000)
The Stanford Middle School Scholars Program (SMSSP) is a tuition-free academic enrichment program designed to prepare you for rigorous high school opportunities. The program begins with a three-week online summer course where you’ll explore academic topics in a small cohort and develop critical thinking and study skills. During the fall semester, you’ll continue learning through weekly online meetings focused on academic writing, math enrichment, growth mindset, and exploring high school options. You’ll interact in live virtual classes with instructors, many of whom teach at Stanford Online High School, and collaborate with motivated peers from across the United States. The program also supports you in identifying and applying to selective high schools and enrichment opportunities.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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