Explore Pre-collegiate Summer Experiences at UAlbany
Get an early start on the college experience this summer at the University at Albany’s pre-collegiate summer camps. Choose from a range of topics to suit your teen’s interests, from technology and gaming to art and archaeology.
Students will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Please register for each camp at least two weeks before the start date. Camps that do not meet enrollment requirements will be cancelled two weeks before the start date.
Unless otherwise noted, camps will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., drop-off and pickup will take place at UAlbany’s Uptown Campus, and students are expected to bring their own lunch and snack. Students must submit a completed medical form when they register.
Please contact SummerCamps@albany.edu with general questions. If you have specific questions about a particular camp, please reach out to that camp’s contact.
STEM Camps | Art & Writing Camps | Other Academic Camps | eSports & Color Guard Camps
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) Camps
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AI Exploration: Discovering the Future of Technology
This AI exploration camp offers an engaging and hands-on introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on society. We inspire future technologists and encourage students to consider a path in AI and related fields.
Participants will dive into the fundamentals of AI — including machine learning, ethical considerations and real-world applications — through interactive activities, projects and guided discussions.
Through small group projects and challenges, students have an opportunity to apply their newfound knowledge and develop a better understanding of AI, its potential and its challenges.
No prior experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas.
Contact: Abdullah Canbaz
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: ETEC, located next to UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 30 students maximum
Bioinformatics & RNA
The RNA Institute High School Bioinformatics Summer Camp is a competitive summer training program held virtually for high school students.
The camp delivers training in bioinformatic analysis of RNA sequencing data through live daily lectures, support by UAlbany-affiliated mentors, and completing an independent bioinformatics project based in neurodegenerative disease research.
This unique camp will provide students with vital skillsets and tools for advanced degrees and careers in any STEM field.
Contacts: Andy Bergland and Sangeetha Selvam
Age Group: Ages 15 to 18
Dates: July 7 to August 1, 2025 (four weeks)
Cost: $1,100 to $1,200 (Payment waivers may be available based on financial need.)
Location: Virtual
Visit the RNA Institute High School Bioinformatics Summer Camp webpage for more information and to apply.
Coral Ecology
Emphasizing research skills, college readiness and team building, this camp will focus on the integration of marine biology and biotechnology, allowing participants to see how interdisciplinary approaches can drive conservation efforts.
Students will develop an understanding of coral biology, ecosystems and the impact of climate change on coral reefs through hands-on experience.
Students will delve into molecular coral research by performing RNA isolation, exploring how genes are involved in resilience and how techniques are applied to conservation.
Lab work such as RNA isolation, DNA barcoding and water chemistry will be complemented by lectures and discussions on cutting-edge technologies in coral conservation. Note: This camp may involve a field trip.
Contact: Michael Gerdes at mgerdes@albany.edu
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $400
Location: Department of Biological Sciences, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus; College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering, UAlbany’s Downtown Campus; Capital Coral Lab, Albany
Camp Size: 12 students maximum
Cybersecurity Bootcamp
The Cybersecurity Bootcamp equips high school students with the foundational knowledge, practical training and essential skills needed to work in the field of cybersecurity.
Taught by faculty from UAlbany’s Department of Information Sciences and Technology, the curriculum will cover a wide range of topics, including network security, cryptography and risk management.
Contact: Kimberly Cornell
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: ETEC, located next to UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 30 students
DNA Technology
Students will learn background knowledge and practice basic skills in DNA technology such as blue-white cloning, PCR and Gel Electrophoresis. They will also learn basic data analysis and scientifical presentation of data.
The curriculum focuses on hands-on approaches to learn about DNA technology techniques and perform them firsthand.
The camp's curriculum directly mimics a portion of college laboratory courses and will grant students experience closely resembling work in academic or pharmaceutical research labs.
Contacts: Haijun Chen and Ed Norkvests at enorkvests@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 15 to 18
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Biological Sciences, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 14 students
Drones & Robotics
Campers will focus on an enriching and exciting curriculum surrounding the incorporation of drones in modern society.
Curriculum will cover unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and ground-based robotics, the generalized purposes of this technology, careers in these fields, drone/robot platforms, camera systems, and coding relating to UAVs and robotics.
Students will be given hands-on instruction in UAlbany’s Drone & Robotics Lab.
Contact: Frank Peris at fperis@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: August 4 to 8, 2025
Cost: $400
Location: Drone & Robotics Lab, Page Hall, UAlbany’s Downtown Campus
Camp Size: 30 students maximum
Economic Research Academy
The Economics Research Academy brings rising eleventh and twelfth graders to UAlbany to learn from University faculty and other experts about state-of-the-art economics research.
The Academy has three modules:
- Hands-on lectures focusing on data visualization
- Seminars on faculty’s current research in sub-fields of economics
- Workshops aimed at developing students’ original research projects
The first module involves students working with real-world data, learning how to turn data into pictures and interactive displays using the data visualization software Tableau.
The second module includes faculty lectures and discussion about topics in economics research such as macroeconomic policy, financial markets, innovation and healthcare markets.
The third module involves students working closely with faculty and PhD students to develop their own research projects. On the final day of the Academy, students will present their project to faculty and other students.
Each student must bring a laptop to the Academy.
Contact: Pinka Chatterji and Chun-Yu Ho
Age Group: Ages 16 to 18
Dates: July 14 to 18, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 10 students
Forensic Science & Investigation
Interested in forensics? This camp offers students an exciting opportunity to dive into the world of forensic science.
Under the guidance of forensic experts, participants will be immersed in hands-on activities, learning essential skills in crime scene investigation, evidence collection and analysis using modern forensic techniques.
Working in teams to solve a mock crime, campers will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while gaining real-world insights into the field of forensic science.
Students will learn and apply techniques in crime scene investigations, crime scene reconstruction, glass analysis, soil analysis, forensic drug analysis, forensic finger printing and forensic DNA analysis.
Contact: Ryan Thurman
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $400
Location: Department of Biological Sciences, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 13 students maximum
Girls Inc. Eureka!
Girls Inc. Eureka!® at UAlbany is a free, unique program that will provide girls with a gentle introduction to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education through an intensive summer camp experience followed up with support during the school year.
Girls commit to the program for five years, preparing them for the next step in their education after high school.
Girls Incorporated programming inspires girls to be strong, smart and bold, and gives them the capacity to achieve their full potential.
In addition, we provide an equitable environment for girls through activities that help direct them to a confident and responsible adulthood with economic independence and personal fulfillment.
Contact: Kelly Mucci at kmucci@girls-inc.org or 518-374-9800 ext. 222
Age Group: 13 to 14 years old (Applicants must be entering eighth or ninth grade in September 2025.)
Cost: Free
Visit the Girls Inc. Eureka! webpage for more information and to apply.
Note: This camp takes place on a UAlbany campus but is not run by the University.
MicroExplorer Biology: Discovering the Diversity of Microbes
Designed to spark interest in health, medical sciences and STEM, this camp offers students an exciting opportunity to explores the microbial world by combining theoretical knowledge in microbiology and evolution with hands-on experience in microbiology techniques.
Students will work in teams to collect bacterial samples, discovering the fascinating diversity of bacterial shapes, sizes and colors. This hands-on experience will highlight how everyday surfaces can harbor dangerous bacteria, bacteria carrying antimicrobial resistance or fecal coliforms.
Students will identify different bacteria, develop critical thinking, problem-solving and research skills while gaining real-world insights about the impact of microbes in our daily lives.
Contact: Stephanie DeSouza
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Biological Sciences, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 12 students maximum
Weather, Climate & Chemistry
Learn to forecast the weather by visiting a mountaintop weather observatory and conducting experiments. Launch a weather balloon to gather data and understand the causes and consequences of air pollution and climate change. Explore careers and college opportunities in meteorology.
The day camp is hosted by UAlbany’s Department of Atmospheric & Environmental Sciences and Atmospheric Science Research Center and run by UAlbany faculty.
Contacts: Sara Lance and Justin Minder
Age Group: Ages 14 to 18
Dates: July 23 to August 1, 2025
Cost: Free, with lunch provided
Location: UAlbany’s Uptown Campus, with one field trip to the Whiteface Mountain Observatory in the Adirondack Mountains
Visit the UAlbany Weather, Climate & Chemistry Camp website for more information and to apply.
Art & Writing Camps
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College Portfolio Prep
Designed to assist rising juniors and seniors refine their art portfolios for college applications, this camp will teach students how to professionally photograph their work using studio lighting and a DSLR camera.
They will also learn photo editing, how to curate their strongest pieces and how to print high-quality portfolio images. Students will learn how to write a compelling artist statement that effectively communicates their artistic practice.
The course includes sessions on researching college art programs, preparing for portfolio review days and mock interviews. Students will have a professionally printed portfolio and a well-crafted artist statement for their college applications.
Contact: Allison DeBritz at adebritz@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 15 to 18
Dates: August 4 to 8, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Art and Art History, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 12 students
Darkroom Photography
This camp will offer students the opportunity to explore the art of darkroom photography, the fundamentals of using an SLR camera, shooting 35mm black and white film, developing the film, and creating prints in the darkroom.
Through personalized instruction, students will develop the technical skills and conceptual development needed to understand the foundational elements of photography.
Given the decline in darkroom photography in most high school curricula, this camp will introduce this classic medium to students. It will be ideal for a diverse range of interests and tailored to beginners, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the basics of photography.
Contact: Allison DeBritz at adebritz@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: Two week-long sessions of this camp will be offered.
- July 7 to 11, 2025
- July 14 to 18, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Art and Art History, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 10 students
Digital Collage
Students will explore collage art, enhance their digital media skills and gain hands-on experience using scanners and Adobe Photoshop to create dynamic collage work.
The class will explore the history of appropriation in art, allowing students to incorporate these concepts into their work by utilizing national archives and found imagery.
This course is ideal for students seeking to advance their photo editing skills, master more sophisticated techniques in Photoshop while developing a cohesive body of work and produce professionally printed images.
Class size is limited to ensure personalized instruction and access to equipment and facilities.
Contact: Allison DeBritz at adebritz@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 14 to 18
Dates: Two week-long sessions of this camp will be offered.
- July 21 to 25, 2025
- July 28 to August 1, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Art and Art History, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 12 students
How Early Renaissance Masters Prepared & Painted Wood Panels
Students will learn how to prepare and paint an image on a wood panel using materials and techniques from early Renaissance Europe (1200-1450 AD).
Students will be given a wood panel, learn how to “size” it, apply gesso, sketch an image and paint their design using egg tempera and dry pigments.
Lectures and demonstrations on painting techniques and workshop environments of early Renaissance Europe, as well as analyses of relevant historical, political and religious influences, will be presented.
Students will learn recipes and color-mixing theories, gaining valuable visual-art sensibilities that they can further explore, experiment with and reproduce on their own.
Contact: Jason Hathaway at jconnor@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: Two week-long sessions of this camp will be offered.
- July 7 to 11, 2025
- July 14 to 18, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Art and Art History, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 10 students
Young Writers Workshops
The Capital District Writing Project sponsors summer writing workshops for elementary, middle and high school writers who love to write and enjoy collaborating with other writers.
Workshop facilitators are experienced K-12 educators from the Capital Region who challenge young people to grow as writers in fun, interactive ways, within a supportive community.
We offer half-day workshops across all grade levels and a full-day workshop for high school students. Four workshops in total are available.
Contact: CDWPWriteNow@gmail.com
Age Group: Ages 6 to 18
Dates: July 7 to 11, 2025
Cost: $225 to $550 (Scholarships may be available.)
Location: UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Visit the 2025 Young Writers Workshops website for more information and to register.
Other Academic Camps
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Archaeology
Students will complete lab exercises and hands-on experience with artifacts, focusing on archaeologists’ roles and the types of material they work with.
They will also learn how to make stone tools and use some items of indigenous technologies, such as an "atlatl" spear thrower.
Students will visit the New York State Museum, engage in excavations at the Helme site, a real archaeological site in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, and spend time in the archaeological labs to wash and process artifacts they discover. Note: This camp involves field trips.
Contacts: Chris Wolff and Sean Rafferty
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 7 to 11, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: UAlbany, New York State Museum and Albany Pine Bush
Camp Size: 12 students minimum
Spanish Language Immersion
This immersion experience will allow participants to improve their Spanish language competence, especially at the oral level, and enhance their knowledge and appreciation for Hispanic cultures.
Daily activities will include brief instruction, followed by real life language interactions and engaging activities. Activities include games, crafts, movies, discussions, cooking club, a visit to the museum and other exhibits, and a visit to a local restaurant.
This program allows campers to practice Spanish language and expose them to varied aspects of Hispanic culture. Eligible campers should demonstrate an intermediate Spanish language level and make efforts to only speak Spanish during the program.
Contact: Leonardo Correa and Ilka Kressner
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 14 to 18, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 15 students maximum
Urban History & Urban Policy
This summer experience focuses on urban history and urban policy, including redlining, housing discrimination, urban renewal and gentrification.
Albany is an ideal laboratory to explore these issues. Urban renewal reshaped the city in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly the Empire State Plaza, which displaced 7,000 people and demolished over 1,200 buildings.
These histories continue to shape the built and lived environment of Albany today. Housing affordability is a major issue for many city residents, largely because of the gentrification that followed urban renewal.
Field trips will help participants more fully understand urban history and the impact of urban policy.
Contact: David Hochfelder
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: August 18 to 22, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: Downtown Albany
Camp Size: 15 students maximum
Women Creating Change
This Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies camp introduces high schoolers to concepts of women and gender, feminist media, women’s leadership and women’s history.
The camp will culminate in a field trip to Women’s Rights National Park in Seneca Falls, NY, and the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, NY. The camp will also coincide with the annual Convention Days at Seneca Falls, which commemorates the first women’s rights convention in U.S. history. Note: This camp involves a field trip.
Contact: Janelle Hobson
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 14 to 18, 2025
Cost: $400
Location: UAlbany; Seneca Falls, New York; and Auburn, New York
Camp Size: 16 students minimum
eSports & Color Guard Camps
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Color Guard Spin Clinic
Join Director of the UAlbany Marching Band Director Justin Miller for a hands-on workshop designed for students interested in color guard — a dynamic performing art that combines dance, flag, rifle and saber routines with music.
Participants will learn new skills, improve their technique and experience the artistry and athleticism of color guard.
Whether students are beginners or have prior experience, a spin clinic offers a welcoming environment to explore creative expression while working closely with experienced instructors. It’s also a great way to connect with the University's marching and winter guard programs while being immersed in a collegiate environment.
Participants must bring their own lunch.
Contact: Justin Miller
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Cost: $35
Location: UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 50 students per clinic
Spin Clinics will be held in June and July 2025. Specific dates and registration information will be available in late April.
eSports Career Lab
Gaming and eSports have become a unique industry full of opportunities to explore. UAlbany's eSports Career Lab is a great place to learn about the history of eSports, what the industry looks like today and what kinds of roles you could play within the industry.
You’ll experience workshops, group discussions, information sessions and more during this camp, with the final day culminating in a networking mixer.
Whether you have a decent interest in eSports or you're a super fan, this camp will give you the knowledge and career skills you need to seek new opportunities.
Contact: John Macone at jmacone@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 21 to 25, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: eSports Arena, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 12 to 24 students
eSports Smash Ultimate Bootcamp
Looking to start competing in Smash Ultimate? Already a seasoned competitor wanting to improve?
This bootcamp will help you hone your skills and meet fellow players over four days of workshops, drills, group discussion, video review and practice culminating in a friendly final-day tournament in UAlbany's new eSports Arena.
Contact: John Macone at jmacone@albany.edu
Age Group: Ages 13 to 18
Dates: July 7 to 11, 2025
Cost: $375
Location: eSports Arena, UAlbany’s Uptown Campus
Camp Size: 12 to 24 students