2024 Summer Youth Program Courses from the College of Computing


Are you, or do you know a curious student in grades 6-11? In Summer Youth Programs (SYP) students engage in hands-on explorations and experience college in a fun, engaging, and safe environment. Each day, students learn in state-of-the-art classrooms or in the field In the evening, they take part in activities, games, and outdoor adventures with exceptional young people from around the globe. Live-in and commuter options are available. Discounts are available to the children and grandchildren of Michigan Tech alumni, faculty, and staff. Visit mtu.edu/syp to view the course catalog and learn more.


Autonomous Vehicle Programming

Course No. 52467 | Grades 9-11 | July 21-26

This course is designed to introduce high school students to the world of autonomous vehicles and programming. Students will apply programming skills to autonomous vehicles. The course will cover topics such as sensors, perception, control, and motion planning. Students will also learn about the ethical and social implications of autonomous vehicles. Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of programming concepts such as variables, loops, and functions.

Build a Computer

Course No. 51451 | Grades 9-11 | July 14-19

Hands-on learning! Campers will learn computer components and architecture by building a computer. You will start from scratch from an empty case and end with a fully functioning computer while learning the purpose of each component. You will actually take your computer (without the monitor) home, so be sure to leave room in your suitcase (approx. 2 cubic ft)! No prior experience required and students with enthusiasm and an interest in the topic will be successful in this course. This course has an additional lab fee of $500.

Coding Video Games: A Crash Course

Course No. 51451 | Grades 9-11 | July 14-19

Coding is fun! We will build your computer science skills and mindset while learning the fundamentals of good game design. You will develop your game designing skills and you can design, build and polish your dream game. Campers will work in groups in a computer lab environment and a classroom. We’ll even venture outside during the week to have some fun. Previous coding experience is not required.

Cybersecurity

Course No. 52270 | Grades 9-11 | July 21-26

Join us for a week-long exploration of cybersecurity. Throughout the week, you’ll engage in learning activities designed to introduce students to a range of cybersecurity topics. We aim to make each workshop interesting and interactive. Campers will learn personal best practices for protecting their data and investigate ways in which bad actors can access information. Campers will work in groups in a computer lab environment and a classroom. Students with enthusiasm and interest in the topic will be successful in this course.

Introduction to Mini Video Games: Getting Started

Course No. 51171 | Grades 6-8 | July 7-12

At Michigan Tech, you will explore good game design by creating mini-games. You will experiment in building basic collisions, animation and artificial intelligence techniques. We will discuss game design principles like surprise, fun, and problem solving, while being creative and challenging at the same time. Campers will work in groups in a computer lab environment and a classroom. We’ll even venture outside during the week to have some fun. Previous computer programming experience is not required.

Mechatronics: Build and Program a Functional Robot

Course No. 52092 | Grades 9-11 | July 14-19

This course is designed to introduce high school students to the field of mechatronics, which is a combination of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Students will learn the basics of mechatronics and how to apply them to building and operating robots. The course will cover topics such as sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, programming, and control systems. Students will also learn about the ethical and social implications of robotics. This course has an additional lab fee of $35. Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of programming concepts such as variables, loops, and functions.