Summer Springboard

ON THE CAMPUS OF

University of Michigan

A PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ON THE CAMPUS OF UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

Program Highlights

  • Experience hands-on learning by professionals in the fields of Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, Sports Management and more
  • Explore the beautiful city of Ann Arbor with trips to the Farmer’s Market, a baseball game, and enjoy a day of fun at Cedar Point Amusement Park.
  • Engage in diverse after-class enrichment: Join college prep workshops and the True You personal development program
  • Reside on the campus renowned for having the largest football stadium in the United States.
  • Connect with new friends from around the world through mentor-led clubs and fun social activities.
  • Learn beyond the classroom with academic excursions and meet with industry experts.

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Campus Overview

Located in the vibrant heart of Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable summer of learning and exploration. Known for its academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and spirited athletics, our pre-college program invites driven high school students from around the world to join a community of passionate learners. With access to innovative courses led by renowned faculty, immersive hands-on experiences, and opportunities to build lasting friendships, your summer here will be filled with discovery, creativity, and endless inspiration.

RESOURCES

Apply Now

Click here to begin your application for this campus-based program.

Download Infosheet

Click here to view or download the printable infosheet for this campus.

Request a Catalog

Click here to request our catalog to learn more about our campuses and courses.

Schedule a Call

Click here to schedule a call with our Admissions Team during a day and time that is most convenient for you.

View Campus Brochure

Click here to check out the digital brochure for this campus and find out everything this location has to offer.

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Dates & Tuition

2026 Dates
Session 1: July 19 – July 31, 2026

Click here to enroll in this program using our online enrollment form.

Tuition
 Residential Tuition: $5,698
 Commuter Tuition: $2,998
Application Fee: $99+

Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.

Location
 City: Ann Arbor
 State: Michigan
Campus: University of Michigan

*Learn more about our campus partners and their relationship to our programs.

Two-Week Summer Program

Residential Students

  • Includes: all meals, lodging, excursions, academic course, weekend excursions
  • Excludes: optional airport pickup and drop-off service (available for an additional fee)

Commuter Students

  • Includes: lunch, academic course, excursions, programming from 9am to
    5pm, Monday-Friday
  • Excludes: lodging, breakfast, dinner, weekend excursions (can be added on for $125 per day)

Supplements

  • $250 tuition extra (mandatory) for Automotive Engineering course

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Academic Courses

Automotive Engineering

Dive into the exciting and ever-evolving world of Automotive Engineering in Michigan, home to the nation’s automotive industry and a hub for innovation in vehicle design and production. Mechanical and automotive engineers play a vital role here, driving advancements in everything from car components to cutting-edge mobility solutions.

In our two-week program at the University of Michigan, one of the country’s top institutions for automotive engineering, you’ll gain hands-on experience and explore the intersection of engineering, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from experts, tackle engineering challenges, and be inspired by the future of mobility.

Business & Entrepreneurship

Students will gain valuable insights from experienced business professionals as they explore what it takes to launch and manage a successful venture. Throughout the program, they’ll develop and refine their own business plan, ultimately pitching their ideas to real-world investors. Along the way, they’ll meet with industry leaders across various sectors of business and finance, gaining a well-rounded view of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Past excursions gave students an up-close look at major players in the business world, including an exclusive visit to Rocket Mortgage—one of the largest lenders in the U.S. There, they explored a range of career opportunities within the company’s diverse business ecosystem. Students also engaged with prominent business leaders and activists, learning about their work to drive economic growth and community revitalization across Michigan.

Kinesiology & Physical Therapy

When someone is injured or struggling with movement, physical therapy offers a non-invasive way to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. In this program, you’ll explore the foundations of physical therapy through hands-on lab work and clinical education, learning the basics of human anatomy, movement mechanics, and exercise science.

You’ll also gain insight into the professional pathways within the field, including the educational requirements and a variety of career specialties. This experience will show how physical therapists play a vital role in supporting both physical and mental well-being—helping individuals heal, grow stronger, and reclaim their independence.

Sports Broadcasting

Throughout the course, students will have the chance to connect with industry professionals, including sports journalists, producers, and commentators. These interactions offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of sports media.

Excursions may include visits to local sports radio stations and television studios, where students could witness live broadcasts and production in real time. These experiences not only provide a deeper understanding of various roles in the industry but also offer valuable networking opportunities for future careers in sports media.

Sports Management

Effective management is essential across every level of the sports industry—whether professional, collegiate, amateur, or club-based. Regardless of the organization, core functions such as personnel management, program development, marketing, information systems, facility operations, and legal oversight are critical to success.

This course dives into the business side of sports, offering a comprehensive look at the many career paths within sports management. Whether you’re interested in working directly with athletes and teams or behind the scenes as a promoter, marketing strategist, or sports economist, you’ll gain valuable insights into the diverse opportunities this field has to offer.

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Activities & Trips

Ann Arbor blends diverse cultures, a vibrant food scene, and the energy of a bustling college town all within a walkable, welcoming city. It’s a place full of unique experiences and endless things to do.

Get ready to explore this one-of-a-kind university town, with visits to the farmer’s market, stadiums, an amusement park and much more.

Here are just a few examples of what our students will get to see and explore.

Campus Tours

Tour the Georgia Tech campus and see everything to enjoy in the area. Students will also get the chance to tour the nearby campus of Emory University.

University of Michigan Football Stadium

The University of Michigan’s football stadium, known as “The Big House,” is the largest stadium in the United States and one of the most iconic in college football. Get the chance to walk on the field and imagine playing a game of football in front of over 100,000 fans.

Farmers Market

Enjoy exploring the farmers market, discovering new foods, homemade treats, local crafts, and souvenirs for family and friends.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Cedar Point is one of the most iconic amusement parks in the world and is often called the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” Enjoy a fun-filled day at the park with over 70 rides, including 18 world-class roller coasters to like Steel Vengeance and Millennium Force. The park offers something for everyone, from thrilling rides to live entertainment.

Course-Specific Excursions

Each academic program may also take subject matter specific excursions to help round out the student experience.

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Student Life

Get a head start on college life by diving into the vibrant student experience at University of Michigan during your Summer Springboard program. From enjoying delicious meals in the dining hall to settling into your university dormitory, you’ll get a real taste of campus living. Wander through University of Michigan’s beautiful grounds, meet fellow students, and soak up the exciting energy that comes with being part of a dynamic, diverse community.

Whether you’re a residential student enjoying evening hangouts or a commuter making the most of daily campus activities and social events, your Summer Springboard experience will be packed with fun and memorable moments. Both options offer unique opportunities to connect, grow, and build friendships that will last long after summer ends. Get ready to create your own unforgettable college story!

TYPICAL DAY IN THE LIFE

8:00am Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast with your fellow students as you get ready to start your day on-program. Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall.

9:00am Academic Course

Take part in your selected academic course. This college-style learning experience is designed to give high school students hands-on exposure to a specific field of study.

12:00pm Lunch

Enjoy lunch in the campus dining hall, which offers a wide variety of fresh and flavorful options. The menu is designed to accommodate all kinds of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and common food allergies—ensuring every student can find something satisfying and safe to eat while connecting with friends over a great meal.

1:30pm Recreational Activity or Academic Excursion

At Summer Springboard at University of Michigan, academic excursions are off-campus field trips that connect directly to each course, giving students real-world insight into their chosen field. Recreational activities offer fun and social ways to unwind, explore the area, and build friendships through beach outings, campus games, local attractions, and more. Together, these experiences enrich both learning and student life in a vibrant, hands-on way.

3:00pm College Readiness Workshop or True You

At Summer Springboard at University of Michigan, College Readiness Workshops help students prepare for life after high school with practical tools for navigating the college admissions process—covering topics like essay writing, interview skills, and application strategy. The True You curriculum focuses on self-discovery and personal growth, encouraging students to explore their strengths, values, and goals. Together, these sessions empower students to make confident, informed decisions about their future—academically, professionally, and personally.

5:00pm Commuter Students Depart

For those students that have selected the commuter option, they will depart campus for the day while residential students prepare for dinner and evening activities.

6:00pm Dinner

It’s been a long, eventful day! It’s time to head to the dining hall or other dining location and eat well to restore your energy reserves before taking part in clubs or other nighttime activities.

7:00pm Clubs for Residential Students

Residential students will participate in clubs or other evening activities based on the specific itinerary for the day. It’s a great way to cap off another exciting day with Summer Springboard at University of Michigan!

10:30pm Dorm Checks for Residential Students

Residential students will turn in for the night to rest in their dorm rooms and get ready for the big day ahead tomorrow.

Housing

At University of Michigan, Summer Springboard students are housed in suites. Students share space with roommates and have access to a common bathroom. Suites are separated by gender. Basic linens are provided in the form of a flat sheet, blanket, pillow, pillowcase, and towel.

Summer Springboard staff live on each floor to create a community, provide support, plan activities, and help students get the most out of their program.

Other members of the Summer Springboard staff, including the Campus Director, Assistant Campus Director, and other staff also reside within the dorms during the course of the program and are available to support students and address emergencies, 24 hours a day.

Security

The dorms are access-controlled, and students need their individual access-cards to get into the residence hall and their suite.

University of Michigan Security operates 24/7 and makes regular patrols of the campus and residence halls. Students are also required to be in their rooms past 10PM for safety and accountability purposes.

Facilities

Each dormitory has laundry facilities, lounges, and WiFi throughout. There is also a water filtration station, and students are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle and hydrate regularly.

Dining

Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall. The dining hall offers a wide selection of food, accommodating a variety of diets – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and specific food allergies.

Summer Springboard on the campus of

University of Michigan

Testimonials

Please note that activities, courses and other items on the itinerary for this program are subject to change. This video may reflect an older version of this program. Please refer to the program infosheet and this website page for the most up-to-date information on this campus-based program.

“The program was everything I thought it would be. It’s an experience that will make you feel connected to other people and to the course itself. It makes you become more comfortable with who you are and the things that
you’re passionate about. I really enjoyed everything about it.”

– Imani J. | Alumni Student

“I had no idea what to expect when I came to Summer Springboard, and now I’m
leaving with friendships I’ll always remember, and opportunities I could never forget. I’ve learned so much and couldn’t have asked for
anything better!”

– Pepper M. | Alumni Student

“The academic courses taught me an incredible amount. And the hands-on experiences we had were amazing and informative. The social aspect of the program was also very fun and I met lots of very friendly people.”

– Lauren L. | Alumni Student

*Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly and NYSID which are run in partnership with SSB). Universities and their affiliated departments and partners do not control and are not responsible or liable in any manner for any part of the Summer Springboard program.