Summer Springboard
ON THE CAMPUS OF
University of Washington
PICK A 2-WEEK PRE-COLLEGE COURSE OF YOUR CHOICE; OR PICK TWO COURSES FOR A 4-WEEK EXPERIENCE.
Program Highlights
- Experience college life during a two-week summer program on the vibrant UW Seattle campus.
- Choose from academic tracks: Business & Law, Engineering & Science, Medicine & Healthcare.
- Engage in diverse after-class enrichment: Join college prep workshops and the True You personal development program.
- Company visits to leading sites and labs in the Seattle area.
- Weekend excursions: Pike Place Market, ferry tours, Museum of Pop Culture, Wild Waves theme park.
- Residential students get the chance to live in dorms with campus activities and social events that commuter students also get to join.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
University of Washington
Campus Overview
University of Washington is a top research university located in the pacific northwest, in a beautiful urban setting, yet surrounded by Mount Rainier and Lake Washington.
UW, is located in the University District of Seattle and is recognized as one of the top public universities in the U.S, especially due to its commitment to research and innovation.
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.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
University of Washington
Dates & Tuition
| 2026 Dates |
|---|
| Session 1: July 26 – August 7, 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+ |
Apply by November 30 to lock in the lowest prices of the year. Tuition increases on December 1.
Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.
| Location |
|---|
| City: Seattle |
| State: Washington |
| Campus: University of Washington |
*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)
Summer Springboard on the campus of
University of Washington
Academic Courses
Aerospace Engineering
Seattle is an ideal place to explore Aerospace Engineering, thanks to Boeing’s presence, cutting-edge research, and aerospace being Washington’s top export. At Summer Springboard at the University of Washington, students dive into this dynamic field, discovering a range of academic pathways and career opportunities.
The course covers flight history, flight mechanics, system engineering, propulsion, orbital mechanics, and design principles for aircraft and spacecraft. Students also learn the differences between aeronautical and astronautical engineering through hands-on projects like designing and testing gliders or rockets. Prior coursework in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and physics is recommended but not required.
Foreign Affairs
Seattle’s global connections make it an ideal place to explore foreign affairs. Through interactive discussions and group projects, students build skills in public speaking, decision-making, and negotiation. In its first year, Summer Springboard’s Foreign Affairs course tackled topics like NATO, the refugee crisis, and geopolitical tensions through simulated negotiations.
The course offers a broad view of international relations, global challenges, and careers in diplomacy and policy. Guided by foreign affairs expert Gael Tarleton, students engage with real-world scenarios, learn about key stakeholders, and explore issues like human rights and climate change—gaining the confidence to analyze and address complex global problems.
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Seattle is a hub for pharmaceutical innovation, known for cutting-edge research and advances in drug development. This pilot Summer Springboard course is ideal for students curious about how medications are created and the processes ensuring their safety and effectiveness.
Students will explore pharmaceutical sciences through hands-on projects, group work, and case studies. Engaging with industry professionals, they’ll gain real-world insights and build a strong foundation for careers in research, clinical practice, or drug development.
Psychology & Neuroscience
Studying Psychology and Neuroscience in Seattle offers a unique chance to explore human behavior in a city leading psychological and neurological research. This immersive course invites students to examine fundamental questions about how people—and themselves—work through psychological science.
Students gain hands-on experience with social dynamics, emotions, personality, mental illness, neuroscience, and the mind-body connection. They’ll design experiments, develop psychological theories, and present findings. Guided by Dr. Kevan Kidder, students engage in simulations, brain dissections, and workshops to uncover the mysteries of the mind.
UX Design
Immerse yourself in the world of User Experience (UX) Design with this engaging, hands-on course. Learn to craft digital experiences that are visually compelling, intuitive, and user-friendly. As digital products become increasingly central to everyday life, UX Design plays a vital role in delivering meaningful and effective user interactions. This course is ideal for creative thinkers and tech-focused learners alike, offering opportunities for innovation, problem-solving, and practical experience with industry-standard tools and real-world projects.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
University of Washington
Activities & Trips
Students will have great access to trips and opportunities outside of their academic courses on campus due to universities’ close proximity to top attractions.
Off the beautiful campus, students will have the opportunity to explore the sights of Seattle, the Emerald City.
Pike Place Market
Located in the heart of Seattle, this trip is not only a culinary adventure but also a cultural one. Students will explore local foods, crafts, and street performances, all while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market. Students will see the famous gum wall, the original Starbucks, and the historic charm of the market.
Wild Waves Theme Park
This family-friendly theme park welcomes everyone, offering the opportunity to enjoy water rides, roller coasters, or simply relax and hang out in the park.
Museum of Pop Culture
This museum celebrates music, fictional characters, and pop culture with interactive exhibits. Students enjoy starting their Saturday at one of Seattle’s top creative attractions.
Ferry Tour
A Seattle ferry tour is a wonderful way to experience the waterfront and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area. The guide will provide informative narration about the history and culture of the region while the group takes in the of the Seattle skyline, the iconic Space Needle, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
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 Washington
Student Life
During the Summer Springboard program, you’ll live in residence halls at the University of Washington. One of the most picturesque backdrops in Seattle to live and learn.
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 Washington, 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 Washington, 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 Washington!
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
Students will likely be housed in a double suite, sharing a private bathroom with four people in Spratlen Hall. Students are housed by gender, and genders are separated by floor. Dorm rooms contain a Twin XL sized bed, desks, drawers, mirror, and a closet.
Summer Springboard staff, in the form of mentors, live on each floor to create a community, provide support, plan activities, and help students get the most out of their stay on campus. Other members of the Summer Springboard staff also live on campus and are available to support students and address emergencies, 24 hours a day.
Facilities
The university is committed to providing a healthy, smoke-free environment for students, faculty and staff. Accordingly, no smoking or vaping is permitted in student rooms or inside buildings, including lounges and balconies.
Security
All dormitories have 24-hour security and uses electronic keys to enter each building and dorm room. University security is on 24-hour patrol and available to any student that may need assistance during the summer program for high school students.
Dining
Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall. The dining hall offers a wide selection of food with buffet style. There are ample food options accommodating vegetarian and vegan options, however, no Kosher or Halal options.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
University of Washington
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 mentors and other staff here were amazing. Really helpful and made the activities fun and engaging. It definitely helped me feel more prepared for college and my future.”
– Claire F. | Alumni Student
“The academic courses taught me an incredible amount and the hands on experiences we had were amazing and very informative. The social aspect of it was also very fun and I met lots of very friendly people. The activities offered through the program were also very fun.”
– Lauren L. | Alumni Student
“Summer Springboard was truly the best way to experience a college lifestyle without actually being in college. The mentors were extremely kind and the courses themselves were beyond interesting. I met great people, and would do it all over again if I could!”
– Amanda M. | Alumni Student
*Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly, NYSID and UW Foster 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.