Architecture at Berkeley

Introduces architectural ideas, design principles, and methods of exploring problems of the built environment in a collaborative studio setting.

Summer architecture program for teens

Program Highlights

Develop a proposal for a new visitor center in Tilden Regional Park by working through all the steps in the process, from drawings to computer assisted designs.

Design buildings, select materials and analyze the sustainability impact as you perform hands-on design simulations

Prepare a portfolio of your final presentation, including hand drawings and digital scale models

Visit professional firms and tour behind the scenes of local attractions to see the best examples of various architectural styles

Residential Tuition:
$5,998

Commuter Tuition:
$3,298

Session 2:
June 22, 2025 July 4, 2025

Session 4:
July 6, 2025 July 18, 2025

Session 6:
July 20, 2025 August 1, 2025

Berkeley
Berkeley, CA

Testimonials

"The program's curriculum was thoughtfully designed, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical exercises and studio work. We had access to valuable resources and received guidance from renowned faculty members who fostered a supportive and collaborative learning environment."

Liyah A.
"Summer Springboard was a great time, the connections i’ve made and the exposure to college life that i’ve garnered are extremely valuable. It is also just a fun escape from the trials and tribulations of boring day-to-day life in the summer. I loved this program and would do it again in a heartbeat."

Pranay M.
"SSB has been a completely new and valuable experience. It manages to encapsulate the feeling of a fun summer getaway while still providing valuable and enlightening experiences that educate and help to guide students through their future."

Emir B.

Course Overview

Are you considering a career in architecture or design? Are you working on your college application and portfolio? Or are you simply curious about what it is like to be an architect?
The Summer Springboard architecture course for high school students introduces architectural ideas, design principles, and methods of exploring problems of the built environment in a collaborative studio setting. While working on a design project you will learn about the academic path to an architectural degree, the day-to-day work of an architect, and the career opportunities.

Excursions – Students in this program have had the opportunity to visit some of San Francisco’s top architectural firms including: Studio Sarah Wilmer, Aidlin Darling Design, and Studio O+A. Students have also had the opportunity to explore the concept of mimetic design with a culminating project that was set in the natural beauty of Inspiration Point in the Tilden Regional Park.

Meet your instructor

Dave Kesler, Architect, AIA

Architecture

Dave is the principal of Dave Kesler Architecture and an award-winning San Francisco-based architect with over 30 years of experience and in private practice for 22 years. He is also an experienced industrial designer, watercolorist, and musician.

Learn more

Topics you'll explore

Course Structure

There are nine 3-hour class sessions over the two-week course. During week one, students have class from 9am-12pm, Monday - Friday. During week two students have class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday. Wednesday afternoons are dedicated to additional academic time (excursions, speakers).

Career Exploration

This summer's excursions will include a visit to Inspiration Point to study landscape and the outdoors. Students will tour significant architectural buildings in the area and possibly meet professionals from local architectural firms.