2024 UMD Summer Camps

The summer camp scramble is on: You’re making spreadsheets and color-coding options, setting early alarms for registration and deciding just how much screen time you’re OK with if all your best-laid plans fall through.

Luckily, the University of Maryland offers programs for kids of all ages, whether you’ve got a budding young painter or a teen ready to tackle the challenges of AI. Dozens of camps offer opportunities for experience in science labs, to learn teamwork and drills from some of UMD’s most decorated coaches, or to scale new heights at RecWell’s climbing wall.

Many camps are offered annually, so even if your favorite option is full, refer to this list for next year. (Some popular ones, like Terp Quest and Gymkana, open registration early.) All camps are in person unless otherwise noted; some are still finalizing schedules and pricing, so check back for updates.

Dive into this year’s options:

Advanced Physics Summer Program
Students entering grades 9-12
July 29-Aug. 9
9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
$315
Participants learn about topics such as relativity, antimatter, biophysics, quantum mechanics, physical uncertainty, quantum computing and more. The two-week program is filled with hands-on lab activities, visits to cutting-edge research labs, discussions with professors and graduate students who conduct modern physics research and a project to make the discussions of modern topics tangible. Students are introduced to topics that will likely not be offered in their high school classes, from Einstein’s thought experiments to current applications in code breaking.

Amazing Science Discovery Camp
Students entering grades 3-5
July 8-12
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
$250
Each camp day is filled with exciting experiments, interesting projects and educational demonstrations. Activities engage students in developing curiosity, building knowledge and increasing their appreciation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields in their daily lives and future careers.

AI Summer Program
Students entering grades 10-12
July 8-19
9 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
$600
In this two-week research experience, high schoolers apply Python skills to real-world artificial intelligence projects facilitated by university faculty. Accepted students must complete about 25 hours of asynchronous content before the start date. Best consideration by March 15; the application closes March 31.

Bug Camp: Insects, Science & Society
Ages 7-12

• Session 1: June 24-28
• Session 2: July 8-12

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; aftercare available until 4:30 p.m.
$350 ($475 with aftercare); need-based financial aid is available for three campers per session, covering up to $300
Through hands-on activities and interactive field trips, campers gain science experience in the field and the lab, and come away with an understanding of the important relationship between humans and insects.

Camp Shule (Nyumburu Cultural Center)
Students entering grades pre-K-12
June 17-Aug. 9
7 a.m.-6 p.m. (classes and workshops are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
$160 per week (includes before- and aftercare and field trips) plus a $25 nonrefundable application fee per camper
Camp Shule (Swahili for “school”) offers youths the opportunity to explore academic, artistic and athletic interests in a relaxed and creative environment. The camp encourages a lifelong love of learning with a combination of the best aspects of traditional camps—close friendships, activities and adventure—as well as intellectual inquiry and exploration.

Center for Young Children
Ages 3 through kindergarten
June 24-Aug. 2
8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
$2,500 for six weeks
Teachers work with children using a project-based approach to complement their development within seven learning areas: personal and social development, language and literacy, mathematical thinking, scientific thinking, social studies, the arts and physical development. Children must be 3 years old before the first day of camp and must be fully potty trained.

Come Hear
Ages 3-6
July 8-12
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$400
The Maryland Cochlear Impact Center of Excellence in the Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences offers this camp for young children who are cochlear implant recipients or on the path to a cochlear implant. The program uses a literacy-based, oral language-focused curriculum to provide intensive auditory therapy interwoven through fun activities in a classroom setting. The camp provides the opportunity for continued development of speech, language and auditory skills during summer break from school as well as new social opportunities.

CompSciConnect
Students entering grades 6-8

• Session 1: June 17-June 28 (CSC Yellow & Red only)
• Session 2: July 8-July 19 (CSC Red & Terp only)
• Session 3: July 22-Aug. 2 (CSC Yellow & Terp only)

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (before and after-care available)
$400 for each session
During this three-year program, students learn more advanced skills each summer and meet once a month throughout the school year to maintain those skills. Students explore block-based programming (i.e., Scratch) (Yellow group); web design programming with HTML, CSS and JavaScript (Red group); and 3D game design programming (Terp group), along with cybersecurity/safety, cryptology, number bases, logic and computer use skills. The program emphasizes how these skills connect to other areas of study and to making the world a better place. Best consideration by March 29; the application closes April 30.

Create Tech
Students entering grades 8-12
July 8-19 (grades 8-9); July 22-Aug. 2 (grades 10-12)
9 a.m.-5:15 p.m.
$500
In this interactive experience, middle and high schoolers engage in topics in Python, human-computer interaction and immersive media design while designing prototypes to address contemporary issues of their choice. Best consideration by March 15; the application closes March 31.

Data Detectives Camp
Students entering grades 6 or 7

• Session 1: July 8-12 in person in Atlanta, Georgia (at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters)
• Session 2: July 29-Aug. 2 in person in Hyattsville, Maryland (at National Center for Health Statistics headquarters)

9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Free
In this camp, students learn about statistics and science in a fun, hands-on way. Campers build STEM confidence while learning how to think critically, solve problems, work with others and think like a data detective. The camp is conducted by the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics in partnership with organizations including UMD’s School of Public Health, Joint Program in Survey Methodology and Social Data Science Center. Applications will be available in March. For more information, contact datadetectives@cdc.gov.

​​Discovering Engineering Summer Program
Students entering grades 11-12

• Session 1: July 29-Aug. 2

• Session 2: Aug. 4-9

$1,300
Residential
Campers will participate in laboratory work and demonstrations, lectures, discussions, computer instruction and a team design project. The camp features a visit to each of the eight engineering departments to learn more about the specific degree programs, majors and minors. Within the network of support provided by the instructors, program advisors, and peers, students will build self-confidence in applying math, science and engineering skills.

ESTEEM/SER-Quest Summer Program
Students entering grade 12
July 12-Aug. 6
Free
In this intensive, four-week program, students explore engineering through a research project; learn about research concepts; develop a research proposal, complete a literature search and review; learn about the college application process, financial aid processes and test-taking strategies; and meet undergraduate and graduate students through engineering-focused programs and activities. The goal of the program is to recruit talented students to attend the A. James Clark School of Engineering.

Fire Protection Engineering Design Challenge
Students entering grades 11-12
July 15-19
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
$295
Campers learn basic fire protection engineering principles, starting with an overview of fire phenomena and learning about concepts including material flammability, compartmentation, ventilation, suppression and detection. They then work in teams to design a small-scale structure with fire detection and suppression systems designs. The week culminates in a controlled burn test of the students’ structures.

Girls Talk Math
Students entering grades 9-12
July 22-Aug. 2
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$25
Camp activities over the two weeks involve learning mathematics outside of the standard curriculum and attending mini-lectures on math, as well as recording and publishing a podcast about a famous female mathematician. Additional events may include panels and interviews with female mathematicians.

Gymkana
Ages 5-16
June 17-Aug. 2 (weekly sessions; no camp the week of July 1)
8:45 a.m.-4:15 p.m. with before and aftercare options
$345 per week
This camp provides an opportunity for boys and girls of all abilities to learn gymnastics while promoting healthy, drug-free living. Beginning with a warm-up session, days are filled with gymnastics and trampoline rotations. GymTots also participate in arts and crafts and games. Additionally, recreational swim time is included for all campers. At the end of each week, campers participate in a performance for family and friends.

iDTech Camps
Ages 7-17
June 24-Aug. 9 (weekly sessions)
$1,079 and up
Kids and teens of all skill levels explore coding, AI, machine learning, film, robotics and game design, developing in-demand skills at these privately run camps with commuter and residential options.

LiFEsports
Ages 9-14
June 17-July 12
8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Free
This nationally acclaimed, four-week summer camp for children from low-income families comes to UMD, offering fun, fitness and education, along with life and leadership lessons.The free program also includes breakfast and lunch. Led by the School of Public Health’s kinesiology department, the camp fosters social responsibility, effort, teamwork and self-control through activities including basketball, dance, soccer and flag football. The website is under construction; email lifesports@umd.edu for more information.

The Physics of Quidditch
Students entering grades 6-8
July 15-19
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
$250
Campers learn about the physical universe by exploring the magic of the world of Harry Potter and the concepts of mechanics, optics, magnetism and modern physics. Campers are sorted into “houses” and compete in a weeklong Try-Physics Tournament and Quidditch Cup. The camp culminates in a luncheon for participants and parents, a presentation of science concepts learned and the championship quidditch match.

Pre-College Scholars Program
Students entering grades 11-12
July 8-26
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
$300
Students prepare for the SAT, get an introduction to high-level math, attend workshops on the college admission process and applying for financial aid, and learn about the A. James Clark School of Engineering.

Science and Math Innovators: Rocket and Machine Magic
Students entering grades K-3
June 24-28

• Rocket Magic: 9 a.m.-noon
• Machine Magic: 12:30-3:30 p.m.

$150
In Rocket Magic, campers use the scientific method and their knowledge of Newton’s laws to solve problems and understand how rockets launch. Campers participate in activities to help them better understand the science and engineering principles behind rockets such as altitude, velocity, and forces, and launch two types of rockets: stomp and bottle. In Machine Magic, campers learn about the six simple machines, what they do and how they work through hands-on activities.

Science and Math Innovators: Flying High
Students entering grades 4-9
July 8-12
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
$395
In Flying High, campers use the scientific method and Newton’s laws to solve problems and understand how rockets launch. Campers create a carrier for the egg drop experiment and incorporate technology to measure and compare the data from three types of rockets—stomp, bottle and model—to better understand how forces affect the rockets’ ability to launch.

Secure IT Summer Academy
Students entering grades 6-8

• Session 1: June 17-21 (beginner/intermediate)
• Session 2: June 24-28 (intermediate/advanced)

9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$400
Is computing taking over the world too quickly? Do you wonder if the technology you use is safe? Who created the code behind your app? Students interested in the growing field of cybersecurity learn at this camp to think like a cyber detective and employ design thinking to protect the things they interact with daily (smart technologies, wearables, internet sites). They use creative problem-solving to design, code and protect various systems designed to help people across many fields. Best consideration by March 29; the application closes April 30.

Shirley Povich Sports Journalism Summer Camp
Students entering grades 9-12
July 8-12
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
$125
The camp at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism provides tools and inspiration to high school students interested in sports media. Faculty and other media professionals share tenets of basic journalism, as well as sports journalism skills including writing a game story and covering a press conference.

Summer Art Camps
Ages 6-12
July 8-Aug. 2 (weekly sessions)
9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (before- and aftercare available)
$300 with additional fees for before- and aftercare ($50/week discount for UMD staff, faculty, students and alums)
Looking for a fun, interactive and affordable summer arts experience for your kids. Each week, campers participate in three art specialties with trained arts professionals, from drawing and painting to sculpture and media, to music and dance. Specialties change each week, so campers may register for more than one session to explore more mediums and topics. Every week culminates in a showcase for campers’ artistic achievements.

Terp Quest
Ages 6-13
June 24-Aug. 2 (weekly sessions)
8:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m. with before- and aftercare options, including a swim safety after-camp
$300 per week (additional fees for before- and aftercare)
University Recreation & Wellness welcomes campers to participate in open swim, active and passive games, arts and crafts, climbing, and more. Every Friday features a special guest (i.e., magician) or an on-campus field trip (i.e., bowling alley). No two days at Terp Quest are alike, and campers (and staff) return year after year to try new games and activities, to participate in entertaining and educational encounters, and to see the UMD campus in a whole new light.

Terp Young Scholars
Students entering grades 10-12 (graduating seniors can apply as well)
July 8-26
$2,500 commuter; $1,500 online (some courses charge an additional fee for supplies)

Discover the challenge, excitement, and independence of the college experience with Terp Young Scholars. Students learn about the University of Maryland and get a jump on college by earning three university credits. UMD faculty and staff can apply tuition remission to the course package fee. UMD Alumni Association members receive a 20% discount. Applications close May 1.

Terrapin Music Camp
Students entering grades 5-12

• Band: July 14-19
• Orchestra: July 21-26
• Choir: July 21-26

3-6 p.m. Sunday; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (concert on Friday starts at 2 p.m.)
$435 by May 31; $485 after June 1
This camp brings together students from throughout the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area to develop musicianship and advance their instrumental and vocal technique through ensemble and solo performance. The camp features daily performances by university faculty and professional musicians, and culminates in a student performance at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.

WIE Change the World! An Introduction to Maryland Engineering
Students entering grades 11-12
July 7-12
$1,400 (financial assistance is available)
Residential
This program introduces participants to campus life and the various engineering departments and majors at the University of Maryland through engaging lessons and lectures, hands-on activities, team challenges and conversations with faculty, staff and students in the A. James Clark School of Engineering. The camp is designed for women but open to all.

WIE Aspire! Explore Engineering
Students entering grades 9-10
June 24-28
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
$600 (financial assistance is available)
This program is for students interested in exploring engineering disciplines, opportunities, and careers. It introduces participants to the field of engineering through hands-on projects, engineering lab and facilities tours, and conversations with faculty, staff and students in the Clark School of Engineering. The camp is designed for women but open to all.

WIE emPower!
Students entering grades 7-8
July 15-19
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
$600 (financial assistance is available)
This program is for students interested in exploring engineering through hands-on making. It aims to strengthen their sense of confidence and ability as well as teamwork skills as they learn how to use power tools and explore engineering concepts to create take-home projects. Participants engage with faculty, staff and students in the A. James Clark School of Engineering. The camp is designed for women but open to all.

WIE RISE! A Summer Research Program
Students entering grades 9-12
July 29-Aug. 2
1-3 p.m.
Free
Virtual
Students explore different engineering disciplines each day of the week as they learn about various engineering research labs at the University of Maryland. Students learn how to read and write scientific research papers, participate in at-home friendly experiments and engage with A. James Clark School of Engineering undergraduates.

SPORTS CAMPS

Field Hockey
Ages 12-18

• Session 1: July 28-30
• Session 2: Aug. 4-6

$550 residential; $360 commuter
Campers learn fundamental skills and tactics, small games, video analysis, team building and tournament play. All training sessions are on three surfaces: water-based turf, field turf and natural grass. Campers reside in University of Maryland dorms and eat at the athletic cafeteria.

Nike Elite Golf Camps
Ages 12-17 (advanced skill levels)
June 9-10, Aug. 4-5
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$600
During the program, this unique camp is focused on giving players the opportunity to work directly with the University of Maryland coaching staff on all aspects of their game and provide insights to help prepare them for college golf.

Nike Junior Golf Camps
Ages 10-18 (all skill levels)
June 16-19
9 a.m.-9 p.m. or overnight
$1,025 extended day; $1,450 overnight
This camp includes golf instruction from Division I coaches, course play, meals and fun, supervised evening activities. Campers reside on campus at UMD and travel to University of Maryland Golf Course for daily instruction and course play with the staff. By the end of the week, each player should expect to see substantial improvement to their game.

Gymnastics
Girls ages 7-18
Two-day sessions from June 22-Aug. 6
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$325 per session
Campers work with current Terp gymnasts and learn more about what being a GymTerp is all about. Campers learn new drills, skills and conditioning to enhance their abilities.

Lacrosse Camps (girls)
Girls in grades 4-11

• Camp 1: June 17-19
• Camp 2: July 7-9
• Camp 3: July 16-18

$595 residential; $485 commuter
Young athletes get the ultimate overnight camp experience with first-class college facilities. Campers compete with other players and receive instruction from college coaches and outstanding college players.

Soccer Camps (girls)
Ages 6-12
June 9-Aug. 8 (various dates)
Costs vary by date
Led by Maryland women's soccer coaching staff, these day camps, elite residential camps and College ID camps give players the opportunity to meet current players, focus on individual technical development and small-sided games, and learn what it's like to be a Terp.

Soccer Day Camp (boys)
Ages 6-12
June 24-27
9 a.m.-3 p.m. (half-day option available)
$425 full day; $300 half-day
Maryland coach Sasho Cirovski’s camps are based on the principle that young people learn and develop skills most quickly and effectively when they are having fun. These camps teach each player how to reach their potential, focusing on individual techniques, skills and tactics through creative and motivating sessions.

Soccer Elite Camp (boys)
Students entering grades 6-12 (separate camps for middle and high schoolers)
June 29-July 2; July 12-15
8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. for commuters
$775 residential; $675 commuter
Maryland coach Sasho Cirovski’s camps are an all-encompassing program specifically designed for the serious soccer player. The focus here will be to challenge each individual to transfer what they have learned in the team training sessions into competitive small-sided and full-field games. Camps provide a technical, tactical and competitive basis for future success in the game. Players will work with professional coaches as well as current University of Maryland student-athletes.

Volleyball (Girls)
Students entering grades 9-12
July 12-14
$610 residential; $470 commuter
Players get 15 hours of on-court instruction, participate in drills designed for UMD student athletes, do six on six play with position-specific training and breakout sessions. 

Wrestling
Ages 7-18
July 15-19
8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
$445
Location: Urbana High School (Ijamsville, Md.)
Wrestlers learn from University of Maryland wrestlers and coaching staff while playing games, developing agility and increasing muscle memory. The camp focuses on technical development, program specific drills and live wrestling geared to help young athletes maximize their potential. It uses two wrestling areas to ensure older/advanced and younger/novice wrestlers each camper has the best experience possible.