STEM Kids Camp

Ignite or fuel your child's passion for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) by registering them for these fun, hands-on learning camps. Students in grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12 are invited to the NDSU College of Engineering for a variety of summer kids camps focused on topics in STEM.

2024 Camps will be offered July 15-18 and 22-25 for kids in grades K-8. Morning sessions will run from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., and afternoon sessions will run from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

The Explore Engineering High School Camp will be offered July 29- Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. This week-long camp introduces students to the different disciplines of engineering. Mornings will be spent on campus working with NDSU faculty in the labs and in the afternoons students will be going out on engineering industry visits. Lunch is included.

Note: Since the camps are offered in the summer, the school grade of your child is typically based on the grade your child will enter in Fall 2024.

Camp Cost

  • K-8 Camps - $130 per course through Sunday, May 12; $160 per course May 13 through close of registration on June 7
  • Explore Engineering High School Camp - $325 through Sunday, May 12; $350 May 13 through close of registration on June 7

Register Here

You will have to sign and upload a Participation Waiver to complete camp registration. 

For more information, to be added to a waitlist for a class marked FULL, or to inquire about scholarship availability contact Angela Gross, College of Engineering Outreach Coordinator at angela.gross@ndsu.edu or (701) 231-5798.

Session 1: Monday, July 15 - Thursday, July 18

Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding - FULL

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Storybook STEM

Students will work on STEM projects related to stories read in class. Some stories will be old favorites, and others will be new stories about kids that are making a difference in the world of STEM. Each day will start with story time and then the students will do an activity related to the book.

Chemistry Chaos - FULL

This STEM course will introduce students to relevant chemistry-based concepts through a series of experiments and activities. These scientists will find that chemistry experiments build friendships while working together and make for fun stories to tell in the future.

Grades 3-5

How to Become a Math Spy - FULL

Shapes and numbers are invisibly intertwined in our modern lives. Through hands-on activities and interactive games, students will learn how to decipher images and numbers by playing the roles of artists, explorers, and traders using concepts from arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.  By the end of the week, your child will be a True Math Spy. 

Coding with Scratch

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch.  They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game.  Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Think Like an Engineer

Students will learn about the many different things that engineers work on while practicing skills like creativity, critical thinking, and problem solving. Students will work together to create unique solutions to fun design challenges.

Meet Dash

Come explore coding using the fun-loving, interactive Dash Robot. It will take creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you collaborate to program Dash through playful puzzles and projects.

Budding Biologist - FULL

Are you fascinated by the world of living things?  Expand your knowledge and have some fun by exploring organisms both large and small. Students will build critical thinking skills as they study and observe animals, life cycles, and so much more.

Grades 6-8

Let’s Talk Space

Life on space stations, rocket paths and missions, planetary bodies, extraterrestrials, and even unmanned rovers on Mars…it seems like everywhere you turn people are talking about space.  Come find out what the big deal is in this interactive session full of hands-on activities about our modern day exploration of space.

Advanced Roller Coasters

Students will learn more physics concepts associated with creating their own paper roller coasters.  They will review the concepts of energy and motion and then put advanced theories into practice resulting in paper roller coasters with intricate pieces and complex designs.  Previous paper roller coaster building is helpful, but NOT required.  This class is similar to the More Roller Coasters class offered last summer.

Video Game Design - FULL

Learn about computer science topics such as variables, conditionals, and loops while making video games that you and your friends can play! This course is designed to support those new to programming as well as challenge those with prior programming experience. Students will learn to create a different type of video game ranging from story-based puzzle games to action and adventure games.

Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Chemistry Chaos - FULL

This STEM course will introduce students to relevant chemistry-based concepts through a series of experiments and activities. These scientists will find that chemistry experiments build friendships while working together and make for fun stories to tell in the future.

Gear Heads Jr - FULL

Build and explore engineering through basic machines and mechanisms. Using the Lego BricQ kits, learn about gears, levers, pulleys, and wheels and axles. Work in teams to build simple mechanisms like ramps, rolling sail cars, a pet obstacle course and more to demonstrate these concepts.

Grades 3-5

Rockin’ Robots - FULL

Dive into the world of robotics using the LEGO Spike Prime kits!  Students will use their creativity to design, build, and code robots to solve a variety real-world problems from simple life hacks to complicated human movements.

Coding with Scratch - FULL

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch.  They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game.  Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Gear Heads - FULL

Build and explore engineering through basic machines and mechanisms. Using Lego Education kits, learn about gears, pulleys, levers, linkages, and pneumatics. Work in teams to build simple and motorized mechanisms to demonstrate concepts.

Intro to Roller Coasters - FULL

Students will learn physics concepts by creating their own paper roller coasters. Not only will they be introduced to concepts such as energy and motion, but they will also get to practice their planning, design, and creation skills to implement their unique ideas.

Crime Scene Science - FULL

Help solve a crime by analyzing a crime scene with forensic science techniques. Learn how to examine fingerprints, blood spatters, blood types, DNA, and powders and bring all the clues together to figure out who did it.

Grades 6-8

Let’s Talk Space

Life on space stations, rocket paths and missions, planetary bodies, extraterrestrials, and even unmanned rovers on Mars…it seems like everywhere you turn people are talking about space.  Come find out what the big deal is in this interactive session full of hands-on activities about our modern day exploration of space.

DNA Detective - FULL

In this session, your child will explore the fascinating world of DNA and biotechnology. DNA is the genetic blueprint of all living organisms. Children will learn about the structure of DNA by creating 3-D models, extracting DNA from living cells, and using biotechnology to better understand how each person’s DNA is like a fingerprint. By the end of this session, your child will use their knowledge of DNA and biotechnology to complete a crime scene investigation. 

Engineer meets Entrepreneur - FULL

In this session, students will learn the Engineering Design Process mixed with Design Thinking to create and prototype a new product.  Students will utilize the makerspace at the Innovation Studio of NDSU’s Research and Technology Park.**  The Innovation Studio gives students access to the latest software, 3-D printers, and other technology to render a model of their idea. All of their work will culminate in a STEM Kids Camp version of Shark Tank featuring members of the local business community!

**NDSU’s Research and Technology Park is located at 1854 NDSU Research Cir N #5706, Fargo, ND 58102 about 2 miles from the AG Hill STEM Building. Parents will still drop off and pick up students at AG Hill.  Then, camp staff will transport students to and from the Research and Tech Park via multi-passenger van.

 

Session 2: Monday, July 22 - Thursday, July 25

Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding - FULL

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Storybook STEM

Students will work on STEM projects related to stories read in class. Some stories will be old favorites, and others will be new stories about kids that are making a difference in the world of STEM. Each day will start with story time and then the students will do an activity related to the book.

Engineering Adventures - FULL

This course will allow students to explore the fundamentals of mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. This class will consist of many hands-on activities to help students learn more about engineering, building, and creating.

Grades 3-5

How to Become a Math Spy

Shapes and numbers are invisibly intertwined in our modern lives. Through hands-on activities and interactive games, students will learn how to decipher images and numbers by playing the roles of artists, explorers, and traders using concepts from arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.  By the end of the week, your child will be a True Math Spy. 

Meet Dash

Come explore robotics using the fun-loving, interactive Dash Robot. It will take creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you collaborate to program Dash through playful puzzles and projects.

Intro to Roller Coasters

Students will learn physics concepts by creating their own paper roller coasters. Not only will they be introduced to concepts such as energy and motion, but they will also get to practice their planning, design, and creation skills to implement their unique ideas.

Coding with Scratch

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch.  They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game.  Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Adventures in Space

Adventures in Space will delve into a variety of topics as students are introduced to the wonders of the solar system and its unique planets, the technology used by NASA for exploration, and the mysteries of the far reaches of the universe. Students will participate in hands-on activities such as building models, creating constellations, and so much more!

Grades 6-8

Let’s Talk Space

Life on space stations, rocket paths and missions, planetary bodies, extraterrestrials, and even unmanned rovers on Mars…it seems like everywhere you turn people are talking about space.  Come find out what the big deal is in this interactive session full of hands-on activities about our modern day exploration of space.

Disaster Strikes

Tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes are some of the most destructive forces on our planet.  Learn how humans are using STEM to understand these phenomena so we can predict and protect ourselves from the damage they can cause.

Explore Engineering

Students will rotate through different labs in NDSU’s College of Engineering to learn more about engineering. Besides being introduced to a variety of engineering topics, students will engage in activities highlighting the Science, Technology, and Math used to move engineering into the future.

Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades K-2

Creative Computer Coding

Students will be engaged and have fun learning to code with the Code.org program. This is a hands-on interactive class with immediate results on how to learn the basics behind computer coding with game-like formats. Instruction will be given and often be individualized throughout the camp to help each child feel confident and capable.

Engineering Adventures

This course will allow students to explore the fundamentals of mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. This class will consist of many hands-on activities to help students learn more about engineering, building, and creating.

Shoot for the Stars - FULL

Come explore the many wonders of space! Our travel will take us throughout the Milky Way galaxy with stops at the moon, the sun, the stars, and beyond.

Grades 3-5

Rockin’ Robots - FULL

Dive into the world of robotics using the LEGO Spike Prime kits!  Students will use their creativity to design, build, and code robots to solve a variety real-world problems from simple life hacks to complicated human movements.

Gear Heads 

Build and explore engineering through basic machines and mechanisms. Using Lego Education kits, learn about gears, pulleys, levers, linkages, and pneumatics. Work in teams to build simple and motorized mechanisms to demonstrate concepts.

Crime Scene Science - FULL

Help solve a crime by analyzing a crime scene and learning about forensic science techniques. Learn how to do fingerprint analysis, blood spatter analysis, blood typing, bite mark analysis, powder analysis, and more.

Coding with Scratch

In this course, students will be learning about computer science using Scratch.  They will learn the basics of coding and will design and create their own interactive game.  Scratch helps young people think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Adventures in Space - FULL

Adventures in Space will delve into a variety of topics as students are introduced to the wonders of the solar system and its unique planets, the technology used by NASA for exploration, and the mysteries of the far reaches of the universe. Students will participate in hands-on activities such as building models, creating constellations, and so much more!

Grades 6-8

Let’s Talk Space

Life on space stations, rocket paths and missions, planetary bodies, extraterrestrials, and even unmanned rovers on Mars…it seems like everywhere you turn people are talking about space.  Come find out what the big deal is in this interactive session full of hands-on activities about our modern day exploration of space.

Advanced Roller Coasters

Students will learn more physics concepts associated with creating their own paper roller coasters.  They will review the concepts of energy and motion and then put advanced theories into practice resulting in paper roller coasters with intricate pieces and complex designs.  Previous paper roller coaster building is helpful, but NOT required.  This class is similar to the More Roller Coasters class offered last summer.

Engineer meets Entrepreneur - FULL

In this session, students will learn the Engineering Design Process mixed with Design Thinking to create and prototype a new product.  Students will utilize the makerspace at the Innovation Studio of NDSU’s Research and Technology Park.**  The Innovation Studio gives students access to the latest software, 3-D printers, and other technology to render a model of their idea. All of their work will culminate in a STEM Kids Camp version of Shark Tank featuring members of the local business community!

**NDSU’s Research and Technology Park is located at 1854 NDSU Research Cir N #5706, Fargo, ND 58102 about 2 miles from the AG Hill STEM Building. Parents will still drop off and pick up students at AG Hill.  Then, camp staff will transport students to and from the Research and Tech Park via multi-passenger van.

 

High School Camp: Monday, July 29 - Thursday, Aug. 1

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Grades 9-12

Exploring Engineering

This week-long camp introduces students to the different disciplines of engineering. Mornings will be spent on campus working with NDSU faculty in the labs and in the afternoons students will be going out on engineering industry visits. Each day goes from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and lunch is included.

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