STEM Kids Camp
STEM Kids Camp
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 camps focused on topics in STEM.
2026 Camps will be offered July 13-16 and 20-23 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.
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 2026.
Registration for 2026 STEM Kids Camps will open in Spring 2026.
- Early Bird Price: $140 per session
- Regular Price (Starting Monday, May 11): $170 per session
Registration closes on Friday, June 12.
For updates on 2026 classes and priority notification on registration, sign up for our email list.
For more information contact Angela Gross, College of Engineering Outreach Coordinator at angela.gross@ndsu.edu or (701) 231-5798.
Session 1: Monday, July 13 - Thursday, July 16
Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 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.
Shoot for the Stars
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.
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.
Grades 3-5
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.
Crime Scene Science
Help solve a mystery by analyzing a crime scene using various forensic science techniques. Learn how to spot the most important evidence then use those clues to identify a primary suspect.
Disaster Strikes
Tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes are some of the most destructive forces on our planet. Learn how engineers are using STEM to understand these phenomena so we can predict and protect ourselves from the damage they can cause.
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.
STEM Adventure by ND Gateway to Science
Students will explore different activities and careers relating to STEM concepts through structured activities and experimentation in an interactive and engaging environment. Each camp day is a new STEM adventure, filled with exciting projects and activities that guarantee fun and learning.
Grades 6-8
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.
DNA Detective
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.
Mini-golf Course Design
In this session, your child will be challenged with creating their own unique mini-golf course hole. Students will explore physics, math, and the engineering-design process to bring their dream mini-golf hole to life. At the end of this session, each hole design will be compiled into one big mini-golf course for parents and children to play.
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.
Nature Navigators: Journey through Biology
Dive into the wonders of biology as you explore the world around you. Little scientists will observe and study a variety of fascinating creatures that will surely satisfy and grow their curiosity of living things.
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.
Grades 3-5
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.
Crime Scene Science
Help solve a mystery by analyzing a crime scene using various forensic science techniques. Learn how to spot the most important evidence then use those clues to identify a primary suspect.
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.
Rockin’ Robots
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.
STEM Adventure by ND Gateway to Science
Students will explore different activities and careers relating to STEM concepts through structured activities and experimentation in an interactive and engaging environment. Each camp day is a new STEM adventure, filled with exciting projects and activities that guarantee fun and learning.
Grades 6-8
DNA Detective
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
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 NDeavor 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.
Mini-golf Course Design
In this session, your child will be challenged with creating their own unique mini-golf course hole. Students will explore physics, math, and the engineering-design process to bring their dream mini-golf hole to life. At the end of this session, each hole design will be compiled into one big mini-golf course for parents and children to play.
Session 2: Monday, July 20 - Thursday, July 23
Morning: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 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
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.
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
Budding Biologist
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.
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.
Crime Scene Science
Help solve a mystery by analyzing a crime scene using various forensic science techniques. Learn how to spot the most important evidence then use those clues to identify a primary suspect.
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.
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.
Grades 6-8
Engineer meets Entrepreneur
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 NDeavor 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.
RxPlore: A Hands-On Pharmacy Experience
Explore the world of pharmacy through lotion, lip balm, and hand sanitizer compounding, plus experiments on how pills dissolve and how to protect them. Participants will test their problem-solving skills in a pharmacy-themed escape room and compete in the Pharmacy Olympics, where teamwork and knowledge take center stage. Whether you're passionate about science or curious about a career in healthcare, this session is your prescription for adventure!
Video Game Design
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.
Zoology Zone
Step into the Zoology Zone, where curious minds become animal explorers! In this beginner‑friendly class, students will discover how animals live, grow, survive, and interact with their environments. Through hands‑on activities, fun experiments, and close‑up observations, we’ll explore everything from tiny insects to mighty mammals.
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
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.
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
Budding Biologist
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.
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.
Crime Scene Science
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.
Disaster Strikes
Tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes are some of the most destructive forces on our planet. Learn how engineers are using STEM to understand these phenomena so we can predict and protect ourselves from the damage they can cause.
Rockin’ Robots
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.
Grades 6-8
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.
Video Game Design
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.
Zoology Zone
Step into the Zoology Zone, where curious minds become animal explorers! In this beginner‑friendly class, students will discover how animals live, grow, survive, and interact with their environments. Through hands‑on activities, fun experiments, and close‑up observations, we’ll explore everything from tiny insects to mighty mammals.