In response to the COVID 19 pandemic, we converted our 2020 and 2021 camps to virtual delivery. We are proud to report that the feedback from participants and parents was overwhelmingly positive. That said, we were very excited to return to in-person activities for our summer camps in 2022. For 2023 and beyond, we will follow local, state, and federal guidance to offer an in-person summer camp experience that delivers on our top three priorities: learning, safety, and fun!

For updates, sign up for our mailing list.

How did online camps work?

The camps featured:

• Pre-recorded video lectures and activities led by UAA, which can be accessed at any time;
• Live lectures and activities for several hours per week led by UAA faculty;
• One-on-one and group assistance through video calls, voice calls, and live chat with College of Engineering students;
• Free online tools and software;
• Opportunities for teamwork and collaboration; and
• Progressively difficult activities that lead to an end-of-week project.

What else changed?

• The price of camps was reduced to $100 for Coding, 3D Modeling, and Videography. Arduino Robotics was $125, but participants were able to keep their robot. Tuition waivers were still awarded to families with financial need.
• Lunch was not provided.
• Camps were only offered for participants entering grades 6 through 12. Our camps that are designed for younger participants require a level of hands-on materials and assistance that we were not be able to provide virtually.

At-Home Technology Requirements and Recommendations

For the most part, there were two main requirements and two main recommendations for participants who participated in the virtual summer camps.

The following were required:

• A computer—PC, Mac, Chromebook, and most any computer that can run an up-to-date version of the Google Chrome internet browser are all acceptable. Tablets and smartphones are not a suitable substitute. 
• An internet connection

The following were recommended:

• A standard, three-button mouse—It is generally more difficult to navigate engineering software using a laptop's trackpad.
• A second monitor or tablet—This allows participants to have Zoom open on one screen and do the work on another screen.