Free 2026 STEM summer academies open to Oklahoma students

OKLAHOMA CITY –

Middle and high school students across Oklahoma will have the chance to experience college life this summer while exploring careers in science, technology, engineering and math.

The 2026 STEM Summer Academies, sponsored by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, are open to students entering eighth through 12th grade this fall. The free programs combine hands-on classroom learning with field experiences and campus life.

Each academy focuses on emerging trends in STEM fields. Students will take part in interactive activities, use innovative technology and, in many cases, tour some of the state’s leading companies and science facilities.

“STEM education is essential to driving innovation, strengthening our economy, and opening doors to high-demand careers,” Chancellor Sean Burrage said. “Our Summer Academies give middle and high school students the chance to explore STEM fields firsthand and experience campus life. Students who participate in these academies are more likely to pursue higher education and earn a degree.”

A total of 16 academies will be offered by 12 Oklahoma colleges and universities in May, June and July. Programs range from four days to two weeks.

Seven of the academies are residential, requiring students to live in campus residence halls. Nine are commuter programs, with students traveling to and from campus daily.

Enrollment is limited and some academies have application deadlines. Officials encourage students to apply early. The programs are designed for students of all academic levels, not only top performers, to help build confidence and interest in STEM careers.

Academy descriptions and contact information are available at okhighered.org/summer-academies. Students may also contact their school counselors or call 800-858-1840 for more information.

• Cameron University, Lawton: NanoExplorers: A High School Summer STEM Academy, June 14-19 and June 21-26, grades 9-12.
• East Central University, Ada: Molecules of Nature Summer Academy, May 31-June 5, grades 8-9.
• Murray State College, Tishomingo: The WORLD of STEM, June 1-5, grades 8-9.
• Northeastern State University, Broken Arrow: Camp Biomed: A Glowing Overview, June 22-26, grades 8-10; Get Green for Blue: Outdoor STEM Investigations Connecting Water to You, June 1-5, grades 8-11.
• Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Alva: Renewable Energy – The Future is Here – Learning and Exploring Today, June 14-19, grades 9-12.
• Oklahoma City Community College, Oklahoma City: CHAMPS – Careers in Health and Medical Professions, June 22-25, grades 8-12; Lights, Camera, Action! A Digital Cinema Production Summer Academy, June 24-27, grades 10-12.
• Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, Okmulgee: Emerging and Converging Technologies Summer Academy, May 31-June 5, grades 8-10.
• Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Durant: PI-STEM Summer Academy, June 1-4, grade 9.
• Tulsa Community College: TCC Summer STEM Academy: Building Your Sustainable Future, June 7-12, grades 9-12.
• University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond: UCO Explore Engineering Summer Academy, June 1-5 and June 8-12, grades 8-10.
• University of Oklahoma, Norman: The Human Water Cycle, June 1-4, grades 8-12.
• The University of Tulsa: 2026 Cryptography Summer Academy, June 15-20, grades 8-9.

For more information, click here.