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Build the skills to lead the future of engineering and technology

Rice ELITE Tech Camp is the premier pre-college engineering summer program for high school students, with a unique focus on preparing young people to be tomorrow’s leaders in technology and engineering. Created and managed by engineering faculty from the Rice University School of Engineering and the Rice Center for Engineering Leadership (RCEL), the Rice ELITE Camp is a one-of-a-kind summer experience for high school students.
Student smiling next to another student holding a rocket

About Rice ELITE Tech Camp

Choose your PATH • Build Your SKILLS • Find Your PASSION

Rice ELITE Tech Camp, developed by the Rice University Center for Engineering Leadership (RCEL) and powered by WorldStrides focuses on a vigorous technology track, supplemented by college readiness and engineering leadership preparation components. Students will participate in intensive science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning activities, while learning to apply the engineering design process to solve real world problems. One-week sessions include hands-on curriculum allowing Rice ELITE Tech students to employ technical, scientific, and/or analytical concepts.

Discover what it takes to be ELITE – an Emerging Leader in Technology and Engineering through daily Engineering Leadership activities. Specifically designed for high school students by Rice University–affiliated Head Instructors, these courses introduce college-level engineering and technology concepts. Instruction is delivered by top-performing undergraduate engineering students who bring the material to life, mentor participants, and share authentic insights into the college experience.

While staying on the campus of Rice University, you will have the opportunity to dive into subjects relating to engineering, technology, and the applications of computer science that interest you. You can look forward to building skills such as programming like a NASA scientist, developing your own Python code, exploring Applied Machine Learning, and deepening your understanding of bioengineering. You will also network with other talented students who will be your future colleagues and acquire valuable information about how to succeed in these highly competitive fields.

Choose your courses VIEW CATALOG


3D MODELING & 3D PRINTING  ×

In this course, students will learn how to design a 3D environment and how to prepare files for DFaM (design for additive manufacturing). Students will then design and build their own unique 3D models and watch them come to life in the 3D printer.

DEEP LEARNING: DEPLOYING AI TO MAINTAIN SMART CITIES ×

In this course, students will use Python to design and implement a neural network algorithm capable of classifying structure images as damaged and determine the level of damage. Work like this is essential to civil engineers in charge of designing, constructing, and maintaining highways, bridges, and other important infrastructure.

LEARNING C++ FOR HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT ENGINEERING ×

In this course, students will study the concepts of fluid mechanics that allow scientists to design smaller, faster, and more economical rockets. Then, they will hone their programming skills in C++ to put these concepts to life to test rocket design parameters and the effect of spaceflight on the human body. NOTE: It is recommended that students have taken physics before taking this course.

LEARNING PYTHON TO SOLVE ENGINEERING PROBLEMS ×

In this course, students will learn to solve thermal energy problems like a mechanical engineer as they develop their own Python code to model temperature changes when food is cooked and predict when it will reach a temperature that is safe for consumption. Then, students will establish a home experiment to test and verify the accuracy of their code. This work is conducted every day by companies such as Proctor & Gamble, NASA, and Tesla.

TRIFECTA TECH: THE INTERNET OF THINGS, MACHINE LEARNING & PYTHON CODING ×

In this course, students will study different Applied Machine Learning (ML) concepts and the Internet of Things (IOT) through modules that leverage real-time sensors. Students will also code examples in Python and MySQL and deploy their code for testing. Students will walk away from this course understanding how technology is applied in multiple different industries as well as understanding the underlying connection between ML and IOT concepts and core subjects.

ROBOTIC ENGINEERING I: ADDING ROBOT MUSCLES TO YOUR INVENTIVE IDEAS ×

This course will introduce students to the design and use of electric motors in automation (including robots). We will discuss the types of motors and how to select the right type for the application. We will talk about motor controllers and how to make them operate using signals from an Arduino. Concepts of torque, speed, power and efficiency will be introduced to allow students to pick the correctly sized motor for their project. We can discuss solenoids and linear actuators and how they are used to power and control hydraulic and pneumatic systems which are other popular means to give robots muscle.

ROBOTIC ENGINEERING II: ADDING SENSORS FOR YOUR ROBOT TO SEE, HEAR, FEEL, AND SMELL ×

Future engineers who want to work with robots often think of humanoid robots. However, any intelligent machine that can gather information about its surroundings and decide how to act is a robot. Sensors are the devices that give robots access to this. In this class, you will learn how to allow your robot to see, hear, feel (e.g., force, pressure, temperature), and even smell (e.g., detect levels of CO2 or other matter in the air). Students in this course will learn to deploy sensors and work with the Arduino platform within a robotics context. They will gain hands-on experience and experimentation. NOTE: Students do not need to take Robotics I in order to take Robotics II.

Biomedical Engineering: Musculoskeletal dynamics of human motion ×

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of biomedical engineering through a dual framework of computational and experimental analysis. Students will employ state-of-the-art methods to learn how to simulate musculoskeletal dynamics within the context of typical human activity, such as walking, running, and jumping. Students will also learn how to precisely identify and quantify joint movement while conducting physical experiments, including the sit-and-reach test and various types of jump tests. At the end of the class, students will employ these general concepts in a simulation design challenge that involves applications to sports and physical therapy.

2026 Dates & Tuition

ENROLL
View Sample Schedule
CITY LOCATION DATES TUITION
Houston, TX Rice University Residential  June 21-27 | June 28-July 4 | July 5-11 | July 12-18 $3,899
Houston, TX Rice University Commuter*  June 22-26 | June 29-July 3 | July 6-10 | July 13-17 $1,799

*Commuter programs are for students who live within daily commuting distance of the program location, and who do not wish to reside with other students during the program.

Residential tuition includes room & board, lectures, simulations, curriculum & materials, and staff. Commuter tuition does not include room & board but does include on-campus lunches.

Please note: We are currently evaluating all aspects of Rice ELITE Tech Camp and may make changes to the curriculum, site visits or program location to ensure the program meets the most up-to-date health and safety standards.

Program Highlights

Students in an engineering lab
College-level Engineering
A dynamic, hands-on curriculum built for high school students, introducing advanced engineering and technology concepts through the lens of real-world problem solving. Each course is crafted by Rice University–affiliated Head Instructors with academic and industry expertise, and brought to life by accomplished Rice engineering undergraduates who guide, mentor, and connect the lessons to the student experience.
Students in front of college building
Future Leaders
Engineers are changing the way we interact, learn, and heal. Build your skills and set off on your path as an Emerging Young Leader in Technology and Engineering. Through hands-on learning workshops and the application of the engineering design process you’ll develop leadership, project management, and communication skills to stand out from your peers and be a future tech leader.
Student in class with hand raised
College Readiness
Learn from engineering professors, researchers, professionals, and students about engineering as a major and the various possible career paths available to you in technology and engineering. You will benefit from the exposure to the university atmosphere and feel empowered to take the next step in your education.
Students building a rocket
Engineering Skills in Action
You will directly engage in the engineering design process by participating in a multi-day, student-led project, where you'll have the chance to practice hands-on activities that employ technical, scientific and analytical concepts to solve real-world problems.

Tuition

Tuition

Tuition covers most of the expenses incurred during the program. Tuition DOES NOT cover transportation to and from the program. LEARN MORE


Scholarships

Scholarships

Envision offers a limited number of scholarships to qualified students each year based upon financial need, scholastic leadership, achievements, and other factors. LEARN MORE

Fundraising

Fundraising

Let us show you how other students use fundraising to cover some or all their tuition costs. Make fundraising part of your personal success story. LEARN MORE


Payment Plan

Payment Plan

You may pay in full today or choose to use one of our payment options.
PAYMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Rice ELITE Tech Camp FAQs

  • Who is Rice ELITE Tech Camp for?

    This program was designed to introduce students to engineering and tech experts, as well as the various career paths available to them in computer science and engineering. At Rice ELITE Tech Camp, you'll have the chance to practice hands-on activities that employ technical, scientific, and analytical concepts to solve real-world problems.

    To attend Rice ELITE Tech Camp, you must be in grades 8–11 during the 2025-2026 school year.

  • What is included in tuition?

    Your tuition includes housing (Residential Students Only), on-site meals, supervisory personnel, program materials, all program activities, site visits, a Certificate of Completion, and local transportation during the program.

    However, your transportation to and from home and the program location is NOT included in tuition. While attending the program, you will only need money for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals.

  • How will I be supervised?

    Your safety and well-being during the program is our highest priority. The program is structured so that you will reside in a safe, controlled environment. You'll be closely supervised by a professionally trained Envision team, including advisors who serve as educational facilitators and chaperones, security personnel, operations personnel, and a program coordinator.

    For over 40 years, Envision has achieved a stellar record of safely and successfully enriching the lives of students, providing them with superb educational experiences and professional supervision. Other Envision safety measures include:

    • Greeting students at the designated airport upon their arrival, providing shuttle service directly to the program site, and providing shuttle service back to the airport on Departure Day*
    • Maintaining an overall student-to-staff ratio of 8 to 1
    • Requiring all students to attend all activities
    • Checking rooms nightly and ensuring that students remain in their rooms
    • Having night monitors in place to support students who may become ill or who have an emergency during the night
    • Equipping all team members with two-way communication devices

    *There is an additional fee for shuttle service.

  • Where will I stay?

    For the summer 2026 Rice ELITE Tech Camp, all students are housed on the campus of Rice University in Houston, TX.

  • How many students share a room?

    Each room will house two to three students. You will have your own bed.

  • Can my parents attend the program?

    No. Your parents or guardians are not allowed to accompany you during the program. Gaining independence, including experiencing new things on your own, is an essential part of your growth during the program. However, it is perfectly fine for your family to travel with you to the program location and stay in the area while you are attending the program.

  • I am a student requiring specific accommodations. Can I still attend?

    Yes, we encourage you to enroll. Envision by WorldStrides believes in working with families to accommodate student needs and encourages the participation of students who feel prepared to meet the academic, social, physical, and emotional demands of the program environment. We may be able to provide appropriate auxiliary staff and services to assist students as needed if notified in advance. We encourage families, guardians, legal representatives, or educators to contact the Office of Admissions for more information and to discuss particular accommodations before applying for enrollment in the program.

  • Do I need to make my own flight arrangements?

    Yes. Your tuition does not include transportation to and from your home and the program location. We recommend that you make necessary flight arrangements only AFTER you receive confirmation that you are officially enrolled.

  • Can special dietary needs be met?

    We make every effort to meet the dietary needs of all our students, provided the request is submitted prior to the start of the conference. When you complete the Student Information Form, you will have the opportunity to make special dietary requests.

Have more questions? Check out the Envision FAQs.
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