Time to Register for 2019 UA Summer Camps

Time to Register for 2019 UA Summer Camps

By Caroline SolomonUniversity Communications
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Aspiring young architects in grades six through 12 will get a unique glimpse into the world of design and learn college-level skills at Camp Architecture.
Aspiring young architects in grades six through 12 will get a unique glimpse into the world of design and learn college-level skills at Camp Architecture.
Summer Engineering Academy attendees will work with UA professors and graduate students on design projects, get hands-on experience with field-related software, meet mentors, enjoy campus facilities and live in dorms. Sessions for the academy begin June 9.
Summer Engineering Academy attendees will work with UA professors and graduate students on design projects, get hands-on experience with field-related software, meet mentors, enjoy campus facilities and live in dorms. Sessions for the academy begin June 9.
Tucson Village Farm will offer nine camps for children ages 4-14, with a variety of activities surrounding farming, cooking, the environment and more.
Tucson Village Farm will offer nine camps for children ages 4-14, with a variety of activities surrounding farming, cooking, the environment and more.
Camp Architecture's weeklong day camps begin in early June.
Camp Architecture's weeklong day camps begin in early June.
Students interested in engineering, math or science have the opportunity to discover an assortment of engineering degrees, research areas and careers at the Summer Engineering Academy.
Students interested in engineering, math or science have the opportunity to discover an assortment of engineering degrees, research areas and careers at the Summer Engineering Academy.

Due to concerns about COVID-19, plans are in flux for many 2020 University of Arizona summer camps.

Below, please find information about 2019 summer camps. If information about 2020 camps is available, it has been noted in red text beneath the camp's name. Any text that is not red is 2019 information.

For the most up-to-date information about a particular camp, please visit the camp's website (by clicking on the camp name) or reach out to the contact that is listed.

If you are a camp organizer whose 2020 camp information is not listed below, please email mittank@arizona.edu with 2020 updates.


2019 Summer Camps

It may only be March, but summer will be upon us before we know it – and that means kids will be out of school.

Keeping your children engaged while they're on summer break can be a challenge, particularly for those who work full time. Thankfully, the UA has a wide variety of summer camps that are bound to fit nearly any child's interests or skills. This year, the selection includes astronomy, architecture, basketball, volleyball, engineering, toxicology and much more.

Prices vary and registration already has opened for some. Find details about the camps below.

* An asterisk indicates camps that offer discounts for UA employees.

"A" Camp 2019*

2020 update: All May and June sessions for "A" Camp 2020 have been canceled. Camp sessions now run from July 1-Aug. 5. Please visit the "A" Camp website for the most current information.

Over the course of 10 weeks, campers ages 5-11 will play games, make arts and crafts, enjoy healthy cooking activities, explore the UA campus and learn from guest speakers. The popular Voyager Program offers additional activities such as swimming lessons and chaperoned trips to local attractions, including the Reid Park Zoo, Rocks and Ropes and Pump It Up, for an additional cost.

Application deadline: Varies by camp.

Dates: Varies by camp. Each themed camp runs five days. Sessions run May 27-Aug. 2.

Cost: $190 for Campus Recreation members and $210 for nonmembers until April 17. After April 17, $225 for Campus Recreation members and $245 for non-members. Voyager Program field trip costs vary based on destination and activity.

Arizona Youth University*

2020 update: All May and June sessions for Arizona Youth University have been canceled. Camp sessions now run from July 1-Aug. 5. Please visit the Arizona Youth University website for the most current information.

Students in a wide range of ages, from those entering first grade to those entering their senior year of high school, will have the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects by participating in hands-on activities around the UA campus. These camps, which are organized by Campus Recreation, are led by professional educators paired with UA students majoring in the respective field, and provide campers with enriched learning opportunities in an exciting environment. Camps focus on subjects such as engineering, health care, architecture, forensics, web development and art. They also include ACT and SAT prep courses. Four new camps have been added this year: Engineering Expo, CSI Junior, Mixed Media Madness and Web Development and Design.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: Varies by camp. Camps run May 28-July 26.

Cost: Varies by camp. Please visit the Arizona Youth University website for more information. UA employees will receive a 10 percent discount by using the code UASTAFF10.

Astronomy Camp 2019

Teenagers will explore Southern Arizona's dark skies from atop Mount Lemmon in Astronomy Camp, a program that has served thousands from around the world since 1988. Campers will work alongside professional astronomers using research-class telescopes to explore the skies. They'll then interpret their research and participate in other hands-on experiences while staying in astronomers' dormitories for an immersive experience. During the day, they'll hear from internationally known scientists, dissect cameras and explore Mount Lemmon's ecology during hikes.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: Varies by camp. Summer camps run May 9-June 26.

Cost: Varies by camp. Visit the Astronomy Camp website for more information.

BlastOff Camp

This free weeklong science day camp is for middle school students from underserved communities in Tucson. Students will engage in scientific exploration across a wide range of disciplines under the supervision of UA volunteers. Activities will challenge students in scientific inquiry and understanding while also being fun and mentally engaging. There is no cost to attend the program, and lunches and snacks will be provided. A parents or guardian must drop off and pick up the camper each day.

Application deadline: May 12

Dates: June 3-7

Cost: Free.

Camp Architecture*

2020 update: Camp Architecture will be held from July 12-Aug. 7. Please visit the Camp Architecture website for the most current information.

Aspiring young architects in grades six through 12 will get a unique glimpse into the world of design and learn college-level skills at Camp Architecture. Campers will learn to draw by hand and on the computer, construct models in the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture Materials Lab, test structural models and learn about sustainability and careers in the design field. The last session, June 24-28, will offer an even more advanced architectural design experience, and is ideal for returning campers.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: Varies by session. Incoming sixth- through eighth-graders: first session is June 3-7. Incoming ninth- through 12th-graders: first session is June 10-14. Mixed sessions for grades six through 12 will be June 17-21 and June 24-28.

Cost: $375. UA employees get 25 percent off; contact Allison Giddings, assistant director for youth and activities at Campus Recreation, at allisonbrown@email.arizona.edu or (520) 621-0048.

David Rubio Volleyball Camp*

UA volleyball head coach David Rubio's camps and clinics will return for the 27th year for players between the ages of 7 and 18. Rubio will personally direct each camp session. The program offers seven different camps and clinics based on skill level and age. Camps and clinics include: a mini camp for beginners, a serve and pass clinic for all players under 18 regardless of level, an intermediate and advanced all-skills camp for ages 10-18, a position camp for ages 10-18, a high school team camp, a coaches' clinic, and an elite camp for upper-level club, junior varsity and varsity players.

Application deadline: Varies by camp/clinic.  

Dates: Varies by camp/clinic. Sessions run May 28-July 17.

Cost: Varies by camp/clinic. A T-shirt is included with all camps and clinics; some camps and clinics include meals and lodging. Visit the program website for more information.

Global Environmental Leadership and Sustainability Program

2020 update: The 2020 Global Environmental Leadership and Sustainability Program has been canceled.

In this weeklong overnight camp, high school students will examine the diverse biomes and climate zones of the UA's Biosphere 2 and the surrounding Sonoran Desert. During this program, offered by Biosphere 2 and the University of California, San Diego, students will explore the Biosphere's state-of-the-art technology and facilities, participate in hands-on research with scientists, earn college preparation units, study with students from all over the U.S. and abroad, and visit museums and research labs on the UA campus.

Application deadline: April 30

Dates: The first session is June 22-29; the second session is July 6-13.

Cost: $3,000 plus a $100 nonrefundable application fee. Fees include course materials, room and board, ground transportation and activities. Payment plans are available.

Journey: Opportunities for Leaders of Tomorrow

J.O.L.T. is designed by teens for teens, and is intended for those interested in personal development and improving their team-building skills and self-confidence. This weeklong camp, run by UA Cooperative Extension, features inspirational workshops and presentations from life-changing speakers to improve campers' leadership, trust and communication skills. Participants must be at least 14, or have completed eighth grade before the start of camp.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: June 10-14

Cost: $275 for students and $225 for chaperones. Early bird registration provides a $45 discount before April 13.

2020 addition: Korean Summer Camp

The Critical Languages Program will partner with the East Asian Studies Korean program to offer rising sixth graders through 12th graders an online five-day program to learn about Korea's culture and language. Students will be introduced to the Korean alphabet and Korean culture as they virtually "travel" to Korea.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

2020 dates: June 1-5

Cost: $75

Laurel Clark Earth Camp

Students entering eighth or ninth grade will spend time outside while exploring careers in botany, ecology, ornithology, marine biology and geology at this weeklong camp, offered in partnership with the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Students will participate in hands-on research as they learn about the natural world and develop a passion to preserve and protect it. Campers will go on two overnight campouts and spend time at the museum, in the Biosphere 2's desert and rainforest, and in a pool as they learn to scuba dive.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: June 24-28

Cost: $345 for Desert Museum members; $375 for nonmembers.

Sean Miller Basketball Camp 2019

2020 update: Sean Miller Basketball Camp 2020 has been canceled.

Boys entering third through eighth grade can participate in a weeklong camp where they will receive skilled instruction from Arizona Basketball coaching staff at McKale Memorial Center. Campers will join groups in their age range to participate in an exciting week of competition and skill instruction. Campers also will spend time in the Richard Jefferson Gymnasium and the Student Recreation Center.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: First session is June 10-14; second session is June 17-21.

Cost: $300 for one week or $525 for both. Fees include instruction and camp T-shirt. Lunch is not included. Meal plan punch cards can be purchased on the first day of camp.

Summer Engineering Academy

2020 update: The 2020 Summer Engineering Academy has been canceled.

Students interested in engineering, math or science have the opportunity to discover an assortment of engineering degrees, research areas and careers. Campers will work with UA professors and graduate students on design projects, get hands-on experience with field-related software, meet mentors, enjoy campus facilities and live in dorms. The camp is divided into Explore Engineering Programs and themed programs. Explore Engineering Programs allow campers to learn about the UA's 15 engineering majors and discover what it means to work in these fields. The themed programs are: Women in Engineering, Engineering and Health, Engineering and Technology, and Engineering and Living. The Explore Engineering Programs run the second and third weeks in June. Themed programs begin in late June and run through July.

Application deadline: Varies by camp date. Dates available on website. The first deadline is May 26.

Dates: Varies by camp. Sessions begin June 9 and end July 26.

Cost: The Explore Engineering Programs are $695, plus a nonrefundable service fee, and the themed programs are $795, plus a nonrefundable service fee. The price includes meals, housing, supplies and activities.

TechDivas and DigiDudes Technology Programs

2020 Update: The 2020 TechDivas and DigiDudes Technology Programs have been canceled.

Fifth through ninth graders interested in exploring and applying technology skills are invited to participate in hands-on camps offered by the Eller College of Management. Programs will cover business, computer science, software, animation and more. Campers will be taught skills such as teamwork, strategy, presentation and design, and incorporating these skills into their lifestyle. There are four camps: Wilbur's Business Leaders of Tomorrow; Computer Safety, Science, and Software; Animation and the Visual Arts; and Wilma's Wild Tech.

Application deadline: Varies by session; first deadline is May 23.

Dates: Wilbur's Business Leaders of Tomorrow is May 28-30; Computer Safety, Science, and Software is June 3-7; Animation and the Visual Arts is June 10-14; Wilma's Wild Tech is June 17-21.

Cost: $350 for each weeklong camp or all four camps for $1,000. Cost includes two snacks per day, all materials, rewards and prizes, and a pizza lunch on Friday.

Tony Amato Soccer Camps

2020 Update: Tony Amato Soccer Camps are still scheduled. Please visit the Tony Amato Soccer Camps website for the most current information.

Campers will learn and practice soccer skills under UA women's soccer head coach Tony Amato and his staff. Three camps will be offered: Wildcat Youth Camp for boys and girls ages 3-7, Wildcat Striker/Goalkeeper Camp for ages 7-18, and Wildcat Residential Camp for girls in eighth grade and older. The camp's goal is to maximize the camper's experience through practicing technical and tactical training. This camp prides itself on providing an in-depth opportunity for its campers to learn, to excel and to love the game of soccer.

Application deadline: Until spots are filled.

Dates: Varies by camp. Sessions run from June 3-July 14.

Cost: Wildcat Youth Camp is $55; Wildcat Striker/Goalkeeper Camp are $165; Wildcat Residential Camp is $295 for for campers who want to stay on campus and $235 for commuters.

Toxic Detectives*

In this weeklong camp, students in fifth- through eighth-grade will immerse themselves in and learn connections between toxicology and the environment. The camp involves hands-on, activity-based learning and presentations. The camp takes place at the UA College of Pharmacy, in Roy P. Drachman Hall. While the camp primarily takes place in a classroom, many field trips are taken on campus for lab visits and outdoor activities.

Application deadline: May 31

Dates: June 3-7

Cost: $225. Please contact Ben Richmond, assistant director of the Center for Toxicology, for information about a UA employee discount: richmond@pharmacy.arizona.edu.

Tucson Village Farm Summer Camps

2020 update: The 2020 Tucson Village Farm Summer Camps have been canceled.

Tucson Village Farm, an urban farm run by UA Cooperative Extension, will offer nine camps for children ages 4-14, with a variety of activities surrounding farming, cooking, the environment and more. The 4-H Adventure Camp will take campers ages 9-14 to Prescott to explore the ponderosa pines on Mingus Mountain. Children ages 11-13 will learn to create healthy meals in Farm to Fork Culinary Camp: Master Chefs. And in Arizona Youth Preparedness Initiative Summer Camp MyPI, campers age 14-19 will learn skills such as disaster preparedness, injury treatment, search and rescue and more. They also will earn CPR certification. Find out more about the camps on the Tucson Village Farm website.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: May 28-July 19

Cost: Varies by camp. Visit the Tucson Village Farm website for more information.

UA Fusion Camp

2020 update: The 2020 UA Fusion Camp has been canceled.

Campers from kindergarten to seventh grade will have the chance to participate in a wide range of science-related activities at Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium. Weekly camp themes will explore a wide variety of topics, including chemistry, rockets, tricks of the spy trade, sharks, insects and more. The camps aim to promote active minds and bodies through scientific exploration, literacy, creative arts and fitness for the ultimate summer experience.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: June 3-July 12

Cost: $250 per week, with the exception of the fifth week, which is $150, as there will not be a camp on July 4 or 5.

UA Jazz Workshop Series

2020 update: The 2020 Jazz Workshop Series has been canceled.

High school students ages 14 and older have the opportunity to develop and practice their jazz skills during this four-day workshop hosted by the Fred Fox School of Music. During the workshop, students will learn from world-renowned faculty through jazz improvisation classes, private lessons, daily clinics, master classes and big band rehearsals. For more information, contact Angelo Versace, assistant professor and director of jazz studies in the School of Music, at aversace@email.arizona.edu.

Application deadline: Spots available until filled.

Dates: June 10-13

Cost: $175

2020 addition: Young Writers Institute

Students entering ninth through 12th grades with varying skill levels and interests in writing will work on two major projects during this program, run by the Writing Skills Improvement Program: 1) An individual zine or book object and 2) a collaborative anthology. Participants will get refreshers on grammar and style, learn organization and time management skills, explore creative writing and more during three weeks in July. Please note that the program is still taking applications, but it may be moved online or canceled due to concerns about the coronavirus.

Application deadline: May 5

Dates: July 6-24

Cost: $15. The program is not collecting payments at this time and will resume collection when organizers are certain it will happen.

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