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K-12 Programs

The College of Engineering is dedicated to producing the world's best engineers. Engineering Diversity Programs recruit top high school students to UW engineering, with an emphasis on reaching underrepresented populations in the field. The programs listed on this page introduce elementary through high school students to engineering, widening the applicant pool and ensuring our high standards of admission continue to be met.

discovery days logoEngineering Discovery Days (formerly "Open House") »
Showcases engineering and science through hands-on exhibits, demos, games, and even liquid nitrogen ice cream. Free to students of all ages, with special displays and events for high school students interested in studying engineering at the UW.
early engineering institute studentsEarly Engineering Institute »
A 3-day residential summer program for high-achieving 7th and 8th grade GEAR UP students that seeks to strengthen students’ algebra skills and understanding of what it means to be an engineer.
CSE outreach students working at computerDawgBytes »
Computer science & engineering programs for K-12 students and teachers, including competitions, camps, teacher and parent resources, and instructional videos.
math academy logoMathematics Academy »
Helps a diverse group of high school juniors develop the math and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in engineering and exposes students to examples of engineering in practice.
MESA logoMESA (Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement) »
Helps students of color and girls achieve their full potential in mathematics, engineering, and science. MESA students in grades K-12 excel in a supportive, challenging, and fun learning community.
student dissecting heartDO-IT (Disabilities Opportunities Internetworking Technology) »
Encourages the participation of individuals with disabilities in challenging academic programs and careers by promoting the use of technology to increase independence, productivity, and participation in education and employment.
Space Grant logoWashington NASA Space Grant Consortium »
Promotes science, technology, engineering, and math education through professional development for K-12 teachers and other educators throughout the state and acts as a NASA point-of-contact for Washington residents.

Teacher and Parent Resources

Neuroscience for Kids A website that lets kids explore just about every aspect of the nervous system. Provides child-friendly materials and lesson plans for teachers.

Engineering is Elementary Lesson plans and ideas for educators for teaching engineering concepts to young students. Read more about a school putting the ideas to work.

Where do Children Learn Science? The research says "everywhere." Read more »

NSF Grant Puts UW Grad Students and K-12 Teachers Together The result is improved teaching skills and opportunities for K-12 students. Read more »

Engineering Discovery Days 2013

Help spread the word about Engineering Discovery Days with one of the flyers below. Click an image to open the PDF:

Discovery Days poster - full color background

Discovery Days poster - white background

Math Academy for High School Juniors

Print or share the flier with teachers and advisers of students interested in math, science or engineering.

Mathematics Academy Flier

More about Math Academy »

Summer Programs

UW Summer Youth Programs Programs for elementary, middle, and high school students.

CSE Summer Camps Programs for middle and high school students.

Materials Camp Annual, one-week workshop for high school students to experience materials science & engineering.

Math Academy An intensive, four-week residential session held on campus in summer. Students develop skills to prepare for college-level math and engineering.

More K-12 Resources

UW K-12 Resource Guide Online, searchable database of K-12 programs affiliated with the UW.

Washington State GEAR UP College planning for middle school and high school students likely be the first in their family to go to college

KnowHow2GO College planning, encouragement, and strategy for middle school and high school students and families.

College Board: You Can Go! College planning, encouragement, and strategy.

Free College Prep for High-schoolers w/ Disabilities

WA state high school 10th- and 11th-graders with disabilities and interest in college, you are invited to apply to the DO-IT Scholars program, which includes:

  • Stays in residence halls
  • Academic lectures and labs
  • Skill building for success and independence in college
  • Loaned laptops and adaptive technology

Learn more »