K-12 Programs and Summer Camps
Lay the Foundation for a Future in Science and Engineering
Explore what we have to offer. Our K–12 STEM opportunities guide young learners from curiosity to college readiness.
KC STEM Alliance
Serving more than 90,000 students in the Kansas City area, the KC STEM Alliance is an independent agency managed through the School of Science and Engineering and serves as our primary outreach program. Funding to support the alliance comes from a multi-year grant from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and from area STEM-related companies, grants and other nonprofit agencies and organizations.
Programming includes Project Lead The Way, STEM coursework and programming for area K-12 schools, the KC FIRST robotics competition, and several other programs aimed at engaging young people in STEM learning.
Design Discovery Summer Program
Interested in the design fields, but not sure where to start?
The Design Discovery program is a non-credit, two-day course modeled after collegiate architectural design seminars where students learn about design fields through simple design projects, slideshows and discussions. They also tour important design sites near campus.
Tips for Building Your STEM Foundation
- Choose STEM-related extracurricular activities, such as science and math clubs.
- Enroll in as many high school math and science classes as possible.
- Learn to study effectively — good study habits now will translate to better organization later.
- Attend career days at area schools and colleges.
- Consider challenging yourself with IB/AP courses.
- Maintain good grades to increase your chances for admission and scholarships.
- Plan when you will take standardized tests for college admission — consider taking practice tests to familiarize yourself with the process.
- Attend our summer programs to help prepare you for success at UMKC.