Robotics for High Schoolers at UCLA

Course Description: Robotics for High Schoolers at UCLA

Robotics Design and Control Summer Program

Unlock the future of technology with our Robotics Design and Control Summer Program, a comprehensive course that lays a solid foundation in the exciting field of robotics. Designed for aspiring young engineers, this program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, empowering students to design, build, and control their own robots.

This immersive experience covers critical topics such as motion planning in two-dimensional and three-dimensional spaces, mechanism design for both manipulators and mobile robots, and the intricacies of rigid body dynamics. Students will delve into control design algorithms, explore the integration of actuators and sensors, and harness the power of human-machine interfaces and embedded software. Through a series of projects and assignments, participants will cultivate problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, culminating in the construction and demonstration of their own small robot.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Develop a strong foundation in robotics, combining theoretical concepts with practical applications.

• Enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills through challenging projects and assignments.

• Gain hands-on experience in designing and controlling robots, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software components.

• Receive portfolio-building documentation, including a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute.

Location

Our program is held at a premier educational institution, providing state-of-the-art facilities and resources to ensure a rich learning environment. Students will benefit from modern classrooms and laboratories equipped with the latest technology, fostering an environment of innovation and creativity.

Course Description

Robotics Design and Control Program

• Planar and spatial geometry: Apply mathematical principles to develop motion planning algorithms for robotic systems, mastering both 2D and 3D movement constraints.

• Control systems design: Design and implement control systems for robotic manipulators and mobile robots, selecting suitable actuators and sensors for specific tasks.

• Rigid body dynamics: Analyze dynamics and optimize mechanism designs for enhanced robot performance while considering physical limitations.

• Human-machine interfaces: Create and program interfaces and embedded software for effective robot control and monitoring.

• Robot construction: Build and validate a functioning robot, showcasing practical problem-solving and collaborative skills.

Please note: An additional course fee of $295 applies for lab materials.

Admission Criteria

Passion for robotics is your ticket to success in this program! Prospective students must complete a Summer Institute application to be considered.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for students eager to explore a future in robotics. It provides foundational knowledge that will enhance their understanding and help them decide if a career in this dynamic field is the right path.

Benefits

Participants will leave with more than just knowledge—they will gain valuable documentation to bolster their academic portfolios. This includes a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute, acknowledging their achievements and dedication.

Getting There

Detailed information about transportation and accommodation will be provided upon acceptance into the program, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Embark on this transformative journey and watch as your child's potential in robotics unfolds. Join us this summer and set the stage for a bright future in technology!

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Help obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

• 🌐 About 30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, lunches, souvenirs)

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

🚌 Airport Shuttles

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

• For international students, the international registration fee is $379 (residential) OR $239 (commuter) – this fee covers a medical policy for the student and their airport transfers.

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🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 8:00 AM – Wake Up 🌅

• 8:30 AM – Breakfast 🍳

• 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy 📘

• 11:45 AM – Lunch 🍽

• 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy 🧪

• 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall 🎉

• 6:00 PM – Dinner 🍝

• 8:00 PM – Evening / Primetime Activities 🌆

• 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls 🏠

• 11:30 PM – On Floors 🌙

• 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

shopping • sports • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

Parents must complete a dietary information form during pre-arrival.

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Campus Profile (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers one of the most exciting and iconic pre-college environments in the United States. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and prime Southern California location, UCLA attracts motivated students from around the globe who want both enrichment and adventure.

Set in the heart of Los Angeles, UCLA blends rigorous academics with an active, socially engaging student experience. The campus is surrounded by world-class beaches, entertainment districts, art, culture, and the unmistakable energy of Southern California. Students enjoy engaging courses taught by UCLA-selected instructors, along with exceptional access to campus facilities, residence halls, recreation spaces, and cultural experiences.

UCLA is especially popular with students who want a laid-back yet exciting experience — those who enjoy meeting new people, exploring a major city, and participating in fun, hands-on afternoon and weekend activities. From beaches to theme parks to Hollywood landmarks, UCLA offers a dynamic summer enriched with unforgettable experiences.

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✨ Program Environment

• Perfect for students seeking a balance between academics, social activities, and exploration

• Courses developed by UCLA academic departments and taught by UCLA-selected instructors

• Hands-on, immersive coursework with strong engagement and interactive learning

• Comfortable residence halls with age-appropriate floors for high school and middle school students

• Access to outstanding campus recreation facilities, sports courts, pools, and social spaces

• Located near iconic LA neighborhoods, attractions, and outdoor destinations

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 Two meals per day (lunch and dinner)

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend excursions and activities

• 🚐 Transportation for included activities

• 🏋️ Access to campus athletic and recreation facilities

• 🛌 Blanket, sheets, pillow

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

Note: Some academies or specialized courses may require additional fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 🧺 Laundry

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

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🎡 Top Activities in Los Angeles, California

• 🎢 Six Flags, Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood

• 🏖 Santa Monica Beach & Pier, Manhattan Beach, Malibu

• 🛍 Rodeo Drive, Abbot Kinney, Third Street Promenade, Century City

• ⚾ Dodgers, Angels, and LA Galaxy games

• 🌌 Griffith Observatory & hike to the Hollywood Sign

• 🌅 Sunset Cruise along the Pacific Coast

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

• 🎭 Variety shows featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🎨 Clubs: arts, baking, game nights, sports leagues, and more

• 🍔 End-of-summer BBQ with lawn games and music