Curiosity is the Sole Prerequisite 

Previous architecture, interior architecture, or design experience is not necessary to participate. Come spend a week with us this summer in a UT design studio learning about architecture, graphic design, and interior architecture and how they influence the world.  

This camp is for creative, problem-solving, out-of-the-box thinkers. It’s an opportunity that offers motivated high school students an introduction to design and its impact on human experience.  

What to Expect 

Explore how to communicate ideas and information through foundational design principles such as color, pattern, space, form, and composition, using both 2D and 3D analog and digital representation techniques. Study key design topics, including theory, history, technology, and professional practice, while gaining a glimpse into design education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 

Campers traveling from near and far will work with award-winning faculty and upper-class students who will help guide them through design exercises and projects. We’ll explore Knoxville and get our hands dirty! A kit of supplies will be provided to each camper upon their arrival to campus. This kit will include materials and tools to make and create. 

A Typical Week 

Camp days will be filled with a variety of design exploration throughout our Art + Architecture building, UT campus, and downtown Knoxville. We will be offering one-on-one guidance as you explore your creative approach to design and making. We will enjoy meals in our campus dining halls and spend evenings painting the rock, swimming in the Olympic-sized campus pool, or kicking the soccer ball around on the recreation fields. 

Commuter Option   

For campers local to Knoxville, we offer a commuter-friendly opportunity. This includes camp tuition, programming fees, and all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner.) Students will arrive on campus by 8 a.m. and depart after dinner around 6:30 p.m. There may be additional programming in the evening, and commuter campers are welcome to stay and participate. 

Residential Option   

For campers traveling to Knoxville, we offer on-campus housing, which is noted in the cost. This includes camp tuition, programming fees, all meals, and six nights in a two-person suite with a private bathroom. Campers should be moved in by 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, and depart by 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, following a wrap-up celebration. 

Scholarships 

A limited number of scholarships are available for summer camp, and the application deadline is May 1, 2025. Learn more about eligibility and access the application upon completion of registration. 

Have questions? 

Feel free to contact us at designmatters@utk.edu with any questions you might have.