Academics

Stem Summer Camps

Science Quest: Discover, Design, and Explore (Grades 5-8)

JUNE 22-26, 2026

This camp introduces middle school students to science and engineering through inquiry-based projects, hands-on lab work, and creative problem solving. Campers will build and program a take-home robot, design cardboard boats for the YMCA regatta, and investigate ecosystems in the Larry R. Yoder Prairie Learning Laboratory and on a field trip to Recreation Unlimited. They will also explore biochemistry through engaging activities such as a blood-typing simulation and molecular gastronomy experiments. The program emphasizes teamwork, creativity, and real-world scientific discovery.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 5th-8th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: Register for 2026 Science Quest: Discover, Design, and Explore

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee. 

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Whirlpool and Recreation Unlimited

middle schoolers floating in a cardboard boat
stem camp students doing research in a pond

Science Adventurers: Elements of Discovery (Grades 9-12)

JUNE 22-26, 2026

Dive into the building blocks of science through hands-on experiments in biology, chemistry, and environmental technology. From decoding DNA to creating molecular gastronomy treats, campers will explore the chemistry of life and the science of our planet. Students will learn how artificial intelligence supports scientific research, investigate water quality using 3D-printed colorimeters, and conduct fieldwork in the Larry R. Yoder Prairie Learning Laboratory—plus a field experience such as a visit to the Orton Geological Museum, a stream exploration study, or the Byrd Polar & Climate Research Center. Campers will also design and race their own cardboard boats in the annual YMCA Cardboard Boat Regatta. The week wraps up with a collaborative environmental capstone that connects data, creativity, and real-world ecosystems.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9th-12th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: Register for 2026 Science Adventurers: Elements of Discovery

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee. 

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Whirlpool and OSU Earth Sciences (https://earthsciences.osu.edu/)

student in Orton hall
student by a creek learning

Horizons of Science: From Microbes to Megastructures (Grades 9-12)

JUNE 22-26, 2026

Focused on a dynamic blend of biochemistry, engineering, and environmental science, this camp immerses students in hands-on lab and design experiences. Campers will investigate chemistry and biology through engaging activities such as molecular gastronomy experiments, blood-typing simulations, or crime-scene biochemistry challenges. They’ll build and program a take-home robot, design and race cardboard boats in the YMCA regatta, and explore ecosystem science in the Larry R. Yoder Prairie Learning Laboratory. A full-day field trip to Recreation Unlimited adds adventure as students conduct stream exploration studies and apply engineering principles to build survival structures in an outdoor setting. Together, these experiences spark curiosity, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9th-12th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Use the following link to apply: Register for 2026 Horizons of Science: From Microbes to Megastructures

Registration will close May 31st, 2026, or at the earliest date all available spaces are filled. Internet access is required for completing the application form and remitting the camp fee. 

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Whirlpool and Recreation Unlimited

stem camp students working with petri dishes
high schooler learning in a computer lab