Quinnipiac University

Pre-College Summer Programs

Innovate with AI: Digital Product Design

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Pre-College Summer Programs

Innovate with AI: Digital Product Design

Ever wanted to create an app or digital product? Step into the future of tech with our Innovate with AI: Digital Product Design program. This hands-on project-based program is designed for high school students who are curious about artificial intelligence and passionate about creative problem-solving. You will learn to blend core design thinking principles with the power of modern AI tools to create innovative digital products.

Program Dates: July 27-31, 2026

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Overview

Working in teams and mentored by industry professionals, you will go beyond just theory and develop a portfolio-ready project from concept to prototype. This program is perfect for aspiring designers, entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts looking to build practical in-demand skills for college and beyond. Besides AI’s technical aspects, topics covered include AI ethics, copyright issues and social impact. On the last day, you will participate and collaborate in a one-day design-a-thon to scope, prototype and present a mini project!

This program is ideal for high school students Interested in how AI is changing fields like design, business and technology as well as creative thinkers eager to turn ideas into tangible products. No prior experience in AI or product design is required, just a strong willingness to learn and experiment.

At the end of this program, you’ll walk away with:
  • An unnderstanding of the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, machine learning and generative AI

  • The ability to apply design thinking methodology to solve real-world problems

  • Strategies to conduct user research and identify opportunities for AI-driven innovation

  • Familiarity with AI tools to rapidly generate and refine design concepts

  • A fully functional digital prototype using industry-standard software and other projects for your portfolio

  • A basis in ethical considerations for designing AI products

Program Dates and Schedule

July 27, 2026 - July 31, 2026

Participation Requirements

Participants must be current high school students. Typically, participants are between the ages of 15 to 18 years of age at the start of the program. 

Equipment and Materials

Quinnipiac University will provide all required materials, including laptops, for students within this program. Students are welcome to bring their own laptops or other devices for use outside of instruction periods or with the approval of their instructor.

Program Costs

Option 1: 1-week overnight program from Sunday to Saturday. Includes full room and board as well as evening and weekend activities: $1,900

Option 2: 1-week on-campus commuter program from Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Includes lunch daily: $1,600

All options include:

  • One week of faculty-designed and delivered programming, administered online or on campus with educational support staff and program materials

  • Technology and software support

  • A Quinnipiac T-shirt

  • A digital badge for use on social media, resumes or portfolios

  • Access to special Quinnipiac Admissions events

How to Register for Summer Programs

Students must declare if they plan to attend for either the residential (overnight) experience or the commuter experience at the time of registration. Register and pay in full by January 15, 2026 to secure $100 off the cost of attendance.

Register and Pay: Residential

Register and Pay: Commuter

 

Minimum Required Deposits

If you are not paying in full at the time of registration, you must submit a non-refundable $250 deposit to reserve your spot for 30 days. Any student who places the non-refundable deposit must pay the full remaining cost of the program within 30 days from the date of deposit to be enrolled in the program. 

Deposit Only: Residential

Deposit Only: Commuter

Payment Methods and Refund/Cancellation Policy

 

Discounts and Financial Aid

Partial financial support may be available for those who indicate the need for financial assistance in their online application. Financial support awards are based on a combination of financial need and academic merit.

We are pleased to offer a discount on all summer camps and experiences to current Quinnipiac employees, Quinnipiac alumni and employees of our corporate partners. Please contact summerprograms@qu.edu to request your discount code.

 

Registration Guide

Having trouble registering? Not sure how to take the next step? Follow this step-by-step guide to finish the process or email us at summerprograms@qu.edu.

Our Program Instructor

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions among prospective students and families regarding our summer programs. If you can't find an answer to your question, please contact us and we'd be happy to chat.

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Accommodations

Quinnipiac University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as an institution of higher education. Students who have a current IEP or 504 plan are encouraged to share any accommodations or modifications they may require in order to access the fundamentals of a QU summer program or camp they plan to attend.

Students requesting disability-based accommodations should indicate this within the application as well as email summerprograms@qu.edu about any and all specific accommodation needs.

 

Rules & Regulations

Read Quinnipiac University’s Summer Camp and Pre-College Program Policies