Camp ARCH
Imagine spending a week immersed in the world of architecture, construction science or landscape architecture and urban planning as a Texas A&M College of Architecture student at Camp ARCH. You’ll attend stimulating classes led by renowned faculty, participate in hands-on design projects, and explore the vibrant campus of Aggieland. This unique summer program, designed for high-achieving high school students, offers a chance to connect with industry professionals, forge lasting friendships with fellow campers, and discover the exciting resources and opportunities available to future architects. If you’re ready to turn your passion for design into a reality, Camp ARCH is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Camp Course of Studies Options
During your time at Camp ARCH, you will participate in one area of focus. Your focus area enrollment is based on your program preference and course availability. You will choose one of the following:
Architecture
Prepare for your future in the architecture session. This class offers a unique opportunity to experience the design studio environment, learn about architectural thought, and gain familiarity with the tools and methods used by first-year students in the College of Architecture.
Construction Science
The construction science session offers an immersive introduction to the field of construction science. Participants will explore various aspects of construction management, including teamwork, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) principles, estimating, scheduling, plan reading, technology, and safety.
Landscape Architecture
The Landscape Architecture class offers a unique opportunity to experience the dynamic world of landscape architecture. Mirroring professional design studios, this course fosters individual creativity within a collaborative environment. You’ll learn about the vital role these fields play in society while developing essential skills in design, visualization, and data analysis.
Urban Planning
The Urban Planning track at Camp ARCH offers a unique opportunity for high school students to explore the exciting world of city planning. Through engaging activities like site analysis, design workshops, and presentations, campers learn about the challenges and opportunities facing our communities.
This immersive experience provides a valuable glimpse into the field of urban planning and helps students develop essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Camp Details
Camp ARCH is for incoming 10th, 11th and 12th-grade students. Students graduating in Spring 2025 are ineligible to attend this program.
2025 Camp Dates: July 7 – July 12, 2025
Camp ARCH costs $1,500. This price includes:
- Three meals a day and snacks
- Dormitory accommodations
- Social activities
- Souvenir items
- Class supplies
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 summer session are now closed.
1. Fill out the application
The 2025 application is now closed. Please sign up for Aggiebound for updates on Camp ARCH 2025.
Start your Camp ARCH application today. In order to be considered for Camp ARCH, you will need to complete the entire application, including:
- Application form
- Copy of official high school transcript
- Essay
- Recommendation letter
- Résumé (optional)
- Scholarship essay (optional)
A limited number of scholarships will be available to students with financial need. In order to be considered for the scholarship, you will need to complete the scholarship essay located in the application.
Essay
Please provide an essay explaining why you would like to attend Texas A&M University, what your aspirations are, and why Camp ARCH would be beneficial to you. Essays should be without grammar or spelling errors and extra points will be added for creativity and making it fun to read. This is a somewhat free-form essay, so use your imagination with pictures, diagrams, or words to help us get to know who you really are. The essay’s length should be no more than 500 words.
Scholarship Essay (optional)
On a separate page, please provide an essay explaining your need for financial assistance. Include any relevant information such as family income, whether you are a first-generation college student, the number of household dependents, or anything that you wish the scholarship committee to be aware of. This essay should be no longer than 500 words. These scholarships will be awarded based on need.
Letter of Recommendation
Your letter of recommendation should be coming from a teacher, counselor, or professional mentor. This letter of recommendation should highlight your academic and personal achievements and how you exemplify one or more of the Aggie Core Values (Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, or Selfless Service).
Only one letter of recommendation is required. Any additional letters will not be considered.
2. Submit your application before the deadline
The application is now closed. The deadline was March 1, 2025 by 11:59 p.m. Please sign up for Aggiebound for updates on Camp ARCH 2025.
3. Receive a final decision
A final decision regarding your participation in the camp should be emailed to you by the end of May. Participants are selected to attend Camp ARCH based on their entire application, including their personal statement, letter of recommendation, high school academic achievement, interest in attending Texas A&M, and intent to major in a program in the College of Architecture. SAT/ACT scores are not a factor considered for admission to Camp ARCH. Decisions are solely based on the contents of the application. Admission to Camp ARCH is not a reflection of admission to Texas A&M University and the College of Architecture.
Camp Counselors
Camp counselors facilitate activities, engage with students, and make Camp ARCH as enjoyable as possible. We invite all College of Architecture students in good standing with the university to submit a counselor application to be considered. The application includes:
- General application form
- Essay
- Interview
A counselor’s role includes:
- Welcoming each student to Texas A&M University
- Providing each student with a wonderful experience
- Ensuring each student is accounted for and is engaged in every project
- Staying overnight in the dorms throughout the week
- Being respectful to the professors/professionals in and out of the studio
- Holding other counselors/students accountable
- Showing up on time to each event
As a counselor, you will be compensated for your involvement in Camp ARCH and your meals and housing will be provided.
Contact
If you have any questions regarding Camp ARCH, please email us at camparch@tamu.edu.