2026 Summer Career Academy

The Summer Career Academy introduces participants to the careers of professional architects and interior designers and clarifies the academic study necessary to achieve those career goals. The program offers a broad yet intensive, hands-on career discovery experience and introduces students to many fundamental aspects of designing the built environment.

Taught by faculty from the School of Architecture + Planning, the program exposes students to learning experiences typically encountered in the first year of design school and addresses the question: How do designers think? Participation helps students determine whether architecture or interior design is the right career path and prepares them for application to university-level professional design degree programs.

 

What You Will Do

  • Explore career options in architecture and interior design
  • Develop foundational skills in design, sketching, and model construction
  • Participate in tutorials, discussions, lectures, films, and studio work
  • Visit architecture and interior design offices and active construction sites
  • Learn directly from UT San Antonio Architecture faculty
  • Receive a Certificate of Completion for college applications

Academy Information

  • Dates: June 1 – 12, 2026
  • Time: 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Daily)
  • Location: 9th Floor, One Riverwalk Place, UTSA Downtown Campus
  • Eligibility: High school and college students, and others interested in architecture or interior design. Participants must be in good academic standing and 15 years old by June 1, 2026.
  • Program Fee: $750
    • Includes individual studio workspace, field trips, and all tools and supplies
    • Free sketchbook, pencils, sharpener, eraser, and ruler included
    • Eligible applicants may apply for tuition assistance
  • Snacks provided daily!

Portfolio & Preparation

Discussions focus on preparing a personal statement and portfolio for future university design or architecture applications. The Summer Career Academy is not a formal part of the admissions process.

Note: This program does not offer college credit. Students complete college-level work and receive a Certificate of Completion.

Additional Program Details

  • Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
  • Enrollment limited to 40 students
  • Program format: Classes only (not an overnight camp)
  • Out-of-town participants: Lodging available at the DoubleTree Hotel adjacent to campus.
    Call: (210) 388-0322
  • Applications received after the deadline are accepted on a space-available basis.

Have Questions?

For help applying or more information, contact:

Professor Stephen Temple
stephen.temple@utsa.edu
(210) 458-3023