ArcStart will provide academic preparation, highly individualized academic advising, and the personal Attention of faculty in an intensive yet nurturing environment during the summer. Skill-building workshops will increase the student's ability to understand, evaluate, and communicate ideas. In addition to attending required courses in drawing, model making, and three-dimensional technologies, students will be provided with a broad academic foundation of principles in subject areas considered essential to the study of architecture and design.

Living on the University of Michigan's North Campus, students will experience the collegiate lifestyle and have opportunities to strengthen their academic skills, develop a peer support network, and familiarize themselves with the campus and its resources. Students will benefit greatly from presentations conducted by the Office of Financial Aid and the Office of Admissions on how to prepare for college. The three-week session culminates in an exhibit of students' work and a reception for the participants and their guests.

Admission is limited to 24 students entering their sophomore, junior, or senior years for the 2010-11 academic year. The program cost is $3,000. This covers housing, meals, program fees, supplies, and a weekend field trip to Chicago. It does not cover travel expenses to and from the program, medical expenses, insurance, and personal expenditures. Full and partial scholarships are available to families who demonstrate financial need. Need-based scholarships will be based on the parents'/guardians' 2009 tax return.

Program Date: July 19, 2010 – August 9, 2010

Program Date: July 19, 2010 – August 9, 2010

How to Apply

Use the application form linked below. Applications may also be requested.

There is no application fee. To apply complete the application form; write a 500-word essay explaining your interest in architecture; include an official high school transcript and two letters of recommendation from a counselor or teacher; and submit a portfolio (optional) showing artistic and creative strengths.

We do not require students to have had any formal training in art, architecture, or drafting. However, we do encourage students who would like to demonstrate their artistic or creative capabilities to include a portfolio in their application package. Not submitting a portfolio will not hurt one's chance of being admitted. Portfolios may be submitted in any of the following formats: Physical printouts or files on CD or DVD. Do not send original work, we are unable to return work submitted.

The application must be postmarked by July 6, 2010. We suggest that all application materials arrive to our office in one complete package for faster processing. Applications should be mailed.

Applicants will be notified by e-mail of their admission by July 9, 2010. Admitted students will receive an information packet in the mail that provides enrollment material (i.e., tuition payment procedures, housing information, class schedule, liability, and health forms).

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