Design Camp 2026 - Lawrence, KS

Participant's First Name *

Participant's Preferred Name

Participant's Last Name *

Participant's Gender Identity (Please note that the residence hall where campers will stay uses community-style bathrooms. If you would like to request accommodations related to housing, please indicate your accommodation needs below.)

Male

Female

My participant requires unique housing accommodations. *

Yes

No

Please describe the housing accommodations your participant requires (ex: single room). *

Participant's Birthdate *

Participant's Grade Level (Fall 2026) *

Senior

Junior

Sophomore

Freshman

Participant's High School *

Participant's Email Address *

Parent/Guardian First Name *

Parent/Guardian Last Name *

Relationship to Participant *

Parent/Guardian Email Address *

Parent/Guardian Phone Number *

Additional Emergency Contact Name

Additional Emergency Contact Email

Additional Emergency Contact Phone

Participant Mailing Address *

Country

Street

City

Region

Postal Code

Morning Workshop Options

Designing with VR & AI: From User Empathy to Prototyping: In this workshop students will learn more about how immersive technologies such as VR and AI work and how architects and designers utilize them throughout different phases of design. Students will explore a wide range of applications in VR in order to ideate and solve a design problem. Students will be asked to design a bus shelter, for which they will use VR systems to explore ideas. And finally, students get to present their work using VR.
Minecraft & Building the Future of Cities: This workshop invites students to explore how design, architecture, and community planning come together in meaningful ways. Through guided activities, mini-lectures, and collaborative challenges, participants will use Minecraft to design individual structures, sustainable buildings, public spaces, and shared infrastructure. Each day focuses on a different aspect of the design process, from basic building skills and sustainable design strategies to community spaces and connectivity, culminating in a fully integrated virtual village.
Brand Identity Lab: Discover how the world’s most iconic brands tell their stories, from historic logos to the latest visual trends. You’ll learn the core principles of brand strategy and design through hands-on activities and creative exploration. By the end of the week, you will have designed a custom personal brand and logo to showcase your unique style in your future design portfolio.

Morning Workshop First Choice *

Designing with VR & AI: From User Empathy to Prototyping

Minecraft & Building the Future of Cities

Brand Identity Lab

Morning Workshop Second Choice *

Designing with VR & AI: From User Empathy to Prototyping

Minecraft & Building the Future of Cities

Brand Identity Lab

Morning Workshop Third Choice *

Designing with VR & AI: From User Empathy to Prototyping

Minecraft & Building the Future of Cities

Brand Identity Lab

Afternoon Workshop Options

Introduction to the Principles of Animation: This workshop offers high school students a concise, instructor-led introduction to the foundational principles of animation. Over a one week session, participants will study and apply the twelve core principles, using industry-standard best practices. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice: students will storyboard, keyframe, and render a short animation that demonstrates their understanding of these concepts. By the end of the workshop, each participant will have a polished clip and a concise reference guide to support further exploration.
From Brick to Box: Storytelling, Design, and Instruction Through LEGO: This workshop introduces students to the fundamentals of architectural and design thinking, visual storytelling, and graphic communication through the familiar and playful medium of LEGO. Students imagine a simple object or structure and develop a short narrative about its purpose, setting, and user, then bring that idea to life with a physical LEGO prototype that balances creativity and buildability. The course shifts into visual communication, exploring how three-dimensional designs become clear, engaging graphics; students create step-by-step illustrated guides and design a full-size cardboard kit box using trace paper, markers, colored pencils, and poster board. By the end of the week, each student leaves with a complete, self-designed LEGO kit model, instruction manual, and packaging that showcases their creative process and design thinking in a polished, tangible format.
Designing a Food Discovery Experience for FIFA Fans in Kansas City: As Kansas City hosts FIFA World Cup matches, thousands of visitors will explore the city for the first time. In this interactive workshop, students work as UX designers to create a digital food discovery experience for World Cup fans. Using sketching, storyboarding, and prototyping, students learn core UX principles and design a solution to help fans navigate KC’s food culture. No prior design or technical experience is required.

Afternoon Workshop First Choice *
UPDATE: Please note that "From Brick to Box" is full.

Introduction to Principles of Animation

From Brick to Box: Storytelling, Design, and Instruction Through LEGO

Designing a Food Discovery Experience for FIFA Fans in Kansas City

Afternoon Workshop Second Choice *

Introduction to Principles of Animation

From Brick to Box: Storytelling, Design, and Instruction Through LEGO

Designing a Food Discovery Experience for FIFA Fans in Kansas City

Afternoon Workshop Third Choice *

Introduction to Principles of Animation

From Brick to Box: Storytelling, Design, and Instruction Through LEGO

Designing a Food Discovery Experience for FIFA Fans in Kansas City

Accommodations & Restrictions

Does the participant have any physical, dietary, or medical restrictions for which special accommodations should be made? *

Yes

No

Please indicate what restrictions or accommodations your participant may need during their stay. *

Participant Guidelines and Expectations *

Camp Activities: Participants are required to attend and participate in all camp workshops, studios and activities. In addition, all workshops, studios, and activities will take place under the supervision of camp personnel. Full participation is the only way a participant can gain real value from the camp.
Mobile Device/Internet Usage: Program participants will refrain from using electronic devices (mobile phones, tablets, computers, etc.) during instructional periods unless authorized by program staff. Program participants should not abuse internet privileges. Attempting to access unauthorized sites is strictly prohibited.
Leaving Campus: Program participants are to remain on campus for the duration of the program unless program activities require otherwise. If a participant needs to leave campus for any reason, the Program Directors must receive prior written permission from the parent or guardian and grant specific information.
Use of Alcohol, Tobacco, and/or Other Illegal Substance: The University of Kansas prohibit the use of alcohol and other illegal substances. Program participants may not possess, use, distribute, or sell alcoholic beverages, drugs, firearms, weapon s or fireworks. In accordance with state law, smoking is prohibited by anyone under the age of 18. Smoking is not permitted in any buildings on the University of Kansas campus. Any camper caught with any such items will immediately be reported to campus police and sent home from the camp.
Medical: Participants shall handle any arrangements for the use of prescription medications and/or procedures (i.e. allergy pills, insulin injections, etc.) directly through Watkins Health Services (WHS). KU Design Camp personnel cannot and shall not administer any medications to participants (including ibuprofen or any other over-the-counter medicine). Participants shall not be in possession of, or under the influence of, a controlled substance except as administered by WHS or by a private physician. WHS does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Please visit studenthealth.ku.edu/campers to learn more about the healthcare services for campers at WHS.
Residence Hall: Program participants will abide by nightly curfew and “lights out” announcements from the Program Directors and Camp Staff. Participants must be in their own room at lights out and remain there until morning. All furniture must remain unchanged and kept in place. Coed visitation in KU Housing is permitted in common areas only. The only people permitted in rooms are program staff, members of the participant’s immediate family, the participant’s roommate/s and other program participants of the same gender. Program participants should keep their rooms locked at all times even if leaving for only a few minutes. The University of Kansas, nor program staff is responsible for lost or stolen items. Leave excess money and valuables at home. Valuables, including jewelry, iPads/tablets, personal laptops, cell phones, etc. may be brought, but only at participant’s own risk.
Vandalism: Program participants found tampering with any fire equipment (fir e alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, etc.) will be dismissed from the program immediately. Participants may not interfere with any security system or tamper with locks in buildings, other participant rooms and other areas. Vandalism and pranks will not be permitted. Any damages caused to university property (classrooms, labs, housing, common areas, etc.) will be charged to the responsible party. Replacement cost will be charged to anyone who removes or damages university property.
Dismissal: Participants shall follow all procedures as outlined in this document and must abide by rules and guidelines set by the program instructors for each activity and facility in use. If at any time during the camp a camp staff member determines that the behavior of the participant creates a safety hazard, is not in accordance with the rules and/ or is a disturbance to other campers, the camper will immediately be sent the home from the camp.
Cancellation and Refund Policy: The program registration fee covers materials, studio supplies, lodging in a KU residence hall, and meals for the participant. A full refund of registration fees, less the $150 deposit, will be given if requested in writing and received by May 8, 2026. No refunds will be granted after May 8. Cancellation requests should be sent to arcd@ku.edu. KU School of Architecture & Design reserves the right to cancel the KU Design Camp and return all fees in the event of insufficient registration. The liability of the University of Kansas is limited to the reg istration fee. KU will not be responsible for any losses incurred by registrants, including but not limited to airline cancellation charges or hotel deposits.
Consent to Participate/Release of Liability: We/I understand that participants will be instructed on proper procedures and use of studio equipment and will be expected to follow proper procedures. We/I have read the requirements of participating in the program and give our/my consent to have the participant engage in the activities of the program. In consideration of the University of Kansas allowing participants’ attendance in the program, we/I release the University of Kansas and its employees from any and all claims of injury, damage or liability resulting from participation in camp activities.

Participant Guidelines and Expectations *

Camp Activities: Participants are required to attend and participate in all camp workshops, studios and activities. In addition, all workshops, studios, and activities will take place under the supervision of camp personnel. Full participation is the only way a participant can gain real value from the camp.
Mobile Device/Internet Usage: Program participants will refrain from using electronic devices (mobile phones, tablets, computers, etc.) during instructional periods unless authorized by program staff. Program participants should not abuse internet privileges. Attempting to access unauthorized sites is strictly prohibited.
Leaving Campus: Program participants are to remain on campus for the duration of the program unless program activities require otherwise. If a participant needs to leave campus for any reason, the Program Directors must receive prior written permission from the parent or guardian and grant specific information.
Use of Alcohol, Tobacco, and/or Other Illegal Substance: The University of Kansas prohibit the use of alcohol and other illegal substances. Program participants may not possess, use, distribute, or sell alcoholic beverages, drugs, firearms, weapon s or fireworks. In accordance with state law, smoking is prohibited by anyone under the age of 18. Smoking is not permitted in any buildings on the University of Kansas campus. Any camper caught with any such items will immediately be reported to campus police and sent home from the camp.
Medical: Participants shall handle any arrangements for the use of prescription medications and/or procedures (i.e. allergy pills, insulin injections, etc.) directly through Watkins Health Services (WHS). KU Design Camp personnel cannot and shall not administer any medications to participants (including ibuprofen or any other over-the-counter medicine). Participants shall not be in possession of, or under the influence of, a controlled substance except as administered by WHS or by a private physician. WHS does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Please visit studenthealth.ku.edu/campers to learn more about the healthcare services for campers at WHS.
Residence Hall: Program participants will abide by nightly curfew and “lights out” announcements from the Program Directors and Camp Staff. Participants must be in their own room at lights out and remain there until morning. All furniture must remain unchanged and kept in place. Coed visitation in KU Housing is permitted in common areas only. The only people permitted in rooms are program staff, members of the participant’s immediate family, the participant’s roommate/s and other program participants of the same gender. Program participants should keep their rooms locked at all times even if leaving for only a few minutes. The University of Kansas, nor program staff is responsible for lost or stolen items. Leave excess money and valuables at home. Valuables, including jewelry, iPads/tablets, personal laptops, cell phones, etc. may be brought, but only at participant’s own risk.
Vandalism: Program participants found tampering with any fire equipment (fir e alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, etc.) will be dismissed from the program immediately. Participants may not interfere with any security system or tamper with locks in buildings, other participant rooms and other areas. Vandalism and pranks will not be permitted. Any damages caused to university property (classrooms, labs, housing, common areas, etc.) will be charged to the responsible party. Replacement cost will be charged to anyone who removes or damages university property.
Dismissal: Participants shall follow all procedures as outlined in this document and must abide by rules and guidelines set by the program instructors for each activity and facility in use. If at any time during the camp a camp staff member determines that the behavior of the participant creates a safety hazard, is not in accordance with the rules and/ or is a disturbance to other campers, the camper will immediately be sent the home from the camp.
Cancellation and Refund Policy: The program registration fee covers materials, studio supplies, lodging in a KU residence hall, and meals for the participant. A full refund of registration fees, less the $150 deposit, will be given if requested in writing and received by May 8, 2026. No refunds will be granted after May 8. Cancellation requests should be sent to arcd@ku.edu. KU School of Architecture & Design reserves the right to cancel the KU Design Camp and return all fees in the event of insufficient registration. The liability of the University of Kansas is limited to the reg istration fee. KU will not be responsible for any losses incurred by registrants, including but not limited to airline cancellation charges or hotel deposits.
Consent to Participate/Release of Liability: We/I understand that participants will be instructed on proper procedures and use of studio equipment and will be expected to follow proper procedures. We/I have read the requirements of participating in the program and give our/my consent to have the participant engage in the activities of the program. In consideration of the University of Kansas allowing participants’ attendance in the program, we/I release the University of Kansas and its employees from any and all claims of injury, damage or liability resulting from participation in camp activities.

I have read and agree to the Participant Guidelines.

Participant Code of Conduct *

The University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design is dedicated to providing an outstanding summer camp program. To accomplish this goal, campers are expected to behave appropriately and promote a safe, fun, and healthy environment through productive participation.
As a camper, I will:
RESPECT

Be respectful, cooperative and will contribute positively to the experience of fellow campers.
Be careful and considerate that my actions will not hurt another camper’s feelings or hurt them physically, either intentionally or accidentally.
Show respect to the camp staff and cooperate fully with their instructions.
Always follow directions at all times.
Respect the rights and beliefs of others and treat others with courtesy and consideration.
Respect the property of others.

PERSONAL SPACE AND PROPERTY

Be respectful of all camp property and equipment/supplies.
Never mark, deface or destroy camp or personal property or nature.

BEHAVIOR

Conduct myself responsibly. I understand that horseplay, inappropriate touching, unwelcome teasing/bullying or other unkind behaviors are not allowed and will not be tolerated.
Communicate in an appropriate manner, which means I will not use foul language or gestures, harsh words or raise my voice.
Refrain from deliberately causing bodily harm to the campers or staff. I understand that pushing, kicking, hitting or fighting are not acceptable behavior and will not be tolerate d and will be grounds for suspension/dismissal from the camp program.

SAFETY

Campers will not leave camp activities or area without permission or staff supervision.
Campers need to pay attention to their surroundings and use care in all activities.
Campers will adhere to all safety rules and regulations given for each activity he/she participates in while at camp.
Weapons, look-alike weapons, or objects that may be used to threaten, intimidate, or harm others or to damage property may not be brought to camp.

GENERAL

Campers are expected to wear appropriate clothing to camp each day.
Campers must inform the camp staff if they are experiencing a problem with another camper or other issues. If the staff is not informed about a problem, they cannot stop the problem or assist the camper.
Campers are encouraged to participate in all activities to the best of their ability.
We expect all campers to have fun, but not at the expense of others.

Violation of the Code of Conduct can be grounds for automatic suspension/dismissal. Refunds are not given when a camper is dismissed from a camp program.

Participant Code of Conduct *

The University of Kansas School of Architecture & Design is dedicated to providing an outstanding summer camp program. To accomplish this goal, campers are expected to behave appropriately and promote a safe, fun, and healthy environment through productive participation.
As a camper, I will:
RESPECT

Be respectful, cooperative and will contribute positively to the experience of fellow campers.
Be careful and considerate that my actions will not hurt another camper’s feelings or hurt them physically, either intentionally or accidentally.
Show respect to the camp staff and cooperate fully with their instructions.
Always follow directions at all times.
Respect the rights and beliefs of others and treat others with courtesy and consideration.
Respect the property of others.

PERSONAL SPACE AND PROPERTY

Be respectful of all camp property and equipment/supplies.
Never mark, deface or destroy camp or personal property or nature.

BEHAVIOR

Conduct myself responsibly. I understand that horseplay, inappropriate touching, unwelcome teasing/bullying or other unkind behaviors are not allowed and will not be tolerated.
Communicate in an appropriate manner, which means I will not use foul language or gestures, harsh words or raise my voice.
Refrain from deliberately causing bodily harm to the campers or staff. I understand that pushing, kicking, hitting or fighting are not acceptable behavior and will not be tolerate d and will be grounds for suspension/dismissal from the camp program.

SAFETY

Campers will not leave camp activities or area without permission or staff supervision.
Campers need to pay attention to their surroundings and use care in all activities.
Campers will adhere to all safety rules and regulations given for each activity he/she participates in while at camp.
Weapons, look-alike weapons, or objects that may be used to threaten, intimidate, or harm others or to damage property may not be brought to camp.

GENERAL

Campers are expected to wear appropriate clothing to camp each day.
Campers must inform the camp staff if they are experiencing a problem with another camper or other issues. If the staff is not informed about a problem, they cannot stop the problem or assist the camper.
Campers are encouraged to participate in all activities to the best of their ability.
We expect all campers to have fun, but not at the expense of others.

Violation of the Code of Conduct can be grounds for automatic suspension/dismissal. Refunds are not given when a camper is dismissed from a camp program.

I have read and agree to the Participant Code of Conduct.

How did you hear about Design Camp?

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