Think boldly. Design creatively. Innovate globally.
June 15–26, 2026 | Rutgers University, New Jersey
Experience a world-class interdisciplinary summer program at a top U.S. public university, blending business, science, innovation, and hands-on learning for aspiring global leaders.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Design Thinking, Innovation & Human-Centered AI Summer Program brings together students from India, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States in a vibrant global community of creators and innovators. Through interactive workshops, real design challenges, Makerspace prototyping, and AI-supported innovation, students gain the skills and confidence to tackle real-world problems with creativity and insight. No background in design or AI is required—just curiosity and enthusiasm.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
This program is ideal for undergraduate and graduate students from any discipline—including Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences, and beyond.
Not sure if the program is right for you? Download the brochure to learn more.
WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE
Hands-On Design Sessions
Participate in daily workshops where you'll practice empathy mapping, ideation, prototyping, and user testing.
Human-Centered AI in Action
Experiment with AI tools that support creativity, problem framing, and ethical decision-making.
Makerspace Creation Lab
Utilize the Rutgers Makerspace to create physical and digital prototypes, including 3D printing and rapid modeling.
Team-Based Global Collaboration
Work closely with students from different countries and disciplines, gaining new perspectives and cross-cultural insights.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Two-week immersive learning experience at a top U.S. public university
- Emphasis on design thinking, innovation, and Human-Centered AI
- Collaboration with students from multiple countries and academic disciplines
- Access to Rutgers Makerspace for rapid prototyping
- Workshops delivered by top Rutgers faculty and industry professionals
- Cultural and social activities, including a guided trip to New York City
- Certificate of Completion from Rutgers University
- Insight into pathways for future Rutgers graduate programs
- Available in both credit and non-credit formats
- Limited seats available for international participants (15–20 spots)
- Backed by Rutgers MBS, a leader in experiential STEM-business education
LOCATION
Rutgers Science and Engineering Resource Center (SERC)
New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
The Rutgers MBS program emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world innovation. This summer program reflects the same commitment to experiential, interdisciplinary education.
Join us this summer and return home with new skills, global friendships, and a portfolio-ready innovation project you can be proud of.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This immersive two-week summer experience at Rutgers University is designed for curious, ambitious students who want to learn how to solve real-world problems using design thinking, innovation, and ethical, human-centered AI. Students collaborate in interdisciplinary teams, build hands-on projects, and gain skills that are directly applicable to careers in technology, business, design, and beyond.
The program runs from June 15 to June 26, 2026, as a full-time, in-person experience.
All sessions take place at the Rutgers Science and Engineering Resource Center (SERC) in New Brunswick, New Jersey, a state-of-the-art academic and innovation hub. The Rutgers Makerspace building will be used for prototyping.
This program is ideal for undergraduate and graduate students from any discipline—including business, engineering, computer science, life sciences, design, and social sciences. No prior experience in design or AI is required. We welcome students who are curious, creative, and eager to learn.
Not at all. The program is intentionally designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds. Foundational concepts are introduced step by step, making the experience accessible and engaging for beginners while still challenging for advanced learners.
Students will:
- Learn design thinking and innovation frameworks used by leading organizations
- Conduct real user research and translate insights into solutions
- Explore how AI can enhance creativity and decision-making
- Build portfolio-ready projects
- Strengthen collaboration, communication, and leadership skills
- Earn a Rutgers University Certificate of Completion
Students work in teams on real-world design challenges, moving through research, ideation, prototyping, and testing. The final outcome is a polished project that students can proudly showcase in their academic or professional portfolios.
Yes. The program is available in both credit (3 credits) and non-credit formats. Credits may be stacked toward a Rutgers degree, and for international students, credits can count toward a Rutgers MBS degree. For domestic university students outside of Rutgers University, this course can count as continuing education credit.
The $3,000 tuition includes:
- On-campus housing
- Breakfast and lunch
- Prototyping materials and learning resources
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Cultural and social activities, including trips to New York City and Princeton
Air travel to New Jersey and dinner meals* are not included.
*Dinner meals are only available for arrival and departure dates.
Participants stay at Silvers Apartments, a modern Rutgers residential facility located conveniently near program activities.
The program is intentionally small and selective (approximately 15–20 students) to ensure personalized instruction, meaningful collaboration, and strong mentorship.
Students learn from Rutgers faculty and industry practitioners with expertise in design, AI, communication, cybersecurity, leadership, and innovation, along with invited guest speakers from industry.
Yes! In addition to academic learning, students enjoy guided cultural excursions, social events, and networking opportunities that foster global perspectives and lifelong connections.
Who can I contact for more information?
For questions or additional details, please contact Emma Leary at emma.leary@rutgers.edu.
Rutgers University • Summer 2026
Questions? Contact Emma Leary at emma.leary@rutgers.edu