John Brown University
2000 W. University St.,
Siloam Springs, AR 72761
479-524-9500
jbuinfo@jbu.edu
What are you looking for?
May 11, 2026
Choose your track and join us for a week of hands-on, immersive learning led by JBU professors. You'll enjoy a college-like experience, including meals, lodging, spiritual formation and evening activities.
For students entering grades 10–12.
Applications open in October.
Arkansas Residents of Benton & Washington County
Other scholarships and discounts are also available.
Explore a field through hands-on, immersive learning. Build, investigate, create, perform and solve problems alongside JBU professors and peers.
Live in a residence hall, eat on campus and spend the week with students who share your curiosity. Track activities fill the day, and evening group activities bring everyone together outside the classroom.
Choose a field you already love or one you want to explore for the first time. Every track combines hands-on, immersive learning with a week of college-like experience on JBU’s campus. Tracks marked "income-based pricing available" qualify for the Benton and Washington County income-based pricing. Track and camp spaces are limited.
Visit job sites and explore how teams plan, estimate and safely manage real construction projects.
Write original fiction and poetry, sharpen your work through peer feedback and learn from published authors before sharing your work in a literary showcase.
Investigate a mock crime scene and connect with people working across law enforcement, courts and corrections.
Learn how engineers design, build and test ideas through hands-on projects involving 3D modeling, robotics, programming, electronics and fabrication tools.
Take on challenging engineering projects involving circuits, programming, mechanics, robotics and 3D printing, culminating in a space-themed robotics competition.
Develop a business idea, learn from local entrepreneurs and practice pitching a plan you could actually launch.
Join a film crew to write, shoot and edit a short narrative film with professional equipment and guidance.
Create promotional campaigns while exploring branding, advertising, social media, design and the strategy behind connecting organizations with the people they want to reach.
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Immerse yourself in the creative performing arts through acting, stage combat, music theory and private lessons as you prepare to perform in a musical theatre showcase.
Practice essential nursing skills through hands-on labs and simulations while learning about patient care, medical equipment and careers in healthcare.
Conduct experiments, observe specimens, tour the cadaver lab and engage with practicing medical professionals as you produce a professional science presentation.
Practice the fundamentals of athletic care, injury prevention and performance alongside experienced trainers.
Build your portfolio through focused drawing and painting with guidance from practicing artists.
Step onto real job sites and learn project planning, cost estimation, and safety management. Tour active construction sites, interact with project managers, and gain hands-on experience with the tools and software that drive modern construction.
Ready to put words on the page that only you can write? In this intensive workshop academy, students will craft original works of short fiction and poetry while living the habits of a working writer: setting a creative schedule, chasing the muse through art museums and bookstore aisles, and sharpening work via honest peer feedback. Work one-on-one with published authors and learn to read the way writers do, studying not just what is said but how it is said. The week culminates in a literary showcase where students present polished original work to family and friends.
For students interested in majors such as English, Creative Writing, Journalism, Integrated Marketing, and Communications.
Explore career paths in criminal justice in exciting and hands-on ways. Be part of a student CSI team and learn about crime scene investigation by interacting with a mock crime scene. Visit a working police station and get your fingerprints taken. Hear from real FBI agents about what it's like to work in the FBI. Visit a jail and learn about working for the department of corrections. Speak with a sitting judge and prosecutor to learn what the criminal justice system is like from their perspectives.
Explore the foundations of engineering through hands-on activities, creative design challenges, and real-world problem solving. This introductory track is designed for students who are new to engineering or who want to build confidence with core tools and concepts before moving into advanced work.
Students will be introduced to 3D modeling, microcontrollers, laser cutting, 3D printing, robotics kits, motor control, and more. Through team-based projects and guided activities, students will learn how engineers think, design, build, test, and improve their ideas. This is the recommended starting point for students who have not previously completed an Engineering Summer Academy or who are newer to engineering design, modeling, robotics, or programming.
Explore the world of engineering through hands-on projects and real-world applications. Students will dive deeper into circuits, programming, strength and mechanics of materials, 3D printing, robotics, and more while working in teams to solve design challenges.
This advanced track is designed for students who are ready for a faster-paced, more challenging engineering experience. Students should either have completed a previous Engineering Summer Academy or be able to demonstrate prior experience through examples of higher-level work in areas such as 3D modeling, robotics, programming, electronics, or related engineering projects. Students who are newer to engineering should begin with the Fundamentals Engineering Track before enrolling in Advanced Engineering. Throughout the program, students will discover how Christian principles integrate with engineering practice as they explore engineering, build relationships, grow spiritually, and have fun. Join us this year for the space-themed robotics competition!
In this hands-on program, you will develop a real business concept you can launch and run over the summer to earn extra income. Work with mentors to refine your idea, conduct market research, and create a compelling business plan. Gain real-world insight through field trips to local NWA businesses and learn directly from entrepreneurs. Practice pitching your ideas and receive valuable feedback from peers and professionals. By the end of the program, you'll have the confidence, experience, and tools to turn your idea into a business you can actually launch.
Over three intense days, you'll work alongside industry professionals to create a short narrative film. One day for writing, one for shooting, and one for editing - experience the complete filmmaking process with professional equipment and guidance. Join a real film crew and learn hands-on what it takes to bring a story from script to screen.
Discover the exciting world of marketing, branding, and promotion through hands-on projects and creative collaboration. In this track, students will learn how businesses, organizations, and ministries communicate their message effectively and connect with the people they want to reach. Students will explore the fundamentals of marketing strategy, branding, advertising, social media content, event promotion, graphic design, and audience engagement. Through real-world projects and team-based activities, students will create promotional campaigns, develop messaging, and learn how to communicate ideas clearly and creatively across multiple platforms. Participants will also gain insight into the many career pathways within marketing and communications while building practical skills in creativity, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As they develop campaigns and creative projects, students will explore how their beliefs can guide ethical communication, thoughtful leadership, and meaningful engagement.
Immerse yourself in the creative performing arts! Explore acting, improvisation and stage combat, take private lessons in voice and piano, sharpen your skills in theory/ear-training classes and perform in a musical theatre showcase.
Step into the world of healthcare and discover what it means to care for others as a nurse. This hands-on track introduces students to the foundations of nursing practice through interactive labs, simulations, and real-world scenarios led by experienced nursing professionals. Students will explore essential nursing skills including vital signs assessment, basic patient care, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology basics, infection control, and emergency response. Through engaging activities, students will practice using medical equipment, learn how to communicate with patients, and experience what a day in the life of a nurse really looks like. Throughout the program, students will discover how Christian principles shape compassionate, ethical healthcare as they explore nursing, build relationships, grow spiritually, and have fun.
Conduct experiments and observe specimens in biology labs, tour the cadaver lab and chemistry lab and engage with practicing medical professionals. Explore Christian perspectives in medicine while learning about various pathways to become a medical professional. Your journey will culminate in a professional scientific presentation. For rising 11th and 12th grade students only.
Through hands-on training, you'll master the fundamentals of sports medicine and athletic care. Learn about injury prevention, rehabilitation, and athletic performance while earning CPR certification. Work alongside experienced trainers to develop practical skills in therapeutic techniques, body composition assessment and nutritional strategy.
Income-based pricing available
Develop your artistic vision through intensive study in drawing and painting. Working with professional artists, you'll learn advanced techniques using diverse media and materials. Build your portfolio with college-level projects while enhancing your artistic perception and technical skills.
Your registration includes:
For students residing in Benton and Washington county
Thanks to generous support from the Walton Family Foundation, JBU is able to offer income-based pricing to students residing in Benton and Washington county Arkansas who enroll in an eligible track. Eligible tracks are indicated in the track list on this webpage.
Eligibility depends on:
Find your annual gross household income in the first column, then read across to your household size. The amount shown is your total Summer Academy payment before any other discount, scholarship or EFA reimbursement.
Income-based pricing applies only when registering for an eligible track as indicated in the track list on this webpage.
| Annual gross household income | 2 people | 3 people | 4 people | 5 people | 6 people | 7 people | 8 people |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 |
| $30,000–$49,999 | $100 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 |
| $50,000–$69,999 | $200 | $100 | $100 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 |
| $70,000–$89,999 | $550 | $350 | $200 | $100 | $100 | $100 | $50 |
| $90,000–$109,999 | $750 | $550 | $350 | $200 | $200 | $100 | $100 |
| $110,000–$129,999 | $750 | $750 | $550 | $350 | $350 | $200 | $200 |
| $130,000–$149,999 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $550 | $350 | $350 | $200 |
| $150,000–$179,999 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $550 | $350 | $350 |
| $180,000–$219,999 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $550 | $550 |
| $220,000 or more | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 | $750 |
Tell us about the student and their preferred track. We collect eligibility information for income-based pricing and other discounts on the application form. If you're seeking income-based pricing or a scholarship, please be prepared to provide your household's annual income.
Applications open in October.
JBU will review your application, confirm track and overall camp availability and notify you of any income-based pricing or discounts for which you qualify.
Complete the registration form and pay a deposit to secure your spot. The deposit is $100. If the student qualifies for an income-based price of $50, the deposit becomes $50.
You will receive an email after you register with a link to pay any remaining balance. You may make partial payments on that balance. Upon each payment, you will receive a receipt. Payment in full is due by May 17, 2026.
Before Summer Academy begins, registered students and families will receive detailed information to help them prepare, including:
Participants are expected for follow the Summer Academy Code of Conduct. Parents/guardians (for minors) or students (18+) must acknowledge and agree to abide by it at registration.
Summer Academy is designed for students entering grades 10–12. Individual tracks may have additional grade or experience requirements.
A non-refundable $100 deposit is required at registration to secure your spot, unless your total cost is less than $100. In that case, your deposit will be your total amount due. You will need to pay the remaining balance by mid-May. The remaining balance is fully refundable if requested by mid-May. After mid-May, no refunds will be issued for the deposit or remaining balance.
Housing, meals, materials, supplies and program activities are included.
Yes, see details above in the Pricing and discounts section.
On-campus housing is available and encouraged unless a student specifically requests an exception; students will be paired with other Summer Academy students in a residence hall.
Your deposit is non-refundable. However, you can receive a refund of the remaining balance if you request it by mid-May. Refunds for the remaining balance will be processed using the same method as your original payment. After mid-May, no refunds will be issued for either the deposit or the remaining balance.
If your Summer Academy track is cancelled for any reason or you are waitlisted for your Summer Academy track, you are eligible for a full refund, including the deposit.
The deadline to register for Summer Academy is mid-May. (The specific date will be updated when registration opens). However, registration for each program will close once it reaches capacity. We encourage you to register as soon as possible to secure your spot in your preferred program!
Summer Academy is a casual event, so wear comfortable, casual clothes like you would at school. Closed-toe shoes may be required for certain lab activities.
The academy will provide airport pick-up and drop-off only from Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA).
Students or groups flying into any other airport, such as Tulsa International Airport (TUL), must arrange their own transportation to and from the academy.
Official pick-up will occur on the Sunday before the event and Friday afternoon after the event concludes. Detailed arrival times and flight information must be submitted in advance via the form that will be emailed to participants.
Summer Academy is a casual event, so wear comfortable, casual clothes like you would at school. Closed-toe shoes may be required for certain lab activities.
Optional items
As spaces become available, JBU Summer Academy staff will move waitlisted registrants off the waitlist in order of priority, based on the date of registration. You will be notified if your registration is moved. If you are not moved off the waitlist by mid-May, JBU Summer Academy staff will reach out to either cancel your waitlist registration or offer you a spot in another track, depending on availability.
If you choose to cancel your waitlist registration, you will receive a full refund (including deposit). If you choose to join another Summer Academy track, your payment will be transferred.
Submit the Summer Academy Information form to receive Summer Academy updates, including a notification when registration opens, as they are available.
For other questions, please contact Sarah Erdman, Director of Summer Academy, at SummerAcademy@jbu.edu.
Summer Academy is a week-long residential program at JBU where high school students explore potential college majors. You can highlight this experience on your resume to demonstrate academic initiative and career exploration.
Sample description:
JBU Summer Academy - [Track Name] Program
June 2025 (1 week)
Participated in intensive hands-on training in [specific track] under university faculty guidance
Developed technical skills through specialized lab work and real-world projects
Collaborated with peers on [specific project/presentation relevant to track]
Gained exposure to career pathways through interactions with industry professionals
Experienced collegiate academic environment through residential program
Absolutely! International students are welcome to apply. Please review our international students information page for important details about registration deadlines, chaperone requirements, travel arrangements and visa documentation.
Yes, our food service does an excellent job supporting students with allergies. All meals are clearly labeled with color-coded allergy icons. Learn more about the labeling system. This is the same meal service we use during the school year, so they are very experienced and well equipped to help students find meals that meet their needs.
You're welcome to! Just know that track content stays fairly consistent from year to year, so much of the material may feel familiar. Some students find value in returning to deepen their understanding of a field they're passionate about — just come with that expectation in mind.
Student safety and well-being are a top priority throughout the week. Students stay in separate male and female residence halls, with two students assigned to each room. Roommates are typically paired within the same track when possible, and students may also request to room with a friend.
Counselors stay on the residence hall floors with students so they are nearby and available for support, supervision, and questions. Students and counselors do not share rooms. In addition, male and female directors stay in the dorms throughout the week, and our Campus Resident Directors are available to assist if a more serious situation or emergency were to arise.
To help create a safe and respectful environment, students are not permitted in rooms or on residence hall floors designated for the opposite gender. Each evening, counselors complete room checks at 10:30 p.m., followed by lights out at 11:00 p.m. Since this is an academic camp, we want students to be well-rested and ready for the next day’s activities.
Student health and safety are very important to us. A registered nurse or trained Health Services staff member will be available to assess illnesses, injuries, and other health needs that may come up during the week.
All medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, must be listed on the Medical Information Form and turned in to the nurse at check-in in their original pharmacy-labeled containers. Students should only bring medications that are necessary for the week. Students will not have direct access to their medications, with the exception of emergency-use inhalers, epinephrine, and diabetic supplies.
Medication is typically distributed at the following times:
Health Services may provide common over-the-counter medications for minor concerns if parent/guardian consent has been given on the Medical Information Form. Vitamins and supplements will only be given if they are required for a medical condition and ordered by a physician.
If a student becomes sick or injured, Health Services staff will evaluate the student and provide care as needed. If further medical care is necessary, parents or emergency contacts will be notified promptly. In the case of a major medical event or hospitalization, parents or guardians should be prepared to travel to be with their student.
Families should also note any food allergies, medical conditions, emergency action plans, mental health concerns, coping strategies, or needed accommodations during registration so our staff can be prepared to support each student well. A JBU Resident Director and licensed counselor will be on call for urgent mental health needs or emergencies.
For complete details, including emergency procedures, medication requirements, allergies, mental health support, and parent responsibilities, please review our full Medical and Mental Health Policy here: [link]
By the end of the week, you may confirm a direction you already had in mind, discover a new possibility or decide that a field is not the right fit. All three are useful as you think about your future.
JBU does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, marital status or military status in the administration of its educational policies, admissions, financial aid, employment, educational programs, or activities.
John Brown University is a leading private Christian university, training students to honor God and serve others since 1919. Arkansas’ top-ranked regional university (U.S. News) and No. 2 private university (The Wall Street Journal), JBU enrolls more than 2,500 students from 34 states and 43 countries in its traditional undergraduate, graduate, online and concurrent education programs. JBU offers over 50 undergraduate majors, with top programs including business, nursing, visual arts, engineering, teacher education, psychology, computer science, construction management, graphic design, family and human services, and engineering. Twelve graduate degrees are available in business, counseling and cybersecurity.
