What is the Clarkson University Horizons Program?

The Clarkson University Horizons program's mission is to drive genuine and inclusive culture change for middle and high school students from all backgrounds. Our aim is to provide tools to help our participants excel in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) and attend college well prepared to pursue employment or advanced degrees and eventually assume leadership roles in STEAM.

Through fun and challenging hands-on projects, the Horizons curriculum uses an integrated instructional module in mathematics, science and engineering that is supported by the arts and technology. We believe in a holistic approach to education. Additionally, it is important to foster growth and balance in the life of a participant in every course. Thus, the life skills component further enhances instruction as participants build confidence, personal insight, leadership skills and team spirit in an emotionally supported learning environment. 

At Horizons, participants are taught by a diverse staff of educators. Our young guests are mentored by program assistants who are undergraduate or graduate college students who excel in STEAM disciplines. Group sizes are small so that each participant has the opportunity to form a lasting relationship with staff and peers.

Register Now for Horizons 2023!

2023 Horizons Information

Horizons I, II and III will each run both Week 1 and Week 2 - choose one session

Week 1: Sunday, July 9 - Friday, July 14

Week 2: Sunday, July 16 - Friday, July 21

Registration is now open! Acceptances will be made on a rolling basis.

Register Now for Horizons 2023!

Application and Tuition Information

Application Information for 2023 

  • Guidance counselors and teachers will not need to nominate Horizons I students, however registration links will be sent to guidance counselors and teachers to forward to their students.
  • The following materials will be needed for each student:
    • A copy of your grade or progress reports/transcripts: prior year final grade/progress report is required to register. Your current year grade/progress report is optional.
    • Personal essay (required) - One-page (size 12 font, double spaced) essay, discussing that would acceptance into the Horizons Program mean to you?
    • One (1) optional letter of recommendation  

All materials must be uploaded by 11:59 p.m. EST on April 15th, 2023, with the application.

Wait-listed applicants who move to acceptance status will be notified starting soon after the close of registration. Full tuition is required by June 15th (if self-paying). 

As all eligible students will need to register for their preferred program session, if schools intend to pay for a specific student to participate, arrangements must be made in advance. Students will be asked for the contact information of the person that will be paying the tuition fee on their registration. 

If you are self-paying: The payment link will be provided to you in your confirmation email. Tuition payments are due by June 15th.

If schools or BOCES is paying: If schools or BOCES intend to pay for a specific student to participate, arrangements must be made in advance. Students will be asked for the contact information of the person that will be paying the tuition fee on their registration.     

Scholarship Opportunities: We will have a limited number of partial scholarships available. The scholarships are designed to help offset the cost for applicants that cannot afford the entire program cost, and are not able to get funding from their schools, and/or other community organizations. We will work with all applicants to ensure that finances do not limit their opportunity to attend the program.

Register Now for Horizons 2023!

Horizons Program Objectives

The Clarkson University Horizons program believes that the adolescent years are very crucial in a person's development. During this time, young people are investigating their identity, which is often based on the things or people around them and how they interact with them. From this, they tend to formulate “conclusions” about themselves and their career goals as compared to a societal norm. While children from all backgrounds show aptitude in science, engineering, and mathematics, not all choose to pursue careers in these areas. We're hoping that encouragement at this pivotal age may make the difference. 

Therefore, our Horizons Program objectives are to:

  • Help students realize that the knowledge of STEAM is important to their future
  • Build self-esteem to perform and apply their skills so that they can envision themselves in STEM-based fields of study and careers
  • Enhance problem-solving, reasoning, and critical-thinking skills
  • Build confidence to perform and apply skills through interactive, hands-on, cooperative learning experiences in which participants work together to solve problems
  • Develop and enhance oral, written, and presentation skills through discussion of global and cultural issues
  • Promote self-awareness, leadership, and team-building skills

Forms for Admitted Students

If you are accepted into the Horizons Program, the following forms are required before the start of camp.

Code of Conduct   Media Permission and Release Form 

Horizons Program Sample Course Offerings

Below is a list of some of the courses and activities students can participate in within Horizons per program level.

Horizons I
  • Forensic Science
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Wilderness Survival Science
  • Nature Science
  • Personal Enrichment
  • Creative Arts
  • Team Building and Leadership
Horizons II
  • Computer Science (Coding)
  • Mathematics
  • General Engineering​
  • Personal Enrichment​
  • Team-building and Leadership
Horizons III
  • Mock Admission Interviews
  • College 101 (Admissions and Financial Aid)
  • Introduction to Entrepreneurship
  • Resume Workshop
  • Goal Setting and Negotiation Workshops
  • Personal Enrichment
  • Team-building and Leadership 

Eligibility Requirements

Below are the eligibility requirements per Horizons program level.

Horizons I
  • Current 6th through 8th grade student
  • Available to all regardless of gender or gender identity
  • Interest in math and/or science
Horizons II
  • Current 7th through 9th grade student
  • Preferred Qualification: completed Horizons I
  • Available to all regardless of gender or gender identity
  • Interest in math, science and/or engineering
Horizons III
  • Current 9th through 11th grade student
  • Preferred Qualification: completed Horizons I and II OR a similar STEAM-based program
  • Available to all regardless of gender or gender identity

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