Youngstown State University announces return of Summer Honors Institute for 2026

Youngstown State University announces the return of the Summer Honors Institute, a hands-on academic experience for motivated high school students, hosted by the Sokolov Honors College from July 20–23, 2026, on the YSU campus.

The Summer Honors Institute invites students entering grades 9, 10 or 11 in the 2026–27 school year to explore exciting topics across a range of disciplines in an active, collaborative learning environment. Developed and taught by YSU faculty, these interactive courses offer opportunities to delve into subjects students might not encounter in their regular school curriculum.

“SHI provides high school students with an opportunity to learn alongside academically motivated peers while being taught by university faculty on the YSU campus,” said Amy Cossentino, associate provost and dean of the Sokolov Honors College and Cliffe College of Creative Arts. “The overall experience enriches the students both academically and personally.”

Participants will choose two courses for the week, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, from a rich selection of academically stimulating topics. The Summer Honors Institute is designed to inspire curiosity, foster academic exploration and provide students with a taste of college-level learning in an engaging, supportive setting.

“Introducing students to content not available in high school through experiential learning, building a network of friendships and mentors, and gaining a firsthand, deeper understanding of college are just some of the benefits,” Cossentino said. SHI helps young scholars build confidence, connect with faculty and discover new academic passions.

Program details:

• Dates: July 20–23, 2026
• Eligibility: Students entering grades 9–11 in 2026–27
• Tuition: $50 per student (includes lunch each day)
• Format: Morning and afternoon sessions with hands-on, engaging classes
• Final presentation: Families are invited to attend student presentations on the final day

Morning Courses:

• Move Smarter, Not Harder: How the Body Really Works — Explore body mechanics and movement strategies.
• Inside the Institute: Journalism and Storytelling in Practice — Document SHI while exploring journalistic principles.
• Summer Honors Choir — Build music and teamwork skills culminating in a performance.
• Additive Manufacturing — FDM (3D Printing) — Learn 3D printing basics, design and operation.

Afternoon courses:

• Acting for Everyone — Building confidence, communication and performance skills.
• Creative Publication Design for Beginners — Fundamentals of layout, typography and visual storytelling.
• Tabletop RPG in a Week — Game design fundamentals and collaborative play-testing.
• Additive Manufacturing — FDM (3D Printing) — Same hands-on learning as the morning session, offered to a different group of students.

Students interested in applying can visit the Summer Honors Institute page on the YSU Sokolov Honors College website for details on courses, preferences and application instructions.