Please select all the camps you want your child to attend:

In this Black Rocket classic, you will go well beyond the limitations of the traditional 2D game design classes and create an immersive 3D world. Students will learn the physics behind 3D games, explore beginner event scripting, level design, controlling the flow of gameplay, and storytelling. Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Projects are only compatible with Windows devices. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. 

In this camp you’ll learn a practical and realistic self-defense system that teaches you how to prevent, deal with, and overcome all kinds of situations. You’ll prepare in the subjects of self-defense, self-protection, and environmental awareness, learning the skills necessary to defend yourself through unique and comprehensive teaching methods that are both fun and competitive. You’ll learn proper punching, kicking, falling, and ground defense techniques. Realistic scenarios are always emphasized in training and are an important part of the curriculum. Note: Please wear tennis shoes and bring a water bottle, boxing gloves, and a towel to class. 

In this Black Rocket classic, you will go well beyond the limitations of the traditional 2D game design classes and create an immersive 3D world. Students will learn the physics behind 3D games, explore beginner event scripting, level design, controlling the flow of gameplay, and storytelling. Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Projects are only compatible with Windows devices. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. 

In this camp you’ll learn a practical and realistic self-defense system that teaches you how to prevent, deal with, and overcome all kinds of situations. You’ll prepare in the subjects of self-defense, self-protection, and environmental awareness, learning the skills necessary to defend yourself through unique and comprehensive teaching methods that are both fun and competitive. You’ll learn proper punching, kicking, falling, and ground defense techniques. Realistic scenarios are always emphasized in training and are an important part of the curriculum. Note: Please wear tennis shoes and bring a water bottle, boxing gloves, and a towel to class. 

Here is an exciting opportunity to learn about a wide range of topics related to veterinary medicine, including routine animal healthcare and how to properly perform non-invasive procedures. You’ll also explore pathways to a career in veterinary medicine. Note: You must wear closed-toe shoes. 

Take the next step beyond simply “playing” Minecraft and become a true Redstone engineer. Expand your Redstone knowledge by constructing your own carnival with a variety of mini-games, roller coasters, and attractions powered by Redstone. Learn how to use Command and Structure blocks to incorporate them into your builds. Activate your skills and take your Minecraft structures to the next level.

Dive into an exciting summer of creativity and innovation at our Junior Robotics Camp! This camp combines fun and learning as kids explore the world of robotics. Participants will build and program with the engaging LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Kit. Campers will tackle the FIRST® LEGO League Explore Challenge, sparking their curiosity and teamwork skills. From problem-solving to hands-on building, this camp is a perfect blend of fun, discovery, and STEM learning. No prior experience required—just bring your imagination and enthusiasm!

In this engaging camp, you’ll participate in activities that support your interest in and learning of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Each day, you’ll be presented with different tasks that pose real-world problem-solving situations. And as you work through these tasks, guided by your peers and instructor, you’ll gain a better understanding of STEM content and processes.

Are you ready to take your game design skills to another level? With Unity, an industry-grade design software, aspiring game designers will learn level editing, 3D modeling, impactful gameplay creation, as well as how to utilize scripts and variables. Student-created games will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family.  

Students will unleash their creativity and explore STEM fundamentals using LEGOS. Topics we’ll cover include: 1) Simple Machines: Learn about gears, levers, and pulleys; 2) Architecture: Build strong and creative structures; 3) Robotics: Program LEGO robots to tackle fun challenges; and 4) Maker Space: Design and tinker in a creative, open environment. Ideal for budding engineers, this camp inspires problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation.

If you love to draw and want to develop your skills, join us and discover fun new ways to create the art you desire! We’ll explore a wide variety of drawing materials, concepts, and techniques, and you’ll learn to draw both realistically and creatively from observation. 

Build game apps you can play everywhere and anywhere using a web-based development tool. Learn in-demand skills like programming events and coding controls for a touch screen or keyboard and mouse. Finish by personalizing levels and characters with your own design. Now you are ready to upload your games to the Black Rocket cloud arcade and play on any mobile device or computer. Games can easily be shared with friends and family!

This is a hands on camp designed to introduce students to Forensic Anthropology. The week consists of mini lectures with an emphasis on applying the demonstrated techniques in a mock case. This gives the students a chance to step into the shoes of a forensic anthropologist and gain an interest and love for the career.

Build game apps you can play everywhere and anywhere using a web-based development tool. Learn in-demand skills like programming events and coding controls for a touch screen or keyboard and mouse. Finish by personalizing levels and characters with your own design. Now you are ready to upload your games to the Black Rocket cloud arcade and play on any mobile device or computer. Games can easily be shared with friends and family!

In this introductory camp, you’ll design, build, and program your own LEGO® SPIKE™ Prime robot to compete in exciting sumo-style battles. Your mission? Challenge opponents and use your robot’s power and strategy to push your opponents out of the ring, earning the ultimate title of “yokozuna” (grand champion)! You’ll explore essential programming techniques, learn how to integrate sensors for smarter robot behavior, and unleash your creativity to design a robot that dominates the competition. Perfect for young innovators, this camp blends hands-on robotics, problem-solving, and friendly competition for an unforgettable experience.

Butterflies, bees, dung beetles, and more–come explore the wild world of bugs! Did you know that insects play a crucial and often overlooked role in the environment? Join us as we trap, identify, and explore the wide array of insects and other invertebrates in different habitats in Knoxville. You’ll learn all about the secret world of insects, from their morphology to the role they play in ecosystems. By the end of this camp, you’ll be able to tell your friends what the creepy crawly in their yard is, and you’ll have a greater appreciation for the amazing creatures you share the world with. Note: On Thursday, we’ll meet at  Ijams Nature Center.

Learn how to use a variety of traditional and experimental water-based painting techniques in this exciting camp! You’ll develop your skill set and create amazing works of art based around unique concepts or ideas.

Explore the world of artificial intelligence to design fully interactive games and experiences using cutting-edge technology. This program combines artificial intelligence with coding to create an unforgettable learning adventure. Students will construct machine learning models that use image and text recognition within block-based coding software to build projects

Delve into the world of the culinary arts and learn how to become a real chef! In this camp you’ll have the rare opportunity to work in a commercial kitchen and be trained by an American Culinary Federation Certified Executive Chef. Each day you’ll prepare and consume a delicious gourmet meal and learn a new set of skills to take home with you. You’ll learn about food safety and sanitation skills, knife precision and safety, stock techniques, cheese making, homemade sauces and savory soups. You’ll also learn how to build flavor profiles, be creative with prepared foods, reduce fats in a receipt and build healthy eating habits. Note: You’ll need to wear a white shirt, long black pants, closed-t shoes, and a hat or hair restraint; only single band rings on fingers are permitted by the instructor.

This course will discuss various organizations that practice conservation, how they do it, and how everyone can get involved in saving the planet! It will include hands on exercises, putting campers in the shoes of conservationists putting together conservation plans.

Explore the world of artificial intelligence to design fully interactive games and experiences using cutting-edge technology. This program combines artificial intelligence with coding to create an unforgettable learning adventure. Students will construct machine learning models that use image and text recognition within block-based coding software to build projects

Unleash your inner architect in our LEGO® Architecture Camp, where creativity meets engineering! Designed for students in grades 4-8, this camp invites aspiring builders to explore the art and science of architecture through hands-on LEGO® projects. Campers will recreate famous landmarks, design their own structures, and learn architectural principles such as scale, balance, and structural integrity. Participants will delve into design challenges, discover architectural styles, and develop problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Students will stretch their imaginations and discover new creative writing techniques in this camp, part of the Summer Writing Academies offered by UT's Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center. Participants will learn about storytelling and the craft of writing while creating their own short fiction, poetry, and personal memoir. They will receive kind and helpful feedback from experienced writers during this week of fun, interactive sessions.

Unlock the world of photography with our dynamic camp designed for both smartphone and DSLR enthusiasts. Dive into the art of capturing stunning images and master the essentials of editing to bring your vision to life. Discover exciting career paths and internship opportunities that await in the vibrant field of photography. Whether you’re a budding photographer or looking to refine your skills, this camp is your gateway to endless creative possibilities!

Unlock the power of ROBLOX® Studio, the world creation tool used by real-world ROBLOX® developers! Learn how to build 3D models and create an adventure in your ROBLOX® world. Bring characters to life with unique animations you design. Student-created projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Test scores are more important than ever for students desiring to receive scholarships and be admitted to the best possible college. In Tennessee, just a few points increase in scores can provide access to thousands of scholarship dollars. This highly interactive course involves both a pre-test and post-test using actual retired ACT exams. Exams are graded and analyzed for each student. Materials and assessment services are provided by Cambridge Educational Services, a premier provider of test preparation services. Class size is limited to ensure time for individual assistance. The course review is customized for the class and uses classroom lessons, practice test questions, skill reviews, and exercises in areas of English, reading, math, and science. You’ll choose one four-hour period to take the pre-test, spend four days in intensive review, and take the post-test. 

This is a weeklong mock trial class for middle school age students. Basic courtroom procedures will be reviewed and practiced through fictional cases. Students will demonstrate their new skills in a mock trial setting on Friday.

Join us for a fascinating look at the world of zoology: the scientific study of animals. In this camp, you’ll explore the biology and diversity of vertebrates as well as the incredible variation in feeding, locomotion, appearance, and habitats of fishes., amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. We’ll observe animals both in their natural habitats and in the lab. Includes a field trip to Zoo Knoxville!

Embark on an exciting journey of discovery as we explore the amazing diversity of plants all around us. In this hands-on camp, you’ll visit a greenhouse, explore the dry pressed plants at the UT Herbarium, and take walks around campus to learn about the fascinating plants that surround us every day. As part of the camp, you’ll create your own mini plant collection, with the opportunity to contribute your best specimens to the UT Herbarium. Along the way, you’ll deepen your understanding of the diverse world of plants and grow your appreciation for the natural world. This camp is supported by a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (DEB-2046467).

Unlock the power of ROBLOX® Studio, the world creation tool used by real-world ROBLOX® developers! Learn how to build 3D models and create an adventure in your ROBLOX® world. Bring characters to life with unique animations you design. Student-created projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.

Join us for the ultimate summer showdown at Battle Bots Camp! This highlight of our schedule invites students to design, build, and program their own competitive robots. From strategic planning to tackling challenging obstacles, participants will develop engineering and coding skills while experiencing non-stop excitement. The action-packed journey includes navigating the treacherous “Pit of No Return” as part of the challenge board, testing each bot’s strength, agility, and strategy. Only the most robust and creative designs will rise to the top in this thrilling competition.

Learn how to carve and print editions of a one and two-color relief block print while using a tabletop press. You’ll learn a variety of monotype and monoprinting techniques including image transfers to create a unique and wide variety of prints.

Become an investigator by exploring scientific and chemical principles and techniques used to detect criminal acts. In this camp you’ll examine synthetic blood, trace evidence, organize and record data, think critically, conduct simple tests, and combine your data to solve a crime. Note: You’ll need to wear long pants, sleeved shirts, socks, and shoes. 

In this engaging and interactive camp offered as part of the Summer Writing Academies by UT’s Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center, experienced tutors will guide participants through brainstorming ideas, crafting a compelling story, and revising it to perfection. They will demonstrate how to elevate a college application essay from good to great. By the end of the camp, participants will have a complete essay that showcases their unique voice and sets them apart from other college and scholarship applicants.

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