SYP 2026 Pathway Programs applications are now open!
What Is a Pathway Program?
Pathway Programs offer participants the chance to explore potential career paths, collaborate with peers, build critical personal and professional skills, and engage with Michigan Tech faculty and industry professionals. These selective programs bring together talented, motivated students from across the country and around the world for an unforgettable, in-depth learning experience.
How Are Pathway Programs Different from Other SYP Experiences?
All SYP experiences are hands-on, immersive, and built around real-world learning. The difference? Pathway Programs go deeper.
Pathway Programs offer enhanced engagement with Michigan Tech faculty, industry professionals, and applied learning experiences. Through these programs, you don’t just explore a topic — you begin building the skills, confidence, and professional awareness needed for future academic and career success.
Pathway Programs typically fall into two categories:
Overviews of Engineering
These programs, including Engineering Scholars Program, Women in Engineering, and
Junior Women in Engineering introduce you to multiple fields or specializations within
the wide world of engineering throughout the week. It’s a great fit for students who
know they're passionate about engineering, but haven't quite decided which field excites
them most before narrowing their focus.
Specialized Study Programs
Designed for students who already have a strong interest in a particular field and
are looking to improve their technical skills. Throughout the week, you'll get focused,
in-depth learning blended with industry-informed content and applied project work.
Because of their focused and immersive nature, Pathway Programs require an application for admission. Many Pathway Programs are supported by grants and industry partnerships to be able to provide financial assistance toward the cost of attendance. Completion of your Pathway Programs application, automatically places you in consideration for financial assistance.
If you’re excited to explore new subjects, try different fields, and discover what sparks your curiosity, an Exploration Program is a great place to start. If you already know what interests you and want to go further, build real skills, and take a focused step toward your future, a Pathway Program may be the better choice.
Applying for a Pathway Program
Applications must be completed by 2/15/2026 in order to be considered in our first round of selections. Applications completed after this date will be considered as space allows.
For selected students, a Pathway Program fee (which varies by program) is due within 10 days of acceptance and covers program tuition, room, and board. Be sure to review the details for your specific program, as several Pathway Programs are offered at no cost thanks to generous corporate and sponsored partnerships.
Pathways in Engineering
Pathways in Computing
*Some Pathway programs have variable registration fees. Please see detailed information about each program under its slider above and look for information regarding scholarships to your Pathway Program in your acceptance email.