Discover UCLA Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI)
The Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) is a rigorous three-week pre-college program designed to engage high school students with a strong passion for computer science.
Each summer, our precollege program offers two to four specialized tracks, covering topics such as introduction to computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, Generative AI, robotics, internet of things and human–computer interaction (HCI). CSSI serves as a pipeline to build long-term relationships with high-potential students and strengthen the overall pool of qualified applicants to the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering.
Courses are taught by UCLA faculty and PhD students, and the program emphasizes intensive hands-on coding experiences supported by interactive mentorship from undergraduate tutors who are carefully recruited and professionally trained.
Throughout the three weeks, students participate in coursework, homework assignments, and exams. To complete the program, students work on tutor-supervised capstone project—a collaborative and engaging assignment that requires applying the techniques learned during the institute. Upon successful completion, students will receive an official certificate or course credit depending on the type of enrollment track. While many colleges and universities accept UCLA courses for transfer credit, students are encouraged to obtain advance approval from their home institution prior to registration.
General Information
Introducing 2 additional tracks including 1 virtual track for Summer 2026!
You can now apply & enroll in two non-concurrent courses!
You can choose to enroll for either “Certificate of Completion” or “Course Credit” program.
Please click on each track to learn more about the track, program requirements, program fees and key deadlines.
Track 1 and Track 2
Summer Session A3 – June 16, 2026 to July 10, 2026
Track 3 and Track 4
Summer Session B3 – July 13, 2026 to July 31, 2026
Track Faculty
Track 1 – Introduction to Computer Science
Faculty Supervisor: Todd Millstein
Track 2 – Introduction to AI
Faculty Supervisor: Baharan Mirzasoleiman
Track 3 – Gen AI
Faculty Supervisor: Kai-Wei Chang
Track 4 – Internet of Things: Connectivity & Sensing
Faculty Supervisor: Omid Abari
Immersive Summer with CSSI
Find out what sets us apart.
Expert Faculty
Our courses are designed and led by expert faculty who are at the forefront of Computer Science. Through interactive lectures and hands-on coding projects, you’ll work side-by-side with recognized leaders in the field, top PhD students, and well-trained tutors gaining a level of expertise that only a premier institution can provide.
On-campus experience
Experience an immersive on-campus summer course like no other as you step into a world-class research university environment. Our on-campus experience gives you a front-row seat to university life, where historic architecture meets cutting-edge innovation. Spend your summer learning in person with top-tier faculty and ambitious peers, building the confidence and independence you need for the next big step in your academic journey.
Collaborative Community
Innovation thrives where different ideas meet. At CSSI, you will join a vibrant cohort of scholars from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. This diversity enriches our classroom discussions and capstone projects, challenging you to think differently and preparing you to lead and apply the lessons you’ll learn. Beyond the curriculum, you’ll gain the invaluable experience of working in a diverse, collaborative community that reflects the modern world of tech and innovation.
Your Summer with CSSI on UCLA beautiful campus & Birth Place of the Internet!
UCLA isn’t just on the internet; the internet is from UCLA!
Majestic, historic, Royce Hall
code with views that inspire the future
Powell Library
Studying at the forefront of innovation
Landmark on a postcard
level up your study and debugging your code at UCLA’s Most Iconic Study Hall!
Engineering VI, Phase II, Home to the UCLA Computer Science department
Access to collaborative & interactive study spaces on campus
Learning on one of the most world-renowned and visually stunning campus in the world!
World-Class Faculty
Meet our UCLA Summer 2026 Track Faculty Supervisors
Dr. Todd Millstein
Professor, CS Faculty
Dr. Baharan Mirzasoleiman
Assistant Professor, CS Faculty
Dr. Kai-Wei Chang
Associate Professor,
CS Faculty
Dr. Omid Abari
Associate Professor,
CS Faculty
Committee & Advisor
UCLA Computer Science Faculty
Dr. Yizhou Sun
Professor
CSSI Faculty Director
Dr. Wei Wang
Professor & Department Chair
CSSI Steering Committee
Dr. Jason Cong
Distinguished Professor
CSSI Advisor
Students Feedback
Direct feedback from our students who participated in CSSI the past 5 years!
Attending CSSI was one of the best learning experiences. I arrived at UCLA with transferrable credits & great head start, definitely one of the best investments and time well-spent in the Summer!
Life-changing Opportunity
Getting collaborative guidance and feedback during our coursework! It broadened my perspectives on what’s possible with coding & turned a simple curiosity into a lifelong passion for Computer Science!
Mentorship & Collaborative Thinking
While taking courses at CSSI; a university-level coursework as a high school student with Computer Science professors, the PhD students and tutors, it gave me hands-on experience. I was in such a vibrant and supportive learning environment that opened and broadened my perspectives, pushed me to think bigger!
World-Class Education
Apply to our precollege Computer Science Summer Institute today!
Take the first step toward a fulfilling summer session dedicated to learning & building the technologies!
