Youth Programs at NMU

Northern offers a variety of youth camps all throughout the summer. Learn more about how scientists incorporate technology and field experiences in the environment or investigate if you have a talent for the culinary arts. Practice your jump shot or your spike in one of our overnight sports camps, or just spend the day learning more about cybersecurity. Let us help your student keep their mind and body active at one of our many summer camps on our campus this summer.

Wildcat Youth Camp

Wildcat Youth Camp is a traditional day camp for children from kindergarten through 5th grade. NMU is the perfect setting for camp, featuring a centrally located base site for camp and indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate a wide range of activities.

Your child’s camp experience is our #1 priority, so our focus is on teaching new skills, promoting teamwork, encouraging sportsmanship and making sure that we understand and recognize the unique abilities and interests of your child. Join us all week long or pick a day or two that best fits your busy schedule. Programmed activity time is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early morning and late afternoon times will be used as kids’ choice time.

Youth Camp Information

Sport Camps

Northern Michigan offers a variety of sport camps throughout the year. These camps provide intensive, hands-on training from the Wildcats' talented coaches. Examples of past sport camps include:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country/Track & Field
  • Football
  • Hockey
  • Lacrosse
  • Soccer
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Volleyball
Sport Camps Information

Summer College for Kids

The Glenn T. Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center offers "Summer College for Kids", a program for kids in grades K-8 to engage in hands on-minds on lessons in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM Education). 

Summer College for Kids Information

Future Educator Academy

Discover the rewards and joys of teaching! Explore the field of education, gain hands-on experience working with elementary students, learn about child development and principles of effective teaching, and how to create exciting learning experiences as a teacher.

Future Educator Academy Information

NMU Wildcat Performing Arts Academy

The NMU Wildcat Performing Arts Academy offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and exposure in various arts disciplines such as dance, acting, vocal training, and theatre production. By providing a nurturing environment for artistic development, we aim to equip students with the skills and confidence necessary for success in the performing arts and beyond.  

Some of the programming offered throughout the year:

  • Wildcat Performing Arts Academy Intensive workshops and classes geared toward middle and high school students*
    • These opportunities will have varying time commitments, from an hour-long class to classes spanning a full day or full weekends as well as week-long intensive experiences.
  • NMU TD Kids Pre-performance workshops geared toward youth ages 12 and younger
    • An opportunity to engage with the company prior to the show, immersing yourself in the world of theater, dance, and music through interactive activities!
  • School run-outs 
    • Providing all-encompassing theatre arts experiences to youth across the Upper Peninsula.
  • Talk-back opportunities after select NMU Theatre and Dance productions
    • Enjoy an after-performance Q&A with the company and get to know the ins and outs of what went into a production!
Wildcat Performing Arts Academy
students at cyber summer camp

GenCyber Camp

High School students are invited to apply for this free academic, two-week residential camp on the campus of Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI.  Students will explore cybersecurity topics in a virtual setting and then have an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity from CompTIA Security and Cyber.org while living on campus. 

Learn more

Environmental Science Camp

High school students are invited to join us to explore the scenic vistas and natural resources of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula! Students will experience firsthand how scientists incorporate technology and field experiences to study the changing environment and sustainability issues. Camp takes place every July. 

  • Hike to geological landmarks.
  • Explore the science vistas of the Upper Peninsula.
  • Discover local natural resources.
  • Experience sustainable community development.
  • Paddle the AuTrain River.
  • Study environmental issues in the Lake Superior watershed.
  • Make lasting memories.
  • Interact with professors and students from Northern Michigan University and stay on campus.
Learn More