STEAM-Design Program

Who

The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Design Program is for high school students who face systemic barriers, including students who identify as Black, Indigenous, Filipino, Latin American, as well as students who experience socio‑economic challenges.

What

Through interactive sessions led by researchers, graduate students, and practitioners, students expand their understanding of academic and career pathways within the health sciences and gain exposure to organizations, professionals, and student‑led groups that are driving innovation and equity‑focused initiatives across health-care systems.

Where

University of Toronto, Temerty Faculty of Medicine on the St. George Campus in downtown Toronto and our hospital partners.

When

Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from July 6 to July 31, 2026.

Why

Earn a Grade 12 Science Credit
Complete a Science, University/College Preparation (SNC4M) credit that strengthens your university and college applications.
Get Paid to Learn
Receive $1,600 when you successfully finish the program.
Explore Health Science Careers
Discover how biology, AI, engineering, design, and data shape health and healthcare careers.
Learn With Student Mentors
Get paired with university students who guide and support your Research Design Project.
Build Future-Ready Skills
Develop a wide range of transferable skills, including project development and project‑based thinking, teamwork, leadership, problem‑solving, communication, social accountability, and participatory design.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I attend if I am not a student/resident in Toronto?

You can attend if you live outside of Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area. You must be a resident or student of a high school in Ontario to participate in the STEAM-Design.

How much does it cost to attend the STEAM-Design program?

There are no admission fees for the the STEAM-Design program.

Am I required to attend all four weeks of the program?

Yes, if you are accepted into the program, you will need to complete all four weeks to earn the credit. The attendance requirements are the same as the attendance policy for summer school. If you are unable to attend all four weeks, then you cannot participate in the program.

How old should I be to apply to the STEAM-Design Program? Are there any prerequisites for the program?

You must be at least 16 years of age by June 30 of the program year to be admitted. You must have completed a Grade 10 Science, Academic or any Grade 11 university (U), university/college (M), or college (C) preparation course in the science curriculum. Preference will be given to grade 11 students who are returning to school for at least one semester.

How many students are admitted to the program?

We admit approximately 50 students to the program.

How high should my GPA be in order to be eligible for this program?

There is no academic threshold for this program. We are looking for candidates who have an interest in health sciences but face challenges and a lack of mentorship in attaining this goal. Only eligible applicants will be invited to an interview, and this will help us to determine if you are the right fit for the program.

Can I still apply if my transcript does not show a completed Grade 10 Science, Academic or any Grade 11 university (U), university/college (M), or college (C) preparation course in the science curriculum?

Yes, you can still apply if the prerequisite course is currently in progress. You must successfully complete the course prior to July 1st and send us proof of completion before the STEAM-Design begins. Otherwise, your offer will be revoked.

Will my transportation be covered if I live outside of Toronto?

Students will receive a local Presto Pass for transportation from home to campus for the 4 weeks of the program.

Please direct any questions about the Summer Mentorship Program to steamdesign.oao@utoronto.ca.