Frequently Asked Questions

What type of camp is this?

Summer Science Camp at La Sierra University is a day camp during Biomedical and Technology & Engineering Weeks, and an overnight camp during Marine Biology Week.  Students will be given the opportunity to have hands-on learning, experimentation, visit off-campus facilities and actively participate in activities and special tours.  Relationships will be formed with future colleagues, and networking for future opportunities will also be available.  In addition, the scientific learning will be done in a Seventh-day Adventist Christian learning environment.

There are three different week-long programs to choose from in looking at Summer Science Camp, the first week is in Biomedical Science, the second in Technology & Engineering, and the third in Marine Biology.

Who is recommended to apply and what are the qualifications to be accepted?

Students who are interested in pursuing a career in the sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.  In addition, students who would like to gain a deeper understanding and have the opportunity for a unique learning experience are also encouraged.  To be accepted, students must be entering or have just completed grades 9-12, and have a minimum 2.0 GPA.  Students must also be able to attend each day of his/her week of camp on-time and for the full day.

When does registration start?

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, January 14, 2013.

When is the deadline to register?

Registration will close on Friday, May 17 at 12noon.  However, it is possible that the maximum capacity of each week will be met before then.  In which case, a student has the option of being waitlisted.

How do I apply?

Applications are available as an online form.  They can be filled out by typing in all of the correct information, then printed.  Applications may be scanned and e-mailed to sciencecamp@lasierra.edu, or physically mailed to La Sierra University Summer Science Camp/Palmer Hall 205/4500 Riverwalk Parkway/Riverside, CA 92515.

How many students are accepted for each week of Summer Science Camp?

Because we want to provide a learning environment conducive to small-group, hands-on activities, we will only allow a maximum of 27 students for Biomedical Science and Technology & Engineering weeks.  Marine Biology Week will only be allowed a maximum of 16 students.

How much is tuition and what does it include?

Tuition for one week of Summer Science Camp is $375.  It includes programming, meals that occur during Summer Science Camp, transportation to and from off-site locations, lab and supply costs and appropriate staffing.  Early bird discounts are available.  Please see our tuition page for more information.

How do I pay tuition and when is the deadline to pay?

Tuition can be paid:

  • by filling out the credit card payment section of the application
  • by sending a check made payble to La Sierra University, with Summer Science Camp and the student's name in the memo
  • in person at the Bursar's Office, in the Administration Building at La Sierra University
  • via phone with a credit card at 951.750.2282

Are any books, materials or supplies required?

Notebooks and writing utensils will be provided.  Laptops are not required, and computers will be available when needed.  During laboratory days, a lab coat and goggles will be provided.  We do recommend students bring a camera.

What is the suggested or required dress?

  • For days in the laboratory, fully closed-toe shoes must be worn or entrance to the lab will not be permitted.  (Fully closed-toe does not include shoes like ballet flats; the shoe must cover the entire top and back of foot.)  A lab coat and goggles will be provided when necessary.  Students with long hair will be asked to tie it back.  (Students will be informed of lab days prior to the start of camp.)
  • For Tuesday (Biomedical Science and Technology & Engineering), closed-toe shoes and long slacks (no jeans) or skirts reaching below the knee will be required, in accordance with Loma Linda University's policies.
  • For Wednesday (Biomedical Science), we suggest comfortable clothing, as students will be participating in first aid and CPR certification, working with a mannequin, etc.
  • For Wednesday (Technology & Engineering), we suggest comfortable walking shoes, as we will be at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the majority of the day walking around the facility.
  • For Thursday (Biomedical Science and Technology & Engineering), we suggest comfortable walking shoes, as we will be at Sea World or Disneyland for the marjority of the day walking.
  • All other days, appropriate, modest casual wear is acceptable.

What should I pack for Marine Biology Week?

As we will be camping, a sleeping bag and sleeping pad will be necessary; tents will be provided.  (Please contact us if you do not have a sleepling bag or pad available to you.)  In addition, please think about: a change of clothes for each day, warm jackets or sweatshirts for evenings, a modest swimsuit (girls may be asked to wear a dark shirt over their suit if it is not appropriate), flip flops, a beach towel and a bath towel, all toiletries and shower supplies (a bathroom and showers will be available), sunblock, sunglasses, a sunhat, a camera, a football, volleyball or basketball if you would like to play, a waterbottle, a flashlight, camp chairs or blankets, etc.  We know this is a lot, but please pack as light as possible while including all the necessities.

Is housing available for Biomedical Science or Technology & Engineering Weeks?

There is no organized housing available this year.  However, please contact us if you would like more information on possible housing options and costs.

Do I need a parking pass?

If you have been given permission by a parent to drive to and from camp, please make a note on your application or contact us via e-mail or phone so we can make sure your car is approved to be on campus before camp begins.

  • Last update on  January 08, 2013