In high school, summer is often seen as a break from structured academics. However, it can also be used as a focused period to explore architecture and design, develop visual thinking skills, and understand how built environments are planned and constructed. Architecture and design internships in New York for high school students provide structured environments where you engage with studio workflows, design processes, and real architectural thinking in an applied context.

You will explore topics such as architectural drawing, spatial composition, site analysis, precedent study, and model-making. These programs often include studio sessions, critiques, field visits, and project-based learning that mirror introductory architectural education. You will also develop skills such as visual communication, technical sketching, design reasoning, and iterative problem-solving within structured design workflows.

What kinds of architecture and design internships in New York for high school students are there?

Finding strong programs requires attention to studio structure, design rigor, and the depth of architectural engagement offered. Some programs focus on introductory design exploration and sketching, while others simulate first-year architecture studio environments with advanced project development.

Institutions, universities, and design organizations in New York offer architecture and design programs covering areas such as architectural studio practice, urban planning, interior design, and visual arts. You will engage in design studios, critiques, workshops, and applied projects that reflect real architectural workflows and decision-making processes.

No matter the program, you will be expected to actively participate in studio work, complete design assignments, and engage critically with spatial and visual problems. To make selection easier, we’ve curated a list of 15 Architecture and Design Internships in New York for High School Students. They’ve been selected based on academic structure, design intensity, institutional credibility, and level of creative engagement.

For related opportunities, have a look at the online architecture program and summer internships in New York.

15 Architecture and Design Internships in New York for High School Students

1. The Cooper Union Saturday Program (Architecture & Design Foundations)

Location: New York City, USA (The Cooper Union, Foundation Building)
Cost: Free
Program Dates: January 24th – April 4th
Deadline: Applications open now through Friday, January 9th
Eligibility: The program is designed for NYC public and charter high school students, particularly those with limited access to structured arts education.. The program is not explicitly stated as open to international students; eligibility is centered on students enrolled in New York City schools. Students with minimal prior visual arts experience are also encouraged to apply

You’ll take Saturday-based studio courses in visual arts and design fundamentals at The Cooper Union Saturday Program in New York City. You’ll build foundational skills in drawing, composition, visual observation, and design thinking through structured studio exercises. The program emphasizes instruction from Cooper Union undergraduate instructors and guided studio work across introductory art and design classes. You’ll receive mentorship from instructors and access to critiques, helping you refine your visual communication and artistic process.

Portfolio Preparation students work on developing college-ready portfolios with structured feedback and additional academic and creative support. Field trips, studio visits, and presentations from working artists expose you to real-world artistic and architectural practices. By the end, you gain stronger technical skills, clearer artistic direction, and early exposure to college-level art education.

Why it stands out: Free university-based studio training with structured mentorship and portfolio development for NYC public school students.

2. Immerse Education’s New York Architecture and Design Summer School

Location: Barnard College, Columbia Univeristy, New York
Cost: Varies; summer school scholarship available through our bursary programme
Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts with rolling admissions
Program Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Eligibility: High school students from all nationalities aged 15-18

The Career Insights Program is one of the more career-focused architecture and design internships in New York for high school students, helping participants explore creative careers in a major global industry hub. The Architecture and Design Summer track is designed to give students direct exposure to real-world design workflows and professional environments.

Participants engage in project-based learning with established companies, attend interactive workshops, and visit offices, factories, and headquarters. The program also includes weekly 1:1 career coaching sessions and personalized feedback on your resume and overall profile. You’ll present your findings to industry experts at the end of the program. You can find more details about the application here.

Why it stands out: You’ll gain direct industry exposure, build a professional network, and receive a certificate you can include in your college applications and work profile.

3. In the Making – Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Location: Museum of Modern Art, New York City, USA
Cost: Free (materials, meals, and transportation included)
Program Dates: July 2026 (6 weeks; meets 3 days/week)
Deadline: Not specified, limited spots
Eligibility: High school students in NYC; international eligibility: Not available

In the Making is a 6-week, studio-based art program for NYC high school students, hosted by the Museum of Modern Art. Designed for both beginners and experienced artists, the program focuses on hands-on creative practice, portfolio development, and exposure to the contemporary art world. You’ll work in a structured studio environment three times a week, experimenting with different materials, techniques, and concepts while receiving guidance from teaching artists.

The program emphasizes process over perfection, encouraging exploration, iteration, and creative risk-taking. Alongside studio work, you’ll engage with MoMA’s exhibitions and resources, gaining insight into how art is created, curated, and presented in a professional setting.

Why it stands out: A fully funded, museum-based studio program that combines hands-on art-making with a final exhibition at MoMA, offering both portfolio depth and direct exposure to the contemporary art world.

4. Discover Architecture – Center for Architecture (AIA New York)

Location: New York City, New York, USA
Cost: One-week: $770; Two-week Architectural Design Studio: $1,770
Program Dates: February 17-20
Deadline: January 4, 2026 (application window)
Eligibility: Sophomore or junior high school students enrolled in and residing within the five boroughs of New York City. International students are not specified as eligible. Priority is given to NYC public school students

You’ll explore architecture through a structured career immersion program run by the Center for Architecture and AIA New York. You’ll examine how architectural firms operate by spending three days in a professional office environment during a mid-winter externship. The program emphasizes direct exposure to real workflows, where you’ll observe design development, office collaboration, and project communication practices. You’ll then synthesize your experience at a concluding presentation event at the Center for Architecture.

You’ll build familiarity with professional architecture settings and understand how academic concepts translate into practice. You’ll also gain exposure to multiple NYC-based architecture firms and their design approaches. By the end of the program, you’ll develop clearer insight into architectural careers and foundational workplace expectations.

Why it stands out: Offers direct firm-based externship experience combined with a structured reflection and presentation component.

5. The Met High School Internship Program (Architecture & Design Related Exposure Track)

Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship (stipend of $1,100 upon completion)
Program Dates: June 27th (orientation) – August 7th (final event)
Deadline: March 13, 2026 (5 pm ET)
Eligibility: Grade 10-11 students residing and attending school in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. International students are not eligible unless they meet residency requirements

You’ll explore museum-based professional environments through The Met’s High School Internship Program, which connects you with departments such as design, education, imaging, social media, and curatorial practice. You’ll examine how museum teams develop exhibitions, communicate visual narratives, and manage creative and educational projects. The program emphasizes small-cohort mentorship, where you’ll work alongside professionals and peers in structured placements.

You’ll build exposure to workplace expectations through departmental assignments totaling approximately 40 hours across several weeks. You’ll also participate in cohort check-ins, training sessions, and museum-wide teen programs to understand broader institutional operations. You’ll apply communication and organizational skills within real museum workflows.

Why it stands out: Combines paid, department-based museum work experience with structured mentorship and cross-disciplinary exposure.

6. Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) – Artslife Summer Internship

Location: Museum of Arts and Design, New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship (₹16.50/hour stipend equivalent)
Program Dates: Approximately 6 weeks in the summer
Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: NYC public and charter high school students entering grades 10-11. International students are not eligible

You’ll participate in the Artslife Summer Internship at the Museum of Arts and Design, where you’ll examine how a museum operates across curatorial, education, marketing, visitor services, and registrar departments. The program emphasizes structured mentorship, where you’ll work alongside museum staff, designers, and visiting artists on collaborative projects. You’ll build exposure to museum studies through hands-on participation in exhibitions, communications work, and community engagement initiatives.

You’ll also apply creative and professional skills by developing podcasts, leading peer-to-peer tours, and contributing to public programming. The first week focuses on orientation and team-building, followed by project-based learning with consistent mentorship. You’ll gain experience in both public-facing and behind-the-scenes museum operations. 

Why it stands out: Combines paid, cross-department museum experience with structured creative production and leadership opportunities.

7. Brooklyn Museum – Creative Practice Internship (Teen Program)

Location: Brooklyn Museum, New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship ($16.50/hour)
Program Dates: September – June (exact dates within cycles: Sep 28th – Dec 14th, then early March – mid May)
Deadline: Applications closed for current cycle; next cycle opens in June
Eligibility: NYC high school students in grades 10-12. International students are not eligible

You’ll participate in the Creative Practice internship at the Brooklyn Museum, where you’ll examine how museum education and studio art programs are designed and delivered. The program emphasizes hands-on teaching support, where you’ll assist teaching artists in running art classes for audiences of different ages. You’ll build exposure to how museums connect art, education, and community engagement through structured programming.

You’ll also apply creative interpretation skills by producing artwork connected to themes such as design, social justice, and museum exhibitions. The internship includes collaboration with other NYC teens on museum-related projects and events. You’ll strengthen communication, organization, and time management skills through consistent weekend and weekday responsibilities. 

Why it stands out: Combines paid studio-based museum work with teaching experience and long-term engagement across the academic year.

8. ieSoSC – Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Science of Smart Cities (NYU Tandon)

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
Cost: Fully funded (full scholarship)
Program Dates: ieSoSC I: July 6th – August 7th, ieSoSC II (by invitation only): July 13th – August 7th
Deadline: May 15, 2026
Eligibility: Grades 9-11 students residing in New York City only. International students are not eligible

You’ll participate in the IESoSC summer program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, where you’ll examine how smart city systems integrate technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. You’ll also build exposure to entrepreneurship by studying product development, economics, branding, and intellectual property concepts such as patents and copyrights. You’ll apply these skills through hands-on prototyping projects focused on urban innovation challenges.

The program includes structured workshops that develop presentation and communication skills through pitching and team collaboration. You’ll work in small groups to design and refine functional prototypes under guided instruction. By the end of the program, you’ll gain applied technical experience and a clearer understanding of innovation pathways in engineering and smart city development.

Why it stands out: Combines fully funded engineering training with entrepreneurship and prototyping focused on real-world urban systems.

9. Cooper Hewitt – Design Hive

Location: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship
Program Dates: December 2, 2025 – May 19, 2026 (Tuesdays, 4:30-6:30 pm)
Deadline: Applications closed for the 2025-26 cycle
Eligibility: NYC-based high school juniors and seniors. International students are not eligible

You’ll participate in Design Hive at Cooper Hewitt, where you’ll examine how design thinking is applied through objects, materials, and collaborative creative processes. The program emphasizes studio-based learning, where you’ll work with peers to develop and refine design projects from initial concept to final output. You’ll build exposure to professional design workflows by studying how designers move through research, prototyping, and iteration stages.

You’ll also apply material-based experimentation using hands-on activities involving physical design tools and resources. The program includes consistent weekly sessions, where you’ll engage with mentors and museum educators to strengthen conceptual development. By the end of the program, you’ll gain a practical understanding of design methodologies and experience in structured creative collaboration.

Why it stands out: Offers long-term, paid, studio-style design training inside a major design museum with a strong focus on process-based learning.

10. NYC School Construction Authority (SCA) – High School Summer Internship Program (SIP)

Location: New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship ($17/hour)
Program Dates: July 6th – August 14, 2026 (6 weeks)
Deadline: January 5th – March 6, 2026 (application window)
Eligibility: NYC public high school students only. International students are not eligible

The SCA High School Summer Internship Program stands out among the many architecture and design internships in New York for high school students because it connects design learning with public infrastructure and construction. You’ll examine how projects are planned and executed across architecture, engineering, construction management, and related administrative fields. The program emphasizes workplace immersion, where you’ll work four days per week at a host site such as an architecture firm, engineering company, or SCA department.

You’ll build exposure to real project workflows, including design documentation, construction coordination, and office-based technical tasks. You’ll also apply practical skills through tools such as AutoCAD, Excel, and professional communication systems, depending on your placement. The program includes structured workshops, safety training, and optional construction site visits to connect theory with field practice. 

Why it stands out: Provides paid, multi-sector industry placement across real architecture and construction firms with direct exposure to public infrastructure projects.

11. Gensler – Summer Internship & Summer Fellowship (Design)

Location: Gensler Offices (various global locations, including New York City), New York, USA
Cost: Paid internship
Program Dates: Summer session
Deadline: Varies by office and cycle
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students; select programs may accept advanced high school students, depending on the office. International students may be eligible depending on location and work authorization

You’ll participate in Gensler’s internship or Summer Fellowship program, where you’ll examine how large-scale architecture and design firms develop projects across cities, buildings, and urban systems. The program emphasizes studio-based professional learning, where you’ll work alongside design teams on active, real-world projects. You’ll build exposure to architectural workflows such as concept development, spatial design, visualization, and client presentation processes.

In the fellowship track, you’ll also apply research methods to investigate urban challenges and propose design-driven solutions. You’ll collaborate in multidisciplinary teams, contributing to design iterations and idea development under professional mentorship. 

12. NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) – Student Opportunities & Internship Programs

Location: New York City, New York, USA
Cost: Paid opportunities (varies by program)
Program Dates: Seasonal (spring seminars, summer internships, SYEP summer cycle)
Deadline: Varies by program cycle (notifications and applications released periodically)
Eligibility: High school and college students in NYC, depending on the program. International students are not eligible unless they have NYC-based school/work authorization

You’ll engage in the NYC Department of Buildings Student Opportunities programs, where you’ll examine how public building regulation, safety, and construction oversight systems operate in a major urban environment. The programs emphasize structured exposure, where you may participate in seminars, internships, or college aide roles depending on the track.

You’ll build exposure to architecture-related and engineering-adjacent fields such as construction inspection, sustainability, and facilities management. You’ll also apply technical and administrative skills through office-based assignments in government departments. The DOB Scholars Program specifically provides weekly seminars led by professionals across architecture, engineering, and public policy units. 

Why it stands out: Provides direct exposure to government-level building regulation and interdisciplinary careers shaping urban infrastructure.

13. NYU Tandon – ARISE (Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering)

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York, USA
Cost: Free (full scholarship + stipend upon completion)
Program Dates: May 29th – August 14th
Deadline: February 27, 2026 (5 pm)
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors in NYC public schools only. International students are not eligible

You’ll participate in NYU Tandon’s ARISE program, where you’ll examine how scientific research is conducted within university-level laboratories across engineering, data science, biology, and urban systems. The program emphasizes research immersion, where you’ll first complete structured training in lab safety, scientific writing, and research methodology before entering active NYU research labs.

You’ll build exposure to real academic research environments by working alongside faculty mentors and graduate researchers in over 80 labs. You’ll also apply experimental and analytical skills through hands-on contributions to ongoing research projects. The program includes workshops focused on communication, college readiness, and scientific presentation development. 

Why it stands out: Provides fully funded, faculty-mentored university lab research experience across one of NYC’s largest STEM research networks.

14. ‘T’ Space Summer Architecture Residency (Virtual Option)

Location: Online
Cost: Free
Program Dates: July 5th – July 27th
Application Deadline: May 4th
Eligibility: Open to students and young professionals in architecture, design, and visual arts worldwide 

In this program, you step into an intensive design environment that pushes you to think beyond conventional architecture. You develop a site-specific project while exploring experimental and theoretical approaches to design. The program revolves around critiques, discussions, and lectures led by practicing architects and thinkers.

You engage deeply with ideas, often working independently while receiving detailed feedback from mentors. The virtual format still feels immersive, with a strong emphasis on dialogue and critical reflection. By the end, you produce a concept-driven project that reflects both creativity and intellectual depth.

Why it stands out: You join a fully funded, highly selective residency that emphasizes experimental thinking over traditional studio work.

15. New York Historical Society – Student Historian Internship

Location: New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, New York, NY
Cost: Free; stipend for Title I/free-reduced lunch eligible students; community service or school credit for others
Program Dates: 6 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in the NYC metropolitan area

This six-week internship focuses on historical research and digital storytelling through projects connected directly to New York City. You work with museum historians while researching local history, collecting material, and building a final digital history project based on your findings. The process involves both archival work and digital production, so the internship sits somewhere between history research and media creation.

Since only 25 students are selected each year, the cohort stays relatively small and project-focused throughout the summer. Students eligible for free or reduced lunch receive a stipend, while others can earn school or community-service credit instead.

Why it stands out: You finish the internship with a complete digital history project based on original research rather than a simulated classroom assignment.

From Studio Projects to Career Direction

A sketch can become a model. A model can become a portfolio piece. A portfolio piece can become the first signal of direction.

That is the value of architecture and design internships in New York for high school students: they turn early interest into visible, practical work.

New York adds another layer. Its museums, studios, streets, and public spaces make design feel active, complex, and connected to real communities.

To keep exploring where your creative interests could lead, browse our Career Exploration blogs for guidance on internships, subject choices, and future pathways.