The Engineering AI Summer Institute at Johns Hopkins University is a two-week, in-person academic experience designed for undergraduates who want to explore artificial intelligence through a research-driven, ethics-informed lens. Rooted in Johns Hopkins’ global leadership in medicine, science, and public policy, the program emphasizes how AI is researched, evaluated, and responsibly applied to real-world challenges.
Let us now take a look at some of the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Engineering AI Summer Institute.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for undergraduate students (18+) who are curious about artificial intelligence beyond surface-level applications and want to understand how AI research shapes society, healthcare, and global decision-making.
It is best suited for students who:
Are interested in AI applications in medicine, neuroscience, public health, or policy
Want to understand how AI research is designed, tested, and evaluated
Are curious about ethical, human-centered, and global uses of AI
Are considering graduate study or research-oriented careers
Thrive in academically rigorous, discussion-based learning environments
What will students study?
Students explore artificial intelligence through faculty-led lectures, research seminars, and guided discussions that reflect Johns Hopkins’ interdisciplinary research strengths.
Core themes include:
AI in medicine, neuroscience, and healthcare
AI ethics, risk, and security
AI in public policy and global sustainability
Foundations and evolution of artificial intelligence
Course content emphasizes critical thinking, research literacy, and ethical reasoning, rather than technical implementation alone.
What hands-on experiences are included?
Students complete a structured Research Project: AI for Real-World Challenges, designed to mirror the academic research process used at top research universities.
The project includes:
Defining a clear, researchable AI question
Conducting a literature review using academic sources
Designing a conceptual AI-based solution
Producing a final AI research proposal and presentation
In addition, students participate in career and professional development workshops, including:
Ethical AI decision-making
Resume and LinkedIn profile development
Internship and research pathway preparation
What will students gain from the program?
By the end of the program, students will leave with tangible academic outcomes and a deeper understanding of AI’s role in research-intensive fields.
Students will receive:
A Certificate of Achievement and letter of completion from Johns Hopkins University
A completed AI Research Proposal suitable for academic portfolios
Exposure to Hopkins’ research culture and faculty expertise
Optional opportunity to earn 2 academic credits (for eligible students)
How long is the program?
A two-week immersive program, delivered in person with lectures, research work, and professional development. Students should expect a full-day academic schedule similar to an undergraduate research program.
How does this program help my academic or career goals?
This program is ideal for students who want to build academic depth and research confidence in artificial intelligence.
Students gain:
Experience designing and presenting an AI research proposal
Exposure to AI’s role in medicine, science, and public policy
Strong preparation for graduate study, fellowships, or research-focused careers
Participation signals intellectual curiosity, ethical awareness, and readiness for advanced academic environments.
How does this program prepare students for advanced study or research?
Students develop foundational skills essential for success at research-intensive universities and in academically demanding careers.
They build:
Research literacy and academic writing skills
Experience working with faculty on complex AI questions
Confidence navigating interdisciplinary and ethical AI challenges
The program demonstrates a student’s ability to think critically about AI as a tool and as a discipline with real societal impact.
For more detailed information on Shorelight’s summer programs, policies, housing, cost, and student support, visit our Undergraduate Summer Programs FAQs.
Still have questions? Reach out to a Shorelight advisor or explore other summer programs that may be of interest!
