Launched in the summer of 2005 in the College of Engineering, the Engineering Academic Boot Camp was created to support a strong transition into Purdue’s first-year engineering experience. Former MEP assistant director Allene Manning designed the program as a five-week, non-credit simulation of the first-semester workload.

Embracing the best practices of learning communities, participants lived, studied and took classes together to build academic habits and support networks before the fall term.

In 2006, the College of Science and the Purdue Polytechnic Institute adopted the EABC model, with the College of Agriculture joining later. Each area tailored its camp to align with college needs, reinforcing the importance of intentional transition programming for first-semester performance and first-year retention in engineering.

Today, EABC blends the original non-credit academic simulations in calculus and chemistry with credit-bearing coursework. Participants can earn up to nine university credit hours by completing HONRS 120 (3), ENGL 106 (4) or COM 114 (3) and a two-credit VIP experience, alongside professional development and industry engagement.

2026 Program Dates

TBD 

What grades are accepted into EABC?

EABC is for incoming first-year students accepted to Purdue.

What do you do in Engineering Academic Boot Camp?

Participants will:

  • Gain priority access to MEP residential learning community 
  • Take First-Year Engineering (FYE) academic simulation courses (non-credit - Calculus and Chemistry)
  • Earn 7-9 university credit hours:
    • HONRS120 (3) - Intro to Research Planning
    • ENGL106 (4) First-Year Composition OR COM114 (3) - Fundamentals of Speech Communication (Only students entering Purdue with AP/Dual credit in Language/Composition will take COM114)
    • VIP (2) - Engineering MILESTONES programming, Arduino and smart watch or drone project
    • Engage with industry partners
    • Participate in professional development seminars
    • Visit engineering laboratories and facilities
    • Build campus community and network with peers, faculty, staff and alumni
    • Become familiar with the campus and surrounding community

Information on cost, how to pay and scholarships

Tuition and room and board:

Tuition and room and board for EABC, valued at nearly $10,000 for out-of-state and $5,000 for in-state students, cover pre-selected courses offered for the summer, room and board, and engineering fees.

Registration fee:

MEP requires a registration fee for all EABC participants. The registration fee is separate from the program fees outlined above; it covers the incurred cost of simulation activities, engagement activities and other administrative expenses needed to run the summer program.

Fees do not include:

  • Travel to and from Purdue University
  • The cost of textbooks 

Fall residence hall assignments:

Housing provided during EABC is solely for the summer. Students and parents are responsible for signing and confirming their residence hall agreements for the regular academic year.

Scholarships:

Scholarships are available for this program.