UC Irvine Autonomous Driving Program Recently Updated

Hosted at UC Irvine, this immersive engineering program lets high school students build and program small-scale autonomous vehicles using real sensors, AI algorithms, and Python code. Gain hands-on experience in one of the most exciting fields of the future.

This in-person program takes place on the UC Irvine campus and offers students a hands-on introduction to the world of autonomous driving and artificial intelligence. Participants work in teams to build and test smart robotic cars equipped with lidar sensors, cameras, and microcontrollers.

Through guided instruction, students learn core concepts in AI logic, computer vision, embedded systems, and Python programming. Each team designs, builds, and improves its autonomous vehicle to navigate increasingly complex indoor track challenges.

The program also introduces the ethical and social dimensions of autonomous technology and its applications in real-world transportation. Open to students in Grades 9–12 with curiosity in engineering, AI, or robotics. No prior experience is required.