Explore What’s New at NSLC in 2026

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Every year, the National Student Leadership Conference evolves to give high school students new ways to explore their passions, challenge themselves, and gain practical, hands-on experience. From the arts and sciences to international diplomacy and technology, NSLC programs provide immersive experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and help students discover what excites them most. From coast to coast and across the globe, here’s what’s new at NSLC in 2026.

New at Columbia University: Marketing & Public Relations

In 2026, we’re excited to introduce a brand-new Marketing & Public Relations program at Columbia University in New York City. Students will dive into branding, campaigns, and social media strategy, gaining hands-on practice and seeing how marketing ideas take shape in the fast-paced real world. They will develop and execute campaigns, craft messages for different audiences, and collaborate with peers to bring their concepts to life.

Expanded Opportunities at Columbia University

We’re also expanding opportunities at Columbia University with our Journalism & Broadcasting, Medicine & Health Care, and Engineering programs. In Journalism & Broadcasting, students produce their own stories, conduct interviews, and get a behind-the-scenes look at media production in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The Medicine & Health Care program lets students engage with medical research, participate in patient care simulations, and learn directly from healthcare professionals tackling real-world challenges. Engineering lets students design, build, and test solutions to complex problems while collaborating on projects that mirror professional work.

NSLC is bringing Marine Biology to the West Coast in 2026.

Expanded West Coast Programs

On the West Coast, NSLC is expanding its offerings with new programs at UC Berkeley and UCLA. At UC Berkeley, students can now dive into the Marine Biology program, explore the Environmental Science & Sustainability program, or engage in the International Business & Finance program. Each program gives students the chance to conduct research, analyze complex problems, and apply what they are learning in meaningful ways.

UCLA students can now attend the broader Engineering program or more niche Aerospace program, both newly added to the campus. These programs complement UCLA’s vibrant arts offerings, including Music Industry & Production, Film Production & Screenwriting, Animation, and Game Design, offering a blend of technical and creative exploration.

New Campuses and Returning Favorites

NSLC is also expanding to two new locations in 2026: Rice University and the University of Pennsylvania, adding to our growing network of vibrant campuses. These new locations give students even more opportunities to experience life at top universities while exploring their academic interests and passions. Alongside these additions, we’re returning to longtime favorites like Georgetown University, Duke University, and the University of Michigan, offering students the chance to learn and grow on some of the most historic and respected campuses in the country.

In 2026, NSLC will expand to two new locations: Rice University and the University of Pennsylvania.

International Opportunities: NSLC Returns to Oxford University

Across the Atlantic, NSLC returns to Oxford University, one of the world’s most historic and academically renowned campuses. Students can choose from programs in Engineering, International Law & Politics, International Business & Finance, and Medicine & Health Care, engaging in immersive simulations, collaborative projects, and hands-on problem solving. Medicine & Health Care is new to Oxford in 2026, giving students a fresh opportunity to study the field in a global context.

Explore All 2026 Programs

NSLC offers something for every interest, from Psychology & Neuroscience to Sports Management, Veterinary Medicine, and Law & Advocacy. Whether students are pursuing a familiar passion or discovering a new one, there are countless opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow. To see all programs, campuses, and locations available in 2026, visit our Dates & Locations page and discover what your summer could look like.