Summer Courses | 2026 Pre-College Summer Intensive Series
The AI Design Studio is a high school AI summer program at Texas State University designed for students interested in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and future careers in computer science.
This pre-college Summer Intensive introduces foundational AI concepts through creativity, design thinking, and responsible innovation. No prior coding experience is required. Students build an original AI-powered artifact while documenting their design decisions and ethical considerations.
Participants gain structured faculty feedback, hands-on project development experience, and a portfolio-ready outcome within a university learning environment.
This program is a good match if your student is curious about careers in AI digital design and creation. No prior experience is required — just a excitement for future technology and the process to create it.
Each student will complete the intensive with:
Hybrid Early Bird (through April 30): $995
Hybrid Regular: $1,195
Part of the TXST Community (Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Current Student)?
$949
Part of the TXST Community (Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Current Student)?
Hafila Morais Max Morais is a Lecturer in the Information Systems and Analytics department at Texas State University and a data analytics professional with a strong interdisciplinary background in engineering and analytics. She holds a Master's Degree in Data Analytics and Information Systems, and a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering. Hafila is passionate about making AI accessible, creative, and practical for students, bringing real-world experience in machine learning, data science, and AI-driven problem solving into the classroom.
In addition to teaching ISAN 1325: Introduction to Microcomputer Applications in Business at Texas State University, she works as a software testing and data analysis intern at Optimized Gas Treating, where she applies C#, VBA, and Excel to support simulation testing, automate workflows, and analyze system performance. Her expertise includes Python, SQL, Tableau, and machine learning.
As both an educator and industry professional, Hafila is dedicated to helping students build confidence with technology while creating meaningful, real-world projects. In the AI Design Studio, she guides students through hands-on experiences where they design, build, and explore AI tools, no prior coding experience required. Her goal is to empower students to understand, create, and responsibly use AI in ways that prepare them for the future.
Dr. Alex Burnett-Hayes is an Assistant Professor of Instruction in Information Systems and Analytics at Texas State University, specializing in applied AI, data analytics, and emerging technologies in business. She is passionate about making AI accessible to students of all backgrounds, particularly those with no prior coding experience, and focuses on building practical, real-world skills alongside ethical awareness.
An award-winning educator and researcher, Dr. Burnett-Hayes received the Best Paper Award (2026, SWAM Conference) and was named a Favorite Professor (2025) by the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society.
In the AI Design Studio, she leads students through hands-on exploration of AI tools, light programming, and responsible AI practices. Students leave the course with a completed AI-powered portfolio artifact and the confidence to thoughtfully design, evaluate, and apply AI in academic, professional, and personal contexts.
Texas State University Continuing Education
continuinged@txstate.edu | 512.245.2507
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