In this hands-on engineering program, developed in collaboration with the USF Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering, high school students explore the science behind roller coasters, from lift systems and loops to friction, energy, and braking. Throughout the week, students experiment with real engineering concepts, complete build-and-test challenges, and apply physics principles to understand how coasters keep riders safe while delivering thrills.
A field experience at Busch Gardens, where students ride and analyze roller coasters through an engineering lens, helps inspire their final project: designing and modeling their own roller coaster concept using digital tools.
Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program Details
Camp Director: Dr. Freidkes
Location: USF Tampa Campus and Busch Gardens
Grade Levels: Rising 9th - 12th
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: $795
| Dates | Campus | Is this eligible for Rocky's Residents? |
|---|---|---|
| June 22nd - 26th, 2026 | USF Tampa | Yes |
What to Expect
Physics in Motion
Students explore energy, force, momentum, and motion as they relate to roller coasters. Through hands-on experiments, students see how physics principles directly shape speed, height, and rider experience.
Engineering Through Design
Students design, build, and test pulley systems, gears, lift mechanisms, and track features. Iterative challenges teach how engineers solve problems, evaluate tradeoffs, and improve performance.
Safety by Science
From friction to magnetic braking, students investigate how roller coasters slow down safely. Real-world testing and analysis show how engineering decisions protect riders without sacrificing excitement.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
A field experience at Busch Gardens brings concepts to life. Students analyze real coaster elements including lifts, loops, G-forces, energy transitions, and braking systems in action.
Roller coasters are more than thrills, they are masterpieces of physics and engineering. In Anatomy of a Roller Coaster, students learn by doing as they move from foundational concepts to real-world applications through daily builds, experiments, and challenges.
The camp culminates in a Design Your Own Coaster final project. Using digital modeling tools, campers develop and present a complete roller coaster concept grounded in physics-based reasoning and engineering design. It is the perfect experience for teens who love problem-solving, teamwork, and the excitement of turning big ideas into real designs.
Useful Information
Registration & Program Details
When does registration open for the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program?
Registration for all 2026 summer programs will open on February 1, 2026.
What is the capacity of the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program?
The Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program has a capacity of 30 campers.
Where is the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster program located?
The Anatomy of a Roller Coaster program on the USF Tampa campus. We will share finalized location details as we get closer to the program start date.
What time is drop-off and pick-up for the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program?
Our staff will be ready to greet your child for drop-off at 8:50 AM, with pick-up beginning at 4:00 PM. If you are running late for either drop-off or pick-up, please give us a call at (813) 974-3355 to keep us informed.
After registering for the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program, when will I start receiving logistical details?
You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program.
Staff & Safety
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff who will be leading the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program?
Anatomy of a Roller Coaster is led by Brett Freidkes, PhD, an Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of South Florida. Dr. Freidkes earned his BS, MS, and PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida and brings expertise in applied engineering and physics to help students explore the science behind roller coaster design and safety.
Are staff background-checked and trained?
Yes. All staff undergo Level 2 background checks and complete USF鈥檚 youth protection and safety training.
Residential Options
Are there residential options available for the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program?
Yes, the Anatomy of a Roller Coaster Program is eligible for Rocky鈥檚 Residents, a residential add-on offered for select high school programs. This option provides 6 days and 5 nights of supervised on-campus housing, meals, and evening programming that supports community building and exposure to university life.
How can I register for Rocky's Residents residential add-on?
During registration for your day camp, you will have the option to add Rocky's Residents as part of the process. There is no separate registration required for the residential program.
How much does the Rocky's Residents residential add-on cost?
The cost for Rocky's Residents is $1,395 per camper. This includes:
- 6 days and 5 nights of accommodation at Juniper-Poplar Residence Hall
- All meals provided at USF Dining Halls
- Supervision and activities led by trained counselors
- Recreation and wellness activities, including sports, fitness challenges, and more
- Access to campus facilities, such as recreational fields and study lounges
- A campus tour and presentations from USF Admissions and Student Success
- Evening events with student organizations and USF faculty
- Laundry facilities for campers' use
- 24-hour on-call emergency maintenance and support
Cancellation & Changes
What is the cancellation, transfer, and refund policy for USF Youth Experiences programs?
If you need to cancel or transfer a camp registration, please email youthxp@usf.edu.
Cancellations or transfer requests received at least 15 business days prior to the camp start date will be eligible for a refund or transfer to another available camp, minus any administrative or processing fees. Cancellations or transfer requests received within 15 business days of the camp start date are not eligible for a refund or transfer. No refunds will be issued after a camp has begun, regardless of the number of days attended or participation level. No refunds will be issued if a participant is dismissed from camp due to a violation of the camp鈥檚 conduct policy or code of behavior.
We make every effort to run all camps exactly as scheduled. In the unlikely event it becomes necessary to cancel, postpone, or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. If USF cancels a camp, you will receive a full refund. If USF reschedules a camp, you will have the option to receive a full refund or transfer to the new session.
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