12 Best Computer Science Programs for High School Students
Embarking on the journey of computer science education in high school is akin to stepping into a realm where logic meets creativity, and problem-solving becomes an art form. In an era dominated by technology, the demand for individuals well-versed in computer science is ever-growing, making the choice of the right program crucial for high school students. The 12 Best Computer Science Programs for High School Students featured in this blog post are not just gateways to coding; they are portals to a world of innovation, discovery, and the boundless potential of the digital age.
In an educational landscape where choices can be overwhelming, this guide aims to simplify the process by curating a list of programs that stand out for their quality, curriculum, and impact on students. Whether you're intrigued by the intricacies of algorithms, dreaming of developing the next groundbreaking app, or simply eager to understand the technology shaping our world, these programs offer a diverse array of opportunities to cater to every interest and aspiration.
From introductory courses that lay the groundwork for understanding programming languages to advanced programs that delve into artificial intelligence and machine learning, each recommendation is carefully chosen to provide a holistic and enriching experience. So, let's explore the exciting universe of computer science programs tailored for high school students and discover the doors they can open to a future filled with possibilities.
12 Best Computer Science Programs for High School Students
1. RAISE at MIT
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by course
Application Deadline: Varies by course
Program Dates: Vary by course
Eligibility: High school students for select programs, with some programs open to middle school students.
The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education (RAISE) program, offered virtually with variable costs depending on the chosen course, stands as a flexible and accessible option for high school students interested in expanding their AI knowledge. Open to both high school and middle school students, RAISE provides tutorials and apps covering diverse topics such as robotics, Arduino programming, and image classification. Notably, the program places a strong emphasis on ethical AI and anti-bias perspectives, preparing students for future AI endeavors with a robust ethical foundation.
Among its engaging projects is the "Doodle Bot," a Creative AI learning platform that introduces high school students to robotics, hardware, Arduino programming, and machine learning. Another notable opportunity within RAISE is the "Personal Image Classifier: PICaboo" tutorial, where students learn about the role of AI and machine learning in image classification by creating their own Personal Image Classification (PIC) model. Participating in RAISE equips students with practical AI skills while instilling a deep understanding of ethical considerations in the application of AI.
2. Beaver Works Summer Institute, MIT
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Program Dates: July 8, 2023 - August 4, 2023
Eligibility: High school students with a demonstrated aptitude for STEM.
The Beaver Works Summer Institute, hosted by MIT in a virtual setting, is a standout choice for high school students showcasing a demonstrated aptitude for STEM fields. One of its featured courses, "Serious Games and Artificial Intelligence," focuses on the application of modern machine learning methods to address socially relevant technology and policy questions.
The curriculum challenges participants to apply modern machine learning techniques to analyze technological, moral, and strategic aspects of critical applications, such as tactical routing for self-driving ambulances. Engaging in hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving, students not only acquire practical AI skills but also gain a deep understanding of the intricacies of AI research. By participating in the Beaver Works Summer Institute, high school students can set themselves on a trajectory toward becoming proficient contributors to the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
3. Inspirit AI Scholars Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Fee - $1100 (all inclusive)
Application Deadline: Rolling (applications for the Winter Cohort close on December 11, 2023)
Program Dates: Rolling; sessions available year-round
Eligibility: Ambitious and driven high school students; no previous experience required
The Inspirit AI Scholars Program is an intensive two-week project-based learning experience in computer science and artificial intelligence. Students will begin by learning the fundamentals of computer programming in Python before applying concepts of artificial intelligence to their topic of choice in small group projects. Previous project subjects have included COVID-19 genomics, criminal justice, autonomous driving, mental health, and algorithmic training. Additionally, many students who have participated in the AI+X Individual Research Mentorship have gone on to win prestigious awards at various science fair competitions!
The AI Scholars Program at InspiritAI is a unique offering that empowers high school students around the world to apply artificial intelligence and computer science to their work across disciplines. The program emphasizes project-based learning and encourages high schoolers to seize on their interests and conduct socially-impactful research in their field of choice. Previous students have covered topics ranging from software and electrical engineering to transportation and civil engineering.
Program instructors hail from premier universities such as Stanford, Harvard, and MIT and are available as mentors to participating students. By interacting with their instructors as well as peers of similar interests, high school students develop an understanding of how to make an impact in their field of choice using powerful tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.
4. MIT's Women's Technology Program
Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA)
Cost: None
Application Deadline: January 15, 2024
Program Dates: June 29, 2024 - July 26, 2024
Eligibility: This program is women-focused. Applicants must be juniors or seniors in high school.
The MIT Women's Technology Program offers high school junior and senior students a remarkable opportunity to dive into the world of technology and engineering. This four-week program, hosted at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology, provides a rich educational experience that combines hands-on classes, laboratory work, and collaborative team projects. What makes this program truly exceptional is its focus on empowering young women in the male-dominated technology industry. Female MIT graduate students lead the way as instructors, providing valuable mentorship and guidance to the students, inspiring them to explore and excel in technology-related fields. The curriculum not only imparts technical knowledge but also fosters a sense of empowerment and confidence among the participants, making it a life-changing experience for young women interested in technology.
5. Harvard’s College Program
Location: Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) and online option for the Secondary School Program.
Fee/Stipend: Fee - $5,550 (pre-college program), $3,900–$14,250 (secondary school program, depending on the number of courses selected)
Application Deadline: February 14, 2024
Program Dates: Multiple sessions from June to August 2024
Eligibility: Students expected to graduate from high school in 2025 or 2026
Harvard's College Program offers a comprehensive course, "Mathematical Elements of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence," strategically designed for high school students eager to explore AI. Taking place at the prestigious Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with an optional online component, this program requires a fee ranging from $3,900 to $14,250, depending on the number of courses selected.
Open to students expected to graduate in 2025 or 2026, the program provides an immersive experience in the mathematical aspects of modern data science algorithms, all while gaining practical programming skills in Python. Harvard faculty members guide students through essential concepts such as single-variable calculus, three-dimensional geometry, elementary statistics, and coding. Notably, participants not only acquire valuable knowledge but also earn university credit, contributing to their academic achievements. By engaging in Harvard's College Program, high school students gain a solid foundation in AI exploration, propelling them into the realm of cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence.
6. Stanford AI4ALL
Location: Virtual
Cost: $4,000 (Financial aid available)
Application Deadline: To be announced for 2024
Program Dates: Tentatively June 25, 2024 - July 13, 2024 (based on last year’s schedule)
Eligibility: Open to current 9th-grade students who are eager to explore the world of AI and increase diversity in the field.
The Stanford AI4ALL program, hosted virtually, stands as a premier choice for high school students eager to embark on a deep exploration of artificial intelligence. Organized collaboratively by the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI), this three-week program, with a curriculum developed by AI4ALL, is tailored for current 9th-grade students.
What sets Stanford AI4ALL apart is its commitment to increasing diversity in the AI field, making it particularly appealing to students from underrepresented backgrounds. Participants immerse themselves in AI research, delve into the complexities of AI ethics, and tackle hands-on projects designed to challenge their problem-solving skills. The program provides a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering connections within the AI community. As students from diverse backgrounds come together, they not only develop expertise in AI but also contribute to a more inclusive landscape within this cutting-edge field.
7. UCSD’s and SDSC’s Annual Research Experience for High School Students (REHS)
Location: UC San Diego campus (San Diego, CA)
Cost: $1,500 for the program with a research project (free without a project)
Application Deadline: Tentatively in March for 2024
Program Dates: June to August
Eligibility: Open to high school students; course-specific eligibility requirements may apply.
The Annual Research Experience for High School Students (REHS), hosted by UC San Diego and the San Diego Supercomputer Center, is an eight-week program allowing high school students to work closely with mentors on a research project. With a cost of $1,500 for the program with a research project (free without a project), the tentative application deadline for 2024 is in March. The program, scheduled for June to August, offers a unique opportunity to apply AI knowledge to real-world projects.
Working with mentors who guide them through the research process, participants learn to formulate hypotheses, conduct computational experiments, and draw conclusions. The hands-on experience gained through this program is essential for anyone interested in the practical application of AI. Whether students are passionate about AI or other fields, the REHS program provides a valuable opportunity to develop research skills and gain insights into the multifaceted applications of artificial intelligence.
8. UC Santa Barbara’s Research Mentorship Program
Location: Mix of virtual and in-person
Cost: $4,700 (commuter option) or $6,599 (residential option)
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024
Program Dates: June 17 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and outstanding 9th graders on a case-by-case basis.
The Research Mentorship Program at UC Santa Barbara is a comprehensive offering that provides high school students with deep research opportunities. With a mix of virtual and in-person experiences, the program comes with a cost of $4,700 for the commuter option or $6,599 for the residential option. The application deadline for 2024 is March 15, and the program runs from June 17 to August 2, 2024. Open to high school sophomores, juniors, and outstanding 9th graders on a case-by-case basis, the program exposes students to a wide variety of interdisciplinary research topics.
Participants spend 30-40 hours per week working closely with research mentors, who can be graduate students, postdocs, or faculty members. The program provides university credit and additional courses on research presentation techniques and an introduction to research, enhancing participants' research and presentation skills. This unique program allows students to choose from a wide range of research topics and work with mentors from various disciplines, offering valuable experience for those interested in exploring AI's application in different fields.
9. AI4All at University of Washington
Location: Virtual
Cost: None
Application Deadline: July 1, 2024 (based on previous year)
Program Dates: July 18, 2024 - September 5, 2023 (based on last year’s schedule)
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors, high school seniors, or college freshmen from underrepresented backgrounds.
Hosted by the Taskar Center for Accessible Technology at the University of Washington, AI4All is a standout 2-week introductory course on data science and artificial intelligence. Taking place virtually, this program is open to rising high school juniors, high school seniors, or college freshmen from underrepresented backgrounds. The curriculum covers fundamental concepts and real-world applications of data science and machine learning, with a focus on understanding and analyzing the impact of technology decisions.
The program is characterized by small-group dialogue and learning, emphasizing anti-bias in AI education. This unique approach enables students to explore the ethical use of technology and its real-world applications, making it a valuable choice for those interested in both STEM and non-STEM academic paths. By participating in AI4All, students gain essential skills for ethical technology use and interdisciplinary applications of AI, setting a strong foundation for future academic and professional pursuits.
10. NYU’s Summer Program on Machine Learning
Location: New York University (New York City, NY)
Cost: $4000 (+additional fees for housing/meal plan)
Application Deadline: Opens December 15, 2023
Program Dates: Sessions run from June 10 - August 9
Eligibility: High school students aged at least 15, with some programming experience.
The New York University (NYU) Summer Program on Machine Learning, set in the vibrant New York City, offers high school students aged at least 15 a deep dive into core machine learning principles. Running from June 10 to August 9, with a total cost of $4,000 (additional fees for housing/meal plan), this program is ideal for those with some programming experience. NYU faculty and researchers guide students through essential concepts like model development through cross-validation, linear regression, and neural networks.
The program is designed to provide a profound understanding of how logic and mathematics are applied to teach computers to perform specific tasks continuously. Through hands-on projects that challenge problem-solving skills, participants not only gain valuable experience in machine learning but also develop a strong foundation in AI principles. The NYU Summer Program on Machine Learning presents a unique opportunity for high school students to explore the exciting possibilities within the dynamic field of artificial intelligence.
11. Pre-College AI Scholars at Carnegie Mellon University
Location: Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)
Fee/Stipend: None
Application Deadline: March 1, 2024
Program Dates: June 22, 2024 - July 20, 2024
Eligibility: Applicants must be rising high school juniors.
Carnegie Mellon University's AI Scholars program is a notable combination of project-based learning, computing lectures, and group projects, offering high school students a comprehensive introduction to AI. Taking place from June 22, 2024, to July 20, 2024, with no associated fee, this program is open to rising high school juniors. Participants collaborate with top-notch AI researchers and experts, engaging in project-based learning and attending lectures that cover various aspects of computing and artificial intelligence.
The program places a strong emphasis on teamwork, as students work together on a group project that can be integrated into their academic portfolio, enhancing their college admission prospects. The culminating experience involves presenting the project to the cohort and instructors, providing valuable insights and connections for future AI endeavors. Carnegie Mellon's AI Scholars program not only enriches AI skills but also contributes to the development of well-rounded, collaborative individuals prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
12. CalTech's Summer Tech Camp
Location: California Institute of Technology (Pasadena, CA)
Fee/Stipend: Fee - $1,379-1,779 per course
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: one-week sessions available June 24, 2024 - August 16, 2024
Eligibility: Applicants must be between 13-18 years of age. Courses have different experience levels, and those criteria must be met.
The Summer Tech Camp at the California Institute of Technology (CalTech) is an excellent opportunity for high school students between the ages of 13 and 18 to explore the world of computer science and technology. With a diverse range of courses, including Python, C++, and game development, this program allows students to delve into the exciting applications of computer science in both business and core technology sectors. The program encourages creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, emphasizing the practical use of computer science skills.
Whether you're an aspiring coder or simply curious about the tech industry, the Summer Tech Camp offers courses suitable for all experience levels. Through hands-on learning and guidance from experienced instructors, students will gain a strong foundation in computer science and a deeper understanding of its real-world applications. This program not only equips students with valuable skills but also inspires them to pursue careers in the ever-evolving field of technology.
Conclusion
As we draw the curtains on this exploration of the 12 Best Computer Science Programs for High School Students, it's essential to recognize that these programs are more than just academic pursuits – they are gateways to a future where technology is not just a tool but an integral part of our lives. The skills acquired through these programs extend beyond the realms of coding and algorithms; they instill a mindset of critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability – skills that are invaluable in any field.
Whether you choose to pursue a career directly in computer science or find yourself venturing into interdisciplinary fields, the knowledge gained from these programs will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation. The world of technology is dynamic, and these programs are designed to equip you with the tools needed not just for today's challenges but for the innovations of tomorrow.
As you embark on this educational journey, remember that computer science is not just about machines and code; it's about the creativity to envision solutions, the curiosity to explore uncharted territories, and the resilience to overcome challenges. So, embrace the learning experience, celebrate the victories, and let the world of computer science unfold its wonders before you. Your adventure in the digital realm awaits!
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
