15 College Summer Programs for High School Students
Summer break offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore new interests, enhance their academic skills, and get a taste of college life. College summer programs for high school students are designed to be enriching and fun, providing an immersive experience in various fields of study. Here's a comprehensive guide to 12 standout programs that can make your summer unforgettable and productive.
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15 College Summer Programs for High School Students
1. Harvard Pre-College Program
Harvard University’s Pre-College Program is a prestigious opportunity for high school students to experience college life while engaging in rigorous academic pursuits. This two-week, non-credit residential program allows participants to take one of over 30 courses offered, ranging from law and medicine to creative writing and business.
Course Highlights
Courses are designed to be both intensive and exploratory. Students attend classes led by Harvard faculty and affiliates, which fosters an environment of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. Some popular courses include:
Introduction to Biotechnology: An exploration of genetic engineering, CRISPR, and bioethics.
International Relations: A deep dive into global politics, conflicts, and diplomacy.
Creative Writing Workshop: A course that hones narrative techniques and literary expression.
Campus Life
Participants live in Harvard's dormitories, which gives them a genuine college experience. The program emphasizes community and personal growth, with structured activities, social events, and opportunities to engage with peers from around the globe.
Admission
Admission to the program is highly competitive. Applicants must submit transcripts, a personal statement, and teacher recommendations. Strong academic performance and a demonstrated passion for learning are essential.
2. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies
Stanford University’s Pre-Collegiate Studies offers high school students the chance to dive deep into subjects they are passionate about. With a variety of intensive study programs in math, science, and the humanities, students are challenged to think critically and creatively.
Programs Offered
Stanford Summer Humanities Institute: Students explore literature, philosophy, and history with Stanford’s distinguished faculty.
Stanford AI4ALL: A program focused on artificial intelligence, aiming to increase diversity and inclusion in the field.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes: Offers over 50 courses in areas such as computer science, engineering, and creative writing.
Academic Rigor
Courses are designed to push students beyond their comfort zones. For example, the AI4ALL program includes lectures, hands-on projects, and mentoring from AI researchers. Similarly, the Humanities Institute involves in-depth analysis of texts and robust class discussions.
Campus Experience
Living on Stanford’s campus, students participate in various extracurricular activities and social events. The program encourages collaboration and leadership, providing opportunities for students to present their projects and engage in meaningful conversations with peers.
Admission
The application process is selective, requiring academic records, personal essays, and recommendations. Demonstrating a strong interest in the chosen field of study is crucial.
3. MIT LaunchX
MIT’s LaunchX is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs. This four-week summer program teaches high school students how to develop and launch their own startups. It’s an immersive experience that covers everything from market research to pitching to investors.
Curriculum
The curriculum is hands-on and project-based. Key components include:
Market Research: Understanding customer needs and market gaps.
Product Development: Creating prototypes and refining product designs.
Business Planning: Developing business models and financial plans.
Pitching: Learning to effectively communicate business ideas to potential investors.
Mentorship and Networking
Participants benefit from mentorship by MIT professors, successful entrepreneurs, and industry experts. The program also includes networking events, allowing students to connect with like-minded peers and professionals.
Campus Life
Students live in MIT dormitories and engage in team-building activities, workshops, and social events. This environment fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Admission
Admission is competitive, with a focus on students who demonstrate entrepreneurial potential. The application requires essays, recommendations, and an overview of any previous entrepreneurial activities or projects.
4. Yale Young Global Scholars
Yale University’s Young Global Scholars program brings together exceptional students from around the world for a two-week session focused on leadership and global issues. It’s designed to challenge and inspire students through a combination of lectures, seminars, and project-based learning.
Sessions Offered
Politics, Law, and Economics (PLE): Examines the interconnectedness of political, legal, and economic systems.
Solving Global Challenges (SGC): Focuses on global issues, diplomacy, and international relations.
Innovations in Science and Technology (IST): Explores the role of scientific advancements in shaping public policy and innovation.
Literature, Philosophy and Culture (LPC): Explores expression and interpretation of creativity and culturally significant texts.
Academic Experience
Courses are taught by Yale faculty and include guest lectures from industry leaders and policymakers. Students engage in discussions, group projects, and simulations, such as mock UN debates or economic policy negotiations.
Community and Leadership
The program emphasizes leadership development and cultural exchange. Students participate in workshops on public speaking, negotiation, and conflict resolution, and there are numerous opportunities for cultural activities and social events.
Admission
The selection process is highly competitive. Applicants must submit academic transcripts, essays, recommendations, and evidence of leadership and extracurricular involvement.
5. Cornell Summer College
Cornell University offers a variety of three and six-week summer programs where high school students can earn college credits. With courses in engineering, veterinary medicine, business, and more, students get a head start on their college education while experiencing life at Cornell.
Academic Courses
Students can choose from a wide array of courses, such as:
Introduction to Architecture: A studio-based course where students learn design principles and create their own architectural projects.
Business Leadership: Covers fundamental business concepts, including marketing, finance, and management.
Veterinary Medicine: Provides hands-on experience in animal science and veterinary practices.
Hands-On Learning
Cornell’s programs emphasize experiential learning. For instance, the Veterinary Medicine program includes lab work, field trips, and interactions with professionals in the field. Similarly, the Architecture course involves studio projects and critiques.
Campus Life
Students live in Cornell dormitories and have access to campus facilities, including libraries, gyms, and dining halls. The program also offers social events, recreational activities, and opportunities to explore the beautiful Ithaca campus.
Admission
Applicants must submit academic records, personal statements, and recommendations. The program looks for students with strong academic backgrounds and a keen interest in their chosen field of study.
6. University of Chicago Summer Session
The University of Chicago’s summer session provides high school students with a unique intellectual adventure. With courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, students engage in rigorous academic discussions and projects.
Course Offerings
Courses are designed to challenge students and encourage critical thinking. Examples include:
Philosophy and Literature: Examines philosophical themes in classic and contemporary literature.
The Physics of the Universe: Explores fundamental concepts in astrophysics and cosmology.
Urban Studies: Investigates the dynamics of urban development, policy, and social issues.
Academic Environment
The University of Chicago is known for its emphasis on inquiry and discussion. Classes are small, allowing for intensive interaction with faculty and peers. Students are encouraged to engage deeply with the material and develop their own perspectives.
Residential Experience
Living on campus, students participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including cultural outings, sports, and social events. The residential experience fosters a close-knit community and provides a taste of college life.
Admission
The application process includes submitting transcripts, essays, and recommendations. The program seeks students who are intellectually curious and eager to engage in rigorous academic work.
7. Columbia University Summer Immersion
Columbia’s Summer Immersion program offers high school students a wide range of courses that allow them to explore their passions. Whether interested in creative writing, STEM, or social justice, participants spend three weeks delving into their chosen subject while living on the iconic New York City campus.
Course Highlights
The program offers numerous courses across various disciplines. Notable examples include:
Creative Writing: Workshops focusing on fiction, poetry, and playwriting, taught by published authors.
Introduction to Robotics: Covers the basics of robotics, including design, programming, and hands-on building projects.
Social Justice and Activism: Examines historical and contemporary social justice movements and strategies for advocacy.
Learning Experience
Courses are intensive and designed to provide a deep understanding of the subject matter. Students engage in lectures, seminars, and hands-on projects. The Creative Writing course, for example, involves writing exercises, peer reviews, and readings.
Campus and City Life
Students live in Columbia’s dormitories and have access to university facilities. The program also takes advantage of its New York City location, offering field trips to museums, theaters, and other cultural sites. Social events and activities help students form lasting connections.
Admission
Admission is competitive, requiring academic transcripts, essays, and recommendations. The program looks for students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a passion for their chosen subject.
8. Duke University Summer College for High School Students
Duke University’s Summer College program offers a variety of courses that provide college credit. Students can choose from subjects such as biology, economics, and public policy, and experience college life in Durham, North Carolina.
Academic Offerings
Courses are designed to be challenging and enriching. Examples include:
Introduction to Psychology: Covers fundamental concepts in psychology, including cognitive, social, and developmental psychology.
Public Policy Analysis: Examines policy-making processes and the impact of policies on society.
Biological Sciences: Provides an in-depth look at topics in biology, including genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Interactive Learning
The program emphasizes active learning through discussions, projects, and lab work. For instance, the Biology course includes laboratory experiments and fieldwork, while the Public Policy course involves case studies and policy analysis exercises.
Campus Experience
Students live in Duke’s residential halls and participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and social events. The program also includes college preparatory workshops, covering topics like college applications and essay writing.
Admission
The application process requires academic transcripts, personal essays, and recommendations. The program seeks students with strong academic backgrounds and a clear interest in their chosen field of study.
9. Brown University Pre-College Programs
Brown University provides a range of two-week to six-week courses in fields like writing, STEM, and the arts. With a focus on academic excellence and social engagement, students can explore new subjects and meet peers from around the world.
Course Options
Brown offers a diverse array of courses, such as:
Engineering Innovation: Introduces students to engineering principles through hands-on projects and design challenges.
Global Development: Examines issues related to poverty, health, and sustainability in developing countries.
The Art of the Essay: A writing course that helps students develop their essay-writing skills through various writing exercises and peer reviews.
Academic and Social Experience
The courses are designed to be intellectually stimulating and challenging. Students engage in lectures, discussions, and hands-on projects. The program also emphasizes community and social interaction, with numerous activities and events that promote cultural exchange and friendships.
Living on Campus
Students live in Brown’s dormitories and have access to university facilities. The program includes recreational activities, college preparatory workshops, and social events that help students build connections and prepare for college life.
Admission
Applicants must submit academic transcripts, personal statements, and recommendations. The program looks for students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong interest in their chosen subject.
10. University of Pennsylvania Pre-College Program
UPenn’s Pre-College Program allows high school students to enroll in undergraduate courses and earn college credit. The four-week program offers an array of courses in arts and sciences, engineering, and business, all taught by Penn faculty.
Course Highlights
Students can choose from a variety of courses, such as:
Introduction to Business: Covers fundamental concepts in business, including marketing, finance, and management.
Biomedical Research: Provides hands-on experience in biomedical research techniques and laboratory work.
Creative Writing: A course that hones writing skills through workshops, readings, and writing exercises.
Academic Rigor
Courses are designed to be challenging and to provide a college-level academic experience. Students engage in lectures, discussions, and projects, and have the opportunity to collaborate with peers and interact with faculty.
Campus Life
Students live in Penn’s dormitories and have access to university facilities. The program includes extracurricular activities, social events, and opportunities to explore Philadelphia. There are also college preparatory workshops that help students with the college application process.
Admission
The application process requires academic transcripts, personal essays, and recommendations. The program seeks students with strong academic backgrounds and a clear interest in their chosen field of study.
11. Georgetown University Summer Programs for High School Students
Georgetown offers several summer programs that give high school students a glimpse into college academics. With courses in areas like international relations, law, and medical studies, students can engage with Georgetown’s faculty and resources.
Program Options
Georgetown’s summer programs include:
International Relations: Examines global politics, diplomacy, and international organizations.
Law and Government: Provides an overview of the legal system, constitutional law, and public policy.
Medical Immersion: Offers hands-on experience in medical practices, including clinical simulations and lab work.
Academic Experience
Courses are designed to be engaging and informative. Students participate in lectures, discussions, and practical exercises. For example, the Medical Immersion program includes clinical simulations and lab experiments, while the International Relations course involves simulations of diplomatic negotiations.
Campus and Social Life
Students live in Georgetown’s dormitories and have access to campus facilities. The program includes extracurricular activities, social events, and opportunities to explore Washington, D.C. There are also workshops on college preparation and career planning.
Admission
The application process includes submitting academic transcripts, personal essays, and recommendations. The program looks for students with strong academic backgrounds and a demonstrated interest in their chosen field of study.
12. UCLA Summer Sessions for High School Students
UCLA’s summer program offers both college-level courses and specialized summer institutes. Students can explore subjects ranging from digital media and business to STEM and performing arts while earning college credit and experiencing life on UCLA’s vibrant campus.
Course Offerings
The program offers a wide range of courses, such as:
Digital Media and Journalism: Covers multimedia storytelling, digital journalism, and media ethics.
Introduction to Business: Provides an overview of business concepts, including marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
Biomedical Sciences: Explores topics in biology, chemistry, and medical research through lectures and lab work.
Learning Experience
Courses are designed to be immersive and interactive. Students engage in lectures, discussions, and hands-on projects. For example, the Digital Media and Journalism course includes creating multimedia projects and reporting assignments.
Campus Life
Students live in UCLA’s residential halls and have access to campus facilities. The program includes social events, recreational activities, and opportunities to explore Los Angeles. There are also workshops on college preparation and career planning.
Admission
The application process requires academic transcripts, personal essays, and recommendations. The program seeks students with strong academic backgrounds and a clear interest in their chosen field of study.
Conclusion
Participating in a college summer program can be a transformative experience for high school students. These programs not only bolster college applications but also provide a chance to explore potential career paths, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. Whether you’re interested in the humanities, sciences, business, or the arts, there’s a program out there for you. Consider applying to one of these prestigious programs to make the most of your summer and set the stage for a bright academic future.
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. Summer cohort applications will be accepted until June 15.
