15 UC Summer Programs for High School Students

Are you a high school student eager to explore your academic interests, gain valuable skills, and experience college life? The University of California (UC) system offers a wide range of exciting summer programs tailored to high school students. Whether you're passionate about science, arts, technology, or social sciences, there's a UC summer program that can ignite your curiosity and help you prepare for your future. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to 15 UC summer programs that can help you make the most of your summer break.

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UC Summer Programs

1. UC BERKELEY - PRE-COLLEGE SCHOLARS

UC Berkeley's Pre-College Scholars program is an exceptional opportunity for high school students to experience college-level courses in a wide range of academic disciplines. Whether you're passionate about exploring the frontiers of computer science, delving into the intricacies of philosophy, or embracing the challenges of advanced mathematics, this program has something for everyone. Participants not only engage in rigorous academic coursework but also experience the vibrant campus life of UC Berkeley, one of the world's leading research institutions. This immersive experience allows you to make lasting friendships, gain invaluable insights, and enhance your readiness for college.

2. UCLA SUMMER SESSIONS HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

At the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), high school students can participate in a dynamic array of summer programs tailored to various interests. Whether you dream of creating cinematic masterpieces, uncovering the mysteries of the brain in neuroscience, or cultivating your entrepreneurial spirit, UCLA Summer Sessions has a program to ignite your passion. These programs provide a unique blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience, allowing you to work closely with world-class faculty and fellow motivated students while enjoying the beautiful campus and vibrant culture of Los Angeles.

3. UC SAN DIEGO ACADEMIC CONNECTIONS

UC San Diego's Academic Connections program offers high school students a glimpse into the world of higher education and research. With courses spanning subjects like marine biology, psychology, and engineering, this program provides an excellent opportunity to explore your academic interests while gaining college-level experience. By participating in Academic Connections, you'll not only attend engaging lectures but also collaborate on research projects, connect with renowned professors, and experience campus life in beautiful La Jolla. It's a transformative summer experience that prepares you for the intellectual challenges of university life.

4. UC SANTA BARBARA SUMMER SESSIONS

UC Santa Barbara's Summer Sessions program opens the door to high school students eager to delve into the diverse world of higher education. From environmental science to music and economics, these courses allow you to explore your interests in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. The program provides an enriching academic experience while giving you a taste of the vibrant campus culture in the picturesque setting of Santa Barbara. With renowned faculty and peers who share your curiosity, UC Santa Barbara's Summer Sessions are an unforgettable opportunity for personal and academic growth.

5. UC IRVINE PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS

The Pre-College Programs at UC Irvine offer high school students a chance to immerse themselves in subjects like game design, medicine, and engineering. These programs provide an exciting blend of academic exploration and hands-on learning. You'll have the opportunity to work with faculty members, engage in challenging coursework, and gain a deep understanding of your chosen field. Whether you aspire to be a game developer, doctor, or engineer, UC Irvine's Pre-College Programs will help you take your first steps towards a successful career while enjoying the vibrant campus atmosphere.

6. UC DAVIS YOUNG SCHOLARS PROGRAM

The UC Davis Young Scholars Program is a prestigious opportunity for high school students to engage in research and exploration across various disciplines. Whether your interests lie in biology, chemistry, engineering, or the humanities, this program offers a chance to work closely with esteemed faculty on innovative research projects. It's an invaluable experience that not only prepares you for the academic rigors of college but also allows you to make meaningful contributions to your chosen field. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive academic community, UC Davis Young Scholars will inspire your intellectual curiosity and set you on a path to academic excellence.

7. UC RIVERSIDE SUMMER ACADEMY

The UC Riverside Summer Academy invites high school students to discover their passions in subjects like robotics, public speaking, and creative writing. This program offers a perfect balance between academic enrichment and personal development. You'll engage in stimulating coursework, learn from experienced faculty, and develop essential skills that will serve you well in your future academic and professional endeavors. Additionally, the program fosters a sense of community and camaraderie, providing you with a supportive environment to thrive academically and personally. UC Riverside's Summer Academy is the ideal platform to explore your interests and unleash your potential.

8. UC SANTA CRUZ PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS

The UC Santa Cruz Pre-College Programs offer high school students a chance to explore their academic interests in subjects such as astronomy, marine biology, and digital arts. With a focus on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary exploration, these programs provide an immersive and engaging educational experience. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with faculty, engage in fieldwork, and develop a deeper understanding of your chosen field. UC Santa Cruz's stunning coastal campus serves as a backdrop for these enriching experiences, making it an ideal setting for academic and personal growth.

Interested in our online AI coding program for middle & high school students? Enter your email below for program enrollment, updates & more!

   

9. UC MERCED - SSHA SUMMER ACADEMY

The UC Merced School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts (SSHA) Summer Academy is designed for high school students interested in exploring the rich tapestry of subjects in the humanities and social sciences. Courses in philosophy, psychology, and literature offer intellectual challenges and a chance to engage in meaningful discussions. By participating in the SSHA Summer Academy, you'll gain critical thinking skills, refine your communication abilities, and deepen your appreciation for the humanities and social sciences. This program prepares you for the academic demands of college while fostering a lifelong love of learning.

10. UC SAN FRANCISCO HIGH SCHOOL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The UC San Francisco High School Internship Program provides aspiring medical professionals and researchers with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a world-renowned healthcare institution. Under the guidance of experienced mentors and healthcare professionals, high school students have the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research and learn about various medical disciplines. This immersive program offers valuable insights into the healthcare field and helps students build a strong foundation for future careers in medicine and science.

11. UC BERKELEY - GLOBAL EDGE

UC Berkeley's Global Edge program is an exciting opportunity for high school students to explore global issues and develop intercultural skills. This program combines academic coursework with experiential learning, allowing students to examine critical global challenges from multiple perspectives. Through seminars, workshops, and cultural experiences, participants gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our world. Global Edge empowers students to become global citizens, fostering a sense of responsibility and engagement with global affairs.

12. UC RIVERSIDE - WOMEN'S HEALTH, LEADERSHIP, AND EMPOWERMENT

The Women's Health, Leadership, and Empowerment program at UC Riverside addresses important issues surrounding women's health while promoting leadership and empowerment among high school students. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, and discussions led by experts in the field, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of women's health topics and leadership skills. This program equips students with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for women's health and take on leadership roles in their communities.

13. UC SAN DIEGO - JAZZ CAMP

If you have a passion for music, UC San Diego's Jazz Camp is an intensive summer program that allows high school students to immerse themselves in the world of jazz. Participants receive instruction from experienced jazz musicians, take part in ensemble playing, and attend masterclasses. This program provides a unique opportunity to refine your musical skills, collaborate with fellow musicians, and develop a deep appreciation for the art of jazz. UC San Diego's beautiful campus and vibrant music scene create the perfect backdrop for this enriching musical experience.

14. UC SANTA BARBARA - SCIENCE & ENGINEERING RESEARCH ACADEMY

High school students interested in science and engineering can participate in UC Santa Barbara's Science & Engineering Research Academy. This program offers hands-on research experiences under the guidance of renowned faculty in fields such as physics, chemistry, and engineering. Participants work on cutting-edge research projects, gain valuable lab skills, and explore the frontiers of scientific discovery. UC Santa Barbara's picturesque campus and collaborative research community make this program an exceptional opportunity to prepare for a future in science and engineering.

15. UC DAVIS - YOUNG SCHOLARS PROGRAM IN HUMANITIES AND THE ARTS

For those with a passion for the humanities and arts, UC Davis offers the Young Scholars Program in Humanities and the Arts. This program encourages exploration and creative expression in subjects such as literature, visual arts, and philosophy. Participants engage in coursework, workshops, and projects that allow them to delve deep into their chosen discipline. The program fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the humanities and arts, preparing high school students for future academic and artistic pursuits.

Conclusion

These 15 UC summer programs for high school students offer a diverse range of experiences, from academic enrichment to personal growth and cultural immersion. Each program is designed to help you discover your passions, develop essential skills, and gain insights into higher education and future career paths. As you explore these opportunities, be sure to consider your interests, goals, and eligibility requirements to find the UC summer program that aligns best with your aspirations.

Interested in our online AI coding program for middle & high school students? Enter your email below for program enrollment, updates & more!

   

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.

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