10 UCLA Summer Programs for High School Students in 2023
Summer programs are a fantastic way for high school students to gain new skills, explore interests, and prepare for college admissions. Not only do they offer a chance to delve deeper into subjects that students are passionate about, but they also provide a valuable opportunity to demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and a willingness to learn outside of the classroom. For students interested in attending UCLA, there are numerous summer programs available that offer a chance to experience the campus and learn from some of the university's top professors and instructors. In this post, we are sharing 10 UCLA summer programs for high school students.
10 UCLA Summer Programs for High School Students
UCLA Summer Courses for High School Students
High school students can take UCLA summer courses across subject areas — from film and television to mathematics to communication to chemistry. Students can choose from over 100 in-person classes in 30 subject areas, while also getting adjusted to the fast-paced nature of college. High school students are able to take 1-2 approved courses alongside UCLA students for college credit.
https://summer.ucla.edu/courses/approved-summer-courses-for-high-school-students/
UCLA Design Media Arts Summer Institute
UCLA's Department of Design Media Arts (DMA) is a leading design department in the country, providing a holistic and diverse education in media creation that encourages unique exploration and innovative ideas. The DMA Summer Institute is a two-week program designed for high school students, offering morning and afternoon classes that introduce design practices in print, net, worlds, and video contexts. The program features expertly trained instructors who use state-of-the-art software and technology to teach students the latest techniques and skills in the field.
UCLA Anderson School Summer Discovery Program
The Summer Discovery at UCLA Anderson program offers high school students in grades 9-12 an excellent opportunity to gain the essential knowledge and experience to kick-start their career in media, entertainment, and sports. Led by renowned experts in their respective fields, the program provides a perfect blend of college-level academics and engaging activities. By participating in intensive academies, students can gain independence, strengthen existing friendships and make new ones, explore potential career paths, and witness college life firsthand.
UCLA Summer Art Institute
Experience the world-class UCLA Department of Art this summer. The Summer Art Institute caters to gifted and driven high school students, offering two sessions, including an in-person and a virtual option, with multiple specializations to select from. The program is centered around a combination of concentrated studio work, artist lectures, group critiques, and personalized meetings with faculty. Students can opt for one or both sessions, but must be prepared for a rigorous two-week immersion in studio instruction. Expect to work hard, learn new techniques and skills, and cultivate your artistic abilities.
UCLA Writing Project: College-Ready Writing
Join a tight-knit community of learners and discover your unique writing style while exploring pertinent social issues. The workshop encompasses various writing genres, such as poetry, narrative essays, and argumentative writing. You will be encouraged to develop your "personal academic voice" by reading inspiring texts, engaging in debates, and participating in the writing process. Through personalized feedback from both peers and instructors, you will refine your ideas and enhance your writing skills.
UCLA Summer College Immersion Program
The UCLA Summer College Immersion Program (SCIP) is an exceptional opportunity for high school students to get a glimpse of college life and study alongside UCLA undergraduates. With a curriculum modeled after the undergraduate experience, SCIP provides access to a diverse range of academic resources, including workshops, seminars, and UCLA coursework. The program also offers co-curricular activities designed to help students develop balance and thrive as they prepare for college. Upon completing SCIP, successful participants earn college credit, a certificate of completion, and the necessary skills to navigate college applications, academics, and university life with ease.
https://summer.ucla.edu/summer-programs/summer-college-immersion-program/
AI Scholars
For students who may not be able to travel to UCLA and are seeking a fulfilling summer experience, consider Inspirit AI, a live online AI-project building class in which students will learn about the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its ever-growing applications. Many of the program’s instructors are alumni from UCLA and other top universities who are happy to share guidance about their collegiate experience and about college AI programs. Read more about the AI Scholars program for talented high school students here and check out some of the projects completed by our alumni!
UCLA Critical Thinking Summer Institute
The Critical Thinking Summer Institute invites highly motivated high school students to join us for an unparalleled opportunity to enhance their critical thinking abilities and delve into innovative topics in today's media landscape. Led by renowned instructors, the program offers a comprehensive introduction to critical thinking theory and practice, including the application of logic and probability theory to assess arguments and the responsible and creative use of AI. Enrolled students may earn credit in Phil 9 (Principles of Critical Reasoning) and participate in an exclusive media literacy and journalism workshop, led by esteemed experts from the esteemed University of Queensland. The workshop focuses on evaluating new media and hands-on experience in crafting an article for publication. This program is an incredible chance to refine critical thinking skills, gain valuable media literacy and journalism experience, and prepare for success in the digital age.
https://summer.ucla.edu/program/critical-thinking-summer-institute/
UCLA Game Lab Summer Institute
The UCLA Game Lab Summer Institute empowers high school students to express their artistic vision through game-making by providing them with techniques and tools to create analog and digital games. Students can choose between an in-person, residential experience, or a virtual/online program, both with identical curriculum design, lesson objectives, and faculty guidance. No prior game-making skills are necessary, but those interested in games and visual arts will find the program especially engaging. Through the program, students gain a strong foundation in various aspects of game design, as well as the ability to convey their unique ideas through game-making and game art.
UCLA Mock Trial Summer Institute
If you're a high school student interested in learning about the legal system and honing your skills as a trial attorney, prosecutor, or defense attorney, then the UCLA Mock Trial Summer Institute is the perfect opportunity for you. Whether you're looking to build your self-confidence, strengthen your ability to communicate your ideas, or explore potential college and career options, this week-long program has something for you. Led by the National Champion UCLA Mock Trial Team Coach and Team Members, the program provides a comprehensive introduction to trial advocacy techniques and public speaking skills through online training.
https://summer.ucla.edu/program/mock-trial-summer-institute/
