45+ Harvard High School Summer Program : Applications & Programs in 2025
The Harvard High School Summer Program offers an unmatched opportunity for ambitious students to experience college-level academics and daily life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Each summer, Harvard University opens its campus to high school students who are eager to challenge themselves intellectually and engage with a diverse academic community. The Harvard High School Summer Program 2025 includes two main offerings: the Pre-College Program and the Secondary School Program. These tracks provide access to rigorous courses, hands-on learning, and instruction from Harvard’s renowned faculty. Whether students aim to boost their college applications, dive deeper into academic passions, or explore what Ivy League learning feels like, this summer program offers a transformative experience.
The 2025 session features more than 45 curated courses spanning neuroscience, data science, philosophy, global relations, creative writing, and other dynamic fields. For students looking to take their academic journey further, the Harvard High School Summer Program stands as a powerful launchpad for personal and intellectual growth.
Harvard High School Summer Program
Table of Contents
Pre-College Program : 2-Week Non-Credit Courses
For high school students looking for a short yet meaningful academic experience, the Harvard High School Summer Program offers a Pre-College track that blends college-level learning with a preview of life at Harvard. This two-week non-credit program is ideal for students eager to explore their interests, develop new skills, and experience an Ivy League environment. Here are five key highlights of the Harvard High School Summer Program Pre-College offering :
The Harvard High School Summer Program Pre-College experience runs for two weeks and is designed to give high school students a focused, intensive academic opportunity on Harvard’s campus.
Students can choose from a wide range of non-credit liberal arts courses that are interactive, discussion-based, and focused on critical thinking, which reflects the core values of the Harvard High School Summer Program.
Learning is driven by inquiry and engagement rather than memorization or exams, helping students explore topics more deeply and independently.
Courses within the Harvard High School Summer Program Pre-College track span subjects such as medical ethics, data science, philosophy, international relations, and creative writing, all taught in small, collaborative settings.
Beyond academics, students in the Harvard High School Summer Program participate in leadership workshops, college readiness sessions, and social activities that offer a full and immersive college experience.
Secondary School Program : 4- and 7-Week Credit Courses
For students seeking a deeper and more academically intensive summer, the Harvard High School Summer Program offers the Secondary School Program. This track is perfect for those who want to earn college credit while experiencing the rigor and rhythm of real college life. Here are five key features of the Harvard High School Summer Program Secondary School option :
The Harvard High School Summer Program Secondary School track runs in 4- and 7-week formats, allowing students to choose a schedule that fits their summer plans and academic goals.
Students enroll in official Harvard college courses for credit, studying alongside Harvard undergraduates and even graduate students.
Participants complete real coursework and receive an official Harvard transcript, making this a strong addition to any future college application.
With hundreds of courses in science, humanities, math, and social sciences, the Harvard High School Summer Program gives students the chance to explore both foundational subjects and specialized interests.
This extended experience helps students build academic independence, improve time management, and gain the confidence needed for success in a university setting.
Harvard High School Summer Program
45+ Harvard Summer Courses for High School Students in 2025
STEM Courses (1–20)
1. From Stars to Planets: Are We Alone in the Universe?
Explore astrophysics and the search for extraterrestrial life through lectures and simulations, diving into the mysteries of the cosmos.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 (includes tuition, room, meals) + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
2. Introduction to Coding and Statistical Analysis
Learn Python basics and apply statistical methods to analyze data sets, building a foundation for data science.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: Python, Jupyter Notebook
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
3. Web Programming with Python and JavaScript
Build dynamic web applications using Python and JavaScript frameworks, gaining hands-on coding experience.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Python, JavaScript, Flask, HTML/CSS
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
4. Introduction to Quantum Physics
Dive into quantum mechanics with hands-on simulations and experiments, exploring cutting-edge physics concepts.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Quantum Physics.
5. Biology of Infectious Diseases
Study the science behind infectious diseases and their global impact through case studies and discussions.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Infectious Diseases.
6. Data Science with R
Learn R programming for data analysis and visualization using real-world datasets, ideal for aspiring data scientists.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: R, RStudio
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
7. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Explore AI concepts and build a simple machine learning model, gaining insights into this transformative field.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Python, TensorFlow
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
8. Environmental Science and Sustainability
Analyze environmental challenges and solutions through case studies, fostering a passion for sustainability.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Environmental Science.
9. Introduction to Robotics
Design and program basic robots using Arduino, blending engineering and coding skills.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: Arduino, C++
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
10. Chemistry of Everyday Life
Explore chemical principles through real-world applications like cooking and medicine, making science accessible.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
11. Machine Learning Basics
Learn the fundamentals of machine learning with hands-on Python projects, preparing for advanced tech studies.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Python, Scikit-learn
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about Scikit-learn.
12. Introduction to Bioinformatics
Analyze biological data using computational tools, bridging biology and computer science.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: Python, Biopython
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
13. Engineering Design Challenges
Solve real-world engineering problems through team-based projects, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Engineering Design.
14. Astronomy and Astrophysics
Study celestial phenomena and use telescopes for observation, deepening your understanding of the universe.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
15. Introduction to Game Development
Create simple 2D games using Unity and C#, gaining skills in game design and programming.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: Unity, C#
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
16. Neuroscience Fundamentals
Explore the brain and nervous system through lectures and simulations, igniting curiosity in neuroscience.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Neuroscience.
17. Introduction to Cybersecurity
Learn the basics of protecting digital systems from cyber threats, with hands-on exercises in security tools.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Python, Wireshark
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about Cybersecurity.
18. Mathematics of Cryptography
Study the mathematical foundations of encryption and security, exploring real-world applications.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Cryptography.
19. Physics of Renewable Energy
Investigate the physics behind solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources, with a focus on sustainability.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Renewable Energy.
20. Introduction to Mobile App Development
Build a simple mobile app using Flutter, gaining skills in app design and programming.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Flutter, Dart
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Humanities and Arts Courses (21–35)
21. Creative Writing Workshop
Develop storytelling skills through writing short stories and poems, guided by expert instructors.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Creative Writing.
22. The Power and Politics of Fairy Tales
Analyze fairy tales as cultural and political narratives, exploring their historical and modern significance.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
23. Introduction to Philosophy
Explore fundamental philosophical questions about ethics and existence through engaging discussions.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
24. History of the American Revolution
Study the causes and impacts of the American Revolution through historical analysis and primary sources.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about American History.
25. Digital Storytelling
Create multimedia stories using video, audio, and text, blending creativity and technology.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: Adobe Express
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Harvard High School Summer Program
26. Introduction to Film Studies
Analyze films and their cultural significance, exploring cinematic techniques and narratives.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Film Studies.
27. Shakespeare’s Tragedies
Study key works like Hamlet and Macbeth through discussion and performance, delving into literary analysis.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
28. Art and Architecture of Renaissance Italy
Explore the artistic and architectural achievements of the Renaissance, analyzing their historical context.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Renaissance Art.
29. Writing for Social Change
Craft essays and speeches to advocate for social issues, honing persuasive writing skills.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Writing for Social Change.
30. Introduction to Music Theory
Learn the basics of music composition and notation, with hands-on exercises in creating music.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: MuseScore
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Music Theory.
31. World Mythology
Compare myths from different cultures and their modern relevance, exploring storytelling traditions.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
32. Public Speaking and Rhetoric
Develop skills in persuasive speech and effective communication, preparing for leadership roles.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Public Speaking.
33. Modern Poetry Analysis
Analyze contemporary poetry and write original poems, deepening literary appreciation.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
34. History of Photography
Study the evolution of photography as an art form, exploring its cultural and artistic impact.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
35. Introduction to Theater Production
Learn the basics of staging a theatrical performance, from directing to set design.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Theater Production.
Social Sciences and Business Courses (36–50)
36. Introduction to Psychology
Explore human behavior and mental processes through experiments and case studies, foundational for psychology studies.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
37. The Science of Politics
Analyze political behavior and systems using data-driven methods, blending politics and science.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Political Science.
38. Introduction to Economics
Study micro and macroeconomics with real-world applications, building a foundation for economic analysis.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
39. Entrepreneurship Essentials
Learn to develop and pitch a business idea, gaining practical skills for entrepreneurial ventures.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about Entrepreneurship.
40. Game Theory and Strategic Decisions
Apply game theory to understand decision-making in competitive scenarios, with real-world applications.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
41. Introduction to Sociology
Examine social structures and their impact on individuals and communities, exploring societal dynamics.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
42. Marketing Fundamentals
Learn the principles of marketing and create a mock campaign, developing skills for business success.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
43. Law and Philosophy
Explore the philosophical foundations of legal systems, blending law and critical thinking.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
44. Global Health Challenges
Study global health issues and propose solutions through case studies, addressing real-world challenges.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Global Health.
45. Introduction to International Relations
Analyze global political dynamics and international conflicts, exploring diplomacy and policy.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about International Relations.
46. Financial Literacy and Planning
Learn budgeting, investing, and financial decision-making, preparing for personal and professional success.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Financial Literacy.
47. On the Witness Stand: Scientific Evidence in Court
Examine how scientific evidence is used in legal proceedings, blending science and law.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Pre-College (2-week, non-credit)
Cost: $5,800 + $75 application fee
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: January 8, 2025 (early); April 9, 2025 (regular)
Learn more about Scientific Evidence.
48. Social Entrepreneurship
Develop business ideas that address social issues, combining entrepreneurship with social impact.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Learn more about Social Entrepreneurship.
49. Psychology of Leadership
Study leadership theories and their psychological underpinnings, preparing for leadership roles.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (4-week, credit)
Cost: $8,650 (residential, 4 credits)
Tech Stack: None
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Learn more about Leadership Psychology.
50. Introduction to Business Analytics
Use data to make informed business decisions with hands-on projects, blending business and analytics.
Eligibility: Grades 10–12, ages 16–18 by June 21, 2025
Program: Secondary School (7-week, credit)
Cost: $14,950 (residential, 8 credits); $7,900 (online, 8 credits)
Tech Stack: Excel, Python
Application Deadline: April 9, 2025
Harvard High School Summer Program
How to Apply and Prepare
Getting into the Harvard High School Summer Program is a competitive yet accessible process for motivated students. A well-prepared application and mindset can make a meaningful difference. Here are five important things to know when applying and preparing for the Harvard High School Summer Program:
The application process for the Harvard High School Summer Program includes submitting academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and short personal essays. International students may also need to provide proof of English proficiency.
A strong application showcases intellectual curiosity, maturity, and readiness for the academic rigor of the Harvard High School Summer Program.
Students are encouraged to start early by researching course offerings and identifying whether the Pre-College Program or the Secondary School Program best matches their goals.
Preparing goes beyond the application. Students should practice time management, explore independent living skills, and consider how they will adapt to a college-style environment.
The Harvard High School Summer Program can be a student’s first real step into higher education, so preparing both academically and personally is essential for a successful experience.
Start Your Harvard Summer Journey
Joining the Harvard High School Summer Program in 2025 is more than just earning a certificate. It is about stepping into a vibrant academic community filled with curious minds, dedicated mentors, and a global network of future leaders from diverse backgrounds. Whether you're walking through Harvard Yard, engaging in seminar discussions, or working late into the evening on a group project, every moment in the Harvard High School Summer Program offers a chance to grow academically, socially, and personally.
For students ready to challenge themselves, gain college readiness skills, and experience life at one of the world’s top universities, the Harvard High School Summer Program can be the beginning of something bigger and more transformative. It is a launchpad for ambition, discovery, meaningful friendships, and new academic perspectives. The journey starts now with preparation, self-belief, dedication, and the decision to apply confidently.
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.
