Top 15 Computer Science Summer Programs for High School Students
During high school, the pursuit of knowledge and discovery knows no bounds. For students enthralled by the rapidly advancing world of technology and computer science, this period presents an ideal opportunity to immerse themselves in the intricacies of coding, algorithms, and software development. In the digital era, computer science has evolved from a mere subject to an indispensable skill that fuels innovation and drives global progress. With technology continuously reshaping our world, the demand for adept computer scientists and programmers has reached unprecedented levels.
To equip high school students with the necessary skills, numerous specialized programs are available—particularly during the summer—to hone their programming abilities, explore the realms of artificial intelligence, and deepen their understanding of the digital landscape. This blog post aims to shed light on the top 15 computer science programs tailored for high school students. These initiatives offer a unique gateway for learning, experimentation, and building a strong foundational understanding within the ever-evolving landscape of computer science, preparing students for a future where technology is the cornerstone of innovation and change.
Top 15 Computer Science Programs for High School Students
1. UPenn's Coding Academy
Location: University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)
Fee/Stipend: $9,700
Application Deadline: Applications for 2024 open December 1
Program Dates: July 6, 2024 - July 27, 2024
Program Selectivity: Moderate
Eligibility: Current 9th-11th grade students
UPenn's Summer Coding Academy offers an excellent opportunity for high school students to explore their interests in computer science. Students learn Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and JavaScript (JS) and discover how to put these tools together to produce useful and attractive web pages that run on any web-enabled desktop or mobile device. Students also learn how to use GitHub to build code collaboratively. The Coding Academy provides a strong foundation for students wishing to pursue a career in a technical field and empowers those in other fields (arts, history, literature, language, etc.) to bring new tools and thinking to their chosen discipline.
2. Inspirit AI Scholars Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: $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.
3. 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.
If you're looking for a deep dive into AI, the Stanford AI4ALL program is a top choice. Co-organized by the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory and the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI), this 3-week program, with a curriculum developed by AI4ALL, offers a profound understanding of AI. It's designed to increase diversity in the AI field, making it a great choice for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
During the program, participants immerse themselves in AI research, explore AI ethics, and work on hands-on projects that challenge their problem-solving abilities. Stanford AI4ALL places a strong emphasis on increasing diversity in the AI field, actively encouraging students from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. The program provides a supportive and inclusive environment where students can develop expertise in AI and create valuable connections within the AI community.
4. Stanford Summer Sessions
Location: Stanford University (Stanford, CA)
Fee/Stipend: Varies based on the number of units and housing
Application Deadline: Registration for 2024 starts in November 2023
Program Dates: June 22, 2024 - August 18, 2024
Program Selectivity: Moderate
Eligibility: Current sophomores, juniors, or seniors aged 16 or older
Stanford University's Summer Sessions provide high school students with a unique opportunity to explore computer science and a wide range of subjects. This eight-week program offers research opportunities across different subject areas, including computer science, where students can delve into topics like programming essentials, programming abstractions, and various internet technologies. All courses offered in Stanford Summer Sessions carry Stanford University credit, giving students a head start in their academic journey and providing them with valuable insights into the world of computer science. High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 16 or older can benefit from this program, enhancing their knowledge and gaining exposure to the challenging world of computer science. Stanford's reputation for academic excellence ensures that students receive a top-tier education, equipping them with the skills and insights necessary to excel in this ever-evolving field. Stanford Summer Sessions serves as a springboard for those aspiring to pursue careers in computer science and technology.
5. Columbia's Pre-College Summer Program
Location: Columbia University (Columbia, NY)
Fee/Stipend: Fee - $6,300 (commuter), $12,449 (residential)
Application Deadline: Applications open late-November
Program Dates: Session I (June 24, 2024 - July 11, 2024), Session II (July 16, 2024 - August 2, 2024)
Program Selectivity: Open enrollment
Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in high school as of Spring 2024; no prior experience is required, but applicants should have an aptitude for logical reasoning and systematic thinking.
The Columbia Pre-College Summer Program offers high school students an exciting opportunity to explore various fields, including computer science, in an Ivy League setting. Whether you're a complete beginner or already have some experience, this program provides a diverse range of one- and three-week courses that cover computer science fundamentals, coding in languages like Java, C, and Python, and immersive courses on subjects such as AI and machine learning. Beyond coding, students engage in challenging programming projects that enhance logical reasoning, systematic thinking, and problem-solving skills. This program is a gateway to gaining expertise in the ever-evolving world of computer science.
The Pre-College Summer Program at Columbia is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's also about experiencing life on a prestigious campus and immersing yourself in a vibrant academic community. High school students from around the world come together to learn, collaborate, and grow. With the guidance of experienced faculty and access to state-of-the-art resources, participants gain a competitive edge in their pursuit of higher education and future careers.
6. 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.
Hosted by UC San Diego and the San Diego Supercomputer Center, this 8-week program allows students to work closely with mentors on a research project, providing an excellent opportunity to apply AI knowledge to real-world projects. This experience involves formulating hypotheses, conducting computational experiments, and drawing conclusions from the results. It's a valuable learning experience that will help high school students understand the practical application of AI.
In this program, you'll have the opportunity to work with mentors who guide you through the research process. Whether you're interested in AI or other fields, you can choose AI as your research area and gain hands-on experience. This program is ideal for high school students looking to apply their AI knowledge to real-world projects and develop valuable research skills. You'll learn how to formulate and test hypotheses, conduct computational experiments, and draw conclusions from those experiments, all of which are essential skills for anyone interested in the application of AI.
7. 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's AI Scholars program combines project-based learning, lectures on computing and artificial intelligence, and group projects, offering students a comprehensive introduction to AI. Participation in this program is not only educational but also valuable for college applications and networking in the AI field. Students will also work on a group project that can be integrated into their academic portfolio, enhancing their college admission prospects.
In this program, you'll work with top-notch AI researchers and experts in the field. You'll engage in project-based learning and attend lectures that cover various aspects of computing and artificial intelligence. The program also emphasizes teamwork, as you'll collaborate with your peers on a group project. At the end of the program, you'll present your project to the cohort and instructors. This experience not only enhances your AI skills but also provides you with valuable insights and connections for your future AI endeavors.
8. 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 course on Mathematical Elements of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, recommended for AI enthusiasts. In this program, students delve into the mathematical aspects of modern data science algorithms and gain practical experience in Python. The program provides an understanding of how logic and mathematics are applied to teach computers to perform tasks and improve continuously, making it a solid foundation for AI exploration.
In this program, you'll have the opportunity to work with Harvard faculty, gaining insights into the latest AI developments. The Mathematical Elements of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence course covers essential mathematical concepts and their application in AI and data science. This includes single-variable calculus, three-dimensional geometry, elementary statistics, and coding in Python. By participating in this program, you'll not only acquire valuable AI knowledge but also earn university credit for your academic achievements.
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 offers a 2-week introductory course on data science and artificial intelligence. The curriculum covers fundamental concepts and real-world applications of data science and machine learning, with a strong emphasis on anti-bias in AI education. This program offers valuable exposure to AI and machine learning in a way that can be applied across various disciplines, making it a fantastic choice for students interested in both STEM and non-STEM academic paths. By participating in AI4All, you'll gain essential skills for ethical technology use and explore the interdisciplinary applications of AI.
10. 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 offers project-based courses, including "Serious Games and Artificial Intelligence," which focuses on applying modern methods in machine learning and game-like modeling. Students explore applications of AI to socially relevant technology and policy questions. This program provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about AI through hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving.
Throughout the program, students work closely with MIT faculty and researchers, delving into cutting-edge AI developments. For example, students might collaborate on a project like tactical routing for self-driving ambulances, where they design and implement an analysis framework in Python. This practical approach equips students with valuable AI skills and offers an in-depth exploration of AI research, preparing them for future AI endeavors. Beaver Works Summer Institute is an excellent choice for those eager to take a deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence and its real-world applications.
11. 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.
Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education (RAISE) offers tutorials and apps to help students expand their AI knowledge. Students can explore topics like robotics, Arduino programming, and image classification. RAISE focuses on ethical AI and anti-bias perspectives, preparing students for a future in AI with a strong ethical foundation. The self-learning aspect of RAISE makes it a flexible option for high school students.
In this program, you'll have the opportunity to work on projects that apply AI in real-world contexts. One example is the "Doodle Bot," a robot-based Creative AI learning platform designed for high school students. It introduces you to robotics, hardware, Arduino programming, and machine learning. You'll gain hands-on experience in these areas and apply your knowledge to real-world challenges. Another exciting opportunity through RAISE is the "Personal Image Classifier: PICaboo" tutorial, where you'll learn about the role of AI and machine learning in image classification. This hands-on experience will teach you how to create a "Peekaboo" game using your own Personal Image Classification (PIC) model. By participating in RAISE, you'll gain practical AI skills and develop a strong ethical foundation for your future AI endeavors.
12. 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.
13. 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
Program Selectivity: Moderate
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.
14. 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.
NYU's summer program focuses on core machine learning principles, providing students with insights into how logic and mathematics are applied to teach computers to perform tasks. With a focus on developing an understanding of machine learning, students gain valuable experience in cross-validation, linear regression, and neural networks, which are foundational concepts in AI.
In this program, you'll work with NYU faculty and researchers to dive deep into machine learning principles. You'll explore core concepts like model development through cross-validation, linear regressions, and neural networks. The program is designed to help you understand how logic and mathematics are applied to teach a computer to perform specific tasks and improve continuously. You'll work on projects that challenge your problem-solving skills and develop your AI expertise. The program is ideal for high school students eager to delve into machine learning and gain a strong foundation in AI principles.
15. 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.
UC Santa Barbara's program offers students deep research opportunities, where they spend substantial time working with research mentors. This unique program allows students to be exposed to a wide variety of interdisciplinary research topics and then select projects that align with their interests. Students get hands-on experience working with research mentors to conduct university-level research, a valuable experience for those looking to understand how AI applies across different fields and disciplines. The program also includes courses on research presentation techniques and an introduction to research, enhancing students' research and presentation skills. This program is unique because it allows students to choose from a wide range of research topics and work with mentors from various disciplines, making it a valuable experience for high school students interested in exploring AI's application in different fields and gaining hands-on research experience.
Conclusion
With these top 15 computer science programs for high school students, the world of coding, algorithms, and software development is at your fingertips. In an age where computer science knowledge is akin to digital literacy, these programs provide the perfect platform to explore your passions and expand your knowledge. Remember, the world of computer science is vast and ever-changing, and your journey in this field is just beginning. The skills and experiences gained from these programs will not only empower you to tackle the challenges of the digital age but also set you on a path to become a technology leader and innovator. So, seize the opportunity, code your dreams into reality, and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of technology. Your future in computer science is bright, and these programs are your gateway to unlocking its full potential. As you embark on your journey, remember that with each line of code, you are shaping the 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.
