15 Programs for Middle School Students in Maryland
Programs for middle school students can be a helpful way for you to explore different interests while building new skills in a structured setting. They introduce you to subjects such as STEM, the arts, and leadership through guided activities, allowing you to learn in a more focused and engaging environment. You can also use these experiences to discover what topics you enjoy while developing skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Why should you attend a program in Maryland?
Maryland offers a range of programs through universities, community colleges, and local organizations, giving you access to different academic and enrichment opportunities. Depending on the program, you might explore areas like coding, engineering, music, or science while working on projects, participating in group activities, and learning from instructors and mentors. These programs can be worth considering, whether you live in Maryland or are looking to explore opportunities in a different location.
To help you get started, we've narrowed down this list to 15 programs for middle school students in Maryland.
If you’re looking for online programs, check out our blog here.
1. GenCyber Camp @ AACC
Location: Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold, MD.
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: June 22 – 25.
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Aged 12-14 (rising 7th and 8th graders).
This is a summer day camp focused on cybersecurity education, where you learn about safe online behavior, ethics, and key cybersecurity concepts. Activities include coding web pages, building mobile applications, programming robots and devices, and exploring topics such as password security, protecting and hiding information, 3D printing, and digital geotagging. You engage in collaborative projects that involve problem-solving, evidence evaluation, argument analysis, and hypothesis generation. The program is led by experienced instructors who guide you through hands-on exercises to apply these skills in practical scenarios. Unique elements include donor-supported funding that makes the camp accessible at no cost, with a focus on digital safety.
2. Veritas AI’s AI Trailblazers
Location: Virtual.
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type; need-based financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective.
Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (weekends) or 25 hours over 2 weeks (weekdays during summer).
Application Deadline: Rolling for each cohort.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8.
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is a virtual program that teaches middle school students the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over 25 hours, you will learn the basics of Python as well as topics like data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics. Students learn through lectures and group sessions with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. Previous student projects have included building a machine-learning model to classify music genres and developing a machine-learning algorithm to generate a custom list of educational resources based on specified criteria.
3. CompSciConnect @ UMD
Location: University of Maryland, College Park.
Cost/Stipend: $400; needs-based scholarships available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Over 120 students annually.
Dates: Session 1: June 22-July 2; Session 2: July 13-24 (weekdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.).
Application Deadline: March 27.
Eligibility: Rising 6th-8th graders (priority for Maryland residents and underrepresented students in computing).
You engage in a three-year cohort-style program that introduces programming concepts through hands-on activities, starting with block-based tools like Scratch in the Yellow level for beginners. As you progress to the Red level, you learn web design using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build interactive sites. The Green level focuses on 3D game design, incorporating advanced elements to create immersive projects. Throughout, you explore related topics such as cybersecurity, cryptology, logic, and how computing applies to other fields and societal improvements. The structure includes a summer camp for intensive learning and monthly workshops throughout the academic year to continue project work and skill development. Mentorship from UMD staff and opportunities to become teaching assistants in later years emphasize broadening participation, especially for underrepresented groups in computing.
4. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
Location: Virtual.
Cost: Varies depending on program; need-based financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective.
Dates: Vary by cohort: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort (e.g., February 9 for early admission).
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8.
Lumiere’s Junior Explorers Program is a selective online research experience for middle school students, designed to build advanced academic writing and research skills. You begin by selecting a subject area, such as STEM, humanities, or social sciences, and are matched with a PhD-level mentor from a top university. Over the course of the program, you receive a structured introduction to your chosen field, then design and carry out an independent research project focused on a real-world question. To strengthen your writing and analytical abilities, you conclude the program by producing a formal research paper that presents your findings.
5. WIE Empower @ UMD
Location: University of Maryland, College Park.
Cost/Stipend: $625.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: June 23 - June 27.
Application Deadline: May 31.
Eligibility: Rising 7th and 8th graders.
You work on hands-on engineering projects that emphasize problem-solving, teamwork, design thinking, circuits, and tool usage. Undergraduate mentors guide you through activities in a supportive environment. The program includes lab tours and interactions with faculty to broaden your view of engineering fields. You collaborate on team challenges to create prototypes or solutions. There will also be discussions covering practical applications and career insights. Unique elements involve practical experiments that build technical confidence.
6. Summer smARTS @ Harford Day School
Location: Harford Day School, Bel Air, MD.
Cost/Stipend: $350 per week; $100 non-refundable deposit.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Maximum 15 campers per room.
Dates: June 15-19; June 22-26; July 6-10; July 13-17; July 20-24; July 27-31; August 3-7; August 10-14.
Application Deadline: April 30.
Eligibility: Students in grades 4-8.
You participate in hands-on learning adventures tailored for middle schoolers, including off-campus trips to sites in Harford and Baltimore Counties for exploration. Certain weeks focus on basketball fundamentals through co-ed camps, teaching skills like dribbling and teamwork. Other sessions feature themed activities around holidays or global cultures, with age-appropriate projects that encourage creativity. You mix with peers in small groups to maximize interaction and personalized attention. The program combines adventure, sports, and thematic learning to keep you engaged throughout the summer. Instructors facilitate activities that build social skills and enthusiasm for diverse experiences.
7. Montgomery College Summer Youth Programs
Location: Montgomery College campuses (Rockville, Germantown, Takoma Park/Silver Spring, East County Education Center) or virtual.
Cost: Varies by camp (tuition + fees); limited scholarships available for MCPS students.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: Varies; sessions typically run from June to August.
Application Deadline: Varies by course.
Eligibility: Students in grades 1 - 12.
You can participate in over 300 camps and classes covering topics such as coding, robotics, engineering, 3D design, game development, cooking, art, animation, music, and theater. The programs emphasize hands-on projects that allow you to apply concepts in practical settings, such as building models or creating digital content. Instructors guide you through skill-building exercises tailored to your grade level, fostering creativity and technical proficiency. You can choose from in-person sessions at various campuses or online formats for flexibility. Special features include collaborations with industry partners for real-world insights. The programs encourage group work, helping you develop teamwork while exploring potential career paths.
8. Terrapin Music Camp @UMD
Location: Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, College Park, MD.
Cost/Stipend: Day camp $435-$485, depending on registration timing.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: Band Camp: July 12-17; Orchestra/Choir Camp: July 19-24
Application Deadline: June 15.
Eligibility: Middle and high school vocalists and instrumentalists with at least 1 year of experience.
You join a week-long camp involving ensemble rehearsals, private lessons, sectionals, electives, and a final showcase performance. The program serves band, orchestra, and choir participants, focusing on improving musical technique and group dynamics. Instructors from the University of Maryland School of Music provide feedback and lead activities tailored to your level of experience. You explore various musical styles and collaborate with peers in daily sessions. Special features include masterclasses and on-campus performance opportunities. The camp emphasizes building confidence through structured practice and community involvement.
9. Summer at Garrison Forest School
Location: Garrison Forest School, Owings Mills, MD.
Cost/Stipend: Varies by camp; approximately $400- $700 per week; financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: Weekly sessions from June 15 to August 7.
Application Deadline: Rolling.
Eligibility: Youth ages 3-17.
You can enroll in Grizzly Day Camps or Specialty Camps at Garrison Forest School in Owings Mills, which offer activities in the arts, sports, STEM, and leadership development for middle schoolers. Hands-on projects include building inventions, performing in the theater, or participating in equestrian sessions if selected. Instructors lead group activities that emphasize teamwork, creativity, and skill-building in a supportive setting. You collaborate with peers on daily challenges and may participate in overnight sessions for deeper immersion. The program includes access to campus resources, including pools and fields. It highlights a blend of fun and learning to encourage exploration of new interests.
10. UMBC Summer Enrichment Academy
Location: UMBC, Baltimore, MD (some at Shady Grove Campus).
Cost/Stipend: Varies by course.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: Sessions: June 22-26, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31.
Application Deadline: Not specified.
Eligibility: Incoming 6th-8th graders (or those who finished 5th grade).
You can choose from hands-on courses such as AI Innovators, Drone Programming with Python, or Future Builders, all focused on STEAM topics. Sessions run in morning or afternoon slots for balanced scheduling. Instructors lead projects that involve creativity, technology, and real-world concepts. You collaborate with peers on innovations, such as designing sustainable cities or exploring generative AI. The program includes access to university facilities for immersive experiences. It highlights ethical considerations and career connections in emerging fields.
11. APL STEM Academy Ignite Program
Location: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, MD, or virtual (priority for MD residents).
Cost/Stipend: Not specified (likely free, as part of an outreach program).
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: After-school sessions, 5-6:30 p.m. ET (duration varies by course).
Application Deadline: Not specified.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8.
You take after-school courses that introduce STEM skills and careers through hands-on, project-based learning. The program provides a supportive environment for exploring topics such as engineering challenges and scientific experiments. Priority is given to Maryland residents for in-person and virtual options. You work on group projects with guidance from APL experts. Sessions include discussions on practical applications and innovations. The focus is on increasing interest in STEM majors and professions.
12. Club SciKidz MD STEM Camps
Location: Various sites in Maryland.
Cost/Stipend: Around $399 per week (varies by camp).
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: Weekly sessions from June to August.
Application Deadline: Not specified.
Eligibility: Students in grades 1-8.
You offer weekly, themed camps covering robotics, programming, engineering, chemistry, and other STEAM areas. Hands-on activities include building models, conducting experiments, and solving challenges. Instructors provide step-by-step guidance tailored to middle school levels. You collaborate on projects that encourage creativity and problem-solving. The program includes outdoor elements and group discussions to support broader learning. It aims to make complex topics accessible through fun, interactive formats.
13. Owl Scholars Summer Youth Camp
Location: Prince George's Community College, Largo, MD.
Cost/Stipend: Not specified.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified.
Dates: June 29 – August 7 (Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Application Deadline: Rolling basis, registration opens on March 23
Eligibility: Students in grades 2-8.
You participate in academic and enrichment activities in a college setting, covering subjects like math, science, arts, and leadership. The program includes daily sessions with hands-on projects and group work. Instructors focus on building skills through interactive lessons and collaborations. You explore campus facilities for real-world exposure. Special initiatives involve community involvement and presentations. The camp emphasizes empowerment and preparation for future education.
14. CTY Summer Day Programs
Location: Various sites in Maryland (e.g., Gilman School, Baltimore; The Woods Academy, Bethesda).
Cost/Stipend: $3,300 + fees; financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: First-come, first-served; limited seats.
Dates: June 28-July 17 or July 19-August 7 (three weeks).
Application Deadline: Best to enroll by May 11.
Eligibility: Students in grades 2-8 with qualifying test scores (e.g., SCAT, SAT, ACT).
You participate in three-week day sessions exploring advanced topics in subjects like science, math, engineering, and humanities through rigorous, hands-on activities. The program features small class sizes where you engage in discussions, experiments, and projects that challenge your thinking and connect concepts to practical applications. Instructors, often experts in their fields, provide mentorship to help you develop analytical skills and creativity. You collaborate with peers who share your academic interests, fostering a community of advanced learners. Daily schedules include breaks for social activities, enhancing the overall experience without overnight stays. Unique aspects include access to partner school facilities for immersive learning, with courses such as Cloudy with a Chance of Science, Numbers: Zero to Infinity, and The Physics of Engineering available at select sites.
15. CTY Residential Program at Johns Hopkins University
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
Cost/Stipend: $6,800 + fees; financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: First-come, first-served; limited seats.
Dates: June 28-July 17 or July 19-August 7.
Application Deadline: Best to enroll by May 11.
Eligibility: Students in grades 5-12 with qualifying test scores.
You live on campus for three weeks at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, taking advanced courses in areas like astrophysics, cognitive psychology, cryptology, or engineering innovations. The program involves in-depth discussions, labs, and projects that mirror college-level work. Residential advisors and instructors offer mentorship, helping you navigate challenging material and build independence. You engage in evening activities, study halls, and social events with peers from around the world. Access to university resources, such as libraries and labs, supports your explorations. The focus is on interdisciplinary learning and presenting your work to foster academic growth.
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