15 Programs for High School Students in Michigan
If you’re in high school, participating in academic and structured programs is an excellent way to explore your interests while developing real-world skills. Whether you’re curious about medicine, computer science, engineering, or entrepreneurship, these experiences provide exposure to practical applications, professional mentorship, and university-level learning. You’ll also build problem-solving abilities, gain confidence in academic environments, and form valuable connections with peers and industry experts.
Why should you attend a program in Michigan?
Michigan is home to top universities and research institutions, making it a good place for you to pursue summer or pre-college programs. From STEM initiatives to research experiences, institutions like Michigan State University offer you a diverse range of opportunities to explore your interests. The state’s emphasis on technology, healthcare, and engineering industries makes it beneficial for students interested in innovation and applied learning.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 programs for high school students in Michigan, featuring both in-person and virtual options.
If you are looking for research programs in Michigan, check out our blog here.
1. BioMed Focus
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Stipend: $4,000 stipend
Acceptance Rate: Competitive
Program Dates: June 15 – August 7
Application Deadline: Interest form closes on January 9
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors living within a commutable distance of Ann Arbor; More info here
BioMed Focus is an eight-week paid research program designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of biomedical investigation. During the program, you will be paired with research mentors who’ll guide you through hypothesis-driven experimental work in active laboratory settings. You will also complete a dedicated science communication course and a college-preparatory module to strengthen academic writing, presentation skills, and college readiness. Throughout the session, you’ll gain experience with lab techniques, data interpretation, and scientific problem-solving. The program concludes with the submission of a research manuscript and a symposium where you’ll present your findings to peers, mentors, and family.
2. Veritas AI: AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; Financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; Small research-based cohorts
Program Dates: 15 weeks (Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter cohorts)
Application Deadline: January (Spring), May (Summer), September (Fall), and November (Winter). You can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: High school students who have completed the Veritas AI Scholars program or have prior experience with Python and AI concepts
The Veritas AI Fellowship offers motivated high school students the chance to conduct original research in artificial intelligence with guidance from mentors affiliated with Harvard and MIT. Over 15 weeks, you’ll work one-on-one with an AI researcher to develop an independent project that can span multiple fields, including medicine, chemistry, business, or environmental science. Many Michigan students use this opportunity to integrate AI with regional research themes such as automotive innovation or sustainability. The fellowship culminates in a publication and showcase, where you’ll present your findings to peers and professionals.
3. MYHealth Summer Launch – University of Michigan
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: None
Cohort Size: ~50 students annually
Program Dates: July 28 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 16
Eligibility: High school students (age 14+) currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a Southeast Michigan high school
The MYHealth Summer Launch is a fully virtual, research-based training program from the University of Michigan’s Department of Family Medicine. Designed for Southeast Michigan students with an interest in health research, this 10-day experience introduces you to the fundamentals of research design, methods, and ethics through small-group workshops and interactive activities. You’ll work collaboratively with peers and undergraduate facilitators to complete a mini research project, attend panels with healthcare professionals, and explore real-world health challenges. No prior research experience is required; MYHealth focuses on accessibility and mentorship, making it one of the most inclusive programs for high school students in Michigan. After Summer Launch, you can continue in the MYHealth academic-year program, taking on leadership roles as research team members and peer mentors.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by program type; Financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; Small, mentor-based cohorts
Program Dates: 12 weeks (cohorts offered year-round in summer, fall, winter, and spring)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: High school students demonstrating strong academic performance and research interest
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the opportunity to conduct independent, PhD-mentored research across a wide range of disciplines, including chemistry, computer science, economics, psychology, and engineering. Over 12 weeks, you’ll work one-on-one with a researcher from top universities to design, execute, and write a formal research paper on a topic of your choice. Many Michigan-based students use Lumiere to explore fields like biomedical engineering or environmental policy that connect to the state’s strong STEM and sustainability sectors. The flexible virtual structure allows you to work from anywhere while developing real-world academic skills such as data analysis, literature review, and scientific writing.
5. Astronomy at the Beach
Location: Island Lake State Park, Brighton, MI
Cost: Free admission; $13 Recreation Passport or park entry fee required for parking
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: September 26 – 27
Application Deadline: No application required
Eligibility: High school students and astronomy enthusiasts
Now in its 29th year, Astronomy at the Beach is one of Michigan’s largest and longest-running public science outreach events, bringing together astronomy clubs, NASA representatives, and local educators. Held annually at Island Lake State Park in Brighton, the two-day event offers solar and night sky observing, hands-on exhibits, keynote talks, and live telescope demonstrations. Visitors can interact with astronomers, participate in workshops such as “How to Make a Comet,” and view Saturn and other celestial objects through professional telescopes. This year’s keynote speaker, Brother Guy Consolmagno, Director of the Vatican Observatory, will discuss planetary science and the wonders of space exploration.
6. GigaBytes Summer Camp
Location: Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: July 21 – July 25
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled
Eligibility: High school girls (grades 9-12); No prior coding experience required
The GigaBytes Summer Camp at Eastern Michigan University empowers high school girls to explore computer science through creative, hands-on learning. Hosted by EMU’s Women in Computer Science (WICS) club and supported by NASA’s Michigan Space Grant Consortium, the program introduces you to coding, robotics, and engineering concepts in an engaging and supportive environment. Over the course of a week, you’ll learn to program educational robots, experiment with Python and drone coding (Codrone), and collaborate in a team hackathon and career discovery event. The camp emphasizes teamwork, critical thinking, and real-world applications of technology, all while providing mentorship from university students and faculty.
7. Cyber Defenders Summer Camp
Location: Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI (hybrid)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: Virtual component in June; Residential week: July 13 – 18
Application Deadline: May 16
Eligibility: Michigan 9th-11th graders
Hosted by the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute at Northern Michigan University, the Cyber Defenders Summer Camp introduces you to the fundamentals of cybersecurity through hands-on exploration. The program begins with virtual coursework in June, followed by a residential week in July, where you will stay on NMU’s campus and engage in live training sessions. You will explore topics such as ethical hacking, Internet of Things (IoT) security, and introductory programming, all within NMU’s Seaborg Mathematics and Science Center. Evening recreational activities help build teamwork and community among participants.
8. Michigan Math and Science Scholars (MMSS)
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost/Stipend: $1,300 tuition per session; $1,100 for residential housing; Financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; Hundreds of students across 3 sessions annually
Program Dates: Session 1: June 22 – July 4; Session 2: July 6 – 18; Session 3: July 20 – August 1
Application Deadline: Opens in January; Rolling until filled
Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders interested in STEM
The Michigan Math and Science Scholars (MMSS) program introduces you to the latest research and developments in science, mathematics, and technology. Hosted at the University of Michigan, this two-week academic experience features Ph.D.-led courses across fields like chemistry, physics, biology, computer science, and mathematics. You’ll spend your days in lectures, labs, and collaborative workshops, learning how classroom concepts connect to real-world research. Residential students also experience college life on the Ann Arbor campus, with access to recreational facilities and weekend trips. Whether you’re conducting chemistry experiments or coding simulations, MMSS helps you build both academic knowledge and scientific curiosity, making it one of the most recognized programs for high school students in Michigan.
9. Summer Pre-College Portfolio Prep
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (virtual options available)
Cost/Stipend: $750 (virtual); $5,500 (residential); Financial assistance available
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Program Dates: Virtual: June 16 – 27; Residential Session 1: July 6 – 19, Session 2: July 20 – August 2
Application Deadline: Early Action: February 1; Extended Deadline: March 14
Eligibility: Current 9th-11th graders interested in art and design
The Stamps Summer Pre-College Portfolio Prep program at the University of Michigan helps aspiring artists and designers strengthen their creative portfolios while gaining first-hand experience in a college-level studio environment. As a participant, you will explore multiple media, like drawing, digital design, and mixed materials, through guided workshops and critiques led by Stamps faculty. The residential sessions offer an immersive two-week experience on the Ann Arbor campus, including field trips, studio access, and mentorship from the Stamps Admissions team. If you opt for the virtual session, you’ll receive the same personalized feedback and coursework online and will complete projects from home.
10. Future Educator Academy
Location: Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI
Cost: $499
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: June 22 – 27
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 during the academic year
The Future Educator Academy at Northern Michigan University offers you the chance to explore teaching as a potential career path through a week-long residential experience. You will gain hands-on classroom experience by assisting with NMU’s College for Kids program, where you will design and deliver lessons to elementary students under faculty guidance. Alongside this practical component, you will attend workshops on child development, instructional methods, and educational psychology, building a foundation in the principles of effective teaching. The program also includes team-building activities, wellness sessions, and evening recreational events. This gives you a full preview of campus life and the teaching profession.
11. Environmental Science Camp
Location: Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI
Cost: $849 registration fee (increases to $949 after June 1); Limited need-based aid available
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Program Dates: July 20 – 26
Application Deadline: Rolling; Early registration recommended before June 1
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
The Environmental Science Camp at Northern Michigan University offers a week-long exploration of Michigan’s diverse ecosystems, with a focus on sustainability and environmental research. As a participant, you will study the Lake Superior watershed through fieldwork, lab sessions, and outdoor expeditions, including paddling the AuTrain River, visiting geological landmarks, and conducting coastal ecosystem studies. Faculty from NMU’s Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences guide daily hands-on investigations, blending environmental science with technology and data collection. You will stay in campus residence halls, engage in evening recreational activities, and conclude the week with a showcase of your research findings.
12. Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Cost/Stipend: $5,500 + $75 application fee; Full and partial need-based scholarships available
Cohort Size: 70 students per cohort
Program Dates: June 7 – 17; June 21 – July 1
Application Deadline: January 8
Eligibility: Rising 12th-grade students (minimum 3.0 GPA); Preference for U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Hosted by the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, the Summer Business Academy gives you an immersive introduction to business and leadership. Over two weeks, you’ll explore how companies operate through faculty-led classes, case studies, and team-based projects. The curriculum covers key areas such as marketing, operations, and management while incorporating field trips, workshops, and guest lectures from industry professionals. You’ll participate in Michigan Ross’s signature action-based learning model, working collaboratively to solve real business challenges. Evenings include networking sessions, study hours, and mentor-planned activities that foster community and professional growth.
13. miRcore Research Camps for High School Students
Location: Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI & University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI (hybrid & virtual options available)
Cost: Varies by camp; A single application fee applies to multiple sessions
Cohort Size: Small groups of 5-6 per mentor
Program Dates: Multiple sessions from June 16 – August 15 (varies by camp type)
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled
Eligibility: High school students (including incoming freshmen); Age 16+ for genome sequencing modules
The miRcore Research Camps introduce you to the world of biomedical and computational biology through a combination of lectures, programming sessions, and experimental labs. Camps are hosted at Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan, with options for virtual participation to reach students across the country. Offerings include Computational Biology, R Research Programming, Biotechnology Sequencing, and the advanced Sequencing Your Genome track. This allows you to analyze your own genomic data using the University of Michigan’s high-performance computing cluster. You will work in small discussion-based teams guided by teaching assistants, developing skills in coding, machine learning, and bioinformatics. Graduates can continue their engagement year-round through the miRcore Volunteer Program (MVP), which focuses on community outreach, leadership, and continued research training.
14. High School Engineering Institute (HSEI)
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Cost: $1,099
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Session 1: June 9 – 13; Session 2: June 23 – 27; Session 3: June 30 – July 4
Application Deadline: June 9 (Session 1); June 23 (Session 2); June 30 (Session 3)
Eligibility: Rising 10th-12th graders (or recent graduates) with a minimum 3.0 GPA in math, science, or technology courses
The High School Engineering Institute (HSEI) at Michigan State University gives you an immersive introduction to the world of engineering through hands-on projects, lectures, and faculty mentorship. Over the course of this residential week-long program, you will explore multiple engineering majors—from mechanical and civil to computer and electrical engineering—and work in teams to solve real-world problems using design thinking. You’ll spend your days in labs and workshops led by MSU professors and students, participate in industry and research facility tours, and attend sessions with the Honors College, Admissions Office, and Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center.
15. Michigan Virtual Summer Online Courses
Location: Virtual (available statewide and nationwide)
Cost: Varies by program type
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Flexible 10-week sessions
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment through late June
Eligibility: Middle and high school students (grades 6-12); Counselor approval recommended for credit transfer
The Michigan Virtual Summer Online Courses program offers flexible, instructor-led online learning opportunities for students across the state. With over 150 courses in subjects like science, world languages, computer science, mathematics, and career electives, this program helps you stay academically active, recover credits, or advance your studies during the summer. Each course runs for 10 weeks and is taught by Michigan-certified instructors who provide ongoing feedback and support. You can learn at your own pace while earning high school credit or exploring enrichment options such as Content Creation, Sustainability, or Health Sciences.
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