15 Science Programs for High School Students in Ohio
If you’re a high school student, science programs are a strong option for you to move beyond classroom learning and gain practical experience. Through these programs, you can work with scientific tools and methods, apply concepts to practical problems, and develop skills in research, data analysis, and critical thinking. These programs often provide access to advanced laboratories, research centers, and specialized facilities, enabling you to engage with areas such as biomedical research, climate science, materials science, data analysis, and advanced computing. You also have the opportunity to collaborate with peers who share similar interests, building connections that can support your academic and career goals.
Why should you attend a Science program in Ohio?
Ohio is home to universities and research institutions such as The Ohio State University, the University of Akron, and the University of Cincinnati, all of which offer science programs for high school students. Through these programs, you can conduct laboratory research, analyze scientific data, explore fields like neuroscience and cancer biology, work with advanced computing systems, and learn directly from researchers, faculty, and healthcare professionals. Whether you're a local student or traveling from outside the state, Ohio offers access to strong STEM communities, experienced mentors, and specialized research facilities.
To make your search easier, we have narrowed down a list of 15 Science Programs for High School Students in Ohio.
If you’re looking for internships in Ohio, check out our blog here.
1. CREATES High School Summer Program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James
Location: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Stipend: $3,900
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive (limited spots for Columbus-area students)
Dates: June 1 – July 24
Application deadline: March 19
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from the Columbus area
During the CREATES program, you will join an eight-week, full-time research experience in cancer science, where you'll be placed in an advanced laboratory at the OSUCCC – James. You’ll work directly alongside a principal investigator, a daily supervisor, and a team of researchers, including undergraduates, graduate students, and physicians, on real laboratory-based cancer research projects. The program combines hands-on laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication with weekly professional development activities, meetings, and events supporting technical and academic growth. You can build practical skills in experimental methods and cancer biology while contributing to ongoing lab work in a professional research environment. At the conclusion of the program, you will prepare and present a scientific research poster summarizing your contributions.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type. Full financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Application deadline: Rolling. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: High school students. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
You will explore artificial intelligence through structured programs such as the AI Scholars bootcamp or the more advanced AI Fellowship. In the Scholars track, you’ll build foundational knowledge in AI, machine learning, and data science across a 10-session program while working on guided, real-world projects in small groups. The Fellowship is designed for more advanced students, offering one-on-one mentorship from top university faculty, including Harvard, to develop an independent AI research project over an extended period (typically 15 weeks). Sessions are conducted online via Zoom, providing flexibility while you receive guidance in coding, data analysis, and project development. You may also have access to an in-house publication team to support submissions to high school research journals. The program emphasizes both collaborative learning and independent research, making it suitable for students looking to explore AI at different levels.
3.Project SEED at the University of Akron
Location: University of Akron (and partner labs), Akron, OH
Stipend: $4,000 stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: About 350 students
Dates: 8-10 weeks,June – August
Application deadline: April 6
Eligibility: Low-income high school students (grades 9-12) who have completed at least one chemistry course
You’ll spend 8-10 weeks conducting hands-on scientific research in a university, industry, or government lab under the guidance of a professional mentor. The program focuses on chemistry and related sciences, where you can work on an individual research project while developing laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. You’ll present your findings at the end of the program and may have opportunities to share your work at national meetings. With both in-person and virtual options available, the experience also includes college-readiness and professional-development elements. Through close mentorship and exposure to real-world lab environments, you may gain practical skills and a clearer understanding of potential pathways in scientific research.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program - Science Track
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type. Full financial aid available.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year
Application deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort
Eligibility: High school students with a strong academic record
You work one-on-one with a PhD mentor to design and complete an independent research project in a science field of your choice, such as biology, chemistry, physics, neuroscience, or data science. Over 12 weeks, you can develop a research question, explore advanced concepts, conduct analysis, and produce a full research paper. The virtual format includes regular meetings and guidance on scientific research methods, writing, and presentation. You may receive support in preparing your work for submission to high-school or college-level academic journals. The program’s emphasis on original research makes it suitable for students seeking deep immersion in the scientific process.
5. Summer Scientist Series at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Location: Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Thursday evenings, June 11 – July 16
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students interested in medical research
You’ll attend weekly sessions that introduce the scientific method and explore careers in medicine and biomedical research. Through presentations and discussions, faculty and researchers share insights into areas such as basic science, clinical research, and population health, connecting scientific inquiry to real-world applications in patient care. The program also addresses themes in research ethics and helps you understand different career pathways in health sciences. You can engage with professionals while exploring current topics in biomedical research, gaining a clearer view of how studies are conducted and applied. The program serves as an accessible introduction for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine or research.
6. The Ohio State University Arts and Sciences Summer Exploration Program
Location: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Cost: $550 per one-week course (cost includes materials, lunch, and snacks)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 1 – 5 (for featured science courses)
Application deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Rising 10th - 12th graders (for high school courses)
You’ll choose a one-week intensive course, such as “The Earth Lab: Careers in Earth, Climate, and Ocean Sciences” or “Food Chemistry: Chemistry You Can Eat,” designed to introduce key scientific concepts through focused, hands-on learning. Each day combines lab work, interactive activities, guest lectures, and site visits to facilities such as the Orton Geological Museum and the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, helping you connect theory with real-world applications. You also engage directly with Ohio State faculty as you explore potential career paths in earth sciences and applied chemistry. Throughout the program, you can develop problem-solving and data collection skills using industry-relevant tools, making it a structured and practical introduction for students interested in these fields.
7. ASM Eisenman Materials Camp
Location: ASM Materials Headquarters, Novelty, OH
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 12 - 17
Application deadline: March 1
Eligibility: 11th - 12th graders with math and science aptitude
You will take part in a one-week, practical science camp centered on materials science and engineering. Working in small teams, you can engage in lab-based activities and mini-demonstrations that lead to a forensic engineering investigation, where you’ll identify root causes and propose solutions. Throughout the program, you can develop skills in scientific methodology, data analysis, and problem-solving while working with real-world materials and laboratory equipment. You also participate in field trips and engage with professional mentors, gaining valuable insights into careers in materials science. The experience concludes with a presentation and networking opportunities with industry professionals, offering a practical introduction to the field.
8. Marine Biology: The Life Aquatic at Bowling Green State University
Location: Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH
Cost/Stipend: $805 (scholarships available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 8 – 12
Application deadline: Early: March 2 | General: April 30
Eligibility: Student grades 9-12
You’ll explore marine ecology in a non-residential, one-week program that combines hands-on lab work with field-based learning. Through activities such as water quality testing, ecosystem inventories, and mark-recapture studies, you can investigate aquatic systems using real scientific methods. You also work with faculty on topics like coral biology and reef restoration, while gaining experience in specimen collection, dissections, and aquatic organism care. Field trips to locations such as aquariums and research facilities help connect lab concepts to real-world environments, and interactions with professionals provide insight into careers in marine science. Throughout the program, you can develop skills in observation, data collection, and scientific inquiry, making it an accessible introduction to the life sciences for high school students.
9. Pathways to STEM Camp at Ohio Northern University
Location: Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH
Cost: $495 fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 24 students
Dates: June 14 – 18
Application deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors interested in STEM
You’ll engage in a four-day residential program that explores different avenues within STEM through hands-on lab experiences and face-to-face instruction. Working with Ohio Northern University faculty, you can participate in multidisciplinary projects across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, applying concepts in practical settings. You also interact with practicing engineers and scientists, gaining insight into real-world applications and career pathways. Through collaborative activities, you may develop teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. The program provides a college-like environment while helping you broaden your understanding of STEM fields and related careers.
10. Biology Meets Engineering Summer Program at the University of Cincinnati
Location: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 1 – 18
Application deadline: April 18
Eligibility: High school students
You’ll investigate the intersection of biology and engineering in a three-week, campus-based program that explores how animal sensory behaviors can inform the design of robotics. Through hands-on projects and lab work, you can study how organisms respond to their environments and apply these principles to engineering challenges. The program focuses on interdisciplinary problem-solving by integrating biology, robotics, and technology within a structured setting. Participants have opportunities to work with faculty and peers, gaining experience in research environments and the practical applications of biological systems. It provides a dedicated introduction for high school students eager to explore bioengineering and related disciplines.
11. HRS Health & Rehabilitation Science Camp at The Ohio State University
Location: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 1 – 3
Application deadline: April 24
Eligibility: High school students interested in a career in health care
You’ll participate in a three-day non-residential camp that explores healthcare careers through a structured series of hands-on activities and simulations. The program introduces key areas of health science, including anatomy, immunology, neuroscience, and medical nutrition, alongside practical experiences such as CODE BLUE response scenarios, intubation techniques, surgical skills, and the analysis of heart and lung sounds. These sessions help connect scientific concepts to real patient care practices while you interact with faculty and professionals. Throughout the program, you can gain a clearer understanding of different roles in medical and allied health fields. It concludes with guidance on the admissions process and next steps for pursuing a career in healthcare.
12. Experience Engineering Camp at the University of Mount Union
Location: University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH
Cost: $910 (residential) | $670 (commuter); $100 to earn college credit (optional)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 12 – 18
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores to recent graduates
You’ll join a week-long residential program that introduces the engineering profession through hands-on projects across multiple disciplines. Through lab work and team-based activities, you may explore areas such as physics, chemistry, and biology while applying concepts to real-world engineering challenges. The program also covers topics like sustainability, ethics, entrepreneurship, and innovation, helping you understand the broader impact of engineering on society. Working closely with faculty, you can develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while connecting theory to practical applications. You also gain exposure to different engineering fields and may have the opportunity to earn college credit, making it a structured introduction for students interested in applied science and engineering.
13. Explorations in Neuroscience Summer Camp at The Ohio State University
Location: The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Cost: $750
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 8 – 12
Application deadline: March 13
Eligibility: High school rising juniors or seniors and graduating seniors, interested in biomedical research
You’ll have a chance to interact with faculty, graduate students, and clinicians through discussions on neuroscience research and clinical topics related to the brain and spinal cord in health and disease. The program includes lab tours, hands-on activities, and exposure to ongoing research, with sessions led by neuroscience faculty and graduate students. You may also engage with clinicians from fields such as neurology and neurosurgery, gaining insight into both research and medical applications. It concludes with guidance on neuroscience study pathways and related careers, providing a foundational introduction to biomedical research and health professions.
14. Cleveland Clinic CYCE High School Summer Internships
Location: Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
Stipend: Paid ($15/hour)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 8 – July 28
Application deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Student grades 9 - 12, minimum 2.5 GPA (some residency requirements)
You’ll complete a seven-week, 30-hour-per-week internship in one of three tracks: clinical, non-clinical, or advanced technology. Depending on your track, you can engage with areas such as patient care, laboratory medicine, or technology applications like AI, data science, and clinical engineering, all of which involve scientific and technical processes in healthcare. You will work under the guidance of mentors on real-world tasks, applying scientific knowledge and building practical skills in professional settings. The program connects hands-on experience with an understanding of how research, data, and technology support modern healthcare systems. Designed for high-achieving high school students, it provides structured exposure to both scientific and operational aspects of biomedical and healthcare careers.
15. Ohio Supercomputer Center STEM Institute
Location: Ohio Supercomputer Center, Columbus, OH
Cost: $600 (covers housing, meals, tuition, and activities)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Space is limited
Dates: May 31 – June 12
Application deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Ohio residents in their freshman, sophomore, or junior year of high school
This is a two-week residential program where you work in small teams to solve complex science and engineering problems using supercomputers at the Ohio Supercomputer Center. Through a structured, project-based curriculum, you can engage with topics such as Unix, Python, cybersecurity, and parallel processing, applying these skills to projects like modeling disease spread, designing computer games, or conducting network forensics. Each team, typically with up to four students and guided by a project leader, allows for close collaboration and mentorship. You also take part in lectures and site visits to facilities such as the Byrd Polar Research Center, the Center for Automotive Research, the State of Ohio Computer Center, and the Museum of Biological Diversity to explore real-world applications. The program includes team-building sessions, recreational activities, and campus events, and concludes with a final presentation of your team’s project findings.