14 Summer Programs for High School Students in Ohio
As a high school student, summer programs give you a chance to explore new fields, gain practical experience, and build connections beyond the classroom. Whether through academic research, projects, or career-focused workshops, these experiences help students strengthen college applications and develop transferable skills. Many of these programs are led by experienced mentors and industry professionals, allowing you to explore business, engineering, healthcare, and computer science while getting a glimpse of college life.
Ohio offers a strong selection of summer programs for high school students, hosted by leading universities such as The Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Cincinnati. The state’s central location and mix of academic and industrial hubs make it an excellent environment for learning and networking. Both local and out-of-state students will find a welcoming, research-driven atmosphere with strong mentorship opportunities.
To help you find the best fit, we’ve curated a list of 15 summer programs for high school students in Ohio.
1. Biology Meets Engineering Summer Program
Location: University of Cincinnati, Uptown Campus (Cincinnati, OH)
Cost/Stipend: Competitive paid fellowships available for returning students
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited to students from partner schools
Dates: June 2 – June 18
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Open to high school students interested in biology and engineering integration
Hosted at the University of Cincinnati, the Biology Meets Engineering (BmE) Summer Program offers a unique, transdisciplinary experience that explores the intersection of animal behaviour, sensory systems, and robotics. Over three weeks, you’ll study how biological systems inspire technological innovation by combining principles of biology and engineering. You will attend lab sessions, collaborate on experiments, and design robotic models that mimic animal motion and environmental responses. Those who complete the summer program may qualify for paid, six-week research fellowships at institutions such as Bowling Green State University, Ohio University, and the University of Akron. This program provides an exceptional introduction to applied STEM research, bridging life sciences and engineering for students eager to pursue advanced study in both fields.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type; full financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; small mentor-to-student ratio
Dates: Multiple 12–15-week cohorts offered in spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: Intakes in January, May, September, and November; You can apply to the program here
Eligibility: Open to high school students; AI Fellowship applicants should have prior experience with Python or AI concepts
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here and read about a student’s experience in the program here.
3. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center High School Summer Internship Program
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost/Stipend: Free; unpaid internship (some activities and meals provided)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; limited spots per speciality
Dates: Typically June–August (exact dates to be announced)
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Open to rising high school seniors interested in biomedical or health sciences
The High School Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center offers students immersive exposure to pediatric medicine, biomedical science, and clinical research. During the internship, you will shadow mentors in specialities such as genetics, molecular biology, orthopaedics, and emergency medicine, gaining firsthand insight into healthcare careers. Each intern works under the guidance of a primary mentor, participates in clinical or research projects, and attends weekly professional development lunches with physicians and researchers. The program also includes simulation lab sessions, hospital tours, and group service activities, culminating in a final presentation of each student’s experience.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote (available to students worldwide)
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program type; full financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; 1:1 student–mentor pairing
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year (summer, fall, winter, spring)
Application Deadline: Rolling; deadlines vary by cohort
Eligibility: High-achieving high school students with strong academic motivation
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program gives high school students the chance to conduct independent, university-level research under the mentorship of PhD scholars from top institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Across 12 weeks (or up to a year), you’ll design and complete an original research project in your chosen field—ranging from physics, economics, and engineering to psychology and computer science. The experience culminates in a formal research paper and the option to publish or present your findings. Lumiere’s structured, one-on-one mentorship model provides detailed guidance on research design, data analysis, and academic writing. You can find more details about the application here.
5. Summer Law & Trial Institute
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH (Hybrid: Virtual and On-Campus)
Cost/Stipend: Free; fully funded through alumni support
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; limited space available
Dates: July 7–18 (virtual sessions: July 7–11; on-campus residency: July 13–18)
Application Deadline: May 31; admissions on a rolling basis
Eligibility: High-achieving rising juniors and seniors from Appalachian Ohio (out-of-region students considered if space permits)
The Summer Law & Trial Institute at Ohio University introduces high school students to the foundations of law, justice, and civic engagement through a combination of academic study and hands-on learning. Over two weeks, participants engage in virtual seminars, court visits, and mock trials led by university faculty, attorneys, and judges. You’ll analyse cases, visit the Supreme Court of Ohio, and meet legal professionals from organisations such as the ACLU and Legal Aid of Southeastern Ohio. You will also develop key legal skills, including case analysis, negotiation, and public speaking, while exploring college pathways in pre-law and criminal justice. With no cost to attend and full residential support provided, this program offers one of the most prestigious summer programs for high school students in Ohio for aspiring lawyers and advocates.
6. Data Science Summer Camp
Location: Pomerene Hall, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Cost/Stipend: Free; supported by campus and community partners
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited space per session
Dates: July 7–11
Application Deadline: March 30
Eligibility: Rising 7th–9th graders
The Data Science Summer Camp hosted by Ohio State University’s Translational Data Analytics Institute introduces students to the fast-growing world of data science and analytics. Over five days, participants learn how data drives innovation in fields such as business, health care, biology, and urban planning. Working in small teams with university mentors, you’ll develop analytical, computational, and problem-solving skills through real-world case studies and interactive workshops. The program also includes career exploration sessions led by OSU researchers and data professionals, offering insight into future academic and professional paths. Funded through community partnerships, this free summer program for high school students in Ohio is an ideal entry point for those curious about coding, mathematics, and the power of data in shaping everyday life.
7. Summer Engineering Institute for High School Students
Location: The Ohio State University, Marion Campus (Marion, OH)
Cost/Stipend: $100
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; limited capacity
Dates: June 9–13
Application Deadline: Registration typically closes in late May or when filled
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolled in high school
The Summer Engineering Institute at OSU Marion offers high school students a week-long introduction to the core principles and applications of modern engineering. You’ll explore multiple disciplines—including mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering—through lectures, lab work, and design projects. You will collaborate in small teams to build and program Arduino-based microcontroller systems, tackle mechanical design challenges, and test prototype boats in hands-on engineering competitions. The program also features networking sessions with industry professionals and site visits to local manufacturing facilities. Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate of Successful Completion from The Ohio State University. Supported by industry partners like Honda and Whirlpool, this program is one of the most accessible and practical summer programs for high school students in Ohio seeking exposure to real-world engineering.
8. OHIO Summer Arts Theater Intensive
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Cost/Stipend: Costs vary by option; scholarships available for program fees (up to 25%)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; limited space per track
Dates: June 15–26 (Acting in Theatre and Musical Theatre tracks)
Application Deadline: April 30 (for scholarship consideration)
Eligibility: High school students interested in theatre, acting, or musical performance
The OHIO Summer Arts Theatre Intensive at Ohio University invites aspiring actors and musical theatre students to strengthen their craft in a dynamic, creative environment. Over two weeks, you’ll participate in daily classes and workshops in acting, voice, movement, and devised theatre, all centred on self-expression and collaboration. The program offers two focus areas—Acting in Theatre and Musical Theatre—where you will rehearse scenes, monologues, and original performances. Evenings include rehearsals and optional cultural activities such as concerts, student showcases, and theatre outings. You can commute or stay in residence halls to experience full campus life. With professional faculty guidance and merit-based scholarships available, this intensive is one of the most enriching summer programs for high school students in Ohio for those pursuing performance arts.
9. STEM Institute – Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC)
Location: Ohio Supercomputer Centre, Columbus, OH
Cost: $600
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited to small project-based teams
Dates: May 31 – June 12
Application Deadline: March 23
Eligibility: Ohio residents currently in grades 9–11
The STEM Institute at the Ohio Supercomputer Centre is a two-week residential program for gifted high school students passionate about science, technology, and computational research. You will work in small teams on project-based challenges such as tracking viruses, analysing network forensics, building computer games, and solving engineering problems using OSC’s state-of-the-art supercomputers. You’ll attend workshops in Python, cybersecurity, and supercomputing, and visit major research facilities like the Byrd Polar Research Center and the Center for Automotive Research. The program combines technical learning with social and recreational activities across The Ohio State University’s Columbus campus. Recognised for its academic rigour and collaborative learning model, the STEM Institute remains one of the most advanced summer programs for high school students in Ohio interested in computational science and engineering.
10. OHIO Art + Design Summer Studios
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Cost/Stipend: Costs vary by program type; scholarships available for program fees (up to 25%)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; limited space per concentration
Dates: June 15–26
Application Deadline: April 30 (for scholarship consideration)
Eligibility: Open to high school students interested in visual arts and design
Hosted by Ohio University’s College of Fine Arts, the Art + Design Summer Studios program invites high school students to immerse themselves in intensive studio experiences across fields like painting, interior architecture, comics, and book arts. You will spend full days in workshops led by university faculty and visiting artists, gaining both technical skills and creative direction. You may choose to live on campus in residence halls or commute daily, giving you flexibility while enjoying access to college facilities and cultural events. Evenings include optional social and artistic activities such as film screenings, concerts, and studio nights.
11. The High School Journalism Workshop
Location: E.W. Scripps School of Journalism, Ohio University, Athens, OH
Cost/Stipend: $450 program fee; optional college credit available for an additional $50
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; selective by track availability
Dates: July 13–17
Application Deadline: June 20
Eligibility: Rising sophomores through recently graduated high school seniors
Hosted by the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University, this long-running program (founded in 1946) is one of the oldest and most respected journalism workshops in the country. Over five days, you will participate in immersive, hands-on sessions covering news reporting, magazine writing, broadcasting, public relations, visual storytelling, and podcasting. You’ll work directly with faculty members and professional journalists to practice writing, interviewing, and media production in a real newsroom environment. The program also includes a college credit option for students who complete additional written assignments.
12. OHIO Summer Film Lab
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Cost/Stipend: Costs vary by option; financial aid and merit scholarships available (up to 10–25% off program fees)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; limited space available
Dates: June 15–26
Application Deadline: Scholarship applications due with registration
Eligibility: High school students interested in filmmaking, storytelling, or media production
The OHIO Summer Film Lab at Ohio University offers aspiring filmmakers a hands-on introduction to storytelling, screenwriting, and production. Over two weeks, you will create your own short films—developing scripts, filming, and editing while learning about camera operation, sound, and lighting. You will collaborate on each other’s projects, gaining experience in directing, cinematography, and post-production. The program explores both narrative and documentary styles, using historical and modern examples to inspire creative choices. No prior filmmaking experience is required, and all materials are provided. The lab culminates in a final public screening of student films, making it one of the most immersive creative summer programs for high school students in Ohio interested in film and media.
13. MD Camp
Location: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH
Cost: $325 tuition; full and partial scholarships available based on need
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; limited to Ohio residents
Dates: Three-week program (June–July)
Application Deadline: Opens early in the year; apply promptly for scholarship consideration
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors interested in medicine or biomedical research; Ohio residents only
The MD Camp at The Ohio State University College of Medicine offers an immersive introduction to medicine through lectures, clinical shadowing, and research activities. Over three weeks, students learn directly from medical faculty, residents, and medical students while exploring specialities such as paediatrics, internal medicine, and family medicine. You will attend problem-based learning sessions, clinical skills workshops, and research discussions, gaining a real understanding of medical training and patient care. The program also includes a community service project and clinical simulations where students assess standardised patients. Designed to mirror the rigour of medical school, MD Camp provides one of the most comprehensive summer programs for high school students in Ohio interested in pursuing careers in healthcare or biomedical sciences.
14. OHIO Summer Dance Intensive
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Cost/Stipend: Costs vary by program type; financial aid and merit scholarships available (up to 25% off program fees)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; limited space available
Dates: Senior Intensive: June 15–27 | Junior Intensive: June 15–19
Application Deadline: Scholarship applications are due with registration
Eligibility: Junior Intensive: Rising grades 7–9 | Senior Intensive: Rising grades 10–12
The OHIO Summer Dance Intensive (SDI) offers a rigorous yet collaborative environment for aspiring dancers to refine their performance and creative skills. In the Senior Intensive, you will engage in two weeks of daily technique classes, repertory sessions, and composition workshops—developing both artistry and choreographic voice under the mentorship of university faculty and guest instructors. The Junior Intensive introduces younger students to foundational training through one week of dance technique and creative exploration. Both programs emphasise collaborative choreography, composition, and repertory performance, culminating in a showcase of student work. You may commute or stay in residence halls to experience full campus life. Recognised for its balance of discipline and creativity, SDI stands out among summer programs for high school students in Ohio for its focus on professional-level dance education in a supportive community setting.
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