If you’re a high school student in Texas interested in crime labs, courtroom science, or investigative careers, forensic science summer programs can provide you a significant head start. Forensic science summer programs for high school students in Texas go beyond CSI-style drama to offer hands-on experience in lab techniques, evidence analysis, and the legal side of criminal investigations.
Texas, home to major universities and research institutions (such as the University of Houston at Texas and Rice University), offers a wide range of forensic science programs tailored for high schoolers each year. Many forensic science summer programs for high school students in Texas are hosted locally, making them a financially practical option for local students looking to gain real-world skills without the added cost of travel or housing.
We have listed 15 forensic science summer programs for high school students in Texas that offer a solid foundation in both scientific and legal thinking. We’ve also included a few virtual forensic science summer programs that allow students in Texas to apply.
15 Forensic Science Summer Programs for High School Students in Texas
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type; full financial aid is available | None
Dates: Offered year-round in seasonal cohorts (summer, fall, winter, spring); durations range from 12 weeks to 1 year | Summer I: June 2; Summer II: July 14
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Summer I: May 11; Summer II: June 23
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school | Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas. It pairs you with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper. You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. Even though the program isn’t run by a university, completing it may make you eligible to receive UCSD credit. You can find more details about the application here.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on program type; need-based financial aid is available | None
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by cohort; final summer deadline is July 20
Eligibility: AI Scholars is open to all high school students | AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python
If you’re looking to understand the link between AI, cybersecurity, and crime, consider this program. Veritas AI, led by Harvard alumni, provides advanced learning experiences in artificial intelligence for high school students. The AI Scholars program is a foundational course where you’ll build core knowledge in AI, machine learning, and data science through guided lessons and project work. For students with prior exposure to AI concepts, the AI Fellowship offers a more intensive experience, including 1-on-1 mentorship and the chance to complete a research project suitable for publication. Participants receive support from an editorial team to help submit work to student research journals. You can explore past student projects here. You can apply here.
3. Tarrant County College – Forensic Science Summer Camp
Location: Northeast Campus, Hurst, TX
Cost/Stipend: None (limited to 16 eligible students via Governor’s Summer Merit Program) | None
Dates: July 7–10 | July 14
Application Deadline: Applications closed for 2025 (opens early spring annually)
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders from Texas
This camp gives you a hands-on introduction to forensic science, criminal law, and investigative psychology. You’ll learn how to collect and process evidence from a mock murder scene, along with fingerprinting and chain-of-custody documentation. From there, you’ll analyze forensic results, conduct witness interviews, and prepare for a simulated criminal trial. The experience blends STEM learning with real-world problem-solving and even includes a field trip to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Camp instructors are professionals from the criminal justice and forensic fields, making this a great entry point into public safety careers. The program is funded by the Governor’s Summer Merit Program and emphasizes both technical and legal skill-building.
4. Bowling Green State University – Virtual Forensic Science Camp
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $50–$275 (tiered options) | None
Dates: June 23–27
Application Deadline: April 25 (rolling admission until full)
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders
BGSU’s virtual forensic science camp gives you access to college-level lab experiences from the comfort of home. Through daily webinars and optional lab sessions, you’ll explore DNA extraction, fingerprint analysis, gel electrophoresis, blood typing, and virtual crime scene walkthroughs. The camp is led by experts from the BGSU forensic science department and includes lectures by professionals featured on Forensic Files. Depending on your registration tier, you’ll receive a mailed “camp crate” with wet labs, lab equipment, and materials for experiments like microscopy and mystery powder identification. The highest tier includes over eight lab modules, offering a deep dive into the field’s techniques and technologies.
5. University of Texas at Austin – Summer Discovery: Forensic Science
Location: UT Austin, TX
Cost/Stipend: Residential: $7,999; Commuter: $4,599 + $195 lab/materials fee | None
Dates: June 29 – July 18
Application Deadline: Rolling admission (apply early; limited seats)
Eligibility: 9th–12th graders
This course offers a rigorous dive into forensic science fundamentals where you’ll learn fingerprint analysis, DNA testing techniques, and evidence handling procedures directly from professionals in Texas crime labs. Each session is packed with hands-on experiments that simulate real lab work, giving you exposure to the tools and technology used in the field. Taught by expert instructors, the course balances technical skill-building with critical thinking and investigative methods. You’ll also explore career pathways in forensic science and leave with a certificate and a letter of recognition to bolster your academic portfolio. This three-week experience is ideal for high school students eager to get a head start in the science of crime-solving.
6. Texas A&M University – GenCyber Digital Forensics Analysts Academy
Location: Texas A&M Main Campus, College Station, TX
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Camp I: June 10–13 | Camp II: June 24–27
Application Deadline: Rolling admission (currently full; waitlist available)
Eligibility: Students who have completed 8th–11th grade
This immersive cybersecurity and forensics camp at Texas A&M introduces you to digital crime-solving through a mock cyber investigation. You’ll explore concepts like encryption, digital evidence recovery, steganography, and cryptographic cracking. You’ll engage in hands-on lab work using real-world cybersecurity tools and leave with resources to continue learning after camp ends. The experience culminates in a mock cybercrime trial where you present your forensic findings as digital analysts. Designed around GenCyber’s national cybersecurity curriculum, the program balances technical instruction with creative problem-solving. If you’re interested in both tech and justice, this camp offers a unique entry point into digital forensics.
7. Rice University – Forensics Investigators Program
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Cost/Stipend: $499/week + $3 registration fee; scholarships available | None
Dates: June 23–27
Application Deadline: Registration open until full
Eligibility: Students in grades 7–10
At this hands-on summer program, you’ll step into the role of a forensic investigator, collecting evidence, analyzing fingerprints and DNA, and learning real crime scene techniques. Designed for curious middle and high school students, the course bridges science and criminal justice through immersive CSI-style labs. You’ll explore modern forensic tools and procedures, develop observation and critical thinking skills, and connect scientific principles to real-world investigations. While it’s fee-based, scholarships are available for a limited number of students with an application deadline in April. If you’re intrigued by mystery, science, and solving puzzles, this program offers a structured and exciting entry point into forensic science.
8. Syracuse University – Introduction to Forensic Science
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $3,905 (scholarships and discounts available) | None
Dates: July 7 – August 15
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors, seniors | 2024 graduates with high school biology completed
In this six-week online course, you’ll deep dive into the science behind crime scene investigation and forensic analysis. You’ll study key underlying science and principles of modern forensic science through case studies, statistics-based evaluations, and “at-home” lab experiments. You will also understand the difference between good science and pseudoscience and their application in the criminal justice system, and how probability and statistics are used to evaluate evidential strengths. Weekly live sessions complement recorded lectures, assessments, and hands-on experiments designed to mirror professional techniques. The course emphasizes critical thinking and scientific reasoning within the criminal justice context. Students earn four college credits and receive a certificate after completing the program.
9. Quinnipiac University Forensic Science: Crime Scene Investigation
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $1,680 (residential), $1,400 (commuter); limited financial aid available |
Dates: July 7 – 11
Application Deadline:
Eligibility: High school students aged 15–18
In this program, you will spend a week learning how real forensic professionals solve crimes, from analyzing mock crime scenes to interpreting physical evidence. This program mixes lectures with hands-on lab work, guided by faculty and professionals in the field. You’ll dig into victim profiling, scene diagramming, and investigative methods used in actual cases. It’s a focused, skills-based crash course that strengthens your observational thinking and introduces you to the science that powers criminal investigations used by professionals. Laptops and materials are included in the program. You’ll earn a digital badge to show off your new forensic skills along with a Quinnipiac T-shirt.
10. Sam Houston State University CJ Summer Camp
Location: Sam Houston State University, College of Criminal Justice, Huntsville, TX
Cost/Stipend: $725 | None
Dates: Session 1: June 8–12 | Session 2: June 22–26 | Session 3: July 6–10
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: High school students ages 15–17 at the time of the camp session
This camp offers high school students a hands-on, immersive introduction to criminal justice careers. During the camp, you will explore key topics such as crime scene investigation, forensic science, law enforcement practices, and the criminal justice process. You will investigate mock crime scenes, participate in simulated criminal investigations, take field trips to agencies like the DEA and FBI, and interact with professionals from local law enforcement and federal agencies. You will be mentored by faculty from SHSU’s College of Criminal Justice and experienced criminal justice professionals, providing students with mentorship and career guidance. You will develop teamwork, problem-solving, scientific reasoning, and leadership skills.
11. The University of Texas at San Antonio – Criminal Justice Summer Camp
Location: UTSA Downtown Campus, San Antonio, TX
Cost/Stipend: $300 tuition + $18 registration fee | None
Dates: Session 1: June 16–20 | Session 2: July 14–18
Application Deadline: Camp 1: June 10 | Camp 2: July 8
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors, and incoming UTSA freshmen | Must be at least 16 years old by the start of camp
This camp offers high school students a hands-on introduction to the American criminal justice system. Throughout the one-week, day-only camp held at UTSA’s Downtown Campus, you will explore topics such as the structure of law enforcement, crime scene investigation, fingerprint analysis, and criminal justice careers. You will participate in mock crime scene investigations, analyzing fingerprints, touring justice facilities, and engaging in discussions with current UTSA faculty and professionals in the field. You will be guided by UTSA professors and guest speakers who are often professionals working in criminal justice. The camp provides direct access to university resources, interactive lab experiences, and the opportunity to network with local experts.
12. Houston Forensic Science Center Explorer Program
Location: Houston Forensic Science Center, Texas
Cost/Stipend: None | None
Dates: Operates during the academic year
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12
The Houston Forensic Science Center (HFSC) Explorer Program is an immersive, hands-on educational experience for high school students considering a career in forensic science. You will explore key disciplines within forensics, such as crime scene investigation, fingerprint analysis, evidence collection, and laboratory testing. Activities include participating in short lectures, practicing evidence collection at staged crime scenes, analyzing different types of forensic evidence, and engaging in a culminating mock crime scene where you apply what you have learned. You will be mentored directly by HFSC’s experienced forensic analysts and examiners, offering real-world guidance and professional insights, and build skills in scientific analysis, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication.
13. Excel High School Online Forensic Science Course
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Standard Single course: $325 | Honors Single course: $375 | AP Single course: $699 | None
Dates: Self-paced; students may start at any time and set their own schedule
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: All high school students across the world
The Excel High School Online Forensic Science Course covers a wide range of topics, including an introduction to forensic sciences, collecting and analyzing physical evidence, crime scene investigation, types of evidence, investigative techniques, and both historical and modern forensic case studies. You will engage in activities such as virtual investigations, analyzing simulated evidence, exploring real-life forensic case studies, and completing online interactive modules that reinforce key concepts. You will develop valuable skills in scientific reasoning, critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based analysis, and earn 0.5 Carnegie credits upon completion, which can contribute to a recognized high school diploma.
14. Ashworth College Forensics Online Course
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $1,399 (full pay) or $1,799 (monthly payment options available) | None
Dates: Self-paced (can be completed in as few as four months)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Open enrollment; no specific prerequisites
The Ashworth College Forensics Online Course is a flexible, self-paced career diploma program designed for students eager to explore the field of forensic science from home. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as the role of forensics in the justice system, crime scene procedures, forensic chemistry, biology, microscopy, impressions, fire investigation, and document examination. You will engage in activities like studying real-world forensic cases, learning techniques for DNA, fingerprint, and blood pattern analysis, and simulating crime scenes and laboratory procedures using digital resources. The program also gives you access to a digital library, the career-focused Ashworth College Central Network for resume and job prep, and the ability to graduate in as few as four months.
15. Aim Academy Online Forensic Course
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $749; monthly plan of $104 for 8 months also available | None
Dates: August 25 – May 9
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students (grades 10-12) who have completed a basic biology course
The Aim Academy Online Forensic Science Course is a full-year, live online class for 10th-12th graders, focusing on “science as applied to law.” It covers topics like crime scene analysis, evidence collection and examination, including hair, fiber, glass, paint, DNA, toxicology, ballistics, and the psychology behind criminal behavior. You will engage in independent research, participate in hands-on inquiry-based lab investigations (some with household supplies), and analyze case studies. You will be part of a flipped classroom model utilizing digital notebooks, videos, and web links for learning, with live sessions dedicated to demos, labs, and discussions. This course can count as a high school lab credit, enhancing college applications.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source – University of Texas at Austin