If you’re a high schooler interested in psychology but can’t commit to a full-time program, consider a summer camp!
Psychology summer camps for high school students offer you the opportunity to explore the inner workings of the human mind while developing essential research and analytical skills. Unlike standard academic programs, these camps are shorter, highly structured, and focused on specific areas such as cognitive psychology, neuroscience, or counseling.
Psychology summer camps for high school students enable them to move beyond textbooks into hands-on experiments, observational studies, and interactive workshops that simulate the work of real psychologists. These experiences not only introduce you to career pathways in psychology but also help sharpen skills such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving.
Whether your interest is clinical practice, brain science, or social behavior, psychology camps offer an immersive way to explore the field before college. Below, we have listed 15 psychology summer camps for high school students.
15 Psychology Summer Camps for High School Students
1. Messiah University Psychology Summer Camp
Location: Messiah University, Mechanicsburg, PA (12 miles from Harrisburg)
Cost: $599 (commuters), $699 (residential)
Dates: June 22 – 27
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10–12 in Fall of the attending year
Messiah University’s Psychology Summer Camp introduces high schoolers to the foundations of psychology while exploring big questions about human behavior. You’ll learn from university faculty who are both researchers and practicing clinical psychologists, gaining exposure to fields like biopsychology, developmental psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. The week blends instruction, interactive demonstrations, and service learning, encouraging you to apply what you study in meaningful contexts. Alongside academic sessions, you’ll strengthen your problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills in a collaborative environment. By the end of the camp, you’ll have a clearer sense of how psychology connects to health, stress, and everyday decision-making.
2. Webster University Psychology Summer Camp
Location: Webster University, St. Louis, MO
Cost: $300 (assistance available for eligible federal NSLP K–12 free/reduced lunch program)
Dates: July 7–11
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; apply as soon as possible
Eligibility: Ages 14–18 (rising 9th grade to graduated 12th grade)
Webster University’s Psychology Summer Camp immerses high school students in the study of mind and behavior, blending classroom learning with hands-on activities and creative projects. You’ll work alongside experienced psychology faculty and experts to explore brain structure and function, cognition, behavior, and emotion. The program emphasizes research experience, interactive learning, and collaboration, helping you understand how people grow, think, and support one another. Through this week-long experience, you’ll develop practical skills in problem-solving, observation, and analysis while gaining clarity on whether psychology is a field you’d like to pursue further. By the end of the camp, you’ll leave with both knowledge and inspiration to explore psychology beyond the classroom.
3. Gettysburg College Camp Psych
Location: Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA
Cost: $1,395 (limited full-tuition waivers are available)
Dates: July 13 – 18
Application Deadline: Rolling basis until camp is full
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, and occasionally, recently graduated seniors
Camp Psych gives high school students a hands-on window into psychological science while exploring major questions in human behavior. You’ll engage directly in research, designing studies, and collecting data alongside faculty and resident advisors, while learning about topics like helping behavior, cognition, and emotion. The residential program combines instruction, interactive sessions, and collaborative projects, providing both academic rigor and a taste of college life. Beyond the classroom, you’ll strengthen leadership, communication, and analytical skills, while experiencing structured, real-world applications of psychology. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the field, practical research experience, and insight into whether a future in psychology aligns with your interests.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program – Psychology Track
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies depending on program type; full financial aid is available
Dates: Year-round seasonal cohorts (summer, fall, winter, spring); program length ranges 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: Current high school students demonstrating strong academic performance (accepted students typically hold a 3.3/4.0 GPA or higher)
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program provides high school students with 1-on-1 research mentorship from Ph.D. scholars. Over the course of 12 weeks or longer, you’ll design and complete an independent research project in disciplines such as psychology, economics, data science, physics, or engineering. The specific psychology topics offered include anxiety and mood disorders, psychology of organizations, and more. You’ll build skills in research methodology, academic writing, and data analysis while producing a polished research paper. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be eligible to earn credit from the University of California at San Diego (UCSD). You can find details about the application here.
5. Horizon Academic Research Program – Psychology Track
Location: Online
Cost: Varies depending on program type; financial aid is available
Dates: Year-round seasonal cohorts (fall, winter, spring, and summer); Summer Cohort I: June 16; Summer Cohort II: July 14
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Summer Cohort I: May 18; Summer Cohort II: June 22
Eligibility: High school students with strong academic standing (most admitted students have a GPA above 3.67/4.0 and are in 10th–11th grade; some tracks may require prerequisites)
This program offers you the chance to conduct undergraduate-level research under the mentorship of professors and Ph.D. researchers from top universities including Harvard, Yale, and MIT. The Psychology track includes a wide range of psychology subtopics covering clinical, social, developmental, and cognitive psychology. You can expect to dedicate 8–10 hours per week to lectures, research, and writing. You engage in high-level research, working closely with professors or PhD scholars who mentor them throughout the program. The program culminates in a 20-page university-level research paper suitable for submission to prestigious journals. Topics explored in the past include eating disorders, neuroimaging, mindfulness, early intervention programs, sports psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, brain stimulation, trauma, addiction, autism, and more.
6. Clark University Summer Academy in Psychology
Location: Clark University, Worcester, MA
Cost: $1,500
Dates: July 7–11
Application Deadline: No deadline mentioned; registration opens on March 31; class size is limited and early enrollment is advised
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th grade students
Clark University’s Summer Academy in Psychology immerses high school students in multiple branches of psychology, including clinical, cognitive, developmental, and social fields. You’ll learn from expert faculty and leading researchers through interactive talks, discussions, and experiential activities that connect psychological concepts to real-world problems. The program emphasizes hands-on research, allowing you to design your own study and present your findings at the Clark Research Festival. Alongside academic exploration, you’ll develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills in a collaborative environment. By the end of the week, you’ll gain both practical research experience and clarity on whether a future in psychology aligns with your interests.
7. Auburn University Brain Camp
Location: Auburn University, Auburn, AL
Cost: $705; scholarships may be available
Dates: July 14 – 18
Application Deadline: Typically early June (4-6 weeks before the camp start date)
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th grade students
Auburn University Brain Camp gives high school students a hands-on introduction to neuroscience, combining advanced technology with experiential learning. You’ll explore your own brain using techniques like Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) and may even participate in functional MRI (fMRI) scanning to map your neural pathways. The week-long residential program includes instruction from distinguished faculty, interactive experiments, and collaborative projects, alongside structured recreational and social activities. Living on campus, you’ll gain practical laboratory experience while developing leadership, critical thinking, and research skills. You’ll leave with both a deeper understanding of neuroscience and a clearer sense of whether this field aligns with your future academic or career goals.
8. Boston University AIM: Introduction to Experimental Psychology
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost: Commuter: $5,708.25; Residential: $7,245 (tentative); no financial aid is available
Dates: June 29 – July 18
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school students entering junior or senior year
Boston University’s AIM program immerses high school students in experimental psychology over three weeks, combining seminars, hands-on research, and collaborative projects. You’ll spend mornings attending psychology coursework to build foundational research skills, while afternoons are devoted to designing and conducting experiments under faculty supervision. The program emphasizes data collection, analysis, and visualization, with students presenting their findings to peers and the BU community at the end of the session. Beyond academics, the program offers structured social activities, campus exploration, and opportunities to interact with undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers. At the end, you’ll have both practical research experience and insight into potential career paths in psychology.
9. Cedarville University Psychology Camp
Location: Cedarville University, Cedarville, OH
Cost: $450
Dates: June 23 – 27
Application Deadline: June 9 (or until camp reaches capacity)
Eligibility: Christian students entering grades 10–12
Cedarville University’s Psychology Camp introduces high school students to multiple areas of psychology while providing practical guidance for future academic and career paths. You’ll observe counseling sessions, participate in social psychology experiments, and learn behavioral techniques for addressing health-related challenges. The week-long residential program combines hands-on learning, interactive workshops, and structured field trips, fostering both academic growth and personal development. Camp activities also emphasize leadership, collaboration, and ethical practice within a supportive Christian environment. By the end of the week, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of the psychology profession and the steps needed to pursue it successfully.
10. Christian Brothers University Psychology Summer Camp
Location: Christian Brothers University, Memphis, TN
Cost: Not specified
Dates: June 23 – 24
Application Deadline: June 18
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Christian Brothers University’s Psychology Summer Camp offers high school students a two-day, hands-on introduction to diverse areas of psychology. You’ll explore topics such as memory, problem-solving, prejudice, autism, artificial intelligence, and emotional intelligence through engaging lectures and interactive demonstrations. The program provides insight into careers in psychology and related fields, including counseling, while emphasizing practical application of psychological concepts. You’ll gain exposure to research techniques like brain activity recording and operant conditioning, alongside experiential learning opportunities. You will have a clearer understanding of psychology’s real-world relevance and potential pathways for future study or career exploration at the end.
11. Wake Forest University Psychology Institute Summer Immersion Program
Location: Wake Forest University, Reynolda Campus, Winston-Salem, NC
Cost: $3,400 + 50 application fee; need-based scholarships are available
Dates: June 1 – July 25 (Divided in seven 6-day slots)
Application Deadline: Rolling basis until all programs are filled
Eligibility: Current 9th–12th grade students
Wake Forest University’s Summer Immersion Psychology Institute gives high school students an in-depth look at the brain, emotions, and human behavior through hands-on experiences. You’ll explore topics such as sensation and perception, addiction, the disordered brain, and how emotions influence daily life. The program includes interactive labs, brain dissections, neuroplasticity exercises, and observational research, helping you apply psychological concepts in real-world settings. Beyond academics, you’ll present team research findings, gain exposure to careers in psychology, and participate in structured evening and social activities. You’ll have practical experience, a deeper understanding of neuroscience and psychology, and a certificate of completion from Wake Forest University after the program ends.
12. Summer@Brown High School Psychology Summer Camp – Psychology of Willpower and Motivation
Location: Brown University campus, Providence, Rhode Island
Cost: Residential: $5,534; Commuter: $4,286; financial aid is available
Dates: July 14 – 25
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, or seniors | Ages 14-18
This camp delves into understanding what drives human behavior and how willpower can be harnessed and strengthened. You explore topics like self-control, goal-setting, motivation theories, and the psychological factors behind perseverance and habit formation. Throughout the camp, you engage in interactive activities such as analyzing case studies of motivation, conducting self-assessments on willpower strengths, participating in group discussions about overcoming challenges, and designing personal motivation plans. A unique feature of this camp is its focus on real-world application, encouraging you to relate psychological concepts directly to your own lives and ambitions. Skills gained include critical thinking, self-regulation techniques, and enhanced emotional intelligence, which are invaluable both personally and academically.
13. Summer@Brown High School Psychology Summer Camp – Psychology of Resilience
Location: Brown University campus, Providence, Rhode Island
Cost: Residential: $3,584; Commuter: $2,960; financial aid is available
Dates: July 14 – 18
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, or seniors | Ages 14-18
The Summer@Brown High School Psychology Summer Camp – Psychology of Resilience is a program designed to help students understand how people cope with and bounce back from adversity. This camp covers topics such as mental health, stress management, emotional regulation, and the science behind resilience. You engage in activities like analyzing real-life case studies, participating in group discussions on coping strategies, conducting mini-research projects on stress and recovery, and applying psychological theories through creative role-play exercises. The camp emphasizes both the scientific understanding of resilience and practical applications to personal and community well-being. Throughout the camp, you develop critical thinking, empathy, and research skills, while fostering emotional intelligence.
14. Duke University Summer Springboard – Psychology & Neuroscience Camp
Location: Duke University Campus, Durham, NC
Cost: Residential: $5,698; Commuter: $2,998 + a minimum $99 application fee; financial aid is available
Dates: Session 1: June 29 – July 11; Session 2: July 13 – 25
Application Deadline: Typically early February
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors (grade range 9-11)
The Duke University Summer Springboard – Psychology & Neuroscience Camp for high school students explores the workings of the human mind and brain. You dive into key topics such as perception, memory, decision-making, mental health, and social behavior, gaining a broad understanding of psychological science and neuroscience. The camp includes engaging activities like conducting experiments to study brain function, analyzing real psychological case studies, participating in group research projects, and exploring the neuroscience behind emotions and behavior. It involves a hands-on approach, where you learn to think critically and scientifically by designing and executing your own mini research projects. Through this experience, you develop skills in data analysis, scientific communication, and problem-solving.
15. Columbia University The Science of Psychology (Online Camp)
Location: Online
Cost: $3,965 + $80 application fee; financial aid is available
Dates: July 7 – 18
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: All high school students in grades 9-12
This online camp offers an engaging introduction to the study of human behavior and the mind. You explore key psychological topics such as memory, perception, personality, mental health, and research methods used to understand behavior. You will engage in hands-on activities like analyzing case studies, conducting simple experiments, interpreting psychological data, and participating in group discussions to deepen understanding. The camp also involves interaction with Columbia faculty and gives access to a rigorous, college-level curriculum delivered in an online format. You develop critical thinking, research, and data analysis skills that are essential for psychology and other social sciences.
Image source – Columbia University