Are you a high school student in Jacksonville, Florida, looking to gain hands-on experience and develop specialized skills? Summer programs allow you to explore diverse fields such as STEM, arts, sports, and leadership while building valuable skills and experiences for your future.
Jacksonville provides various summer programs designed to deepen your expertise and help you tackle real-world challenges. These programs include workshops, field studies, creative projects, and leadership development exercises that equip you with problem-solving, technical, and teamwork skills.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 14 summer programs for high school students in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2024-2025.
14 Great Summer Programs for High School Students in Jacksonville, FL
1. Horizon
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and college applications. Apply here!
Location: Virtual
Application Date: May 21, 2024, for the summer cohort, and September 25, 2024, for the fall cohort
Program Dates:
- Summer seminar — June 24, 2024 — September 2, 2024
- Fall seminar — October 23, 2024 — February 19, 2025
- Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
2. Veritas AI
Veritas AI offers programs designed to help you explore artificial intelligence through interactive group work and personalized mentorship. Led by Harvard graduate students and alumni, these programs combine collaborative learning with opportunities for independent growth.
The AI Scholars Program gives you hands-on experience working alongside Ph.D. mentors from prestigious universities. You’ll learn Python and dive into essential AI topics, including machine learning, data science, natural language processing, regression analysis, and neural networks. Through project-based learning, you’ll develop a strong understanding of AI fundamentals while building practical skills.
If you prefer a more tailored experience, the AI Fellowship pairs you with a mentor to design a project aligned with your interests. Past fellows have created interdisciplinary projects combining AI with fields such as healthcare, finance, environmental studies, sports, and mental health. Check out examples of their work here.
Subject areas: Artificial intelligence, data science, programming, machine learning
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starts at $2,290
Application deadline: Program cohorts run throughout the year. Applications for the summer cohort are due on April 14 each year. You can find out more about the program and apply here!
Program dates: Multiple sessions from July to September. The AI Scholars program runs for 10 weeks, and the AI Fellowship program runs for 12–15 weeks.
Eligibility: High school students can apply. For AI Scholars, no previous experience is required — applicants must demonstrate a keen interest in AI. For the AI Fellowship, applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or have some experience with AI concepts or Python.
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program invites you to explore research in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM. Developed by Harvard and Oxford scholars, Lumiere provides a structured environment to tackle complex topics and improve your research skills.
This selective online program, which recently admitted approximately 500 of over 4,000 applicants, connects you with a Ph.D.-level mentor who will support you in creating a university-standard research paper on a topic you’re passionate about. You can access the application form here. For talented students from low-income backgrounds, the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation helps provide access to this enriching program.
Subject areas: Arts, economics, sociology, STEM fields, including computer science, aerospace engineering, environmental science, and many more
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starts at $2,990
Application deadline: Four cohorts in a year — Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall. For the summer cohort, applications open in January and typically close in May.
Program dates: Individual Research Program lasts 12 weeks | Premium Research & Publication Program runs for 16–20 weeks | Research Fellowship runs for 6–12 months.
Eligibility: High school students can apply.
The Young Founder’s Lab is a hands-on startup boot camp created and led by Harvard entrepreneurs. In this program, you’ll work on building a revenue-generating startup that tackles a real-world problem. Along the way, you’ll receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals from companies like Google, Microsoft, and X.
This program offers hands-on sessions to develop key business skills, foster creative thinking, and apply practical techniques in real-world scenarios. Through case studies, expert panel talks, and engaging activities, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the startup ecosystem. Access the program brochure here.
Subject Areas: Business, Entrepreneurship, Technology
Location: This program is 100% virtual, with live, interactive workshops
Cost: The total cost to attend the 3-week program is $2,900. Need-based financial aid is available!
Application Deadline: Varies according to cohort. November 24, 2024, for the Winter cohort. Apply here!
Program Dates: Multiple, year-round cohorts, including Summer! December 21, 2024 — January 5, 2025, for the upcoming Winter cohort!
Eligibility: Currently open to all high school students.
Ladder Internships provides ambitious high school students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at rapidly growing startups. Through this eight-week virtual program, you’ll intern with startups in fields such as tech, AI, health, marketing, journalism, and consulting, many of which have been founded by Y Combinator alumni or former employees from top companies like Microsoft, Google, and Facebook.
You’ll work closely with startup managers and a Ladder Coach, contributing to meaningful projects that allow you to make an impact.
Subject Areas: Technology, Healthcare and Medicine, Business, Finance, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, and more.
Location: Remote
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (Financial Aid Available)
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. November 24th for the upcoming winter cohort!
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer!
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10–20 hours/week, for 8–12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
If you’re a high school junior or senior in Duval or St. Johns Counties with a passion for biomedical sciences, the SPARK Research Mentorship Program offers a unique chance to gain hands-on research experience at Mayo Clinic’s Jacksonville campus. Working with top researchers in advanced labs, SPARK scholars dive into basic science, research techniques, and critical thinking, while also developing projects for science fairs.
This program requires a commitment of at least 25 hours per week during the summer and additional time throughout the school year, giving you a real-world glimpse into scientific inquiry.
Subject Areas: Biochemistry and molecular biology, drug development, epidemiology, immunology, cancer biology, artificial intelligence, neuroscience, regenerative sciences
Location: Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: No cost
Application Deadline: Dec 31, 2024
Program Dates: June 3-Dec 2, 2025
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in participating Florida school districts with a minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA can apply.
If you’re a high school student in Jacksonville interested in computing, engineering, or construction, UNF’s College of Computing, Engineering, and Construction (CCEC) offers two summer programs for you. The Women in Information Technology (CITI) program introduces you to computer science careers. You’ll learn about IT roles, salary expectations, and education paths, with interactive sessions on topics like project management and graphic design. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for a paid, week-long internship at CITI, gaining experience in the software development lifecycle.
The ACE Mentor Program lets you explore careers in architecture, construction, and engineering. Over 16 weeks, you’ll work on real-world projects with industry mentors and present your work at an awards banquet. Top teams may even have the chance to compete nationally in Washington, D.C. Each program provides an opportunity to gain practical skills, connect with mentors, and get a head start on future career paths.
Subject Areas: Architecture, Construction, Computer Science, Engineering
Location: Variable based on selected program
Cost: Variable based on selected program
Application Deadline: Unspecified
Program Dates: 16 weeks for ACE mentorship (Contact here for specific dates). Unspecified for the Women in Technology Program.
Eligibility: Both programs are open to high school students.
The GRADS initiative by Florida State University helps high school students in Jacksonville prepare for life after graduation. This program prepares you for both college and career paths by focusing on academic skill-building, college entrance exam preparation, and tours of local businesses and industries.
Through GRADS, you’ll learn about college entrance procedures and how your education connects to career options. The program also offers support to help you reach your personal and educational goals. It is a collaboration between the Florida Department of Education, Duval County School Board, and local businesses.
Subject Areas: SAT/ACT preparation classes, Summer internships, Academic enrichment classes, University field trips, Workforce Readiness Workshops
Location: Florida State College, Kent Campus, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: Information on this has not been made available on the website directly.
Application Deadline: TBA for 2025. Program Dates: Set to begin in summer 2025.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–12 who meet academic and economic criteria can attend!
The Gamecock Arts Summer Program (GASP) offers high school students the chance to engage in college-level art and performance activities. Geared toward students serious about advancing their Arts and Humanities education, the program includes workshops and classes led by faculty, staff, and students from the Art & Design, Film & Theatre, Music, and English departments. In addition to participating in artistic workshops, performances, and art shows, you’ll also have time for recreational activities. This program provides an opportunity to develop your artistic skills while experiencing college life.
Subject Areas: Visual arts, design, musical theater, film, creative writing
Location: Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: Information on this has not been made available on the website directly. Check for 2025 camp updates here.
Application Deadline: May 24, 2024. TBA for 2025.
Program Dates: June 3–7, 2024. TBA for 2025.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible for these camps.
The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a variety of summer programs for students, educators, and children to learn and grow together. Known for its college preparatory curriculum, the school provides both boarding opportunities and day camps, with a focus on sports and fitness.
In 2024-25, the Bolles Crew Camp is available for grades 4–12, running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Activities include rowing, weight training, swimming, and erging for a balanced fitness experience. For more specialized training, the Bolles Half Day Special Camps offer sports like basketball, baseball, and football in morning or afternoon sessions for grades K–12.
High school swimmers can join the Bolles Swim Camp, which offers intensive training and overnight accommodations. The JTCC/Bolles Tennis Camp is open to students from PreK to grade 12, with schedules tailored to specific age groups. These programs provide high school students with opportunities to enhance their athletic skills in a structured and supportive environment.
Subject Areas: Sports including swimming, tennis, rowing, weight training, basketball, baseball, football, and more.
Location: The Bolles School, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: Half-day special camps start at $200. One-day camp starts at $300 a week, and Adventure Camps run for $325 per week.
Application Deadline: TBA for 2025. Swim camp 2025 registration begins on Dec 1, 2024.
Program Dates: Variable based on the camp selected.
Eligibility: All camps mentioned are open to high school students.
The AnnieRuth Foundation’s Summer Internship Program is designed for high school juniors and seniors in Jacksonville who want to explore their career interests while gaining valuable experience. Through this program, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a professional setting aligned with your career goals, earn a stipend, and build skills that prepare you for the workforce and college.
You’ll be connected with local professionals in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology, who provide mentoring and guidance to help you succeed. The program also includes workshops on professional development, such as resume building, interview techniques, and time management. By participating, you’ll not only gain hands-on experience but also expand your network and strengthen the skills needed for your future.
Subject Areas: Medicine, Mechanical Engineering, Neuroscience, Healthcare, Architecture, Construction, Orthopedics, AI, and more. In your application form, you may specify your field of interest to be assigned a relevant internship.
Location: Depends on your internship site. The foundation is based in Jacksonville and collaborates with local businesses to connect them with interns.
Cost: No cost. Stipend provided.
Application Deadline: Aug 31, 2024. TBA for 2025.
Program Dates: Variable based on the internship assigned. Internships are available in the summer.
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors or seniors with a 2.0+ GPA, a 1,000-word original essay, monthly seminar attendance, and participation in the fundraiser event.
Jimerson Birr, a Florida-based law firm recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best Law Firms in America, offers a 4–6 week internship program aimed at providing high school students with exposure to the business law environment. During the program, you’ll have the opportunity to work within various departments ranging from accounting to legal services alongside experienced professionals. This internship emphasizes strategic thinking, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving, aligning with the firm’s client-focused approach to legal services. It’s a practical introduction to the skills and mindset required in the legal field.
Subject Areas: Accounting, communications and marketing, legal services, information technology
Location: Jimerson Birr, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: Information regarding this was not available on the website.
Application Deadline: TBA for 2025.
Program Dates: 4–6 weeks in the summer. Specific dates are unspecified.
Eligibility: Must be a high school student able to work at the Jacksonville, Florida, office.
As a Teen Volunteer at the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) in Northeast Florida, you’ll gain hands-on experience supporting educational programs and activities. Open to students ages 14–18 in or near Jacksonville, the program requires a commitment of at least 8 service hours per school quarter, five full days over the summer, and a minimum of 100 hours annually.
Volunteer roles include:
- Discovery Camp Volunteer (16+): Assist with K–8 camp activities, prepare lesson materials, supervise projects, and support extended care.
- Innovation Volunteer (14+): Engage visitors in STEAM and history activities, assist with exhibit setup and cleanup, and prepare materials for events and camps.
Subject Areas: Assistance with camps, organizing and managing the museum’s special events, educational programming
Location: Museum of Science and History, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: No cost or stipend
Application Deadline: Applications for summer 2025 will reopen in the spring of 2025.
Program Dates: Duration and specific dates are TBA for summer 2025.
Eligibility: Must be 14–18 years old and in high school, commit to at least 8 service hours per school quarter, complete at least 5 full days of service during summer, and achieve a minimum of 100 service hours per year.
For high school students interested in STEM or engineering, SAME’s week-long STEM/Engineering & Construction Camps are designed to provide project-based learning experiences led by industry professionals and military engineers. You’ll explore fields such as science, engineering, construction, technology, and environmental studies through activities like building concrete beams and dog kennels, operating drones, using survey equipment, and conducting experiments. The program also focuses on building leadership and practical skills to support your future education and career goals.
Subject Areas: Civil engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental science, robotics, technology, math, physics military infrastructure design
Location: Various locations throughout the US including Jacksonville, FL.
Cost: $100-$800
Application Deadline: TBA for 2025
Program Dates: 1-week camps, TBA for 2025.
Eligibility: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, 15+ years old, enrolled in high school with a STEM-focused track, and intent on pursuing engineering/architecture. Only one SAME Camp per year is allowed. Each camp has unique eligibility criteria.
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.