Looking to do more this summer than relax? Summer programs in Columbus, Ohio, offer high school students a chance to step out of the classroom and into hands-on learning experiences that explore new fields and career paths.
These programs allow you to deepen your knowledge in STEM, the arts, or leadership through practical activities and focused projects. You’ll have the chance to develop problem-solving skills, connect with peers, and prepare for future academic or career opportunities.
Columbus offers a range of summer programs tailored to various interests. Here are 14 of the best summer programs in Columbus that promise an enriching and memorable experience for high school students.
14 of the Best Summer Programs for High School Students in Columbus, Ohio
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 on college applications. Apply here!
Location: Virtual
Application Date: The Spring Cohort deadline is February 16, 2025.
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
The AI Scholars Program by Veritas AI offers high school students a unique opportunity to delve into the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Designed for motivated learners, this program combines live, expert-led sessions with project-based learning, allowing you to understand complex AI concepts and apply them to real-world challenges. You will explore fundamental topics such as machine learning, neural networks, and data analysis while receiving mentorship from AI professionals affiliated with leading institutions like MIT and Harvard.
By the end of the program, you will develop your own AI projects, gaining hands-on experience and building a portfolio that demonstrates your technical acumen and creativity.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (for Winter 2024 cohort – keep an eye out for future dates and deadline)
Program Dates: Not yet available for Summer 2024
Eligibility: Students between 9th and 12th grade
3. Lumiere
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students a chance to engage in advanced, college-level research guided by expert mentors from top-tier universities, including Harvard, Oxford, and MIT. Designed for intellectually curious students, the program emphasizes personalized mentorship, allowing you to explore topics ranging from artificial intelligence and biomedical sciences to economics and literature.
Over the course of the program, you will work closely with mentors to design and conduct independent research projects, culminating in a research paper that showcases your analytical and critical thinking skills. Through Lumiere, you not only gain valuable insights into the research process but also build a strong foundation for future academic pursuits.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: The Winter Cohort II application deadline is December 29, 2024! Summer deadlines are usually in the Spring.
Program Dates: June to August
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum 3.3 out of 4 GPA
The Young Founders Lab helps you turn your entrepreneurial ideas into reality by teaching the tools and mindset needed to succeed. This program is for high school students ready to explore the startup world, learning how to identify market needs, create a viable product, and build a business plan. With guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, you’ll participate in workshops on lean business models, customer discovery, and pitching strategies.
Beyond learning business basics, the program focuses on critical thinking, resilience, and problem-solving, preparing you for the challenges of launching a startup. By the end, you’ll have practical entrepreneurial skills and the confidence to present your project to potential investors, setting a strong foundation for future success.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: November 24, 2024 (for winter cohort – keep an eye out for summer dates and deadline!)
Program Dates: December 21, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Eligibility: Young, high school aged entrepreneurs.
The Ladder Internships Program gives you the chance to step into the world of startups and fast-growing companies for real-world experience. If you’re looking to explore industries, build practical skills, and work on meaningful projects, this program is for you. You’ll collaborate with company leaders on tasks like marketing, business analysis, software development, or product management in a structured, project-based environment.
With a focus on mentorship and career exploration, the program helps you understand workplace expectations and develop skills for a fast-paced business world. By the end, you’ll have a stronger resume, a portfolio of projects, and a clearer direction for your future, giving you a head start as you prepare for college and beyond.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Winter Cohort is December 10th, 2024 (
Program Dates: December 16, 2024
Eligibility: Open to all high school students capable of committing 10–15 hours per week for an 8-week period.
The Arts and Sciences Summer Exploration Program at Ohio State University gives you the chance to explore different academic fields within the College of Arts and Sciences. Over a week, you’ll participate in interactive workshops and hands-on activities in areas like humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Guided by OSU faculty and current students, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your interests, develop new skills, and experience college-level learning in a supportive setting. This program is perfect if you’re looking to discover potential college majors and career paths while engaging with a leading public university..
Location: Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: May 15 (based on 2024 deadlines)
Program Dates: Varies by course
Eligibility: Students enrolled in 9th-11th grade.
The Ohio University Summer Programs give you the opportunity to experience college life while exploring a variety of academic fields. Whether you're interested in engineering, media arts, health sciences, or environmental studies, these programs include hands-on workshops, lab activities, and interactive seminars led by university faculty. They are designed to help you expand your knowledge and explore potential career paths while getting a glimpse of college academics in a supportive and engaging environment.
Location: Ohio University, Athens County, Ohio
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Program Dates: Varies by program
Eligibility: Varies by program
The Human Cognition Program at Ohio State University’s Center for Cognitive and Brain Sciences gives you the chance to explore the fascinating study of the human mind. This summer program covers topics like perception, memory, decision-making, and the neuroscience behind cognitive processes. Led by OSU faculty and researchers, you will engage in hands-on activities, including lab demonstrations, discussions, and mini research projects, to learn about how human thought and behavior are understood. If you’re interested in psychology, neuroscience, or cognitive science, this program offers a unique opportunity to explore how the mind works in a collegiate environment.
Location: Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: May 31 (based on 2024 dates)
Program Dates: July 22-26 (based on 2024 dates)
Eligibility: High school students entering 10-12th grade
The Immersive Experience in Art Education program at Ohio State University invites you to explore the world of art and teaching through a hands-on, creative approach. Designed for students interested in both visual arts and education, this program offers a deep dive into artistic techniques, classroom engagement strategies, and the role of art in community building. You’ll collaborate with OSU faculty and art education majors, working on studio projects, participating in interactive workshops, and engaging in discussions that connect theory and practice. By the end of the program, you’ll have created your own artwork and lesson plans, gaining valuable insights into the impact of art education.
Location: Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: June 10th (based on 2024 date)
Eligibility: High school students between 9th and 12th grades
The PAST Foundation Summer Programs in Columbus, Ohio, offer high school students exciting hands-on experiences in STEM and design thinking. Through projects like robotics, archaeology, and digital storytelling, you will tackle real-world challenges using innovative tools and techniques. Led by expert educators, these programs provide practical skills and foster creativity, making for an engaging and enriching summer experience.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Program Dates: Varies by program
Eligibility: High school students
The Arts Immersion Program by Shadowbox Live in Columbus, Ohio, offers you a unique opportunity to explore the performing arts. This program covers acting, music, dance, and production, giving you hands-on experience in a professional theater setting. Guided by experienced performers and industry experts, you’ll learn key skills in stage performance, creative expression, and behind-the-scenes production. Ideal for students interested in the arts, this immersive experience helps build confidence, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the creative process, making it a great step for anyone considering a career in the performing arts.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: April 29th (based on 2024 deadline)
Program Dates: June 10 - 21 (based on 2024 dates)
Eligibility: High school students must audition in four areas (Vocal, Acting, Dance, Music performance)
The Summer Scientist Education Series at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, introduces you to the world of medical science and research. Through interactive workshops and hands-on lab activities, you’ll explore topics like genetics, neuroscience, and biomedical technology, guided by leading scientists and healthcare professionals. This program is perfect if you’re interested in careers in healthcare or research, offering a unique opportunity to learn about cutting-edge medical discoveries while developing critical thinking skills and a passion for science.
Location: Virtual and at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: June 13 - July 25 (based on 2024 dates)
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students
The Student TECH CORPS Program immerses you in a hands-on curriculum focused on mastering key aspects of technology. You’ll work on real-world projects in areas like software development, IT support, and cybersecurity, building technical expertise and problem-solving skills. Mentored by experienced professionals, you’ll learn coding, network infrastructure, and digital troubleshooting while also developing soft skills like teamwork and project management. This program offers practical, applied learning, giving you a strong foundation in technology that prepares you for advanced study or entry into the tech industry.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: N/A
Eligibility: High school students between 9th and 12th grade
The Student WEB CORPS Program offers you an immersive experience in web development and digital design. This intensive program focuses on building practical skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and UX/UI design through hands-on projects that simulate real-world web development scenarios. Guided by tech industry mentors, you’ll learn how to create functional, user-friendly websites while gaining insight into project management and client collaboration. By the end of the program, you’ll have a strong portfolio of web projects and a solid understanding of web technologies.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Application Deadline: N/A
Program Dates: N/A
Eligibility: High school students between 9th and 12th grade
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.