Knowing how to work with data is becoming an important skill for everyone, not just those in tech. For high school students interested in data science, summer programs are a great way to get started in the field! These programs teach skills like Python programming, data cleaning, analysis, and data visualization, helping you build a strong foundation.
Online data science summer programs, specifically, are super accessible options that are often at much lower price points than in-person programs. Plus, they don’t clash with the school year!
In the online data science summer programs below, you’ll work with real datasets from areas like public health, sports, and climate. You’ll have the chance to solve problems and apply what you learn to real-world situations. These programs are perfect for students who want to get experience in data science or improve their problem-solving skills in the summer.
Here are 15 online data science summer programs for high school students.
15 Online Data Science Summer Programs for High School Students
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program lets you do your research project with one-on-one guidance from a PhD mentor. If you’re interested in data science, this program gives you the chance to explore topics like machine learning, statistics, or deep learning. You’ll work with real datasets, ask your research question, and learn how to analyze and explain your results.
The program lasts 12 weeks and is fully online. You can apply for summer, fall, winter, or spring cohorts. Past students have worked on data science projects in healthcare, economics, education, and more. You’ll end the program with a research paper that you can use for college applications or future opportunities. Apply here.
Cost: $2,990 – $8,900 (depending on the kind of program). Need-based financial aid is available for the individual researcher program.
Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer (June – August), Fall (September – December), Winter (December – February), and Spring (March – June).
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school students with a 3.3 GPA. No prior field knowledge required.
2. Veritas AI
Veritas AI offers online programs for high school students interested in artificial intelligence and data science. If you’re just starting, the AI Scholars program is a good place to begin. It runs for 10 sessions and covers the basics of AI, machine learning, and data science. You’ll also work on a small project using real data and tools like Python.
If you already have some experience, you can apply to the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. In this program, you work one-on-one with a mentor from a top university on a research project in AI or data science. Past students have worked on projects in healthcare, finance, and computer vision. At the end, you can submit your work to high school research journals with help from Veritas’s publication team. You can also look at examples of past student projects here.
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars.
Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November).
Program Dates: Multiple 12 – 15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
3. UCLA’s Python for Economics and Finance Summer Institute Program
In this 3-week introductory course, you will learn Python, a key programming language for data science. You’ll explore data analysis, visualization, and basic concepts using real-world examples from finance and economics.
Topics include data types, flow control, functions, loops, numerical programming with NumPy, data manipulation with pandas, and basic techniques like regression and time series analysis. The program includes lectures from UCLA faculty and interactive sessions with UCLA Economics Peer Learning Facilitators.
Cost: $2,611. California-based students may apply for financial aid.
Deadline: June 13
Program Dates: July 14 – August 1
Eligibility: 9th – 12th grade students in Spring
4. Coding School’s 2025 National High School Research Program
The Coding School’s 2025 National High School Research Program is designed for students new to data science. In the first two weeks, you’ll learn key skills like coding, data analysis, and problem-solving. Over the next three weeks, you’ll apply what you’ve learned to a real data science project, guided by a mentor from academia or industry.
You’ll get hands-on experience using tools like Python and data visualization, preparing you to work on actual data science problems. By the end, you’ll have a project that shows off your skills and experience in data science.
Cost: $3,995. Financial aid and a $750 stipend for students in select areas
Deadline: Not specified
Program Dates: July 7 – August 8
Eligibility: Rising 9th – 12th graders and recent high school graduates.
5. Quantum Computing Summer Camp
The Quantum Computing Summer Camp is a solid opportunity to learn about a field that is changing data science. In this program, you’ll use Qiskit, a programming tool developed by IBM, to run code on a real quantum computer. You’ll explore concepts like qubits, superposition, and entanglement, which are key to understanding quantum computing.
The program also teaches you how to build quantum circuits using Python and analyze the results. You’ll get hands-on experience coding and running experiments that show how quantum computers handle complex problems differently from traditional computers.
Cost: $495 (tentative). Financial aid is available.
Deadline: Not specified
Program Dates: July 29 – August 2 (tentative)
Eligibility: Incoming 9th – 12th grade students
6. Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Statistics for Data Science
Berkeley offers an online Statistics for Data Science course that introduces you to the key concepts of statistics within the broader field of data science. In this course, you will learn how to analyze data using exploratory and descriptive statistics, understand probability theory, and statistical modeling.
You’ll also explore important topics like hypothesis testing and linear regression, all fundamental for working with data in any field. Throughout the program, you’ll have access to college prep workshops and support from Berkeley staff. At the end of the course, you’ll earn college credit and receive a personal letter of commendation from the Dean of Extended Education.
Cost: $1,236 + $25 application fee
Deadline: June 2
Program Dates: May 5 – August 9
Eligibility: High school students who have completed 10th or 11th grade by summer, plan to continue in the fall, have a B average (3.0), and are at least 16 years old by June 22.
7. Brown’s Introduction to Computational Mathematics and Big Data Visualization
Brown’s Introduction to Computational Mathematics and Big Data Visualization course focuses on math and data analysis, with an emphasis on practical problem-solving. You’ll learn the basics of numerical analysis, parallel computing, and data visualization, and understand how to apply these concepts to real-world scientific and engineering problems.
The course also covers how computational mathematics and programming skills can be used to solve complex issues in various fields. By taking this course, you’ll sharpen your critical thinking and data analysis abilities, which are crucial for tackling problems in areas like data science, engineering, and technology.
Cost: $6,238
Deadline: May 9
Program Dates: June 16 – July 25
Eligibility: Students completing grades 9 to 12 who are aged 14 to 18 by June 15
8. Syracuse University’s Fundamentals of Data and Database Programming
Syracuse University’s Fundamentals of Data and Database Programming course teaches you the basics of database systems, including how data is organized, relational databases, and SQL query processing. You’ll focus on understanding data models and entity relationships, which are crucial for designing and building relational databases.
Throughout the program, you’ll work on projects where you’ll design tables, implement triggers, create functions, and set up views. By the end, you’ll have hands-on experience in building relational database applications and earn a Certificate of Completion. You can also request a non-credit transcript from Syracuse University.
Cost: $1,995
Deadline: May 1
Program Dates: July 7 – 25
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors, or recent graduates
9. Columbia Pre-College Programs: Data Science and Machine Learning 1
Columbia’s Data Science and Machine Learning 1 course is great for beginners in programming. You’ll start by learning about data science and machine learning and their real-world applications in areas like business, healthcare, and technology. The course covers essential concepts, including data collection, data cleaning, and how to use Python for analysis and building machine learning models.
You’ll also get practical experience by working on coding exercises and small projects that help you apply what you’ve learned. By the end of the course, you’ll know how to analyze data, develop machine learning algorithms, and present your findings clearly and ethically.
Cost: $3,965 per session + $80 application fee
Deadline: April 20
Program Dates: July 7 – 18 or July 21 – August 2
Eligibility: Students who will be enrolled in grades 9 – 12 in the fall and students currently enrolled in grade 12
10. Stanford AI4ALL
Stanford’s AI4ALL program offers a hands-on introduction to artificial intelligence for high school students. Over three weeks, you’ll explore key areas of AI, including robotics, computer vision, medical AI, and natural language processing. Through lectures and projects, you’ll work with cutting-edge AI tools to solve real-world problems.
You will also have the chance to work on a research project with the Stanford AI Lab, gaining practical experience in the field. In addition to the technical skills, you’ll attend career development workshops and be mentored by AI professionals.
Cost: $4,000. Financial aid is available.
Deadline: January 24
Program Dates: June 18 – July 2
Eligibility: 9th or rising 10th graders who will be over 14 years old by the start of the program and have math and/or computer skills
11. Stanford University’s Introduction to Data Science
Stanford University’s Introduction to Data Science offers an entry-level look at how data science works. In this course, you will learn about computer algorithms and the models they create. You’ll explore datasets from the natural and social sciences to answer practical questions.
The program uses R programming, where you’ll apply machine learning tools to analyze data. Through hands-on exercises, you’ll develop your coding skills and gain experience in applying scientific methods for data analysis.
Cost: $3,080. Financial aid is available
Deadline: March 20
Program Dates: June 16 – 27 (session 1) or July 7 – 18 (session 2)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9 – 11 at the time of application
12. Harvard Secondary School Program Online: Intensive Introduction to Computer Science and Data Structures
Harvard offers a 7-week online Intensive Introduction to Computer Science and Data Structures course that covers the basics of data science. In the first part of the program, you’ll learn about data types, conditional execution, iteration, and recursion. In the second part, you’ll dive into key data structures like lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs.
Throughout the course, you will solve problems and complete programming exercises using Java. With around 20 hours of work each week, the program is designed to build a solid foundation in computer science. Along with the coursework, you can take part in virtual activities, and upon completion, you will earn college credit.
Cost: $4,050 (4 credits) or $7,900 (8 credits). Financial aid is available.
Deadline: January 8 (early application), February 12 (regular application), or April 9 (late application)
Program Dates: June 21 – August 9
Eligibility: Students who will graduate from high school and enter college in the next three years, and are at least 16 years old by June 21, and will not turn 19 years old before July 31.
13. Cornell’s Probability and Statistics: Modeling and Data Science
Cornell’s Probability and Statistics: Modeling and Data Science course covers the essentials of probability and statistics. You will learn how to analyze data, understand probability modeling, and apply data analysis methods. The program includes hands-on work with software used for statistical inference. The course covers key topics such as random variables, probability distributions, expectation, estimation, testing, experimental design, quality control, and regression.
Cost: $1,840 per credit hour.
Deadline: 14 calendar days before the start date of your class
Program Dates: May 27 – July 7
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors who have completed MATH 1910 and 1920.
14. Google Summer of Code
Google’s global Summer of Code introduces beginners to open-source software development. In the first phase, you will get to know the organization’s community and the specific project you’ll be working on. After that, you’ll spend 12 weeks coding for one of the projects, including data-focused ones, offered by various organizations. Throughout the program, you will be mentored by experienced community members and contributors.
Cost: Free. A stipend is provided.
Deadline: April 8
Program Dates: May 8 – September 1
Eligibility: Individuals who are at least 18 years of age, are eligible to work in their country of residence, are an open-source beginner or student, have not been accepted as a GSoC Contributor/Student in GSoC more than once, and must reside in a country that is not currently embargoed by the United States.
15. Girls Who Code Pathways
Girls Who Code Pathways is a 6-week program designed to help you build technical skills in computer science. You’ll work at your own pace and learn subjects like web development, cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Through the program, you’ll also gain programming skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Python. In addition, you’ll have the chance to attend live events featuring experts in the field and expand your professional network.
Cost: None
Deadline: April 11
Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
Eligibility: Current high school students who identify as girls or non-binary.
Image source – University of California, Los Angeles
