Data science is increasingly becoming a foundational skill across industries, from healthcare and manufacturing to finance and artificial intelligence. If you’re interested in working with data, participating in data science programs for high school students can help you build early technical skills and explore career pathways. These programs typically introduce you to programming, statistics, data visualization, and machine learning through hands-on projects and structured coursework.
If you’re considering data science programs for high school students in Michigan, you can gain experience working with real datasets, building predictive models, and learning tools commonly used in data science, such as Python, R, and visualization platforms. Some programs can also help you explore interdisciplinary fields like artificial intelligence, computational biology, and data engineering. These programs often combine technical training with applied projects, allowing you to develop both analytical thinking and programming skills.
Why should you choose a program in Michigan?
Michigan offers several opportunities for students interested in data science. The state is home to major research universities, including the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University, which frequently host STEM programs and summer research opportunities. These institutions often provide access to research labs, faculty mentorship, and university-level coursework. Additionally, Michigan’s strong presence in manufacturing, healthcare, automotive engineering, and technology industries creates opportunities to explore real-world applications of data science.
Below is a curated list of 15 data science programs for high school students in Michigan. If you’re looking for online data science summer programs for high school students, you can find them here. You can also check out our guide on research programs for high school students in Michigan here.
15 Data Science Programs for High School Students in Michigan
1. Michigan Tech University’s Women in Computer Science (WICS)
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: Free or offered at a reduced rate
Dates: June 28–July 2
Application Deadline: February 15 | Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting March 1
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
Women in Computer Science is a week-long camp focused on exploring different areas of computing. You will learn about fields such as software development, artificial intelligence, data science, human-computer interaction, and cybersecurity, and work with other students on a group project. The program highlights career opportunities in computing across many industries and aims to encourage more young women to pursue careers in the field, though all students can apply. You’ll participate in activities that introduce you to data science, covering topics such as Python-based data analysis and data visualization. You will also hear from alumni and professionals about how computing and data science are used in areas like healthcare, finance, and retail, and learn about related career paths.
2. Wayne State University’s Discovery To Cure Program
Location: C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Detroit, MI
Cost/Stipend: Free | Unpaid
Dates: June 22–August 14
Application Deadline: March 13–30
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors aged 16 or older and undergraduate students from Wayne State University or other colleges
The Discovery to Cure Program offers hands-on research experience in labs at the C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Over eight weeks, you’ll spend about 40 hours a week in the lab working with a faculty mentor, postdoc, or research assistant. You’ll be paired with a mentor and complete an individual research project where you develop a hypothesis, run experiments, and analyze results. Training may include oncology, genomics, prenatal medicine, toxicology, immunology, reproductive biology, environmental science, and precision medicine. You’ll also gain experience with data analysis, bioinformatics, and research methods used in biomedical studies, which involve interpreting large datasets. The program ends with a 10-minute research presentation. You can review examples of past intern projects here.
3. Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Summer Program at Lawrence Technological University
Location: Lawrence Technological University, Southfield, MI
Cost: $1,250 (Commuter) | $1,400 (Residential) | Scholarships are available for students with exceptional academic records or proven financial need
Dates: July 13–17
Application Deadline: Registration begins on November 17 | Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 14–18 | Limited to 20 students
Lawrence Technological University’s Computer Networking, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Summer Program is a week-long experience that introduces how networking, security, and AI work together in modern technology. During the program, you will learn how computer networks are structured, secured, and maintained, and how to use monitoring and diagnostic tools to detect potential security issues. Activities also include basic AI programming connected to areas such as automotive systems and audio engineering. You will visit local industry partners, tour university facilities, and work in teams to build a project using Raspberry Pi microcontrollers. The work involves analyzing network data and identifying patterns to prevent security problems, providing exposure to machine learning and data science concepts.
4. Michigan Math and Science Scholars
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: $1,400 tuition + $1,100 housing + $100 non-refundable application fee; limited need-based financial aid is available | Additional fees can be found here
Dates: June 21–July 3 | July 5–17 | July 19–31
Application Deadline: Applications open in mid-January | Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students who have completed at least one year of high school but have not yet graduated, including rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors
The Michigan Math and Science Scholars program offers two-week courses focused on a single topic in math or science, including astronomy, biology, computer science, chemistry, etc. If you’re interested in data science, the Your Journey Into Data Science with Python course will introduce you to the field through hands-on programming. It will begin with an accelerated introduction to Python, then move on to tools such as NumPy and SciPy for scientific computing. Projects involve cleaning, analyzing, and visualizing real data, as well as learning the basics of coding, such as data structures and algorithms. You will have access to University of Michigan labs and technology, learn from faculty and graduate students, join evening activities and dinners, and take part in optional weekend trips.
5. Michigan State University’s Quantum Motor City Camp
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Cost: Free
Dates: July 29–31
Application Deadline: April 18
Eligibility: High school students who have studied algebra and trigonometry
Michigan State University’s Quantum Motor City is a free summer camp that introduces high school students to quantum computing and quantum technology. The program connects concepts from physics, computer science, and data science, giving you an overview of this emerging field. During the camp, you will program a real quantum computer, tour a quantum computing lab, and learn basic coding and computational concepts used in modern technology. Activities also include college preparation guidance and conversations with professors, students, and industry scientists about careers in STEM. Supported by the National Science Foundation, the camp will help you develop foundational skills in programming, computing, and data-driven fields such as artificial intelligence and big data.
6. Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN) at Michigan State University
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Cost: Free
Dates: July 26–31
Application Deadline: March 5
Eligibility: Current high school students who are U.S. citizens
Michigan State University’s Physics of Atomic Nuclei program is a free, week-long experience for U.S. high school students interested in nuclear science. During the week, you’ll work with faculty, staff, and students from the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, a major research center funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science. Activities include hands-on experiments, introductions to precision measurement, and discussions of topics such as rare-isotope research, cosmology, astrophysics, and nuclear science. You’ll run nuclear physics experiments and analyze the resulting data, gaining exposure to data science concepts used in research. The program will also introduce you to simulation and computational methods used in nuclear astrophysics and offer insight into data-driven science careers.
7. Michigan Tech University’s Engineering Scholars Program (ESP)
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: Free or offered at a reduced rate
Dates: June 21–26
Application Deadline: February 15 | Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting March 1
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
The Engineering Scholars Program offers a week-long introduction to careers in engineering and science. You will join engineering sessions, group projects, and presentations with students from around the world. The program explores fields such as aerospace, electrical and computer, chemical, civil, environmental, geohazards, materials science, mechanical, and robotics engineering. Through hands-on projects in two selected areas, you will work in teams and take part in applied project sessions and competitions. The program can introduce you to basic data science concepts through technical and interdisciplinary projects. It also explores computer and robotics engineering, which often involves programming, sensor data analysis, and real-time data processing. Past participants have completed hands-on projects such as creating an artificial intelligence system, using machine learning ideas similar to those used in data science.
8. Eastern Michigan University’s Terabytes AI Summer BootCamp
Location: Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI
Cost: $100 non-refundable registration fee
Dates: July 6–8
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: High school girls
Eastern Michigan University’s Terabytes AI is a three-day summer bootcamp for high school girls focused on artificial intelligence. You’ll learn the basics of AI, machine learning, and data science, and explore how these technologies are used responsibly. The program will introduce you to Python and explain how AI systems work, then lead you through hands-on activities that apply these ideas to real-world problems. The curriculum is taught by EMU faculty and supported by members of the Women in Computer Science club. It is based on the earlier Gigabytes program and combines coding, data science concepts, and discussions on the purpose and impact of AI.
9. University of Michigan Dual Enrollment Program — Statistics and Data Science Courses
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: Students enrolling through the Community Resource Program attend at no cost | Other dual enrollment students pay the non-degree tuition rate | You can check the details here
Dates: August 25–December 17 (Fall term) | January 7–April 30 (Winter term)
Application Deadline: Applications should be submitted at least one month before the first day of the term
Eligibility: Ann Arbor Public Schools students who want high school credit can enroll through the Community Resource Program | Students seeking college credit must have completed all available courses in the subject, earned AP exam scores of 4 or 5 in that area, and have an academic record similar to students in the LSA Honors program
Dual enrollment at the University of Michigan allows high school students to take college courses that may not be available at their schools. The program is designed for students who have already completed the academic opportunities offered at their high school and want more advanced coursework. Available subjects include computer science, political science, psychology, economics, natural sciences, and statistics. If you’re interested in data science, courses such as STATS 250, STATS 280, and DATASCI 101 will introduce you to statistics, data analysis, and programming. Topics include sampling, probability, hypothesis testing, regression, data manipulation, visualization, modeling, and predictive analytics. These courses are open to students who have completed AP Calculus BC with a score of 4 or 5.
10. MiRcore Computational Biology Hybrid Camp
Location: Virtual or in person at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, and the Scripps Research Translational Institute, La Jolla, CA
Cost: $610–$950, depending on the camp format + $75 non-refundable application fee | Discounts and need-based partial scholarships are available
Dates: June 15–19 (Session 1) | July 6–10 (Session 2) | July 27–31 (Session 3)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Current high school students and incoming 9th graders
MiRcore Computational Biology Hybrid Camp is designed for students interested in science, medicine, math, and computation. The program focuses on how the genome and transcriptome relate to disease, using patient RNA expression data to study possible biomarkers. You’ll need to review basic concepts like transcription and translation before the program begins. During the camp, you will work in small groups to choose a disease and explore possible diagnostics or treatments using research tools. The experience emphasizes open-ended investigation rather than fixed answers. You will build data science skills through bioinformatics, including analyzing real biological data with statistical methods such as t-tests and gene ontology.
11. Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs
Location: Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI
Cost: $1,175 base price (Residential) | $700 base price (Commuter) | Some courses might have extra lab or course fees
Dates: Week-long sessions run between June 14 and July 17
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–11
Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Programs are one-week STEM, business, and career exploration programs to help students explore college pathways and real-world applications. If you’re interested in data science, you can choose the AI Coding Idea to Impact course, where you will design, program, and test apps using AI tools to solve practical problems. Another option is the Autonomous Robotics: Computer Vision & Navigation course, where you will build and program small self-driving robots using cameras and sensors. These projects involve real-time data processing, decision-making, and problem-solving. Through hands-on work and group challenges, you will develop technical and analytical skills connected to data science, robotics, and computing.
12. Wayne State University’s Summer High School Research Program
Location: James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering, Detroit, MI
Cost: Free
Dates: 4 weeks in July
Application Deadline: Applications open in spring | Limited spots
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12
Wayne State University’s Summer High School Research Program is a four-week experience where you’ll explore areas such as CAD and 3D modeling, energy technology, and fuel cells, as well as learn how STEM applies to real-world problems. You will be on campus four days a week in July, with each week focused on a different theme. You’ll work in a faculty lab on projects related to soft robotics and smart materials, and learn about material synthesis, programming, battery testing, electronics, and 3D printing. The program will also introduce you to data science through engineering research, including data analysis, visualization, machine learning, and research methods. In the final week, you’ll tour labs and present your project to faculty and mentors.
13. University of Michigan’s Joy of Coding — Intro to Data Visualization & AI
Location: Online (asynchronous)
Cost: $149 plus tax | Need-based financial aid is available
Dates: 8 weeks | Students can begin anytime after June 17 and complete the program at their own pace by August 28
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students aged 13 or older who have taken Algebra and understand variables, functions, and basic manipulation of both
The University of Michigan’s Joy of Coding offers online, self-paced courses that introduce students to coding, AI, and data science through college-level instruction from engineering faculty. If you’re interested in data science, the Intro to Data Visualization & AI course will help you study concepts such as data visualization, correlation, and AI systems based on vector embeddings as you work with real-world datasets. The course covers how to interpret data, distinguish correlation from causation, and understand the limits of each. You will also build an AI chatbot using similarity search techniques and explore why basic rule-based systems fail. The program focuses on both coding and conceptual understanding, using ideas from linear algebra and data analysis to help you develop skills in identifying patterns, visualizing data, and building simple AI tools.
14. University of Michigan’s AI Inside and Out Summer Camp
Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Cost: $450 per session | Need-based scholarships are available
Dates: June 22–26 | July 6–10 | July 20–24 | August 3–7 | August 17–21
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th-grade students can apply | No coding experience is necessary
University of Michigan’s AI Inside and Out Summer Camp introduces students to how artificial intelligence works, from silicon chips to real-world applications. During the camp, you will explore how chips are made and how they support AI systems, and learn about ethical issues, societal impact, and sustainability. You will visit engineering facilities, tour research labs, and see demonstrations of imaging and analysis tools. You’ll take part in hands-on activities such as programming, training AI models with real data, building small programmable devices, and running projects on advanced hardware. The program will also introduce you to data science concepts by focusing on how data powers AI, as well as basic ideas in data analysis, machine learning, and modern computing systems.
15. Michigan State University’s Making a Game of It (MGIT)
Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Cost: $1,199
Dates: July 19–24
Application Deadline: July 10
Eligibility: U.S. and international students entering grades 11 or 12 in the fall with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in core engineering subjects such as science, math, and technology | Recent graduates are also eligible
Michigan State University’s Making a Game of It camp allows high school students to develop computer and programming skills used in STEM fields. During the program, you will learn Python, design a video game, gain software development experience, and prepare for studies in computer science. The camp is taught by Michigan State University faculty and graduate students who will guide you through coding projects and technical problem-solving. Through these activities, you will build skills that connect to data science, since Python is widely used for data analysis, data manipulation, and machine learning. Working on game design projects will also give you hands-on experience with coding, logic, and computational thinking used in many technology and data-driven fields.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a structured opportunity to conduct independent research in fields including data science, artificial intelligence, and computational science, 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: Michigan State University