Data science programs for high school students are designed to acquaint you with how data is collected, analyzed, and used to solve real-world problems. These programs typically cover core topics like statistics, Python programming, data visualization, and machine learning at an introductory level. You’ll work on structured projects where you clean datasets, identify patterns, and build simple models, often using tools commonly used in industry. Many programs also include case studies from fields such as healthcare, business, or public policy, helping you see how data science is applied across domains. Some experiences go further by offering mentorship, collaborative projects, or exposure to research environments, giving you a clearer sense of how data-driven work happens beyond the classroom. Overall, these programs help you build both technical and analytical skills while developing a problem-solving mindset.
Why should you choose a program in South Carolina?
Choosing a data science program in South Carolina can give you access to universities and institutions that are increasingly investing in technology and data-focused education. Many programs in the state are hosted by established universities, which means you may get exposure to faculty, labs, and resources typically used at the college level. You’ll also benefit from smaller cohort sizes in many cases, allowing for more direct interaction with instructors and peers. Some programs emphasize applied learning and regional industries, giving you insight into how data science is used across manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. In addition, there are options that are more affordable or offer funding, making them more accessible than programs in larger tech hubs. This combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and accessibility makes South Carolina a solid option for exploring data science in high school. Do check out our other blog post on data science programs here.
15 Data Science Programs for High School Students in South Carolina
1. University of South Carolina — Carolina Master Scholars Adventure Series
Location: University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
Cost/Stipend: Program fees range from $675 to $1,250
Application Deadline: Rolling (opens January 27)
Program Dates: Between June and July
Eligibility: Rising 6th–12th graders meeting gifted criteria (3.25 GPA or qualifying standardized test scores)
The Carolina Master Scholars Adventure Series at the University of South Carolina is a set of week-long academic programs where you take part in intensive, small-group courses on a university campus. Each class is limited in size, allowing you to engage directly with instructors through daily sessions, discussions, and project-based work. You can choose from a wide range of subjects, including advanced robotics, forensic science, geo innovation, medicine, engineering, law, and creative fields. The curriculum is designed to reflect college-level expectations, with you working toward a final project or presentation that applies what you have learned. You will spend your days in structured academic sessions while also collaborating with peers who share similar academic interests. The program provides a preview of college academics, both in terms of subject depth and classroom structure. Over the week, you’ll build subject-specific knowledge along with skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and independent work.
2. Clemson University — Summer Scholars: Intro to Data Science Through Eye Tracking
Location: Clemson University, Clemson, SC
Cost: $200+ $1,400
Application Deadline: Rolling (opens January 21)
Program Dates: July 12-17
Eligibility: Rising 7th–12th graders up to age 17
The Clemson Summer Scholars Eye Tracking course is a short-term program where you’ll study how eye movement data is used to understand human behavior, attention, and decision-making. You will work with eye-tracking technology to collect and analyze data, learning how researchers study visual patterns in areas like psychology, marketing, and user experience. The program introduces you to experimental design, where you will create and test simple studies using real tools and datasets. You’ll also explore how data is interpreted, building skills in analysis and critical thinking. The course is structured around hands-on sessions, allowing you to apply concepts rather than only learning theory. You will collaborate with peers while working through projects that connect technology with human behavior. By the end, you’ll gain exposure to both research methods and practical applications of data science tools.
3. College of Charleston — STEM 360
Location: College of Charleston, Charleston, SC
Cost/Stipend: $300 (limited scholarships available)
Application Deadline: June 15 (rolling until filled)
Program Dates: July 13 – July 17; 20-24
Eligibility: Rising 10th–12th graders
The STEM 360 program at the College of Charleston is a week-long day experience where you’ll explore multiple STEM fields through lab work and project-based sessions. You will engage with topics such as marine biology, chemistry, environmental geosciences, engineering, and computer programming in a structured format. The program runs daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., combining workshops, experiments, and collaborative activities. With a small cohort, you’ll receive more direct feedback while working on exploratory projects across disciplines. You may also participate in field visits, including locations like the Stone Preserve or Grice Marine Laboratory, depending on the session. The structure is designed to give you a compact but intensive look at how STEM is studied and applied at the college level. By the end of the week, you will have gained exposure to different subject areas along with hands-on experience in lab and field settings.
4. Anderson University — Engineering Summer Institute
Location: Anderson University, Anderson, SC
Cost/Stipend: $60
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates: June 13, June 20, July 11, July 25
Eligibility: Rising 9th graders through incoming college freshmen
The Engineering Summer Institute at Anderson University is a series of one-day sessions where you explore engineering through a mix of site visits and hands-on projects. Each session pairs interaction with a local engineering company and guided activities led by university faculty. You will work on practical tasks that introduce concepts such as mechanical systems, design processes, and applied problem-solving. The program also gives you the chance to interact with practicing engineers, helping you understand how engineering is used in real-world settings. You’ll collaborate with peers while working through structured challenges and experiments. The format is short but focused, allowing you to build foundational knowledge without a long-term time commitment. Over the sessions, you’ll gain insight into both technical skills and potential engineering career pathways.
5. Converse University — Science, Technology, Arts, and Research Scholars (STARS)
Location: Converse University, Spartanburg, SC
Cost: TBA
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: ~5 weeks (summer)
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Spartanburg County; preference for students with AP Biology and Chemistry
The STARS Program at Converse University is a multi-week research experience where you will work directly with faculty on projects in biology, biochemistry, psychology, or computer science. You are paired with a mentor and contribute to ongoing research while learning how to design experiments and interpret results. The program includes structured workshops on writing research proposals, understanding lab protocols, and applying ethical practices in scientific work. You’ll also receive training in lab safety and scientific communication, helping you present your ideas clearly. A key component is presenting your research at academic forums, giving you experience in formal presentation settings. Throughout the program, you’ll build practical research skills and gain exposure to academic research practices. This experience is particularly useful if you are interested in STEM or medical pathways that require strong research foundations.
6. The Citadel — Math Research Experience
Location: The Citadel, Charleston, SC
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: May 31
Program Dates: July 20-24
Eligibility: Rising freshmen to seniors from the Lowcountry area
The Math Research Experience at The Citadel is a short, selective program where you’ll work in small groups to explore advanced mathematical concepts through research. You will be guided by both a high school teacher and a Citadel professor as you work on problems in areas such as number theory, combinatorics, statistics, and applied mathematics. The program introduces you to the research process by having you engage with open-ended problems similar to those found in academic journals. You’ll also learn LaTeX, a technical writing tool used to present mathematical work in a professional format. The experience includes preparing your findings for presentation, often at events like the South Carolina Junior Academy of Sciences. While math-focused, the program builds analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly relevant for fields like medicine, where data interpretation and logical reasoning are essential. Over the week, you’ll gain exposure to both advanced mathematics and how research is conducted in an academic setting.
7. South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics — Summer Research (SPRI/RESP)
Location: Varies (university, corporate, and international research sites)
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: ~6 weeks (summer)
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors enrolled at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics
The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics Summer Research programs, including SPRI and RESP, are intensive research experiences where you work in university, corporate, or international lab settings. You are placed with a mentor and contribute to ongoing research projects, gaining exposure to real-world scientific work. The program allows you to explore research across different environments, including opportunities in the U.S. and abroad. You’ll continue refining your work beyond the summer, developing it into a formal research paper during your senior year. The experience includes presenting your findings at events such as the GSSM Research Colloquium and the South Carolina Junior Academy of Science. Throughout the process, you’ll build skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. This program is particularly valuable if you are interested in research-driven fields, including medicine and advanced STEM pathways.
8. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: 38+ Department of the Navy labs nationwide (including Charleston, SC)
Cost/Stipend: Free; $4,000 stipend (new participants) | $4,500 (returning participants)
Application Deadline: November 1
Program Dates: ~8 weeks (summer; exact dates in offer letter)
Eligibility: High school students (16+) who have completed grade 9 and are U.S. citizens
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is an eight-week research internship where you’ll work in a Department of the Navy laboratory alongside scientists and engineers. You are assigned to a research project and contribute to ongoing work in areas such as engineering, cybersecurity, or applied sciences. The program includes hands-on lab experience, where you’ll assist with experiments, data collection, and technical tasks under mentorship. You will also attend seminars, technical meetings, and lab tours that introduce you to different STEM research pathways. Opportunities for shadowing and networking are built into the experience, allowing you to interact with professionals in the field. Throughout the program, you will develop practical research and problem-solving skills in a structured lab environment.
9. Stanford AIMI — Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: $850 + $40 application fee (fee waivers and up to 100% financial aid available)
Application Deadline: February 21 (scholarship) | February 28 (final)
Program Dates: June 16 – June 27
Eligibility: High school students (age 14+); U.S. citizens or permanent residents; preference for students with a math or programming background
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship is a two-week program where you’ll explore how data science and artificial intelligence are used to solve problems in healthcare. You will work on projects that involve analyzing medical datasets, training machine learning models, and interpreting results for applications like diagnostics and disease prediction. The program introduces core data science concepts such as data processing, pattern recognition, and model evaluation within a medical context. You will also engage with mentors and researchers, gaining insight into how data-driven decision-making shapes modern healthcare systems. The sessions include technical skill-building, along with discussions on real-world AI applications in medicine. You’ll collaborate with peers and Stanford student leads while working through structured projects and case studies. By the end, you will develop a clearer understanding of how data science, programming, and healthcare intersect in research and clinical innovation.
10. Girls Who Code — Pathways
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: April 10
Program Dates: June 29-August 14
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12; Summer Immersion limited to 9th–11th) who identify as girls or non-binary, ages 14–18
The Girls Who Code Summer Programs are virtual experiences where you’ll build coding and data science skills through structured lessons and projects. In the Summer Immersion Program, you will learn foundational programming concepts while working on projects related to game design and user experience. The Pathways Program offers a longer, self-paced format where you explore topics such as data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and web development. Across both tracks, you’ll work with languages like Python, HTML, and CSS while learning how to process and analyze data. The curriculum introduces key data science ideas such as organizing datasets, identifying patterns, and building simple models. You will also participate in industry-led sessions and collaborative activities that expose you to real-world tech applications. You will gain practical coding experience and a clearer understanding of how data science and computer science are applied across different fields.
11. UCLA — Python for Economics and Finance Summer Institute
Location: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $2,309 (financial aid available for California students)
Application Deadline: June 12
Program Dates: June 22– July 10
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9–12
The UCLA Python for Economics and Finance Summer Institute is a three-week program where you’ll learn how programming is used in data science and financial analysis. You would be introduced to Python and work through concepts such as data types, loops, functions, and basic programming structures. The course also covers tools like NumPy and pandas, which are commonly used for handling and analyzing datasets. You will explore techniques such as data visualization, regression, and time series analysis using real-world examples from economics and finance. The program combines lectures from UCLA faculty with interactive sessions led by peer facilitators. Throughout the course, you’ll apply coding and analytical methods to practical problems. By the end, you will build a foundation in data science workflows and computational thinking.
12. The Coding School — National High School Research Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free for up to 10 enrolled students
Application Deadline: Not specified
Program Dates: June 29-July 24
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders and recent graduates
The Coding School National High School Research Program is a multi-week experience where you’ll build core data science skills and apply them to a guided research project. In the initial phase, you will learn coding, data analysis, and problem-solving using tools like Python. You will then transition into a mentored project, working with a researcher or industry professional to analyze real datasets. The program emphasizes practical application, using visualization tools and analytical methods to draw insights from data. You’ll also develop skills in structuring and presenting your findings. The experience is designed to simulate a research environment, with a focus on independent work and mentorship. By the end, you will complete a project that demonstrates your understanding of data science concepts.
13. Quantum Computing Summer Camp
Location: Virtual or in-person (varies by session)
Cost: TBA
Application Deadline: Not specified
Program Dates: TBA
Eligibility: Incoming 9th–12th grade students
The Quantum Computing Summer Camp is a short program where you’ll explore how quantum computing intersects with data science and advanced computation. You will learn to use Qiskit, a programming framework, to run code on quantum systems. The curriculum introduces concepts such as qubits, superposition, and entanglement, which form the basis of quantum algorithms. You’ll also build quantum circuits using Python and analyze how they process information differently from classical systems. The program emphasizes experimentation, with you running and interpreting results from quantum simulations. Through these activities, you’ll gain exposure to emerging computational methods that are beginning to influence data science. By the end, you will develop a foundational understanding of quantum computing and its applications.
14. UC Berkeley — Pre-College Scholars: Statistics for Data Science
Location: Virtual
Cost: $1,318
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates: TBA
Eligibility: High school students (completed grades 10–11), minimum 3.0 GPA, age 16+
The UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars Statistics for Data Science course is an online program where you study the statistical foundations of data analysis. You will learn how to work with data using descriptive and exploratory techniques, along with core probability concepts. The course also introduces statistical modeling, including hypothesis testing and linear regression. You’ll apply these methods to interpret datasets and understand patterns in different contexts. The program includes academic support and college readiness resources alongside coursework. Throughout the session, you’ll build analytical skills that are central to data science and research. By the end, you will earn college credit and gain experience working with core statistical tools.
15. Stanford AI4ALL
Location: Online
Cost: $4,000 (Financial aid available)
Dates: June 18 to July 2
Application Deadline: January 24
Eligibility: Rising 10th graders (14+)
This three-week program introduces you to the foundations of artificial intelligence through faculty-led lectures and guided research. You will develop skills in natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics while examining the societal implications of AI. The curriculum focuses on AI for social good, requiring you to apply technical tools to real-world issues like poverty alleviation or disaster response. You will collaborate with Stanford researchers and industry professionals, gaining the ability to communicate complex technical concepts effectively.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, 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: University of South Carolina