If you’re a high schooler interested in data science, consider participating in a data science-focused program. These programs give you the chance to build relevant technical skills, gain clarity on your future interests, and strengthen your college applications. They emphasize applied learning, including projects, mentorship, and research opportunities that mirror real-world industry and academic practices. You will learn programming languages such as Python, work with datasets, build visualizations, and develop machine learning models. You will also get to interact with peers who share similar interests, receive guidance from instructors, and develop a portfolio of work that demonstrates both your technical and analytical skills.
Why should you choose a program in Texas?
Texas provides a wide range of data science programs for high school students, often hosted by prestigious universities, research institutes, and private organizations. You’ll encounter topics such as Python programming, data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and robotics. During these programs, you’ll gain exposure to industry-standard tools, frameworks, and datasets. You’ll examine core concepts in statistics, algorithmic thinking, and data visualization, and apply them in practical exercises. Mentorship from university faculty, graduate students, and industry professionals is often provided, helping you understand real-world applications and the technical rigor of data science work.
Here are 14 data science programs for high school students in Texas that you can explore!
You can also check out these guides on data science research programs or online data science summer programs for high schoolers.
Key Takeaways
- Texas data science programs span major research universities, including UT Austin, Texas A&M, Rice, UT Dallas, and UT San Antonio, giving students access to faculty mentorship, university labs, and industry-standard tools like Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch
- Several programs are free, including UT Austin’s Academy for All and Code@TACC, NASA SEES’s online track, Texas A&M’s Statistics and Data Science Camp, and Kode With Klossy, making technical education accessible regardless of cost
- Programs range from beginner-friendly, no-experience-required options like Code@TACC and UNT’s Working with AI Camp to highly selective research placements like the Anson L. Clark Scholars Program and UT Austin’s High School Research Academy
- Several programs culminate in a research paper, poster presentation, or formal symposium, including SEES, HSRA, and UT Dallas’s Summer Research Workshops, giving students a credential beyond a completion certificate
14 Data Science Programs for High School Students in Texas
1. University of Texas at Austin: Academy for All
Location: UT Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 7 – June 13 (Standard Edition); June 14 – June 19 (Machine Learning Edition)
Application Deadline: November 7 – December 22
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 11-12
This is a one-week residential programming academy focused on foundational computing and applied machine learning. You’ll choose between a standard track using Arduino and C++ or a machine learning track using Python. You’ll examine programming concepts, systems thinking, and basic machine learning principles through guided instruction. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, requiring you to build projects such as microcontroller-based systems or simple machine learning models. You’ll apply coding skills during workshops, group tasks, and structured activities, and engage with instructors, mentors, and industry representatives through sessions and discussions. The curriculum includes teamwork, project management, and exposure to computing applications. By the end of the program, you’ll develop foundational programming skills and an understanding of applied computing concepts.
2. Texas Tech University: Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost: $25 application fee; $750 stipend
Program Dates: June 21 – August 6
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: U.S. rising seniors or recent graduates (17+)
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program is an elite summer research program where 12 high-achieving students work one-on-one with university faculty on intensive research projects across a wide range of disciplines. As a participant, you will engage in fields spanning natural sciences, engineering, and humanities, gaining deep exposure to academic research and critical thinking. During the program, you will get to explore your interests while also receiving personalized mentorship. Alongside research, you will participate in seminars, discussions, and enrichment activities that foster intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of potential career paths.
3. NASA/UT Austin’s STEM Enhancement in Earth Science (SEES)
Location: UT Austin, Austin, TX (Online + On-site)
Cost: Free (online); $2,000 (in-person); Full scholarships offered
Program Dates: May 15 – July 21 (more info here)
Application Deadline: February 22
Eligibility: 10th-11th graders (16+) who are U.S. citizens
The SEES High School Summer Intern Program is a highly competitive STEM research experience where you will work alongside NASA scientists, researchers, and industry experts on real mission-based projects. As participants, you will explore fields such as aerospace, astronomy, remote sensing, and Earth science while analyzing real NASA data and contributing to studies on climate, natural hazards, and space systems. What makes this program stand out is its direct collaboration with NASA and exposure to real-world scientific research, giving you hands-on experience in data analysis, engineering design, and systems modeling. The program combines virtual learning with an on-site internship at UT Austin, culminating in a professional-level science symposium where you will present your research.
4. University of Texas at Austin: Code@TACC Robotics AI
Location: UT Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 14 – 20
Application Deadline: April 27
Eligibility: 9th-10th graders (rising 10th-11th beginners welcome)
Code@TACC Robotics AI is a hands-on STEM program where you’ll explore programming, robotics, electronics, and artificial intelligence through project-based learning. You’ll work on real-world applications like programming autonomous vehicles and engage with advanced computing systems, while collaborating with peers, researchers, and engineers. What makes this program stand out is that it’s a fully funded residential experience at a top research university, combined with access to cutting-edge facilities like the TACC Visualization Lab and data center. With no prior coding experience required, it offers beginners a unique opportunity to build technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in an immersive, innovation-driven environment.
5. University of North Texas: Working with AI Summer Camp
Location: UNT Frisco Landing Campus, Frisco, TX
Cost: $400 (early bird); $425 (regular)
Program Dates: July 20 – 24
Application Deadline: Rolling (until spots fill)
Eligibility: 6th-12th graders
The Working with AI Summer Camp at the University of North Texas is a one-week, hands-on program introducing you to practical applications of artificial intelligence. Designed as an interactive day camp, it focuses on how AI can enhance creativity, productivity, and problem-solving across real-world contexts. Through guided projects, you will learn to use AI tools for research, idea generation, and organization, while also experimenting with creating art, music, and multimedia using AI. The program emphasizes critical thinking, helping you evaluate AI outputs, understand limitations, and apply tools responsibly and ethically. Led by trained university instructors, the camp blends foundational knowledge with applied exploration in a structured, beginner-friendly environment.
6. UT San Antonio (Klesse College): Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Camp
Location: UT San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
Cost: $550 – $750; Financial assistance available
Program Dates: July 7 – 11
Application Deadline: Rolling (until full)
Eligibility: High school students
This hands-on camp introduces you to robotics and artificial intelligence through interactive learning with UTSA faculty and student mentors. As a participant, you will work on building a complete robotics project, from coding and circuitry to assembly, while also engaging in workshops, lab tours, and real-world applications of AI in industry and research. The program places a strong focus on offering a practical, build-from-scratch experience combined with mentorship from university students and robotics societies, giving you a real glimpse into engineering and AI workflows. With options for both day and residential formats, along with financial assistance, the camp offers an accessible and immersive environment to develop technical, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
7. Rice ELITE Tech Camp
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Cost: Starting from $1,799
Program Dates: 5 – 7 days in the summer (multiple sessions)
Application Deadline: Rolling (varies by session)
Eligibility: 8th-11th graders
Rice ELITE Tech Camp is an immersive engineering and technology program where you will explore artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced programming through hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving. The program covers topics like neural networks, IoT systems, and machine learning while offering the chance to participate in hands-on projects like AI models, 3D designs, and robotic solutions. What makes this program stand out is its college-level curriculum designed by Rice faculty, combined with leadership training, helping you not only develop technical expertise but also gain skills in teamwork, communication, and innovation. With a mix of academic rigor and collaborative experiences, you will also get a taste of college life while building a strong foundation for future careers in STEM and technology.
8. UT Dallas Summer Research Workshops
Location: University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX + Virtual
Cost: $1,000 (in-person); $900 (virtual)
Program Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Advanced high school students (typically in grades 10-11) who are at least age 15 for the in-person experience
The Summer Research Workshops at UT Dallas are intensive, college-style programs designed for students ready to go beyond foundational learning and engage with real-world research concepts. Structured like informal university courses, workshops meet multiple times per week and focus on areas such as computer science, AI, and emerging technologies. You’ll explore advanced topics through guided instruction, independent work, and project-based learning, with the option to develop a final research paper or project. Sessions are recorded for flexibility, and students gain exposure to research methodologies, coding, and analytical thinking. By the end, you will receive a certificate, an experience letter, and may qualify for recommendation letters based on performance.
9. Texas A&M University: Statistics and Data Science Summer Camp
Location: Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 2 – 6
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: High school students (15+) in Bryan/College Station and surrounding areas who meet GPA requirements and have an interest in statistics or data science
The Statistics and Data Science Summer Camp introduces you to data science and statistics with a focus on storytelling with data. You’ll examine fundamental concepts in statistics, data visualization, and data interpretation, and develop proficiency in organizing datasets and applying statistical techniques to generate insights. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through guided exercises, individual and group projects, and structured workshops, giving you the chance to gain exposure to practical tools for analyzing and presenting data. You’ll also get to apply your skills to real-world datasets under mentorship from Texas A&M faculty.
10. University of Texas at Austin: High School Research Academy (HSRA)
Location: UT Austin, Austin, TX
Cost: $4,000; Limited scholarships offered
Program Dates: June 8 – July 15
Deadline: March 22
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors (rising juniors or seniors preferred) in Texas; Must be 15+
The High School Research Academy (HSRA) at UT Austin is a five-week, in-person research program designed for students interested in hands-on STEM exploration. As a participant, you will be placed in active research labs within the College of Natural Sciences, working on projects across fields like biology, neuroscience, genetics, environmental science, and data analytics. You’ll engage directly with faculty, undergraduate researchers, and peers while learning real laboratory techniques and research methodologies. The program mirrors a true research environment, so you can expect collaboration, experimentation, and independent thinking. Alongside lab work, you will attend seminars led by guest speakers and gain insight into scientific careers. The experience culminates in a formal research poster presentation at the HSRA Symposium.
11. University of North Texas: NextGen DATA Leadership Camp
Location: Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
Cost: $350
Program Dates: June 22 – 26
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: Rising 9th-12th graders (15+) in Bryan/College Station and surrounding areas
The NextGen DATA Leadership Camp focuses on statistics and data science with an emphasis on storytelling through data. As a participant, you’ll examine fundamental concepts in data analysis, visualization, and interpretation, and build proficiency in organizing datasets, applying statistical techniques, and presenting findings effectively. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through structured workshops, guided exercises, and collaborative projects. You’ll gain exposure to practical tools for data cleaning, graphing, and statistical modeling, and receive mentorship from Texas A&M faculty and program staff.
12. Kode With Klossy: Summer Camps
Location: Multiple locations across the U.S., including Texas + Virtual
Cost: Free
Program Dates: June 1 – August 14 (multiple 2-week sessions)
Application Deadline: April 7
Eligibility: Young women and gender-expansive students (ages 13-18)
Kode With Klossy offers fully funded, two-week coding intensives designed to make tech education accessible to underrepresented genders in STEM. With no prior coding experience required, the program focuses on building strong foundations through one of three tracks: Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Data Science, or Web Development. Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes ethical tech (like bias in AI), creativity, and collaboration. You will get to graduate with a project portfolio and join a global alumni network that supports continued learning and opportunities in tech.
13. Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,400 + $45 application fee: Financial aid available
Program Dates: June 15 – 26; July 6 – 17
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: High school students (14+); Students with strong math or computer programming skills or experience with a healthcare project are preferred
The Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship gives you the chance to examine the application of artificial intelligence in medicine and healthcare and build technical skills through mentored research and hands-on projects with real clinical data. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating perspectives from engineering, computer science, and medicine, allowing you to gain exposure to research design, AI model development, and clinical problem-solving. You’ll apply concepts in structured lab sessions, analyze datasets, and present findings under faculty and graduate student mentorship. You’ll also engage in discussions about ethical considerations and the responsible use of AI in healthcare.
14. Harvard Computer Society AI Bootcamp
Location: Virtual
Cost: $495 (regular); $695 (final priority)
Program Dates: 5 days in June (multiple sessions)
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: High school students with a strong mathematics background; Python programming experience required, and calculus experience preferred
During the Harvard Computer Society AI Bootcamp, you’ll examine foundational and advanced topics in artificial intelligence and machine learning and build skills in Python programming, data analysis, and AI frameworks such as PyTorch. The program emphasizes independent research, problem-solving, and hands-on project development. You’ll also gain exposure to generative AI, neural networks, and contemporary AI research methods and will get to apply concepts in mini-research projects that are guided by Harvard undergraduate and graduate student instructors. The program includes structured daily sessions, coding exercises, and mentor-led discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What data science programs are available for high school students in Texas?
Texas students can access data science and AI programs at UT Austin (Academy for All, Code@TACC, HSRA), Texas Tech (Clark Scholars), Texas A&M (Statistics and Data Science Camp, NextGen DATA Leadership Camp), UT San Antonio, UT Dallas, Rice University, and the University of North Texas. Virtual options including Stanford AIMI, Kode With Klossy, and the Harvard Computer Society AI Bootcamp are also accessible to Texas students statewide.
Do I need prior coding experience to apply to these programs?
It depends. Code@TACC Robotics AI and Kode With Klossy explicitly require no prior coding experience and are designed for beginners. More advanced programs like the Harvard Computer Society AI Bootcamp require Python programming experience and a strong mathematics background, with calculus experience preferred. UT Austin’s Academy for All offers both a beginner-friendly standard track and a machine learning track for students ready for Python-based work.
Are there free data science programs for high school students in Texas?
Yes. UT Austin’s Academy for All and Code@TACC Robotics AI are both free. NASA SEES is free for its online track. Texas A&M’s Statistics and Data Science Summer Camp is free. Kode With Klossy is fully funded for all participants. These options provide strong technical exposure without the cost barrier of more expensive residential programs.
Which Texas data science programs involve real research with a final presentation?
NASA SEES culminates in a professional-level science symposium where you present research developed alongside NASA scientists. UT Austin’s High School Research Academy ends with a formal poster presentation at the HSRA Symposium after five weeks of lab-based research. UT Dallas’s Summer Research Workshops allow you to develop a final research paper or project, and the Anson L. Clark Scholars Program involves intensive one-on-one research with university faculty.
Are there Texas data science programs specifically for underrepresented students in tech?
Yes. Kode With Klossy is specifically designed for young women and gender-expansive students ages 13 to 18, offering tracks in AI and Machine Learning, Data Science, and Web Development with no prior experience required. The program is fully funded and includes access to a global alumni network supporting continued opportunities in tech.
Which programs focus specifically on AI applications in healthcare or medicine?
Stanford AIMI Summer Research Internship is built entirely around applying artificial intelligence to medicine and healthcare, using real clinical data and emphasizing ethical considerations in AI-driven healthcare. The program is best suited for students with strong math or programming skills, or prior experience with a healthcare-related project.
When should I apply to data science programs for high school students in Texas?
UT Austin’s Academy for All has an early deadline window from November through December. Stanford AIMI closes February 21, and NASA SEES closes February 22. Texas Tech’s Clark Scholars closes February 16, and UT Dallas’s Summer Research Workshops close March 1. UT Austin’s HSRA closes March 22. Several programs, including UNT’s Working with AI Camp and UTSA’s Robotics and AI Camp, use rolling admissions, so applying early is still recommended to secure a spot before sessions fill.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program, 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: Rice University