If you are a student interested of world economics, business, and finance, programs in these fields can be a worthwhile way to explore them in great detail. These opportunities extend far beyond typical classroom learning, offering you immersive experiences through seminars, simulations, competitions, internships, and summer academies. You will learn core economic principles, enhance your financial literacy, understand market dynamics, and grasp business fundamentals in engaging, real-world contexts. These programs are designed to equip you with practical skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing you for future academic and professional pursuits.
As a participant, you will develop critical thinking skills, learn data analysis techniques, and understand the implications of various economic policies. You’ll gain practical experience applying economic theory to contemporary issues, often working alongside economists, industry professionals, and university faculty.
Why should you choose a program in Ohio?
Ohio is an ideal location for students seeking advanced preparation in economics, hosting numerous exceptional programs offered by prestigious universities, research centers, and educational organizations. Choosing a local program provides significant financial advantages, as you can access world-class education without extensive travel or substantial lodging costs. Ohio’s central geographic location and thriving business ecosystem mean you have access to programs hosted by respected institutions like The Ohio State University, Miami University, Ohio University, and the University of Cincinnati. Whether you’re interested in stock market simulations, policy competitions, summer academies, or formal internships, Ohio offers diverse options to match your interests and schedule.
To help you get started, we’ve put together 15 Economics programs for high school students in Ohio.
1. The Stock Market Game
Location: Online platform; schools across Ohio participate
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: Multiple sessions available; Year-long (September 22 – April 10), Fall (October 6 – December 12), Spring (February 2 – April 10)
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment; varies by school participation
Eligibility: Fourth grade through college level; typically grades 9-12 for high school participation; no prior economics experience required
You will begin with a virtual $100,000 cash account and manage an investment portfolio using real-time market data in this widely recognized simulation. The program teaches you how stocks, bonds, and mutual funds work while you compete against teams from schools across your region. You will develop decision-making skills, learn portfolio diversification strategies, and practice financial goal-setting in a competitive, engaging environment. The program has demonstrated positive impacts on your math performance and understanding of economic principles. Your school or community organization typically coordinates participation, making it accessible through your existing school structure or after-school programs.
2. Ohio Personal Finance Challenge
Location: Online
Cost/Stipend: Free to compete
Dates: Typically held in spring; check website for exact dates
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students in Ohio; no prior experience required; students work in teams
Your team will compete in an online competition where you’ll analyze a hypothetical family financial scenario and develop comprehensive financial recommendations. You will have approximately 40 minutes to create a presentation addressing budgeting, saving, investment, and debt management for the family. Afterwards, your team will present your financial plan to a panel of expert judges who evaluate your reasoning and recommendations. The top ten teams advance to compete for the state title, providing recognition for your achievement in financial literacy. Winners may even advance to the National Personal Finance Challenge, offering additional recognition and learning opportunities.
3. National Economics Challenge
Location: State-level competitions held throughout Ohio; National Finals in Atlanta, Georgia
Cost/Stipend: Free to compete
Dates: State competitions held during academic year; National Finals May 28-29
Application Deadline: Varies by state
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in economics courses; two divisions: Adam Smith (AP/IB/Honors) and David Ricardo (first-time competitors or general economics students)
You will compete on local teams with instructors and economics professionals who serve as coaches in this premier national competition. Your team works through state-level competitions, and winning teams advance to the First Round National Challenge to compete for spots in the National Semi-Finals and Finals. You will answer questions testing your understanding of economic theory, current economic issues, and policy analysis in a high-stakes academic competition. The competition format challenges you to think critically about complex economic problems and articulate your reasoning clearly. This program provides recognition, cash prizes, and an opportunity for you to interact with economics professionals and award-winning educators.
4. The Ross Mathematics Program
Location: Otterbein University, Westerville, Ohio
Cost/Stipend: $7,500 program fee
Dates: June 14- July 24
Application Deadline: March 8
Eligibility: Students are generally aged 15-18
The Ross Mathematics Program provides you with intensive study of number theory through six weeks of rigorous residential coursework at a prestigious university setting. Mathematical thinking is valuable not only for careers in mathematics research but also in science, finance, and economics. You will complete ten hours of coursework weekly, engaging in problem-solving, mathematical proof writing, lectures, and collaborative group meetings focused exclusively on number theory. The curriculum covers advanced topics, including Euclid’s algorithm, binomial coefficients, quadratic reciprocity, and other sophisticated mathematical concepts at an accelerated pace. Your learning experience includes both independent problem-solving and collaborative work with peers who share your passion for mathematics. This residential program offers you a preview of collegiate-level mathematics study and a connection with a national network of mathematically talented peers.
5. JA Titan Business Simulation
Location: Schools throughout Eastern Ohio; available classroom-based, remote live, or after-school
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: Flexible scheduling; minimum 5 sessions required
Application Deadline: Year-round enrollment through schools
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12; no prior business experience required
You will become a business CEO in a competitive simulation where you will manage a company in the phone industry, making real financial decisions about production, marketing, research and development, and corporate social responsibility. The simulation teaches you how organizational choices directly impact company success and how different departments must coordinate for optimal results. You will analyze financial data, develop business strategies, and experience the consequences of your decisions in a risk-free environment. The program can be delivered in multiple formats, including in-class, remote, or after-school, providing flexibility for your schedule. You will complete presentations and possibly compete with other teams, building your communication and leadership skills alongside business acumen.
6. JA Stock Market Challenge
Location: Cleveland area schools; classroom-based format
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: Five 45-minute sessions during the school year
Application Deadline: Contact the program coordinator for enrollment
Eligibility: High school students; no prerequisites; individual or team participation
You will learn stock market fundamentals through classroom sessions that introduce concepts like buying and selling stocks, diversification, and initial public offerings (IPOs). Your class will participate in an in-class stock market trading simulation where you can apply concepts immediately in a competitive environment. You will explore how market events, geopolitical factors, and economic conditions affect stock prices, gaining insight into real market dynamics. The program includes opportunities for you to set SMART financial goals and reflect on your investment decisions, developing habits for long-term financial planning. An optional off-site competition allows top-performing teams to compete in regional and national Stock Market Challenge competitions.
7. Case Western Reserve Pre-College Program – Social Entrepreneurship Course
Location: Online; asynchronous format
Cost/Stipend: $1,595
Dates: Multiple two- and four-week sessions available year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; enroll anytime
Eligibility: High school students ages 13 and older; interest in business, entrepreneurship, or social responsibility
You will explore social entrepreneurship through online coursework examining how entrepreneurs identify problems, understand customer needs, develop value propositions, and create solutions that address social and environmental issues. Your learning includes video lessons from Case Western Reserve instructors, interactive modules, and opportunities to work through realistic business scenarios and case studies. The course teaches you the fundamentals of business planning and entrepreneurial thinking within a framework emphasizing social responsibility and sustainable impact. You will study at your own pace, allowing flexibility to balance course content with your existing commitments and responsibilities. This course is well-suited if you’re considering business as a major or want to understand how business principles apply to solving real-world problems.
8. ASPIRE Camp at the University of Akron
Location: The University of Akron College of Business, Akron, Ohio
Cost/Stipend: $250 per student
Dates: June 1-5
Application Deadline: Check website for registration deadline; typically rolling until capacity is reached
Eligibility: Students entering grades 9-12; interest in business and entrepreneurship; no prerequisites
You will participate in a week-long immersive business camp combining classroom instruction, business simulations, real-world decision-making exercises, and networking with business professionals and entrepreneurs. Your experience includes team competitions focused on marketing and financial decisions, requiring you to analyze market data and develop business strategies collaboratively. You will engage with mentors from the business community daily, receiving guidance and insight into various business career paths and industries. The team members on the winning team receive scholarships to the University of Akron, providing tangible recognition and potential financial support for their future university attendance. You will earn a certificate of completion, develop leadership and communication skills, and gain familiarity with a university business campus and community.
9. Fisher Summer Academy at Ohio State University
Location: The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, Columbus
Cost/Stipend: $450 stipend upon completion; free program for Columbus City students
Dates: One week, typically mid-summer (dates vary yearly)
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Columbus City high school students; rising grades 9-12
You will engage in a residential summer experience at a major university that introduces you to business concepts through the lens of sports and entertainment, fields that combine business acumen with cultural relevance. You will work with award-winning faculty, current Fisher students, and industry professionals from organizations like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Columbus Crew, gaining insight into how sports and entertainment businesses operate. Your experience includes workshop sessions, campus activities, and a competitive “big idea” pitch where you propose innovative solutions to improve life for youth in Columbus. You present your ideas to a panel of faculty, professionals, and Columbus City leaders, developing communication and leadership skills in a high-stakes presentation environment. The program provides residential accommodations, meals, and a completion stipend, removing financial barriers to your participation.
10. Withrow University High School of Business Pathway to Lindner
Location: Withrow University High School of Business (Cincinnati) and University of Cincinnati Carl H. Lindner College of Business
Cost/Stipend: Free tuition, books, and fees through Ohio’s College Credit Plus program
Dates: Academic year enrollment; courses taught during high school day
Application Deadline: Varies; check with Withrow High School for enrollment procedures
Eligibility: Students enrolled at Withrow University High School of Business; demonstrated problem-solving skills, strong math ability; interest in advanced coursework, and college credit
You will enroll in five college-level business courses taught by qualified Withrow teachers in partnership with Lindner College faculty, earning actual college credits while still in high school. Your courses include Financial Accounting, Introduction to Microeconomics, Essentials of Entrepreneurship, English Composition, and College Algebra – foundational courses required for any business degree. The program is delivered free of charge through Ohio’s College Credit Plus program, eliminating tuition barriers while you build a college transcript. Beyond academics, you will receive peer-to-peer mentorship from Lindner students who are active in the Business Fellows program, providing real-world guidance about college experiences and career development. Students completing all five courses become eligible for guaranteed admission to the Lindner College of Business, streamlining their college application process.
11. J’COB College Experience Summer Program at Ohio University
Location: Ohio University College of Business, Athens, Ohio; residential on-campus
Cost/Stipend: Free program; housing and meals included; transportation not included; GoBus available from Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus
Dates: July 18-25, 2026 (one week)
Application Deadline: March 1 – March 31, 2026
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (current high school juniors); minimum 3.0 GPA; from historically underrepresented communities (program mission); U.S. residents
You will participate in a competitive, week-long residential experience designed to develop the next generation of business leaders from underrepresented communities. The program immerses you in business coursework, leadership development, and creative problem-solving while living on Ohio University’s campus, giving you an authentic college experience. You will engage with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, developing solutions to complex global business challenges through a combination of teamwork and individual contribution. Your experience culminates in a high-energy hackathon where you’ll present innovative business solutions to a panel of faculty, industry professionals, and community leaders. The program provides mentorship, networking opportunities, campus living experience, and ongoing support for those who choose to attend Ohio University, including unique J’COB programming throughout their undergraduate years.
12. Economics for Leaders (Virtual) Program
Location: Multiple sites nationwide (check website for Ohio locations)
Cost/Stipend: $900
Dates: Various options
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors; competitive admission based on leadership potential, maturity, and vision for the future; no prior economics experience required
You will participate in an intensive summer course that combines economic analysis with leadership theory, preparing you to understand complex public policy challenges and think critically about economic issues. Your curriculum introduces economic concepts, reasoning skills, and leadership development in an interactive seminar format with approximately 25-40 students per site. The program earned a 90% recommendation rate from 2025 participants, indicating strong student satisfaction and perceived value. You will engage with instructors experienced in both economics and leadership development, gaining perspective on how economic analysis informs policy decisions and leadership effectiveness. College admission officers recognize participation in selective programs like Economics for Leaders as evidence of your intellectual curiosity and leadership potential, making program completion valuable for your future college applications.
13. Bowling Green State University Summer Academic Programs (Finances 101)
Location: Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio; virtual, day, and residential options
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: Multiple sessions throughout summer; dates vary by specific program
Application Deadline: March 10
Eligibility: Grades 8-12
Bowling Green State University offers multiple summer program options, allowing you to choose formats that fit your schedule and learning preferences. Virtual options provide flexibility for you if you’re managing other summer commitments, while day programs offer on-campus engagement without overnight requirements. The residential programs provide full immersion in college life with overnight accommodations, enabling you to experience the campus community and develop connections with peers from across the region. Faculty-led programs focus on specific academic interests, allowing you to deepen knowledge in subject areas aligned with your goals. Limited financial aid in the form of camperships helps make programs accessible to you, regardless of your economic background.
14. Traveling T-Shirt Company Curriculum
Location: Classroom-based; coordinated through Ohio schools
Cost/Stipend: Free; program designed for classroom implementation
Dates: Varies by school; typically implemented during the school year
Application Deadline: Schools must request curriculum implementation; contact Emily Schalk at the Economics Center
Eligibility: Middle and high school students; works across grade levels
Through the Traveling T-Shirt Company curriculum, you will work in small groups to develop a complete business plan for designing, producing, and selling t-shirts to your peers. You will engage in authentic entrepreneurship activities, including market research, design decisions, marketing strategy, ordering, delivery logistics, and financial management. The program incorporates professional skills development, including resume writing, job interview practice, and presentation skills, alongside business planning components. Your group will pitch your t-shirt design to the Economics Center staff and potentially collaborate with a local entrepreneur who provides feedback and guidance. This experiential learning approach develops your entrepreneurship skills while directly correlating to the Ohio Common Core Standards.
15. Lindner Business Immersion Camp at the University of Cincinnati
Location: Carl H. Lindner College of Business, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio; residential on-campus
Cost/Stipend: $400 total cost
Dates: June 7-10, 2026
Application Deadline: April 17, 2026 (closes)
Eligibility: Rising 12th graders prioritized; rising 11th graders considered on a space-available basis
You will receive an inside look at business education through overnight immersion featuring faculty workshops, corporate partner presentations, current student panels, and networking opportunities. Your days combine classroom learning in core business disciplines with team-building activities, group projects, and professional skill development. You will work on collaborative projects that require teamwork and communication, experiences that universities view as indicators of college readiness and success. The program includes campus tours, dining experiences, and residence hall living that help you evaluate whether UC and business education align with your goals. Partial scholarships are available for rising seniors eligible for free/reduced lunch programs.
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 Cincinnati