High school is the perfect time to start building your leadership skills, and leadership programs can help you do just that! If you are interested in community service, global diplomacy, or organizational strategy, these programs provide practical exposure to different forms of leadership and social impact.
Across New Jersey, you’ll find a range of summer and year-round leadership programs that cater to different interests. These include outdoor expeditions, youth councils, business institutes, and global leadership courses. Many of these options are offered through local universities, community organizations, and state initiatives, which means you can access high-quality programs close to home without needing to travel or relocate. By joining one, you can strengthen your critical thinking and emotional intelligence, gain experience working in team-based settings, and connect with mentors and peers who share your interests.
Here are 13 incredible leadership programs for high school students in New Jersey that can help you grow as a young leader and make a difference.
1. New Jersey Youth Leadership Corps (NJYLC)
Location: Philadelphia Outward Bound School, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Cost: $50
Dates: July 6 – 19
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Rising sophomores and juniors (entering grades 10-12) in the Northern New Jersey area
NJYLC is a merit-based, fully funded 14-day leadership program for high school students in NJ who want to challenge themselves and grow as leaders. Hosted by Outward Bound, this program takes you through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where you’ll undertake activities such as backpacking, canoeing, and rock climbing. Over the course of the trip, you’ll navigate more than 40 miles of wilderness while developing teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving skills in challenging outdoor conditions. Each experience–from climbing the Kittatinny Ridge to camping under the stars–tests your limits and strengthens your ability to lead through collaboration, self-reflection, and decision-making under pressure.
2. Youth Leadership Somerset
Location: Somerset County, Somerville
Cost: Free
Dates: September – May
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students entering grades 10 – 12 who live in Somerset County
Youth Leadership Somerset is a nine-month county-based program that prepares high school students for civic and community leadership. Meeting one Saturday each month from September through May, you’ll take part in interactive workshops, small group projects, and site visits while learning directly from local officials. You’ll explore community issues such as local government, emergency response, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, learning how leadership shapes everyday life within your community. You’ll collaborate with other students and mentors to analyze real-world challenges and design meaningful solutions – taking practical leadership experience that makes an impact.
3. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Location: Nationwide (the Leadership Summit is held in Washington, D.C.)
Cost: Stipend provided + all expenses towards the trip to Washington, D.C. are covered
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Application deadline: January 15
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who have authorization to work in the United States, live in an eligible area, and have not participated in the program before
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a fully funded opportunity for high school students to gain hands-on leadership experience through community service. Each year, about 300 high school students nationwide are selected for a paid eight-week internship with local nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity or the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. You’ll contribute to community-based projects, develop essential leadership and teamwork skills, and see how non-profits make a real impact. The program also includes a week-long Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., where you’ll engage in discussions about civic engagement, public policy, and social impact with other students from across the country. It is an opportunity to learn how leadership operates across the community, business, and government sectors, while making a difference.
4. Leadership Training Conference (LTC)
Location: The College of New Jersey, Ewing Township
Cost: $450
Dates: Session 1 : July 7 – 9 | Session 2 : July 11 – 13
Application deadline: Not specified | More information regarding the registration is available here
Eligibility: Middle and high school students in New Jersey
Leadership Training Conference (LTC), hosted by the New Jersey Association of Student Councils (NJASC), is an annual summer leadership program for high school students in NJ held at The College of New Jersey in Ewing Township. LTC gathers hundreds of students from across the state to strengthen their leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills through team-based workshops and interactive sessions. The program is open to students involved in student councils, honor societies, sports, and other extracurricular activities, and eager to take their leadership to the next level. Throughout the experience, you’ll participate in activities that help you understand group dynamics, take initiative, and lead with confidence. Beyond the summer conference, NJASC hosts seasonal events featuring guest speakers, networking opportunities, and student-led presentations –keeping you connected and inspired all year long.
5. Building Leadership Strategies Summer Academy
Location: Rutgers–New Brunswick campus
Cost: $3,648.50 – $4,754
Dates: Week I: July 13 – 19 | Week II: July 27 – August 2
Application deadline: May 23
Eligibility: High school students completing their sophomore and junior year, ages 16 to 18 by summer; Minimum 3.0 grade point average
The Building Leadership Strategies Summer Academy is a one-week, credit-bearing program that helps high school students strengthen their leadership and communication skills. Through a mix of lectures, workshops, and collaborative exercises, you’ll earn 1.5 college credits while exploring your leadership style and developing emotional and cultural intelligence. You’ll take part in group problem-solving challenges, evaluate ethical dilemmas, and discuss trends in organizational leadership. The curriculum also covers public speaking and critical thinking skills training, preparing you to lead in any situation. The program culminates in a final presentation, where you’ll reflect on your personal leadership growth and demonstrate what you’ve learned in a professional setting.
6. Sadie Nash Leadership Project : Summer Institute
Location: Newark
Cost: Free | Paid
Dates: 6 weeks in the summer
Application deadline: Priority deadline: March 24 | Final deadline: April 14
Eligibility: Young women and gender-expansive youth who are enrolled in high school and live in Newark
The Sadie Nash Leadership Project’s Summer Institute is a six-week leadership and community-building program designed for young women and gender-expansive youth who want to grow as leaders and change makers. Through workshops on Identity, Social Justice, and Leadership, you’ll strengthen your critical thinking skills and explore how your personal experiences shape your leadership potential. The program includes discussions with accomplished women and gender-expansive leaders–from public officials to artists–who’ll share their personal journeys in advocacy, activism, and professional growth. You’ll also participate in field trips to local organizations and cultural institutions, deepening your understanding of social issues and community action.
7. FBI National Academy Associates New Jersey Chapter’s Youth Leadership Program
Location: Ocean City
Cost: Free
Dates: Not specified; 8-day program
Application deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores or juniors between 14-16 years old at the start date of the program; Must demonstrate high academic standards and good citizenship.
This Youth Leadership Program is an eight-day course for high-achieving high school students passionate about leadership and public service. Hosted by law enforcement training professionals, the program brings together students from across the U.S. and around the world for an engaging mix of classroom sessions and field experiences. You’ll explore topics such as Ethical Leadership, Time Management, Financial Literacy, and Resilience, while engaging in interactive experiences such as field trips and firearms training demonstrations. Throughout the program, you’ll gain insights into the core principles that guide leadership within law enforcement and community organizations, helping you build discipline and confidence as a future leader.
8. YMCA of Greater Monmouth County ’s Leadership Programs
Location: Monmouth County
Cost: Not specified
Dates: To register, email [email protected]
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students are eligible for these leadership programs. Check the specific criteria for each program here.
The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County runs a range of teen leadership programs designed to help you grow in confidence, responsibility, and community engagement. The Y Achievers program supports students ages 12–17 through mentoring, college readiness guidance, and professional development activities such as skill-building workshops and college tours – preparing you for life after high school. Girls Circle helps girls ages 12–18 strengthen their communication, confidence, and leadership skills through group dialogue and reflection. Similarly, Boys Council offers a supportive environment for boys and young men to explore healthy masculinity, teamwork, and leadership. All these programs are centered on mentorship, peer support, and personal growth, helping you develop essential life skills, discover your strengths, and prepare for future academic and career success.
9. Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership State Leadership Seminars
Location: Drew University, Madison
Cost: $350
Dates: Dates vary depending on location, see here
Application deadline: Participants are nominated by peers; Rolling until full
Eligibility: School and community-nominated high school sophomores
Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) State Leadership Seminars are three- to four-day programs that empower high school sophomores – nominated by their schools or communities – to discover and strengthen their leadership potential. Hosted on college campuses, the seminars guide students through three core phases of leadership development – Personal, Group, and Service Leadership. Over the course of three to four days, you’ll explore your values, learn to work effectively with other students, and discover how to apply your leadership skills to bring about change in your community. The program features interactive workshops, discussions on social issues, and team-building exercises that strengthen your communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and develop strategies to make a positive local impact. Following the seminar, participants are encouraged to carry their experience forward by completing 100 hours of community service.
10. Economics for Leaders (EFL) by the Foundation for Teaching Economics (FTE)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies based on location and format; scholarships available
Dates: Varies by location; See here for information on the site and dates
Application deadline: April 9
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores and juniors
The Economics for Leaders (EFL) program, offered by the Foundation for Teaching Economics (FTE), combines the study of economics with hands-on leadership development to help you think critically about real-world policy challenges. You’ll study key economic concepts such as Scarcity, Opportunity Cost, Market Behavior, and International Trade, learning how these ideas influence decision-making and leadership in communities and organizations. The program uses the Leadership Pyramid Matrix framework to help you understand personal, relational, and group leadership dynamics. Through simulations, discussions, and group projects, you’ll practice making informed, ethical decisions and strengthen your ability to lead.
11. United Nations Young Leaders Training Programme
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by session (see UNITAR website)
Dates: January Edition: January 6–February 1; April Edition: April 14–May 9; June Edition: June 9–July 4; August Edition: July 28–August 22
Application deadline: Rolling until full
Eligibility: Open to high school and university students, young professionals, and aspiring leaders interested in international affairs
The United Nations Young Leaders Training Programme, organized by UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research), is a four-week online course for high school and early college students eager to explore international leadership and global governance. You’ll work through self-paced modules covering the UN system, Sustainable Development Goals, and International Diplomacy, while joining live webinars led by UN experts. Through group discussions and interactive workshops, you’ll collaborate with friends from around the world, developing cross-cultural communication and negotiation skills. The program also focuses on practical leadership competencies, including public speaking, policy analysis, and teamwork, to help you grow as a globally-minded leader. Upon completion of the course, you’ll receive a certificate from UNITAR recognizing your readiness to lead on the global stage.
12. Brown Leadership Institute
Location: Virtual
Cost: $5,528
Dates: June 23–July 18
Application deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Open to students completing grades 9 to 12, ages 14 to 18 by June 15
The Brown Leadership Institute is a four-week online program that empowers high school students to explore leadership and social change through interdisciplinary learning. You’ll choose a course aligned with your interests, whether it is Civic Engagement, Law, Sports Leadership, or Social Entrepreneurship, and dive into discussions, group projects, and case studies guided by Brown University instructors. A highlight of the program is the creation of an Action Plan, which lets you apply your learning to create positive change in your school or community. Along the way, you’ll collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds, strengthening your collaborative and inclusive leadership skills. Upon completion of the program, you’ll receive a digital certificate and a performance report from Brown University.
13. Wharton Global Youth Program – Essentials of Leadership
Location: Virtual
Cost: $4,099 + $100 application fee
Dates: June 16 – 27 | July 7 – 18
Application deadline: April 2 (Priority deadline) | May 1 (Final deadline)
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in grades 9-12 with demonstrated leadership ability
The Essentials of Leadership program from the Wharton Global Youth Program is a two-week online program designed for high school students interested in developing leadership and business skills. Through live lectures, recitations, and interactive simulations, you’ll explore key concepts such as Emotional Intelligence, Situational Leadership, Negotiation, Teamwork, and Ethical Decision-making. You’ll also take part in case studies and business simulations, including crisis management and group negotiation exercises, that let you apply what you learn in realistic scenarios. Working on collaborative projects with students worldwide, you’ll strengthen your communication, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills, while gaining a global perspective on leadership.
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 – Rutgers University