If you’re a high school student in Oklahoma looking to develop new skills this summer, consider joining a summer program. These programs give you the chance to dive into subjects that interest you, gain hands-on experience, and build valuable connections.
Several universities and research centers in Oklahoma offer programs that provide insight into industry trends, enhance your skills, and allow you to learn from experts. These experiences not only boost your academic profile by showing your ability to tackle advanced topics but also help you explore career options and shape your future academic choices. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
Here are 11 summer programs for high school students in Oklahoma, spanning areas like business, STEM, art, marketing, college prep, and more.
1. Horizon’s Academic Research Program (HARP)
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs in areas like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and psychology. You can choose either quantitative or qualitative research methods. After selecting your track, you’ll collaborate one-on-one with a professor or PhD scholar from a leading university to develop a 20-page research paper suitable for journal submission. The program provides specialized field knowledge, expert guidance, a recommendation letter, and feedback to improve future projects and college applications. Apply now for this unique opportunity!
Subject Areas: STEM, Humanities, Data Science, and more
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a few tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here
Application Date: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer and Fall cohorts.
2. Mash Camp
MASH Camp (Math and Science in Health Careers) is a 4-day summer camp for students in 9th–12th grades. The camp offers hands-on activities in math, science, and multidisciplinary studies to explore various healthcare careers. This camp is a good option for students who want to understand how different fields are applied in healthcare.
Subject Areas: Mathematics, Science, Healthcare
Location: University of Oklahoma, Tulsa, OK
Program Dates: June 17 – 20
Cost: No information available
Eligibility: Current 9th–12th graders
Application Deadline: May 1
3. Veritas AI
Veritas AI, founded by Harvard graduates, offers two programs for high school students interested in artificial intelligence. The AI Scholars program focuses on collaborative learning in AI applications, while the AI Fellowship provides personalized mentorship from PhD experts for independent research projects.
In the AI Fellowship, you’ll examine AI’s influence on fields such as finance, medicine, and gaming, with opportunities to publish or present your work. Previous projects have explored AI in medicine, educational tools, and gaming algorithms. The program emphasizes technical skill-building and applying AI concepts to real-world challenges.
Subject Areas: Artificial Intelligence, Finance, Medicine
Location: Remote
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Cost:
- $2,290 for the AI Scholars program (10-week bootcamp)
- $5,400 for the AI Fellowship (12–15 weeks, 1:1 mentorship)
- $6,900 for both AI Scholars + Fellowship
- Need-based financial aid is available
Eligibility: High school students. Students applying to the AI Fellowship program must complete the AI Scholars program or provide evidence of previous experience in AI and Python
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
4. Engineering Days at the University of Oklahoma
OU Engineering offers a summer day camp series for rising high school juniors and seniors to explore various engineering disciplines through hands-on projects. The first day of the series is called Exploratory Engineering, and it introduces you to several engineering disciplines so you can decide what interests you most. The remaining days are dedicated to different fields such as mechanical engineering, petroleum engineering, environmental engineering, and more. Each session is led by university faculty, and you can choose which days you want to attend.
Subject Areas: Computer Science, Engineering Physics, Engineering: Aerospace and Mechanical, Biomedical, Chemical, Biological, Materials, Civil, Environmental, Electrical, Computer, Industrial & Systems
Location: The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
Program Dates: Several one-day events throughout June, exact dates TBA
Cost: $25/day
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Application Deadline: No information available
5. Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation: Fleming Scholar Program
OMRF’s Fleming Scholars program pays you to work in biomedical research labs on individual projects under the guidance of senior scientists. For 8 weeks, you’ll tackle real scientific problems, contributing to research that could impact the fight against human diseases. You’ll write a scientific paper summarizing your findings and give a research presentation. You will also have the chance to attend seminars and professional development workshops.
Subject Areas: Biomedical Research
Location: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK
Program Dates: June 2 – July 25
Cost: Scholars who complete the full summer program will be paid $5,000
Eligibility: High school seniors who are Oklahoma residents, at least 16 years of age, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Application Deadline: February 1
6. Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s STEM Summer Camp
Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s STEM Summer Camp is a week-long program where high school students gain hands-on experience in renewable energy. You will learn about electricity, electronics, and robotics, with a focus on renewable energy generation. Activities include using simulators, operating nacelles, and visiting wind turbines and solar fields. The camp covers solar, wind, and hydroelectric power through labs, facility tours, and presentations led by industry professionals.
Subject Areas: Renewable Energy
Location: Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Alva, OK
Program Dates: June 1 – 6
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Oklahoma students who will be in grades 9-12 in the fall
Application Deadline: April 1
7. Northeastern State University’s Drone Xperience Summer Academy
The Drone Xperience Summer Day Academy at Northeastern State University is a hands-on program for 8th to 12th graders focused on drones and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). You will build and fly drones while exploring STEM career paths. During the five-day camp, you will attend academic classes, training seminars, and participate in activities like Fly Days and drone photography. Instructors from technical institutions and police agencies will guide you in drone construction, piloting, and understanding the broader applications of drones.
Subject Areas: Aircraft Systems
Location: Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, OK
Program Dates: July 22 – 26
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Students enrolled in grades 8–12
Application Deadline: TBA
8. STEM Engineering Discovery Camp for Girls
The STEM Engineering Discovery for Girls camp is a week-long program designed to inspire young women in STEM. You will explore engineering through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and problem-solving challenges. Throughout the camp, you will work on real-world engineering problems. Daytime sessions focus on learning and projects, while evening activities promote networking and recreation. By the end of the week, you will have a deeper understanding of how engineering can shape your future and address global challenges. Although the camp is aimed at girls, students of all gender identities can apply.
Subject Areas: Engineering
Location: Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
Program Dates: June 10 – 14
Cost: $199
Eligibility: Students entering grades 9–12
Application Deadline: No information available
9. Oklahoma City University’s High School Pre-College Intensive Program
Oklahoma City University’s Pre-College Intensive prepares high school students for college-level musical theater, acting, or vocal performance auditions. You will learn how to navigate both online and in-person auditions, including self-taping techniques, choosing repertoire, and interacting with admission panels. The program includes dance and acting classes, private voice lessons, one-on-one coaching, and faculty masterclasses. You will also receive resources to help you prepare for college admissions, such as a guide to the FAFSA application and a guide to planning for college.
Subject Areas: Musical Theater, Acting, Vocal Performance
Location: Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City, OK
Program Dates: June 22 – July 5
Cost: $3,300; includes tuition, meals, and housing. A $50 application fee is also required
Eligibility: Students currently in grades 9-12, with a particular focus on rising juniors
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with audition submissions starting November 1
10. NanoExplorers High School Summer Science Academy
NanoExplorers at Cameron University is a hands-on STEM program where high school students learn nanotechnology through practical applications in chemistry and physics. You will build aquatic drones, use DNA for forensic science, and explore the physics of amusement parks. The first week covers nanotechnology basics and nanostructure applications. In the seconde week, you will learn about polymers and build your own circuit. You will also have the chance to explore career opportunities within nanotechnology.
Subject Areas: Chemistry, Physics
Location: Cameron University, Lawton, OK
Program Dates: June 16 – 21 | June 23 – 28
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Oklahoma residents who are rising freshmen, sophomores, or juniors in high school
Application Deadline: April 15
11. Oklahoma Christian University’s Honors Summer Academy
The Honors Summer Academy at Oklahoma Christian University is a one-week program. Courses cover fields like engineering, cyber security, cell biology, and microbiology. These courses are divided by your incoming high school year. In Introduction to Engineering for freshmen, you’ll attend lectures and participate in lab activities to understand electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering. The cybersecurity course for juniors will introduce you to malware, cryptography, and open source intelligence. The final project is a Sherlock Holmes escape room, where you’ll work in groups to use cybersecurity technology to solve the puzzle.
Subject Areas: Engineering, Microbiology, Cybersecurity, Cell Biology
Location: Oklahoma Christian University, Oklahoma City, OK
Program Dates: July 13 – 18
Cost: $600
Eligibility: High school students in 9th–11th grade with one of the following:
- A 21 ACT
- 1040 on the new SAT
- 1020 on the new PSAT (including Reading, Math, Writing)
- or 20 on the preACT
- If you haven’t taken these tests, you can apply with a teacher or counselor recommendation
Application Deadline: No information available
Image Source – Horizon Logo
