Science programs for high schoolers offer a gateway to discovering your future career and building a competitive edge for college. Whether you’re interested in hands-on field research or cutting-edge technology, these opportunities allow you to solve real-world problems while gaining skills that go far beyond the classroom. By exploring professional environments early, you’ll get to decide if a career in STEM is the right fit for you.
Why should you choose Nevada as a high schooler?
Nevada offers a unique blend of environmental diversity and a rapidly growing tech industry, from climate research to the booming aerospace and renewable energy sectors in Reno and Las Vegas. Many science programs are offered by organizations like the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Reno, providing you with access to mentors who are leaders in their fields. Additionally, many Nevada programs are designed specifically to bridge the gap between high school and college, offering dual-credit opportunities that save you time and money.
With that, here are 15 science programs for high school students in Nevada to help you get started on your journey.
For even more local options, check out our blog on Programs for High School Students in Nevada.
15 Science Programs for High School Students in Nevada
1. Summer Program Advancing Research and Knowledge (SPARK)
Cost: $595
Dates: July 20 – 24
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-10
SPARK is an immersive science program for high schoolers in Nevada that offers basic research exposure to those who want to develop advanced analytical skills. As a participant, you’ll study hypothesis formulation, research design, data management, and evidence interpretation, with a significant focus on data literacy and the use of software tools for research analysis. The program builds competence in designing and conducting structured investigations and interpreting results within scientific frameworks.
2. PFAS Remediation & Environmental Innovation Summer Camp
Cost: $150
Dates: June 8 – 12
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students and recent graduates
This environmental science program focuses on the chemistry and remediation of ‘forever chemicals’ known as PFAS. You’ll investigate how persistent molecules move through hydrological and soil systems using experimental modeling. The curriculum involves testing emerging strategies for chemical removal and analyzing the ecological impact of industrial contaminants. You’ll gain skills in water quality testing, chemical data analysis, and sustainable innovation practices.
3. Beal Bank USA Southern Nevada Regional Science & Engineering Fair
Cost: Free
Dates: March 5
Application Deadline: January 9
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students
The Beal Bank USA Southern Nevada Regional Science & Engineering Fair is an annual competitive science and engineering event where high school students in Nevada design, conduct, and present independent research projects across scientific domains. You’ll gain an understanding of scientific methodology, data analysis, and experimental design while articulating findings to judges and peers. The fair aligns with international science fair standards, enhancing analytical communication skills and reinforcing discipline-specific knowledge in areas like biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering.
4. Digging into the Past: UNLV Archaeology Summer Camp
Cost: $150
Dates: July 6 – 8
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: Rising 8th-10th graders capable of physical mobility
The Digging into the Past: UNLV Archaeology Summer Camp allows high school students to transition into the role of a field researcher to investigate ancient human history through the lens of material science. The program includes hands-on excavation techniques and laboratory analysis of recovered artifacts. You’ll develop professional curation skills and learn the scientific protocols for documenting and preserving cultural heritage sites. The experience culminates in a presentation where you’ll compile your discoveries into a cohesive archaeological collection.
5. ASC Dual Enrollment Program
Cost: Varies
Dates: Fall, spring, and summer classes
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students
ASC Dual Enrollment allows Nevada high school students to enroll in undergraduate college courses prior to high school graduation, earning both high school and university credit. You’ll engage in full-level academic coursework across disciplines, including foundational science, mathematics, and analytical writing, taught to college standards. You’ll also get access to structured advising and academic support services to help refine reasoning skills, time management, and independent learning strategies.
6. UNLV AI Explorers Camp
Cost: $200
Dates: July 13 – 17
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students and recent graduates
The UNLV AI Explorers Camp teaches high school students in Nevada the foundational principles of artificial intelligence and how to apply them to creative problem-solving challenges. As a participant, you’ll investigate what AI is, how AI systems interpret data and produce outcomes, and the ethical considerations of AI use. You’ll also participate in hands-on activities with AI tools that hone your analytical thinking and introduce you to computational reasoning and machine learning concepts.
7. Anatomy Academy Summer Camp
Cost: $125
Dates: June 1 – 5
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students and recent graduates
The Anatomy Academy camp allows you to explore the intricacies of human physiology through interactive lessons and laboratory-based organ dissections. This science program utilizes high-tech Sectra digital dissection tables to simulate clinical scenarios and surgical planning. You’ll develop foundational medical skills, including suturing techniques and performing electrocardiograms (ECGs).
8. Student Interactions with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (SISTEM)
Cost: Free
Dates: Spring/fall sessions
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students in Southern Nevada
SISTEM is a structured series of talks and interactive activities designed to broaden understanding of STEM careers and research methods. As a participant, you’ll get to explore a range of scientific fields through sessions led by STEM professionals, covering real-world applications and career pathways. The sessions focus on strengthening conceptual understanding, exposure to industry applications, and improving your ability to integrate STEM principles across subjects.
9. UNLV Cyber Clinic Junior Member Program
Cost: Free
Dates: Year-round
Application Deadline: Rolling
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: High school students
The UNLV Cyber Clinic Junior Member Program is a science program that introduces you to core cybersecurity concepts and practices, including open-source intelligence gathering, social engineering, and defensive/offensive team strategies. You’ll engage in weekly skill-based workshops and community challenge tasks to build foundational knowledge beyond typical classroom curricula. The program also connects you with cybersecurity practitioners and offers in-house competitions that reinforce technical thinking and digital problem-solving.
10. UNLV STEM Camp
Cost: Varies by session
Dates: Summer intensives and spring/fall Saturday workshops
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: Middle and high school students
The UNLV STEM Camp is a science camp for high school students in Nevada that offers modular activities across robotics, cybersecurity, programming, advanced mathematics, and engineering design. You’ll participate in guided project-based learning that bridges theory with real technical application, such as building robots or solving cybersecurity problems. Emphasis is placed on foundational skills in coding, analytical reasoning, data interpretation, and systems thinking.
11. Aerospace Engineering Mini-Camp
Cost: $215 (scholarships available)
Dates: June 29 – 30
Application Deadline: Rolling
Location: University of Nevada, Reno, NV
Eligibility: Students aged 15-17
The Aerospace Engineering Mini-Camp is a science program that provides high schoolers in Nevada with a specialized look into aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural design. As a participant, you’ll work in university labs to conduct cutting-edge aerospace challenges and experiment with real-world flight concepts. You’ll learn about the physics of space travel and the emerging technologies shaping the aerospace industry.
12. Engineering Adventures Camp
Cost: $450 (scholarships available)
Dates: July 6 – 10
Application Deadline: Rolling
Location: University of Nevada, Reno, NV
Eligibility: Students aged 15-17
The Engineering Adventures Camp is an interactive engineering camp where you’ll explore multiple engineering disciplines through hands-on design challenges, prototype building, and site visits. You will engage with real engineering problems like water filtration systems or aerodynamic projects, applying engineering design processes, critical thinking, and applied math and science concepts. Field trips and faculty instruction further contextualize how engineering principles are used in community infrastructure and innovation.
13. Civil and Environmental Engineering Camp
Cost: $250 (scholarships available)
Dates: July 20 – 24
Application Deadline: Rolling
Location: University of Nevada, Reno, NV
Eligibility: Students aged 15-17
During the Civil and Environmental Engineering Camp, you’ll dive into the engineering design process by addressing critical challenges in infrastructure and sustainability. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from water filtration system design to environmental impact assessment. You will also interact with industry professionals and faculty to learn about the physics of structures and the mechanics of waste management.
14. Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) Youth Conservation Council (YCC)
Cost: Free
Dates: January – April
Application Deadline: Rolling
Location: Southern Nevada Water Authority, Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: Southern Nevada high school students
YCC explores regional water resource issues by integrating biology, chemistry, and engineering into conservation strategies. As a participant, you’ll examine the scientific complexities of water management, treatment, and delivery in an arid environment. The program provides direct exposure to experts in environmental law and public health to develop comprehensive stewardship plans. You’ll also build leadership and outreach skills by planning and executing large-scale community events centered on sustainability and resource protection.
15. Tech Ready Rebels
Cost/Stipend: Free; Stipend may be provided
Dates: Year-long
Application Deadline: Not specified
Location: Various organizations in Las Vegas, NV
Eligibility: Nevada high school juniors and seniors with a minimum 2.0 GPA who are enrolled in the Information Technology Career Cluster or have taken at least one IT-related coursework
Tech Ready Rebels is a structured experiential IT workforce pipeline that helps high school students in Nevada build real technical competencies in computing and information technology. As a participant, you’ll engage in dual enrollment college courses that provide foundational and advanced programming knowledge, develop professional workplace skills, prepare for industry-recognized certifications (like CompTIA or cloud credentials), and complete a summer internship with local employers.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, or ecology, 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 Nevada, Las Vegas