If you’re a high school student in Alabama looking to build skills, explore academic interests in your summer break, or get a head start on college prep, summer programs (especially local ones!) are a smart way to do it. These programs provide hands-on experiences in various fields, including STEM, the arts, business, healthcare, and more.
You will gain from expert mentorship, practical experience, and opportunities to collaborate with peers. Many of the summer programs in this list are free or affordable, providing easy access while delivering great academic rigor and professional networks!
To help you explore what’s available nearby, we’ve curated 15 summer programs for high school students in Alabama!
15 Summer Programs for High School Students in Alabama
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by program type; Financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple cohorts, ranging from 12 weeks to 1 year, throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort
Eligibility: High school students who demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (GPA of 3.3 out of 4); No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the opportunity to conduct an independent research project under the guidance of a PhD mentor from top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Over the course of the program, students work one-on-one with their mentor to develop a research question, conduct literature reviews, analyze data (if applicable), and produce a final paper. The program is offered year-round in multiple formats, including a 12-week individual research track and a cohort-based track with weekly seminars. Research fields range across STEM, business, social sciences, and humanities. Competitive admission and tailored mentorship make this a rigorous academic experience.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies depending on program type
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Depending on the cohort
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python
Veritas AI offers high school students personalized mentorship in artificial intelligence through hands-on, project-based learning. You will work one-on-one or in small groups with AI practitioners from institutions like Harvard and MIT to explore machine learning, deep learning, and data science. The program is designed to guide students from foundational AI concepts to completing an original project, such as building a recommendation system or analyzing real-world datasets. Tracks are available in both beginner and advanced levels, with flexible scheduling during summer and school-year cohorts.
3. AgriTREK/SciTREK Summer Program
Location: Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL
Cost/Stipend: Free; participants will receive a small stipend (up to $200) for travel
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10-15 students
Dates: June 15 – June 28
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12
The AgriTREK/SciTREK Summer Institute is a two-week residential program aimed at introducing students in grades 9–12 to research and leadership development in agriculture, science, and related STEAM areas. As a participant, you will engage in hands-on projects, explore emerging topics in AgriScience, and take part in enrichment and career development activities. Initially created for students and teachers in Alabama’s Black Belt counties, the program has grown and remains dedicated to improving diversity in agricultural sciences. Funded by USDA/NIFA, it offers students firsthand experience with college resources, lab activities, and mentoring in agriculture and STEM fields.
4. AU Brain Camp
Location: Auburn University, Auburn, AL
Cost: $705
Dates: July 14 – July 18
Application Deadline: March 19
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th grade students
AU Brain Camp is a competitive, week-long neuroscience program designed for rising high school juniors and seniors, along with incoming college freshmen. Organized by the Department of Psychological Sciences, the camp covers essential topics in neuroscience such as neuroanatomy, cognitive science, and data analysis. You will gain hands-on experience with professional tools, such as Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), and work on 3D brain modeling. A highlight of the program is the chance to undergo a functional MRI scan at the Auburn University MRI Research Center and analyze one’s own brain images. Students are mentored by Auburn faculty and a high school psychology teacher, making it a unique opportunity to explore healthcare, research, and psychology in depth.
5. Dauphin Island Sea Lab Residential Marine Science Class
Location: Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL
Cost: $3,000
Acceptance rate/cohort size: The program accepts only 30 students
Dates: June 22 – July 28
Application Deadline: Application typically opens in February
Eligibility: Rising 9th-12th graders
This four-week residential program provides high school students with a comprehensive exploration of marine science through over 160 hours of supervised academic activities. You will explore a wide array of topics such as marine ecology, oceanography, marine geology, marine technology, and invertebrate zoology. The curriculum includes lectures, lab investigations, fieldwork, off-campus trips, and group research projects. Students also deliver oral presentations and take exams, acquiring both theoretical understanding and practical field skills. Living on location, participants are fully immersed in marine science and life at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab.
6. UAH Engineering Innovation Program
Location: University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL
Cost: $400
Dates: June 23 – June 27
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Rising 9-10 grade students
Hosted by the University of Alabama in Huntsville College of Engineering, this week-long day camp aims to engage rising 9th and 10th-graders interested in exploring engineering. You will engage in hands-on activities, lab tours, and classroom sessions while working on a culminating design project. Mentorship from UAH faculty, staff, and current students provides participants with insights into different engineering fields and helps prepare them for future academic endeavors. The program emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and real-world applications of science and technology.
7. Business Explorations Day Camp
Location: University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL
Cost: $400; scholarships available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 30 students
Dates: June 9 – June 13
Application Deadline: Application opens on March 3 (first-come, first-served)
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th and 12th grade students
The Business Explorations Day Camp is a week-long summer program for rising 10th to 12th graders interested in learning about careers in business. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and interactive lessons covering subjects like marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, and investment. Each day features immersive projects, problem-solving exercises, and opportunities to engage with UAH faculty, staff, and students. The camp features guest speakers from industry who provide students with practical insight into different career paths. Beyond academic learning, you’ll also build leadership and teamwork skills while experiencing college life on the UAH campus.
8. Collat CampBIZ
Location: UAB Collat School of Business, Birmingham, AL
Cost: No cost
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 25 students
Dates: June 9 – June 13
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Birmingham area high school students
Collat CampBIZ is a week-long summer day camp for high school students in Birmingham interested in business and leadership. It features interactive workshops, team activities, and real-world simulations, helping students build core knowledge in areas like entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and management. The program supports students in developing communication and problem-solving skills while gaining insights into business operations and leadership decision-making. Campers can connect with Collat faculty, staff, and student mentors, fostering relationships that may inspire their future academic and career aspirations. Participants also receive commemorative gifts to celebrate their experience.
9. Young Women in Business Camp
Location: University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL
Cost: $150
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 30 students
Dates: July 17 – July 18
Application Deadline: Application opens on March 3 (first-come, first-served)
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students
The Young Women in Business Camp is a two-day program crafted for high school students in grades 10 to 12 interested in leadership roles within the business sector. Through a series of interactive sessions will help students enhance their leadership, communication, and personal branding skills. The program features workshops on business essentials, presentations by women business leaders, and practical activities centered on career exploration in fields such as marketing, entrepreneurship, and finance. Campers will also gain confidence by practicing public speaking and collaborating in teams.
10. Programming and Computer Knowledge (PACK) Camp
Location: University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL
Cost: $200
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Minimum of 10 participants for each camp
Dates: Camp 1 (Rising 10th – 12th grade students): June 9 – June 13 | Camp 2 (Rising 7th – 9th grade students): June 23 – June 27
Application Deadline: One week before the camp starts
Eligibility: Camp 1: Rising 10th – 12th grade students | Camp 2: Rising 7th – 9th grade students
The Programming and Computer Knowledge (PACK) Camp is aimed at students curious about computer science and programming. It provides an introduction to fundamental programming concepts and problem-solving skills through practical exercises with Python and other popular tools. Throughout the camp, students work on guided coding activities, build basic applications, and strengthen their logical thinking and algorithmic skills. You will also gain a sense of college life by learning in actual campus classrooms and interacting with current computing students, faculty, and staff.
11. UA Young Writers Camp
Location: University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
Cost: $236.50
Dates: June 2 – June 13
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Rising 6-12 grade students
Open to students in grades 6–12, the UA Young Writers Camp invites participants to develop their creative voice through a combination of independent and collaborative writing activities. Led by instructors from the University of Alabama’s M.F.A. Program in Creative Writing, the camp explores a range of contemporary literary styles and genres. Students respond to daily prompts, share work with peers, and engage with modern literature in a supportive environment. The program culminates in a public reading and a published anthology showcasing each student’s work.
12. Alabama’s Governor’s School Program
Location: Samford University, Homewood, AL
Cost: $1,000 + $25 application fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 100 students
Dates: June 15 – June 27
Application Deadline: Rolling nominations, typically opening in October
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors who are residents of Alabama
The Alabama Governor’s School Program is a selective two-week summer experience for rising high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic or creative talent. Students are nominated by their high schools based on outstanding achievement and intellectual potential. Once selected, students live on campus and engage in various academic and leadership activities. Each student enrolls in two seminar courses, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, that cover subjects such as natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, or fine and performing arts. These seminars emphasize hands-on, experiential learning and are led by university faculty and professionals from the business and nonprofit sectors. Beyond academics, the program offers field trips around Birmingham, community-building activities, and evening events, including talent night and a dance.
13. QuantHub Alabama Data Scholars Internship Program
Location: Hybrid: remote/various locations in Alabama
Stipend: $1,200 Scholarship upon successful completion of the program
Dates: June 9 – August 1
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: High School students enrolled in Alabama who are at least 16 years old by May 1
The QuantHub Alabama Data Scholars Internship Program offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to gain paid, hands-on experience in data science over eight weeks. As an intern, you will be placed with Alabama-based companies that use data in innovative ways, allowing students to apply what they learn in real-world settings. Through this experience, you will build foundational skills in data science, AI, and analytics while also engaging in professional development activities. You will also gain exposure to workplace tools and practices, contribute to meaningful projects, and grow your data literacy, helping you take early steps toward careers in technology, research, and business.
14. Alabama Ballet Summer Intensive
Location: Alabama Ballet Center for Dance, Birmingham, AL
Cost: $600 per week if paid in full by March 31; otherwise, it increases to $625 per week.
Dates: June 9 – July 3
Application Deadline: In-person audition: January 12 | For those who cannot attend the audition, a video can be sent before March 15
Eligibility: Students aged 11-19 years
The Alabama Ballet Summer Intensive is a four-week program for intermediate and advanced dancers ages 11–19, designed to provide focused and personalized ballet training. The program offers daily instruction in ballet technique, pointe, variations, modern, jazz, and hip-hop. Students are assigned to suitable levels on the first day based on their technical skills and physical strength, providing instruction tailored to their developmental stage. Alongside core classes, participants attend seminars on topics important to aspiring dancers and take part in rehearsals leading up to a final Workshop Performance. The program balances classical training with exposure to contemporary styles, offering a comprehensive experience for dancers seeking to refine both their technique and artistry in a pre-professional setting.
15. Auburn University Creative Writing Studio
Location: Auburn University, Auburn, AL
Cost: $880
Dates: June 16 – June 20
Application Deadline: No fixed deadline; applications are open until seats are full
Eligibility: Rising 9-12 grade students
This week-long residential program is designed for high school students in grades 9–12 who want to strengthen their craft in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Hosted by Auburn University’s College of Liberal Arts, the program includes daily writing workshops, genre-specific classes, readings, and literary activities around Auburn. Students will create a portfolio featuring original short fiction, creative nonfiction, drama, and poetry. Participants also get an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Southern Humanities Review, attend sessions with guest authors, and conclude the experience with a public reading of their work. Students live in campus dorms, dine in university facilities, and take part in supervised evening events.
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 Alabama logo