Want to make the most of your summer? If you’re a high school student in Las Vegas, there are plenty of summer programs to help you dive into specialized fields and develop valuable skills.
Whether you’re passionate about STEM, business, arts, or technology, these programs offer hands-on experiences, expert guidance, and opportunities to expand your knowledge beyond the classroom. From building robots and coding software to exploring entrepreneurship or crafting art portfolios, these programs cater to a variety of interests and career aspirations. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
Check out this list of 12 summer programs for High School Students in Las Vegas!
1. Horizon Academic Research Program
Location: Virtual
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Application Date: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer and Fall cohorts.
Subject Areas: Data science, biology, chemistry, political theory, psychology
Eligibility: High school students, typically in 10th or 11th grade with a 3.67+ GPA. Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, public health and safety, social psychology, and medicine. It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
The program includes a letter of recommendation for every student, plus comprehensive feedback on projects that can assist with future work and college applications. Apply here!
2. University of Nevada, Las Vegas Summer STEM Camp
Subject Areas: Robotics, Cybersecurity, Semiconductor Manufacturing, Python Coding, Game Design, Generative AI
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12)
Application Deadline: March
Program Dates: July 1 – 29
Cost: $500 per module
The UNLV Summer STEM Camp offers you the chance to dive deep into specialized STEM fields. In the mornings, you can choose from modules like Robotics Coding with Arduino, Cybersecurity (focusing on encryption and networking), and Semiconductor Manufacturing with hands-on cleanroom experiences. Afternoon sessions include Advanced Robotics, Python Programming for data analysis, 3D Game Design using Unity, and Generative AI, where you’ll create multimedia visuals and music videos using AI tools.
3. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Subject Areas: STEM, humanities, and social sciences
Location: Remote
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum 3.3 out of 4 GPA
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort.
Program Dates: June to August (summer). Fall, winter, and spring cohorts are also available.
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program, founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, offers high school students the opportunity to work one-on-one with PhD mentors to develop an independent research project in their subject area. If selected, you’ll work closely with mentors to create a college-level research paper based on your project, with additional support from writing coaches.
You can choose your subject track in the application form, such as public health, as well as a specific area of focus, such as astrophysics throughout your research experience!
4. Student Interactions with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (SISTEM)
Subject Areas: Engineering, Environmental Science, Solar Energy, Hydrology
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12 with an interest in STEM
Application Deadline: September 15th for Fall
Program Dates: Must attend all 5 sessions. Fall dates are as follows: September 26th | October 3rd | October 10th | October 17th | October 24th
Cost: Free
The SISTEM program offers you a chance to dive into various STEM fields through hands-on workshops and activities led by UNLV faculty and experts. You’ll explore topics like solar energy, water sustainability, and hydrology, gaining practical insights into engineering and environmental science. The program focuses on teamwork and problem-solving through project-based learning, while also introducing you to cutting-edge research and real-world applications. SISTEM is a great opportunity to develop your STEM skills, connect with professionals, and discover potential careers in science and technology.
5. University of Nevada, Las Vegas Summer GenCyber Camp
Subject Areas: Cybersecurity, Networking, Cryptography
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students with an interest in cybersecurity (no prior experience required)
Application Deadline: March 22
Program Dates: June 24 – 28
Cost: Free
The UNLV Summer GenCyber Camp introduces you to the fundamentals of cybersecurity, offering an engaging mix of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. You’ll explore topics like network security, cryptography, and safe internet practices, gaining practical skills in identifying and mitigating cyber threats. The program provides interactive labs where you’ll learn to prevent phishing, handle encryption, and secure passwords while understanding real-world applications of cybersecurity principles. Designed for beginners, this camp equips you with essential knowledge and tools to navigate and protect the digital world effectively.
6. Rebel Teach Concurrent Enrollment Program
Subject Areas: Education, Teaching Methods, and Classroom Management
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and attending high schools with Rebel Teach Partnerships (listed on the website)
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA
Cost: $75 per course
The Rebel Teach Concurrent Enrollment Program allows you to earn college credit while exploring the field of education. You’ll take courses designed to introduce you to teaching techniques, classroom management, and lesson planning, all while working alongside UNLV’s faculty. The program provides hands-on experience, preparing you for a future career in education by building foundational skills and offering a head start on your college journey. If you’re passionate about teaching and shaping future generations, this opportunity is an excellent way to begin.
7. Southern Nevada Writing Project
Subject Areas: Writing, Creative Writing, Composition, and Pedagogy
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: Celebrate Fiction: May 18 – 31 | Celebrate Nonfiction: June 3 – 7
Cost: $250 per program
The Southern Nevada Writing Project offers workshops and camps to help you refine your writing skills across genres such as creative writing, academic writing, and storytelling. Led by experienced educators and writers, these programs focus on enhancing your ability to craft compelling narratives, organize essays, and express ideas effectively. Through peer collaboration, feedback sessions, and writing challenges, you’ll gain new techniques to elevate your work.
8. University of Nevada, Las Vegas Summer Nurse Camp
Subject Areas: Nursing, Healthcare, Anatomy, and Patient Care
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: High school students interested in pursuing a career in nursing or healthcare
Application Deadline: July 2 (Session 1) | July 5 (Session 2)
Program Dates: Session 1: July 8 – July 12 | Session 2: July 15 – July 19
Cost: $550
The UNLV Summer Nurse Camp provides you with a hands-on introduction to the field of nursing and healthcare. You’ll learn foundational skills like patient assessment, basic anatomy, and first aid through interactive workshops and simulations. Led by nursing professionals and faculty, the program offers insights into the daily responsibilities and challenges of a nursing career. It’s a great opportunity to explore your interest in healthcare and gain practical experience in a supportive environment.
9. Young Executive Scholars Tourism & Hospitality Program
Subject Areas: Tourism, Hospitality, Leadership, and Business Strategy
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Eligibility: Current high school students in Las Vegas with one of the following: family gross income of $60,000 or less; attending a Title 1 school; first-generation college-bound student
Application Deadline: TBA in March
Program Dates: June 2 – 27
Cost: Free
The Young Executive Scholars Tourism & Hospitality Program offers you an introduction to the tourism and hospitality industries while building leadership and business skills. You’ll attend workshops, engage in weekly field trips to top Las Vegas resorts, and work on a group project that connects classroom learning to real-world applications.
This program is designed to expand your understanding of career opportunities in hospitality while connecting you with industry experts, including CEOs and executives. By the end of the program, you’ll develop leadership skills, enhance your college application or resume, and even have the opportunity to earn scholarships.
10. Young Executive Scholars Gamers Program
Subject Areas: Gaming, Hospitality, Leadership, and Business Strategy
Location: UNLV Campus, Las Vegas
Eligibility: Current high school students in Las Vegas with one of the following: family gross income of $60,000 or less; attending a Title 1 school; first-generation college-bound student
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA
Cost: Free
The YES Gamers Program gives you a unique chance to explore the intersection of gaming, hospitality, and business. You’ll participate in workshops and interactive sessions to learn about the diverse career paths in the gaming industry, including roles in game design, esports, and hospitality management. The program also includes weekly field trips to innovative gaming facilities and resorts in Las Vegas, where you’ll meet industry leaders and explore the latest advancements in gaming technology. With opportunities to develop leadership skills and collaborate on hands-on projects, the YES Gamers Program sets you up for success in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.
11. Exploring Careers in Health
Subject Areas: Healthcare, Emergency Services, Nursing, Community Health
Location: Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital and Yuba College, Nevada County, CA
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12) in Nevada County for the school year
Application Deadline: NA
Program Dates: TBA for Summer
Cost: Free
The Exploring Careers in Health – Fall Institute gives you a firsthand look into the world of healthcare through hands-on activities, professional exposure, and certification opportunities. You’ll earn CPR and First Aid certification, participate in trauma simulations, and interact with healthcare professionals like paramedics, dentists, and physical therapists. A unique aspect of the program includes a visit to the CALSTAR Air Ambulance, where you can explore careers as a flight nurse, paramedic, or pilot. Tailored to students’ career interests, this program equips you with the insights and skills to envision your future in healthcare while building practical experience in the field.
12. Lake Tahoe Music Camp
Subject Areas: Jazz and Classical Music Performance, Ensemble Skills, Music Education
Location: Private beach on Lake Tahoe, Reno, NV
Eligibility: Students completing grades 6-12
Application Deadline: First come, first serve until capacity is reached (waitlist available after capacity)
Program Dates: July 20-26
Cost: $650 (scholarships available)
The Lake Tahoe Music Camp offers you an immersive music education experience in a scenic lakeside setting. Through workshops, clinics, and one-on-one mentoring with award-winning faculty and professional musicians, you’ll sharpen your skills in jazz and classical music. Campers stay in cabins, enjoy recreational activities like kayaking and volleyball, and participate in evening performances. The program concludes with an All-Camp Concert at the Kelly Amphitheatre, showcasing your progress to family and friends. You may get a balance of advanced musical instruction and fun, fostering creativity and collaboration in a supportive environment.
Image Source – Horizon Logo
