Summer programs in Ohio give you a chance to explore your passions, gain real-world skills, and prepare for the future. From STEM and humanities to arts and leadership, these programs help you grow through hands-on learning and exciting projects.
What sets these programs apart is their variety and focus. You can work on advanced research, take college-level courses, or even create something unique – like a prototype, a digital portfolio, or a community impact project. Many programs include mentorship from experts, helping you build skills while networking with professionals and peers. Note that the following information is based on the most recent program, with dates subject to change but generally similar from year to year.
14 Summer Programs for High School Students in Ohio
1. Horizon’s Academic Research Program (HARP)
Location: Virtual
Application Date: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer and Fall cohorts.
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! A few tracks require prerequisites, see here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! 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.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and college applications. Apply here!
2. Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC) Summer Institute
Subject Areas: Supercomputing, Programming, Cybersecurity, Data Science
Location: Ohio Supercomputer Center, Columbus, OH
Eligibility: High school students (Ohio residents) entering their sophomore, junior, or senior year.
Application Deadline: April 1
Program Dates: June 2-11 | 2nd session: June 12-21
Cost: $600
The OSC Summer Institute is a two-week residential program where students work in small teams to solve complex scientific and engineering problems using advanced supercomputing resources. You will explore topics like network forensics, computer game design, and data analysis. The program focuses on hands-on learning, teaching you computational techniques and tools like Python, Unix, and parallel processing.
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: Varies by cohort: summer, fall, winter, or spring. Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Cost: $2,800 (12 weeks) | $5,400 (16-20 weeks). Financial aid is available.
Founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the opportunity to work one-on-one with PhD mentors on an independent research project. You will receive guidance to produce a college-level research paper, with support from writing coaches. The program covers diverse subjects like math, biology, data science, economics, psychology, business, gender studies, linguistics, environmental studies, philosophy, astrophysics, engineering, and more. The program concludes with a symposium and the potential for publication.
4. The Ohio State University Engineering Institute for High School Students
Subject Areas: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Robotics
Location: Ohio State University, Marion Campus, Marion, OH
Eligibility: Rising sophomore, junior, and senior high school students
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: June 9-13
Cost: $100
The Summer Engineering Institute is a week-long day camp for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors. You’ll get an introduction to various engineering disciplines and core concepts. You will develop skills in the engineering design process, teamwork, and problem-solving. You’ll work on hands-on projects like programming robots and building Arduino-compatible microcontrollers. The program includes a tour of the Wilson Bohanan manufacturing facility, interactions with industry professionals, and design challenges, including building boats for a pool race.
5. STEM Summer Camp
Subject Areas: Molecular Genetics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Robotics, Programming, Engineering
Location: Ohio State University, Marion Campus, Science and Engineering Building
Eligibility: Rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors in any high school
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: June 9-13
Cost: $150
The STEM Summer Camp at Ohio State Marion is a week-long day camp for high school students. You’ll explore science and engineering through hands-on projects in molecular genetics, robotics, and biotechnology. You’ll also tackle problem-solving challenges like piloting handmade boats and participate in fieldwork at Recreation Unlimited. The camp includes a tour of the Honda Facility and a visit to the Honda Heritage Center. At the end, you’ll receive a Certificate of Successful Completion from Ohio State University at Marion.
6. Summer Engineering Experiences at the University of Dayton
Subject Areas: Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Civil), Robotics, Problem-Solving, Programming
Location: University of Dayton, Dayton, OH
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA
Cost: TBA
The Summer Engineering Experiences (SEE-UD) at the University of Dayton invites rising juniors and seniors to explore various engineering disciplines. You will dive deep into specific fields of engineering, working on projects that tackle real-world challenges. Through interactive modules and hands-on labs, you will collaborate with UD faculty and students to solve problems and gain practical experience. The program emphasizes both learning and application, allowing you to test your designs and ideas.
7. Kenyon Review Young Writers Residential Workshop
Subject Areas: Creative Writing (fiction, poetry, nonfiction), Literary Analysis
Location: Kenyon College, Gambier, OH
Eligibility: High school students aged 16-18, primarily rising juniors and seniors
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Dates: June 22 – July 5 | July 14 – 27
Cost: $2,575 (financial aid available)
The Kenyon Review Young Writers Residential Workshop is a two-week program for high school students passionate about creative writing. You will engage in daily writing workshops, producing work in genres like short stories, poems, and essays. The focus will be on creativity, exploration, and revision, all in a collaborative environment with peers and faculty. You’ll stay on the scenic Kenyon College campus, experiencing college life while immersing yourself in writing sessions. This workshop offers a great opportunity to refine your writing skills and explore your creative potential.
8. Cleveland Clinic High School Summer Internship Program
Subject Areas: Clinical and nonclinical healthcare, Advanced Technology (e.g., AI, biomedical engineering, cybersecurity), Public Health, Nursing, Pharmacy
Location: Cleveland Clinic’s main campus and regional hospitals in Northeast Ohio
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9-12), minimum age 15 by June 1. Must reside and attend school in specific Northeast Ohio counties
Application Deadline: January 31
Program Dates: June 9 – July 25
Cost: Free (students are paid $15/hour for hours worked)
The Cleveland Clinic High School Summer Internship Program offers you hands-on experience in healthcare careers, including clinical roles and advanced fields like AI, biomedical engineering, and cybersecurity. Over seven weeks, you’ll work closely with Cleveland Clinic professionals, developing skills in project management, teamwork, and digital literacy. This paid internship allows you to explore different healthcare career paths and gain real-world experience.
9. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Science Internship Program
Subject Areas: Biomedical Research, Pediatrics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cardiovascular Biology, Critical Care
Location: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
Eligibility: High school seniors graduating in spring, who live in the Cincinnati metropolitan area
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: June 3 – July 25
Cost: Free (students are paid $13 per hour for hours worked)
The Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Science Internship Program offers graduating high school seniors a unique opportunity to explore biomedical research and clinical careers through an eight-week paid internship. During the program, you’ll shadow clinicians and researchers, gaining insight into their work. You’ll also participate in research projects, attend weekly group meetings, and network with professionals in various fields. At the end of the program, you’ll present your research experiences during a graduation event, marking the completion of this valuable hands-on learning opportunity.
10. Ross Mathematics Program
Subject Areas: Number Theory, Abstract Mathematics, Proof Writing
Location: Otterbein University, Columbus, OH, and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN
Eligibility: High school students (ages 15-18) with strong mathematical backgrounds and a passion for advanced mathematics
Application Deadline: March 15
Program Dates:
- Otterbein University: June 9 – July 19
- Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology: June 16 – July 26
Cost: $7,000 (financial aid available)
The Ross Mathematics Program is a six-week residential camp that provides an in-depth exploration of mathematics, with a focus on number theory. During the program, you’ll tackle complex problem sets, developing rigorous thinking and proof-writing skills. The program promotes collaboration over competition, aiming to introduce you to mathematical research. You’ll work closely with faculty and peers in an academic environment, balancing structured lectures with independent problem-solving sessions while living on campus. This immersive experience offers an opportunity to expand your mathematical knowledge in a supportive and focused setting.
11. Ohio Northern University Summer Music Camp
Subject Areas: Music Performance (Vocal, Band, Strings), Music Theory, Conducting, Jazz Improvisation, Music Technology
Location: Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH
Eligibility: Students in grades 7-12
Application Deadline: June 5
Program Dates: June 16-22
Cost:
- Residential Fees: $550.00
- Day Camper (with Meals): $350.00
- Day Camper (No Meals): $200.00
The Ohio Northern University Summer Music Camp is a week-long program designed for students passionate about music. You can choose to register as a vocal, band, or string major and will audition for chair placement upon arrival. The camp includes participation in various ensembles, such as symphonic band, symphonic choir, string orchestra, and jazz band. You’ll have opportunities to explore music theory, conducting, and jazz improvisation. The camp concludes with a final concert on June 22, where students will showcase their musical talents in front of an audience.
12. High School Journalism Workshop
Subject Areas: Journalism, Media, Broadcast, Photojournalism, Sports Reporting, Public Relations
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Eligibility: High school students (ages 15 and up)
Application Deadline: June 21
Program Dates: July 7-11
Cost: $400
The Ohio University High School Journalism Workshop is a five-day program for students interested in journalism. You’ll explore broadcast, magazine writing, sports reporting, and photojournalism. You’ll attend workshops led by Ohio University faculty, industry professionals, and alumni. These sessions will help you develop hands-on skills and learn from experts. You’ll also have the chance to network with other aspiring journalists. It’s a great opportunity to dive into journalism and build your skills.
13. University of Cincinnati’s Biology Meets Engineering Program (BME)
Subject Areas: Biology, Engineering, Robotics, Sensory Guidance in Animals
Location: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Eligibility: High school students (with a focus on underrepresented groups in STEM
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: TBA – scheduled for June (three-week program)
Cost: Free
The Biology Meets Engineering (BME) Summer Program gives high school students and teachers the chance to explore how biology and engineering intersect. This immersive experience focuses on how animals use sensory guidance and applies that knowledge to robotics. You’ll work on hands-on projects, learning about both fields through integrated lessons. The program emphasizes teamwork and real-world applications, helping you gain skills for future STEM careers.
14. Ohio University’s Arts Pre-College Programs
Subject Areas: Fine Arts (Art + Design, Music, Dance, Film, Theater)
Location: Ohio University, Athens, OH
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: June 10-21 | June 17-22
Cost: $375 – $1,440 (depending on the program and commute / residential status). Need and merit-based financial aid is available.
Ohio University’s Arts Pre-College Programs offer an immersive experience for high school students interested in developing their skills in the fine arts. You can choose from intensive courses in ceramics, film, drawing, music, dance, and theater. Throughout the program, you’ll work closely with Ohio University faculty and visiting artists to create college-level art projects. The courses provide an in-depth look into professional practices while also offering the chance to earn college credit.
Image Source – Horizon Logo