Navigating the world of technology as a middle schooler can be daunting without clear guidance on where to start building foundational skills. Fortunately, participating in tech programs offers a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into these subjects under the mentorship of professionals. Not only do these programs provide a comprehensive exploration of tech concepts, but they also lay a strong groundwork for future high school courses in related subjects.

Below, we've compiled a list of 10 tech programs specifically tailored for middle school students. 

1. Veritas AI

Veritas AI is an online AI program tailored for middle and high school students, founded and run by graduates from Harvard University. For middle schoolers, there are two distinct paths available. The first is the AI Trailblazers boot camp, where participants delve into the basics of artificial intelligence and machine learning, alongside foundational Python skills. Engaging in practical AI projects spanning fields such as medicine, finance, and autonomous vehicles, students receive guidance from mentors from leading universities. This option is particularly suitable for beginners. This program runs for a total of 25 hours over 10 weekends. 

Alternatively, for those who have completed the boot camp or possess prior Python experience, the AI Junior Fellowship presents an enticing opportunity. Over a 12-week period, participants collaborate one-on-one with a mentor to develop their own project or research paper. This avenue offers a compelling platform to explore AI within the context of various disciplines, enabling students to exhibit their enthusiasm and skills. Find the application form here. 

For more detailed information about these programs, interested individuals are encouraged to review the provided program brochure.

Location: Virtual

Cost: AI Trailblazers - $1,790 and AI Junior Fellowship - $2,900. Need based financial aid is available

Program Dates: Upcoming Summer dates can be found here

Application Deadline: Upcoming summer deadlines - March 24, 2024 (early admission), April 21 (regular admission I), May 19 (regular admission II)

Eligibility: Middle school students

2. Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) at New York University (NYU)

The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) is a dynamic three-week program tailored for middle school students, designed to explore the intersection of computer science, engineering, and technology crucial for enhancing urban sustainability and safety. Through interactive hands-on activities, demonstrations, and experiments, participants immerse themselves in a diverse range of subjects including coding, physical sciences, and urban science. Guided by students from NYU School of Engineering, attendees craft their own smart city models, seamlessly integrating STEM concepts learned throughout the program.

These projects culminate in presentations to experts and the public, highlighting the practical applications of the participants' innovations. SoSC aims to cultivate STEM proficiency and awareness through experiential learning, equipping students with the tools and knowledge needed to address future challenges in urban planning and technological advancement.

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY   Cost: Free

Program Dates: July - August (tentatively, based on previous years)

Application Deadline: Applications typically close mid-April

Eligibility: New York City residents aged 12 to 14 with a strong academic record and a passion for STEM are eligible to apply

3. Tech Explorer Camp at the University of North Texas

The Tech Explorer Camp at the University of North Texas caters to middle and high school students keen on exploring technology. Over five days at Frisco Landing, participants engage in hands-on activities, nurturing their curiosity and innovation. Participants can expect a stimulating curriculum that covers a range of tech-related topics, guided by experienced instructors. 

From coding workshops to robotics challenges, the program is designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking in young minds. The Tech Explorer Camp not only equips students with practical skills but also encourages teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Whether students aspire to be programmers, engineers, or simply tech enthusiasts, this camp provides an enriching experience to expand their skills and ignite their passion for technology.

Location: Frisco Landing, Preston Rd, Frisco, TX

Cost: $350 for the 5-day camp. Meals are not included

Program Dates: from July 8 to 12, 2024

Application Deadline: TBA

Eligibility: Summer camp participants must be middle or high school students

4. Purdue University’s Physics Inside Out Program

The Physics Inside Out program is a week-long summer initiative aimed at familiarizing students with experimental techniques. Activities include spin coating aluminum plates, applying electric currents to water drops to study charge effects, crafting electric motors, and conducting laser experiments on refraction. Additionally, students engage in discussions with scientists and professors, gaining insights into their STEM career motivations. 

Location:Purdue campus

Cost: Free

Program Dates: One week. Tentatively, the camp will be held in June 2024

Application Deadline: March 21st

Eligibility: All middle school students

5. UC Berkeley Coding Academy’s Data Science to AI

Berkeley's summer course on data science to AI is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of AI, machine learning (ML), and big data science fundamentals. The academy offers personalized 1-1 classes tailored for students aged 12-18, along with a specialized junior Python coders program catering to ages 7-11.

Throughout these programs, participants will delve into the intricacies of Python coding underlying AI and develop ML models using real-world data. Ideal for those seeking to enhance their technical skills, the course accommodates students with varying levels of coding proficiency. Collaborating in small groups, attendees will have the opportunity to conceptualize and execute their projects and models.

Location: Virtual

Cost: $2,495, Limited scholarships are available

Program Dates: : Upcoming summer. Dates to be announced

Application Deadline: TBA

Eligibility: Middle school students aged 12-18 years 

6. CEISMC Middle School Programs by Georgia Tech 

The CEISMC Middle School Programs provide diverse opportunities for students to delve into Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields. Through hands-on workshops, participants explore computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, gaining valuable skills and knowledge early on.

Recognizing the importance of coding and technology in today's world, the programs aim to spark passion and empower young learners. By facilitating the creation of STEAM projects, they nurture interests and prepare students for success in STEM fields. Overall, the CEISMC Middle School Programs offer a dynamic and enriching educational experience, cultivating essential skills and fostering a love for STEAM. 

Location: Georgia Tech Atlanta Campus

Cost: $400 to $650 per participant

Program Dates: June 6 to July 22

Application Deadline: March 21

Eligibility: Middle school students

7. Philosophy of AI at Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

This program prompts students to delve into the fundamental inquiries surrounding the definition of AI. This initial exploration leads to intriguing philosophical considerations at the intersection of artificial intelligence, sparking discussions on social and ethical implications of contemporary technology.

Participants will examine whether the utilization of algorithms and machine learning, such as in banking and legal systems, enhances fairness or exacerbates existing disparities. Moreover, discussions will revolve around accountability in cases of technological malfunctions. These diverse topics will be explored through readings, interactive discussions, and a range of engaging activities and projects. Certificate of completion to be provided on completion.

 

Location: Virtual

Cost: $3,050. Need-based financial aid is available

Program Dates: : Usually in June or July. Dates to be announced

Application Deadline: March 15, 2024 (based on previous year’s deadlines)

Eligibility: Middle school students from grade 8th

8. MIT RAISE - Creativity and AI Workshop

MIT's Responsible AI for Social Empowerment and Education (RAISE) provides valuable tutorials for beginners in AI, including the Creativity and AI Workshop for middle schoolers. This program aims to introduce students to creative machine-learning techniques, teaching them how to collaborate with AI in art creation. 

Participants engage in a variety of hands-on activities, both digital and non-digital, fostering exploration in art creation with and without AI tools. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), an AI platform capable of generating various forms of media such as art and music. Unlike other mentioned programs, RAISE operates as a curriculum, requiring students to consult with their teachers or instructors for additional details. This option is ideal for those seeking self-paced learning opportunities.

Location: Virtual

Cost: Free

Program Dates: NA

Application Deadline: Varies

Eligibility: Middle school students

9. MIT’s Beaver Works Middle School Program

The Beaver Works Middle School Program, an extension of MIT's Beaver Works Summer Institute (BWSI), offers middle school students an immersive experience in AI and engineering. Through collaborative projects, participants tackle real-world challenges using AI and engineering concepts. The program emphasizes teamwork while exploring domains like robotics and autonomous vehicles. 

Participants gain hands-on exposure to cutting-edge technologies, fostering skill development alongside like-minded peers. Overall, it's a fantastic opportunity to explore the applications of AI and engineering and hone problem-solving skills in a supportive environment.

Location: Both in-person and virtual options are available

Cost: Free

Program Dates: 4 weeks starting the Monday after the July 4 weekend, Monday-Friday

Application Deadline: Applications for the 2024 batch are expected to open in May (tentative)

Eligibility: Middle school students

10. UNH Tech Camp

The TechLeaders program at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) offers an innovative summer opportunity, focusing on regenerative medicine through a tech lens. Participants delve into the intersection of technology and healthcare, exploring how tech advancements are reshaping tissue regeneration and healing processes.

With a hands-on, tech-centric approach, students engage in interactive projects, experiments, and discussions to understand and contribute to this dynamic field. Guided by expert faculty and mentors, they explore the tech behind regenerative medicine applications like fabrication and bioprinting.

The program equips students with data analysis skills, tech-driven experiment capabilities, and a deeper understanding of the relationship between technology and healthcare in regenerative medicine. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for STEM while providing insights into the transformative potential of tech in healthcare.

Location: In-person on the UNH Durham campus

Cost: Tuition is $700 per week for day students and $1,350 per week for residential students

Program Dates: July, exact dates to be announced

Application Deadline: TBA

Eligibility: Middle or high school students

Image Source - UC Berkeley Logo