If you are a middle school student looking to spend a productive summer, attending a science summer camp can be a rewarding experience.  Through fun experiments and interactive projects, you'll gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts in a creative learning environment and get to collaborate with peers on team challenges that will help you build valuable skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. 

You will also get to explore diverse fields from engineering to biology by trying new things outdoors and meeting real science professionals. These camps will help you explore concepts beyond your school curriculum and discover potential career paths in STEM. Moreover, gaining early practical experience in middle school can boost your profile for future endeavors.

Here’s our curated list of 15 science summer camps tailored for middle school students! 

1. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an 8-week program for middle school students to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore their academic interests and build a project they are passionate about. Our mentors are scholars from top research universities, such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Yale, Duke, and LSE. 

During this program, spanning weeks 1 to 4, participants will delve into four distinct topics within their selected track. In weeks 5 to 6, the focus intensifies as participants embark on a deep dive into one specific topic area, and finally, weeks 7 to 8 are dedicated to project implementation, with participants receiving guidance and support from their mentors as they bring their projects to life.

You can find the application form here. 

Location: Virtual

Cost: $1990 (Financial Aid is available)

Dates: The Summer 2024 cohort starts on June 3 and runs for 8 weeks.

Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year. The upcoming summer cohort deadline is May 12, 2024. 

Eligibility: Students in grades 6 - 8 can apply.

2. Veritas AI

Veritas AI stands 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 12 weeks, 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. 

For more detailed information about these programs, you can check out the program brochure.

Location: Virtual

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

Dates: The AI Trailblazers runs for a total of 25 hours over 10 weekends and the AI Junior Fellowship runs for 12 weeks. Upcoming Summer cohort dates can be found here

Application Deadline: The summer cohort deadline is May 19, 2024.

Eligibility: AI Trailblazer - Grades 6-8 | AI Junior Fellowship - High school and Middle school students

3. UC Berkeley Coding Academy - Data Science to AI

If you are a middle school student who wants to explore how data is used in various fields, from social media trends to environmental changes, the UC Berkeley Coding Academy is a good option for you. With tools like numpy, pandas, matplotlib, seaborn, and sklearn, you'll get hands-on experience analyzing big data and constructing machine learning models, all while mastering the Python code that powers AI. 

You will work on projects, with the program culminating in a presentation, backed by blockchain-authenticated certificates, giving you a tangible link to your achievements. You will also gain lifetime access to an extensive suite of resources, including over 100 4K Data Science videos, Colab Notebooks, slides, and all materials generated for the class. 

Location: Virtual via Zoom

Cost: $2,695. Limited scholarships are available.

Dates: June 17 - 28, 2024 | July 8 - 12, 2024

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

Eligibility: Students aged 12-18 are eligible

4. CEISMC Summer P.E.A.K.S at Georgia Tech

The Center for Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing Expanded Learning Programs provide STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) enrichment and outreach for K-12 students at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The programs curated for middle school students give rising 6th-8th grade students the chance to enhance learning during the summer in experiential activities on campus at Georgia Tech!

The programs span over a week or two and interested students will need to apply for their choice of workshop individually via this website. Programs are taught by a mixture of Georgia Tech faculty/staff, Georgia Tech students, and area science and math teachers. 

Location: Georgia Tech campus at various locations

Cost: $400-$650 per participant. Needs-based scholarships of up to 75% of the cost are available.

Dates: Varies with the choice of the program but most programs take place between June 3 and July 19, 2024.

Application Deadline: Registrations are now open. The deadline varies depending on the project.

Eligibility: Rising 6-8th graders

5. iD Tech Camps at CalTech (California Institute of Technology)

iD Tech collaborates with top universities nationwide to offer coding, game creation, robotics, and design programs for children and teenagers on their campuses. Designed for different age ranges and skill levels, iD Tech's summer tech camps ensure a comprehensive learning environment that goes beyond just screen time. 

With a commitment to small class sizes—no more than 8 students per instructor—the camps delve into STEM topics such as Java, C++, Python, and Scratch programming, mobile app development for both iPhone and Android, Minecraft, game creation, robotics using VEX and LEGO, 3D modeling, filmmaking, photography, and website design. Check out the complete list of camps and their availability here.

The emphasis is on practical, collaborative learning. Participants not only engage with their peers but also experience a taste of college life, building confidence, skills, and connections that last beyond the summer.

Location: California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA

Cost: Starts at $1,379

Dates: All camps run between June 24 and August 16, 2024 (Dates vary for different camps)

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all slots are filled.

Eligibility: Open to all students aged 7-17 years

6. Penn GEMS at the University of Pennsylvania

Penn GEMS at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania is a day camp lasting one week aimed at middle schoolers in 7th, 8th, and 9th grades, concentrating on areas such as bioengineering, nanotechnology, materials science, graphics, and computing. The camp is committed to engaging students in hands-on activities within applied sciences, technology, and engineering.

It's important to note that GEMS is strictly a day camp, requiring participants to be dropped off and picked up from the Penn campus each day. The camp focuses on introducing engineering concepts to students via fields like nanotechnology, materials science, bioengineering, environmental engineering, chemical engineering, robotics, graphics, and computing. Additionally, with faculty from around the world, there is a focus on solving real-world problems through collaboration, teamwork, and enhancing self-belief.

Location: University of Pennsylvania campus, Philadelphia, PA

Cost: $650

Dates: June 24 - June 28, 2024

Application Deadline: March 4, 2024 for this year. Interested students can wait for the application process for the 2025 summer to open

Eligibility: Current 6th to 8th-grade students in the Philadelphia area

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

The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) is a focused three-week course for middle schoolers on using computer science, engineering, and technology to make cities more sustainable and safe. Through interactive activities, participants delve into coding, physical sciences, and urban planning, learning how science and engineering address real-world problems with innovative solutions, including the use of microcontrollers and sensors.

Mentored by NYU School of Engineering students, participants build smart city models incorporating STEM concepts learned. The program ends with student presentations to experts and the public, demonstrating creative solutions to real challenges. SoSC enhances STEM skills and awareness, preparing you for future roles in city planning and technology.

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY

Cost: Free

Dates: July 8 - August 2, 2024

Application Deadline: April 29, 2024

Eligibility: Age 12 by the start of the program but not older than 14 on the day program begins and open to NYC Residents only

8. Intermediate Marine Science Camp Program

Over two weeks, participants will delve into the intricacies of natural history and its interconnectedness with oceanography. They will receive an introduction to fundamental marine concepts and laboratory protocols. Engaging in hands-on activities, students will examine island geology, juxtapose salt marshes and bogs, establish a saltwater tank, and investigate the diversity and zonation patterns within tidal pools. 

A significant number of students who participate in an Intermediate session often choose to return for an Advanced session in subsequent years, particularly after completing at least one year of high school. A sample program lesson can be found here.

Location: Seal Harbor, Maine

Cost: $3,200 for a two-week session.

Dates: June 23 - July 5, 2024 | August 4 - August 16, 2024

Application Deadline: Applications are closed for Summer 2024 and will reopen for Summer 2025 in October 2024.

Eligibility: Students should be between 12-15 years old.

9. MST@MSU

The Mathematics, Science, and Technology (MST@MSU) program at Michigan State University is a one-week commuter or residential summer program for academically inclined middle school students who are currently in grade 7 or 8 during the 2023-2024 school year.

The focus is on mathematics, science, and technology, as well as various research aspects in these areas. The goal is to match the intellectual abilities of talented middle schoolers with rigorous and challenging coursework, as they will have the opportunity to take an advanced STEM curriculum in the form of three classes for one week.

Location: Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI

Cost: $895 (commuter - includes lunches) | $1,995 (residential the week of July 15, 2024) + $75 non-refundable application fee. 

Dates: Session 1: July 8 - July 12, 2024 | Session 2: July 15 - July 19, 2024

Application Deadline: May 10, 2024

Eligibility: Students should be in grades 7 or 8.

10. Summer Discovery Middle School Programs

Summer Discovery stands out as a premier provider of summer academic and experiential travel programs, offering students the chance to embark on exciting adventures, forge enduring friendships, and foster both confidence and a sense of community. 

It provides pre-college summer academic programs designed to offer students a variety of enriching experiences. With a selection of over 50 courses, participants are guaranteed to discover subjects aligned with their interests. Options range from courses like "Building Bots: A Robotics Journey" to "Fantasy Football, By The Numbers" and "Careers in Medicine: An Introduction," among others. Start your application here.  

Note:  Not all courses are available at both campuses, so prospective students should verify course availability before registering.

Location: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. | UCLA, Los Angeles, CA

Cost: $9,149 (Residential) | $4,199 (Commuter) 

Dates: 3-week sessions. June 23 – July 12, 2024 (Residential) | June 24 – July 11, 2024 (Commuter)

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Eligibility: Rising 6-8th graders

11. Oregon State University - Stem Academy

This program aims to foster higher college attendance rates and encourage participation in STEM fields. Interested students can choose from options, which include the Wild About Wildlife Camp, Making Arcade Games Camp, Making with Microcontrollers, Physics Camp, Engineering Camps, ActivityBots Camp, and Flying Robots Camp. 

Certain programs also include field trips and hands-on learning experiences to enrich students' educational journeys. The Physics and Engineering camps run for a single day while other camps run throughout the week from Monday to Friday. 

Location: STEM Academy @ Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR

Cost: Each camp has a different fee ranging from $60 to $320. Needs-based scholarships are available.

Dates: All camps will be conducted between June and August

Application Deadline: Registrations are now open, no deadline announced as of now.

Eligibility: Rising 6-8th graders

12. Sally Ride Science Academy at the University of California San Diego

This program provides interesting workshops spanning various topics, from core STEM areas such as computer science, robotics, engineering, and biology, to other subjects like coding, data science, digital design, environmental science, biotechnology, and psychology. 

Guided by experienced educators and scientists, the interactive sessions aim to foster a broad range of interests, enhance critical thinking abilities, and encourage teamwork through projects. While most classes are held in person, there are also online alternatives available.

You can choose to pursue multiple courses, as long as they do not overlap. Both In-Person and online sessions of three hours apiece are available depending on the choice of your workshop. For instance, if you are interested in pharmaceutical sciences, you can attend the Middle School: A Dose of Pharmacreations, a week-long course in July. 

Location: University of California, San Diego, CA

Cost: Each course’s fees differ, ranging from $175 to $450. Scholarships are available.

Dates: 4-day workshops held between July 8 and August 2, 2024, for different courses. Students can choose more than one course (the dates don’t overlap).

Application Deadline: May 31, 2024 for all courses. 

Eligibility: Open to all middle and high school students

13. SMU Lyle School of Engineering’s Introduction to Engineering Summer Camp

This 5-day residential summer camp, with an intake limited to just 20 students annually, is a rather exclusive program. It offers a comprehensive introduction to various fields of engineering including electrical, mechanical, civil, and environmental engineering, as well as computer science basics. Through a variety of hands-on projects and activities, participants will gain practical experience and theoretical knowledge.

Each project is meticulously crafted by faculty to simulate real-world engineering processes. Prior STEM experience is not required to attend this camp, making it an ideal starting point for middle school students eager to begin their journey into STEM education. If you're enthusiastic about diving into the world of engineering, SMU's Introduction to Engineering Summer Camp provides an excellent opportunity.

Location: SMU Lyle School of Engineering, Dallas, TX

Cost: $600

Dates: Boys Only Camp: June 3 - June 7, 2024 | Girls Only Camp: June 10 - June 14, 2024 | Boys/Girls Camp: June 17 - June 21, 2024

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

Eligibility: Rising 7th and 8th grade students

14. MehtA+ Machine Learning Bootcamp

The MehtA+ Machine Learning Bootcamp offers middle school students a comprehensive introduction to the world of data science. Led by engineers from MIT and Stanford, this virtual 6-week camp provides a university-level experience starting from foundational concepts and progressing to advanced topics in AI, machine learning, and deep learning.

Students gain crucial skills throughout the program, from grasping the mathematical underpinnings of various models to mastering the training of complex AI models from scratch. The camp concludes with collaborative interdisciplinary research projects, where students work in teams to address cutting-edge challenges in fields like medicine, economics, and linguistics. By presenting their research papers and posters at conferences, students get the chance to showcase their work to university professors and potentially publish in research journals.

The curriculum encompasses a wide array of subjects, including Python programming, machine learning libraries, ethical considerations, and research methodologies.

Location: Virtual

Cost: $1,975

Dates: June 17th - July 26th, 2024

Application Deadline: June 5, 2024

Eligibility:  8-12th grade students

15. Tufts University’s AVM Middle School Program

The Adventures in Veterinary Medicine (AVM) Middle School program offered by the prestigious Tufts University is one of its pre-college summer offerings. It is a one-week commuter program, which provides hands-on experience in basic veterinarian functions. Thus this program is suitable for students who aspire to become a veterinarian or want to explore various varied career opportunities. 

In the one week during this program, you will learn about important topics in veterinary medicine through engaging lectures by Tufts faculty, staff, and vet students. At the Cummings School Farm, you will learn proper animal handling techniques and get to perform physical examinations. You will also be expected to work on a group project. You can check out the tentative schedule here. 

Location: Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Grafton, MA 

Cost: $850. A non-refundable Deposit of $400 is required while applying. No provision for housing and transportation

Dates: Multiple sessions are available. The first session takes place between June 24 and June 28, 2024

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

Eligibility: Students who have entered 7th or 8th grade as of this past September are eligible for all middle school sessions.

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