If you’ve wanted to learn more about computer science, you should consider joining a program as part of your extracurricular activities. Today, engaging in CS is not only accessible, but can be affordable.

In this blog, we list some great free options to choose from! In the modern digital age, forming a fundamental understanding of computer science will be crucial for academic success – so definitely consider checking out the programs below!

1. Veritas AI - AI Trailblazers

Location: Online

Program Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (weekends)

Application Deadline: August 14, 2024 (fall cohort)

Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6-8)

Veritas AI's AI Trailblazers program introduces middle school students to the exciting world of artificial intelligence. With the current discourse surrounding ChatGPT and other natural language models, this program is incredibly cutting-edge, helping students build fundamentals in this field early.

With 100% financial aid available, this program ensures accessibility for all interested students. The curriculum includes understanding AI fundamentals, machine learning, and data science. Students participate in hands-on projects, such as building simple AI models and exploring real-world AI applications. The program's collaborative environment encourages teamwork and creativity, with a final showcase where students present their AI projects.

2. NYU Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)

Location: Online

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

Application Deadline: April (tentatively, based on previous years)

Eligibility: NYC residents who are age 12 by the start of the program but not older than 14 on the day program begins

The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) program by NYU Tandon School of Engineering offers middle school students an immersive experience in the technologies and concepts that shape modern urban environments. 

Structured as a series of interactive workshops, SoSC covers topics such as energy, urban infrastructure, transportation, and the Internet of Things. Students engage in hands-on projects, working collaboratively to design and prototype smart city solutions. By the end of the program, participants present their innovative projects, demonstrating their understanding of how smart technologies can create more efficient and sustainable cities.

3. Harvard University CS50: Introduction to Computer Science

Location: Online

Program Dates: Self-paced

Application Deadline: Available year-round

Eligibility: Anyone!

Harvard's famous CS50 course, "Introduction to Computer Science," is a comprehensive and accessible program designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of computer science. The course covers a wide range of topics, including algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and web development. Structured with engaging lectures, hands-on lab sessions, and challenging problem sets, CS50 fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will work on a final project where they develop their own software application based on what they learned from the course. 

Open to all skill levels, CS50 provides a robust foundation in computer science, empowering students to pursue further studies and careers in technology – for completely free! However, while auditing the course comes at no cost, obtaining a verified certificate is priced $219.

4. Worcester Polytechnic Institute Girls Who Code

Location: Online

Program Dates: January 23 - February 27, 2024

Application Deadline: TBA

Eligibility: 7th - 11th grade students identifying as female or non-binary

Worcester Polytechnic Institute's Girls Who Code program offers young girls an empowering introduction to computer science and coding. Structured as a series of after-school workshops, the program covers fundamental programming concepts and applications in a supportive and collaborative environment. Participants engage in hands-on coding activities, develop problem-solving skills, and work on projects that address real-world issues. The curriculum includes building websites, creating apps, and developing games. By the end of the program, students showcase their projects, demonstrating their newfound skills and creativity. 

The program is divided into two cohorts: Beginner and Advanced. Therefore, even if you have prior coding experience, you’ll have opportunities to learn and connect with your peers in this program.  

5. Stanford University Computer Science 101

Location: Online

Program Dates: Self-paced

Application Deadline: Available year-round

Eligibility: Anyone!

From the school that fostered the minds of the founders who created Apple, Google, and countless tech companies, Stanford offers its CS101 course, "Computer Science 101," offers an introductory exploration of the essential concepts and principles of computer science. The course is designed for beginners and covers topics such as hardware, software, the internet, and basic programming using JavaScript. 

Through engaging video lectures, interactive exercises, and practical assignments, students learn to write simple programs and understand how computers and networks operate. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to apply concepts through coding and problem-solving activities. By the end of the course, students gain a foundational understanding of computer science, preparing them for more advanced studies or personal projects in technology. Similar to Harvard’s CS50, auditing the course is available, although a certificate costs $199. 

Our Thoughts

Participating in computer science programs during middle school can have a transformative impact on your academic career, sparking your interest in technology and enhancing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These programs provide valuable hands-on experiences and introduce foundational concepts that are crucial in today’s digital world. By engaging in these opportunities, you’ll gain confidence and be better prepared for future pursuits in the field of technology.

Bonus - Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a 1-on-1 research program designed particularly for middle school students, and offers need-based aid to families who qualify. Through the program, students will get a chance to work with PhD mentors from top universities like Harvard, Yale, MIT, and more to write research papers in their field of interest. You can pick from a wide range of subjects and topics including engineering, business, psychology, and social science. This is a great opportunity for students interested in interdisciplinary research and want to gain in depth knowledge of a subject. 

Image Source - Veritas AI Logo