8 Computer Science Research Programs for Middle School Students
In today’s digital world, early exposure to computer science can open up exciting opportunities for middle school students. Research programs in coding, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity provide a structured way for young learners to develop technical skills while enhancing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Whether your interests are in AI, game development, or ethical hacking, these programs provide a unique opportunity to engage in real-world applications of computer science. Even if you're just curious about technology, these programs establish a solid foundation for further learning and exploration.
Below are 8 computer science research programs for middle school students!
1. Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly Selective
Cost: Free
Dates: July 7 – August 1
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: New York City residents aged 12–14
The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering introduces middle school students to engineering, computer science, and technology concepts designed to create sustainable and efficient urban environments. Over four weeks, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects — learning about electronics, circuitry, coding, microcontrollers, sensors, and other hardware components.
Working in teams, you design solutions to real-world challenges, working towards a final presentation about your research projects. This immersive experience not only enhances technical skills but also fosters collaboration and problem-solving abilities. The program is offered at no cost to participants, making it accessible to eligible New York City youth.
2. The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly Selective
Cost: $2,400; financial aid available
Dates: 8-week sessions throughout the year
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines based on seasonal cohorts; for example, the summer cohort’s priority application deadline is March 9.
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6–8)
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program offers middle school students the opportunity to work one-on-one with Ph.D. mentors from top universities. Over the course of eight weeks, you can delve into computer science topics, engaging in individual research projects that help you explore your interests. This mentorship fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, providing a strong foundation for future academic endeavors.
This is a good option for students worldwide as the program is fully virtual and provides you with personalized expert guidance. By the end of the course, you get to produce a research report or presentation, showcasing your newfound knowledge and skills. To know more about the program, check out their brochure.
3. Stanford University Computer Science 101
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment
Cost: Free to audit; $249 for certification
Dates: Self-paced
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment
Eligibility: Open to all students with basic computer literacy
Stanford University's “Computer Science 101” is a self-paced online course designed for beginners with no prior experience in computer science. The course covers fundamental topics of computer science, such as the mechanics of computer hardware, software, necessary jargon, the internet, computer security, and basic programming concepts.
The curriculum aims to simplify computers and coding, making it accessible to anyone comfortable using a web browser. Upon completion, you will have a foundational understanding of how computers work and the basics of writing code. However, if you already know the basics of computer science, this program would not be as beneficial for you.
4. The Veritas AI Trailblazers Program
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly Selective; cohort size varies
Cost:
Dates: 25 hours over 10 sessions
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines based on seasonal cohorts; for example, the summer cohort’s early deadline is March 23.
Eligibility: Middle school students (grades 6–8)
The Veritas AI Trailblazers Program is a computer science program designed to introduce middle school students to the fundamentals of Python, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. This virtual program engages you in hands-on projects and explores topics such as data analysis, regression, image classification, neural networks, and AI ethics over 10 sessions.
One key feature of the program is the personalized guidance it offers throughout the learning process, with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio. By the end of the course, you will have collaborated on group projects, applying your acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios. This experience not only builds technical skills but also fosters teamwork and critical thinking. Find more details about the program here.
5. Harvard University CS50: Introduction to Computer Science
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment
Cost: Free to audit; $219 for a verified certificate
Dates: Self-paced; approximately 11 weeks long
Application Deadline: Rolling enrollment
Eligibility: Open to all students, including middle schoolers with an interest in computer science
Harvard University’s computer science program, CS50: Introduction to Computer Science, is an online entry-level course that introduces students to the basic principles of computer science and programming. It aims to teach students how to think algorithmically and solve problems efficiently, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in coding, data structures, and software engineering.
It covers topics such as algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and web development. You will also gain proficiency in multiple programming languages, including C, Python, SQL, JavaScript, and HTML and CSS. The curriculum includes problem sets inspired by real-world fields like biology, cryptography, finance, forensics, and gaming, providing practical application of theoretical concepts.
6. The Lawrence at U.C. Berkeley - Summer Teen Research Programs
Location: U.C. Berkeley Campus, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly Selective
Cost: Tuition: $1,465; Optional Residential Add-on: $1,255
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in May.
Dates: Four sessions spanning from June 23 – July 25
Eligibility: Rising 7th–9th graders can apply.
This one-week program is designed to encourage a passion for science and engineering through immersive, hands-on experiences and campus tours. You will participate in lab sessions, network with students and teachers, and investigate other STEM career pathways. These activities offer a dynamic learning environment for honing technical abilities.
If you are interested in computer science, the "Coding and Engineering Nano-Satellites for Space Exploration" could be a great learning experience. You get to learn block-based coding to tackle real-world engineering challenges while building and programming your own model satellites for deep space exploration. The program includes daily design challenges, lab tours, and guest lectures from STEM professionals.
7. CEISMC Summer P.E.A.K.S at Georgia Tech
Location: Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Cost: $400 to $650 per participant; needs-based scholarships of up to 75% are available.
Application Deadline: The deadline varies depending on the program.
Dates: June 2 – July 25, 2025 (weekly sessions)
Eligibility: Rising 6th–8th graders can apply.
The CEISMC Summer P.E.A.K.S. (Programs for Enrichment and Accelerated Knowledge in STEAM) at Georgia Tech offers immersive, hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) for middle school students. These one- to two-week summer programs provide you with an opportunity to engage in interactive, project-based activities, explore cutting-edge technologies, and develop critical problem-solving skills in a collaborative learning environment.
Each week, students can choose from various STEAM-focused programs, such as AI and robotics, game development, engineering design, drone programming, and smart home innovation. Instructors include Georgia Tech faculty, graduate students, and industry professionals, ensuring participants receive high-quality mentorship and exposure to real-world applications of STEAM concepts. For more information, see our comprehensive assessment of the CEISMC Summer P.E.A.K.S. here.
8. Sally Ride Science Academy Summer Program @ UC San Diego
Location: University of California, San Diego, CA; some programs are offered virtually.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Cost: $175–$320 per workshop (Varies by course; pre/post-care available for $50 per session)
Application Deadline: May 31
Dates: July 7 – July 25
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8
The Sally Ride Science Academy at UC San Diego offers engaging summer workshops for middle school students to explore STEAM fields through practical projects, mentorship, and real-world applications. Designed for rising 6th–8th graders, the program allows you to take on roles such as engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and inventors as they dive into interactive sessions led by expert instructors.
Students can choose from a variety of workshops. If you’re passionate about engineering and design, the CAD & 3D Printing workshop will teach you to bring your ideas to life using computer-aided design software and prototyping techniques. Future tech enthusiasts can dive into the Raspberry Pi course, where they’ll use Python to build a variety of real-world applications. Classes are available in both in-person and live online formats, with morning and afternoon sessions to accommodate different schedules. Check out the details of the workshops offered here.
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