Middle school is an exciting time to explore your interests, especially in fields like science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). New York offers a wide array of STEM programs, from coding to robotics, that allow students to discover what resonates with you early on. These programs lay the foundation for future passions and career paths, helping them develop essential skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. They also provide opportunities to dive deeper into subjects that fascinate you or spark curiosity.

In this blog, we’ll explore eight STEM programs for middle school students. Some are based in New York, while others are available online, offering flexibility and options to suit interests and schedule.

1. NYU - Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)

The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) program at NYU is a four-week, free summer residential program for middle school students in New York City aged 12 to 14. Hosted at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, the program focuses on engineering, computer science, and technology, with an emphasis on creating smarter, more sustainable cities. Throughout the program, students work directly with electronics, coding, and sensors, learning how these technologies can solve real-world problems like improving city efficiency and sustainability. By the end of the program, participants present their projects, showcasing how their work addresses urban challenges. In addition to technical skills, students develop communication abilities through improv-based workshops, enhancing public speaking and teamwork.

Field: Engineering, Computer Science, Technology.

Cost: Free!

Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY.

Application deadline: Applications typically close in April. 

Program dates: July 8 - August 2 for the Summer 2024 program. Dates for the 2025 program are yet to be announced.

Eligibility: Middle school students between ages 12 to 14, and who are NYC residents, are eligible to apply. 

2. Veritas AI

Veritas AI offers multiple programs for middle school students eager to explore artificial intelligence and machine learning. Designed by Harvard graduates, these programs provide a hands-on introduction to AI concepts, allowing students to work on real-world projects. The AI Trailblazers Bootcamp is ideal for beginners and covers Python programming, machine learning, and AI fundamentals. Students collaborate on projects in areas such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous technology, building both technical and problem-solving skills. For those with prior experience, the AI Junior Fellowship offers a more advanced, 12-week mentorship program. Here, students develop their own AI projects or research papers under the guidance of mentors from top universities. Check the program brochure here.

Field: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science.

Cost: The cost varies by course, with some need-based financial aid available.

• AI Trailblazers: $1,990.

• AI Junior Fellowship: $3,900.

Location: Virtual.

Application deadline: Application deadline varies depending on the cohort.

Program dates: The program has multiple cohorts throughout the year.

Eligibility: All middle school students are eligible to apply.

3. NYU - Math Program for Young Minds

The Math Program for Young Minds at NYU is an online course designed for middle school students in grades 7 and 8 with a strong interest in mathematics. This nine-week program immerses students in advanced mathematical concepts, helping them develop critical problem-solving and abstract reasoning skills. The curriculum covers college-level topics such as Introduction to Number Theory and Introduction to Topology and Geometry. Interactive online classes, weekly meetings with faculty, and collaborative group work ensure a comprehensive learning experience. This program is particularly geared towards academically strong students from underserved communities who are ready to tackle challenging material.

Field: Mathematics.

Cost: The cost of the program is $700.

Location: Virtual.

Application deadline: There is currently no information available on the application deadline. Check here for regular updates.

Program dates: The 2025 program dates will be announced soon. Check here for regular updates.

Eligibility: Middle school students currently enrolled in the 7th or 8th grade with a strong interest in mathematics are eligible to apply.

4. NYU - The Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)

NYU’s Science and Technology Entry Program provides an advanced pre-college experience for middle and high school students from New York State. Aimed at students who excel in math, science, and english, the program offers rigorous coursework, research experience, and preparation for future STEM careers. STEP includes core subject instruction, Regents exam preparation, enrichment classes, and hands-on research projects. Additional activities such as mentorship and career development sessions help students explore STEM careers while enhancing their competitiveness for college admissions.

Field: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics.

Cost: The cost of the program is $200.

Location: NYU Washington Square Campus, New York, NY.

Application deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Click here to apply for the Fall 2024/Spring 2025 STEP application.

Program dates: The STEP Program will be held on Saturdays, from October 19, 2024 to May 3, 2025.

Eligibility: New York State residents in grades 7-12 with an average of 80 in Math, Science, and English and who meet state-determined economic criteria are eligible to apply.

5. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an eight-week opportunity for middle school students to work one-on-one with mentors from prestigious universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. During the first four weeks, students explore four topics within their chosen field. In weeks five and six, they focus on one specific area, culminating in a final two weeks dedicated to project development. With guidance from mentors, students bring their ideas to life and gain invaluable academic insights. Click here to apply. 

Field: Mathematics, AI & Data Science, Physics & Astrophysics, Computer Science, Engineering, and Biology, Medicine & Public Health.

Cost: The cost of the program is $2400, with some need-based financial aid available.

Location: Virtual.

Application deadline: Applications typically close in February for the spring cohort and May for the summer cohort.

Program dates: The program typically starts in March for the spring cohort 2024 and June for the summer cohort.

Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply. 

6. Immerse Education Summer Programs

Immerse Education offers summer programs for middle school students, wherein participants can choose between residential programs hosted at top universities worldwide, including New York, or opt for online courses that provide similar academic rigor. Led by tutors from Oxford and Cambridge, the curriculum blends academic challenges with engaging activities. Residential programs offer enriching cultural activities, sightseeing excursions, and social events, creating a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Field: Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Engineering, Physics, Medicine, and Mathematics.

Cost: The cost ranges from $500 to $1,499, depending on the program and location.

Location: Some programs are available in New York, with some virtual options also available.

Application deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Program dates: The program typically runs for one to two weeks, with sessions starting in January, April, June, July, and December.

Eligibility: Middle school students aged 13 years are eligible to apply.

7. Camp Integem

Camp Integem summer programs cater to middle school students and are available online or as day camps. The AR Coding & STEM Camps allow students to code Holographic AR applications and explore virtual environments, while the AR & Robotics Engineering program teaches students to create intelligent applications and robots. Participants in the digital art and 3D design tracks interact with digital media, and students can even earn NVIDIA AI Certificates or the U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Award through the Tech Leadership track.

Field: AI, Robotics, Holographic Augmented Reality, Coding, Game Design, Art, and Animation.

Cost: The cost varies depending on the program.

Location: Virtual.

Application deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Program dates: The program is available throughout the year.

Eligibility: Middle school students aged 12 and older are eligible to apply.

8. CodeWizardsHQ - Summer Coding Classes

CodeWizardsHQ offers a three-week accelerated summer coding class designed for middle school students. In just three weeks, students cover essential programming skills in Python, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS, equivalent to a full year of learning. Classes are conducted online, and no prior coding experience is necessary. Along with live instruction, students receive a certificate of completion, access to class recordings, and downloadable materials, along with instructor support throughout the course.

Field: STEM, Computer Science, Coding.

Cost: The cost of the program is $447 per course.

Location: Virtual.

Application deadline: There is currently no information available on the application deadline. Check here for regular updates.

Program dates: The program has multiple sessions that typically run through June, July and August. 

Eligibility: Middle school students aged 11 and older are eligible to apply.

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