11 Online STEM Programs for High School Students
Enrolling in a STEM program isn't just about additional work—it's about unlocking a realm of opportunities and setting yourself apart. These programs, often led by experts from prestigious institutions, offer a chance to delve deeper into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By investing your time, you not only expand your knowledge but also develop crucial skills that set you on a path towards success.
The extra effort you put in now could be the catalyst for future breakthroughs, opening doors to many high level institutions, and paving the way for your journey if you pursue a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field. Adding a STEM program to your university applications will set you apart from your peers as a hardworking and intrinsically motivated individual. By putting in this extra work now, you will save yourself from a future of what-ifs!
In this blog, we cover 10 awesome online STEM programs for high school students in 2024.
1. Veritas AI - AI Fellowship
Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students who are passionate about the field of AI a suitable environment to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship. These programs are designed and run by Harvard graduate students and alumni and you can expect a great, fulfilling educational experience. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI scholars program before pursuing the fellowship.
The AI Fellowship program will have students pursue their own independent AI research project. Students work on their own individual research projects over a period of 12-15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. In the past, students have worked on research papers in the field of AI & medicine, AI & finance, AI & environmental science, AI & education, and more! You can find examples of previous projects here.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit past experience with AI concepts or Python.
Cost:
$1,790 for the 10-week AI Scholars program
$4,900 for the 12-15 week AI Fellowship
$4,700 for both
Need-based financial aid is available. You can apply here.
Registration and Program dates: On a rolling basis.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more! It is one of the very few research programs for high school students that offers a choice between quantitative and qualitative research!
Once you select a particular subject track and type of research you’ll be paired with a professor or Ph.D. scholar (from a top university) who will mentor you throughout your research journey. You’ll work to create a 20-page, university-level research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student.
This program is a solid opportunity for you to pursue a research program in highly specialized fields, under the guidance of a top scholar. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student, as well as detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects and on college applications. Apply here!
Location: Virtual
Application Date: May 21, 2024 for the summer cohort, and September 25, 2024 for the fall cohort
Program Dates:
Summer seminar - June 24, 2024 - September 2, 2024
Fall seminar - October 23, 2024 - February 19, 2025
Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance.
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
This program is tailored for high school students like you who want to delve further into a subject that captures your interest, be it genome engineering, biology, or physiology. You'll have access to dynamic video lessons presented by esteemed Rice faculty and the opportunity to connect with mentors. The courses are accessible throughout the year, and the online format allows you to study wherever and whenever you choose, all at your own pace. After successfully finishing a capstone project, you'll also receive a Certificate of Completion from Rice University.
Perhaps the most unique feature of Rice’s Pre-College Program is the Capstone Project. All of the online courses offered culminate in this special way to help you demonstrate all you’ve learned in a presentation. You will be able to utilize this project on resumes and applications for years to come; broadcasting your knowledge and presentation skills.
Eligibility: For students ages 13 and up.
Cost: Up to $1495.
Registration & program dates: Both applications and program dates are variable depending on which course you are applying to.
For independent learners, Carnegie Mellon’s Open Learning Initiative (OLI) courses offer a variety of STEM opportunities, ranging from Computer Science and Programming to Life Sciences, to Mathematics and Logic. Each course incorporates interactive activities, assessments, and multimedia resources crafted to enhance your understanding. With the freedom to study at your own pace, the OLI Independent Learner Courses empower you to explore intricate subjects, supported by engaging materials and assessments. If you're seeking a high-quality, flexible online education experience, these courses would be an excellent option for you. This option is also a more financially viable option, as you will pay per each course you take- with some being as cheap as $10.
Eligibility: High school students
Cost: Maintenance fee varies, but most cost $25 per student. They range from $10 to $80.
Registration & program dates: Both applications and program dates are variable depending on which course you are applying to.
Interested in exploring space colonization, crime scene investigation, AP® Calculus, web design, essay writing, and more? Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth’s (CTY) expert-led online courses will empower you to go beyond your school curriculum and delve into subjects you're passionate about. With two online course formats: Session-Based and Individually Paced, you can tailor your learning experience to match your schedule and goals.
Session-based courses provide the structure of assignment deadlines, along with the flexibility to do your coursework independently. Select courses also have set meeting times. You and your classmates may interact via discussion forums and virtual meetings. Individually placed courses give you the flexibility to create your unique learning schedule while adhering to course guidelines. You can choose to progress independently at an accelerated speed or take breaks when necessary. Your instructor will also offer guidance on the recommended pace, provide personalized feedback on your assignments, and conduct virtual meetings as necessary to assist you in mastering challenging concepts.
Eligibility: High school students.
Cost: Individually Paced courses range from $955-$1,555 and Session-Based courses range from $695-$2,130.
Registration & program dates: Session-Based courses: Apply by January 9 to start January 22, 2024. Individually Paced courses: Apply anytime and get started in 2 weeks.
6. EdX
EdX offers you a dynamic online learning platform where you can access a wide range of courses from top universities and institutions worldwide. With EdX, you have the opportunity to enhance your skills, explore new subjects, and advance your education at your own pace. Engage with expert instructors through video lectures, interactive quizzes, and collaborative forums. Whether you're pursuing personal or professional development, EdX provides a flexible and accessible learning experience tailored to your needs.
Available to all ages, EdX is a truly unique program that works with some of the top universities in the world to expose learners to new horizons. Here, you could take a STEM course from Harvard, MIT, UC Berkeley, and more.
Eligibility: The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the course and the institution offering it.
Cost: Varies depending which course you take.
Registration & program dates: Both vary on which course you decide to take.
7. Code Wizards
Unlock the power of coding across all STEM disciplines with Code Wizards HQ. Code Wizards is an online program consisting of enjoyable and interactive coding courses crafted to be thorough, stimulating, and enjoyable. As a member, you will explore Python, Java, HTML/CSS, and JavaScript through their tailored online STEM classes. They also offer 12 week-long classes with weekly sessions, homework help, course certification, and access to a proprietary coding platform. You may enroll any time before the beginning of a course, and may enroll in more than one course at a time. See here for more.
Eligibility: 8-18 years old.
Cost: $447 per course.
Registration & program dates: Registration depends on which course you decide to enroll in. Program dates also vary depending on which course you choose.
Led by Stanford Educators and industry experts, Digital Media Academy’s world-class STEAM programs have been empowering schools, educators, and students globally since 1999. At Digital Media Academy, their focus is on practical technology courses that explore the intersection of technology with various disciplines. Whether it's the integration of math in visual art, or understanding how coding plays a role in game design, these courses aim to unleash your creativity and demonstrate the profound connections between the realms of media and STEM.
This program would be a great option for those interested in multiple academic disciplines. Here, you would be able to combine your love for STEM with another hobby and potentially find a new educational path to pursue.
Eligibility: K-12th grade.
Cost: Self-paced student courses are available for $100/course.
Registration & program dates: Applications and dates are on a case-by-case basis.
9. Snapology
Snapology offers engaging STEM programs for children and teens alike, incorporating technology and beloved building toys like LEGO bricks and K’Nex. As a student, you have the option to select from a diverse range of classes encompassing subjects such as astronomy, robotics, animation, video game design, and beyond. Their educational approach emphasizes learning through interactive activities, and while Snapology provides after-school workshops and summer camps, they also offer online programs, along with opportunities to join competitive teams and access specialized programs for those with special needs.
What is notable about this program is that it would be especially beneficial for those with special needs. Snapology provides opportunities to build social skills while enjoying and learning about STEM topics.
Eligibility: 3rd-12th Grade.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the class.
Registration & program dates: qq
10. LaunchX
LaunchX is an innovative and dynamic organization at the forefront of empowering young entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into successful startups. Founded with the mission of fostering a new generation of leaders in technology and business, LaunchX provides immersive and virtual experiences for high school students.
The Online Entrepreneurship Summer Program is a rigorous 5-week program designed to help you, along with your peers, start, solve, and ship your product in just 5 weeks. You’ll join high school students from around the world who are passionate about entrepreneurship and be paired with other Launchies who complement your skill set and ultimately set your team up for success.
Eligibility: High school students.
Cost: $6,500.
Registration & program dates: Early Applications are due Jan 7, 2024, and the program takes place June 17-July 19 2024.
11. Girls Who Code
Girls Who Code’s goal is to empower women to overcome barriers in the male-dominated tech industry by providing an inclusive and supportive environment. As a member, you will develop your coding and computer science skills through interactive workshops, coding projects, and exposure to female leaders in technology. You will also gain a solid foundation in programming languages (like Python and Java) and computational thinking. Beyond coding, they foster confidence and leadership by nurturing a sense of belonging for women in the tech world. By bridging the gender gap and building a community of like-minded young women, Girls Who Code is a program that is paving the way for young students interested in computer science to become the next generation of female technologists and innovators.
Eligibility: Ages 13-18.
Cost: Free.
Registration dates: You may register any time.
Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you want to conduct rigorous research in STEM as a high schooler, you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students, founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Mandy Brenner is a current junior at Harvard University. She is concentrating in History and Literature and loves to read and write in her free time.
Image Source: Veritas AI logo
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