13 Summer Programs in Nevada for High School Students
Looking to embark on an enriching summer adventure in Nevada? Look no further! Nevada offers an array of summer programs that will ignite your curiosity, broaden your horizons, and unlock new possibilities.
Whether you dream of unraveling the mysteries of science, honing your creative talents, or delving into the complexities of law and politics, the Silver State has something for everyone. Take a look at these 13 summer programs in Nevada for high school students designed to cater to a diverse range of subjects and interests.
Note: Please keep in mind the following information is for 2023, though dates tend to be similar year on year.
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15
Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Eligibility:
You must be currently enrolled in high school
Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note. students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
Program Dates: The summer cohort runs from June to August, the Fall cohort from September to December, the Winter cohort from December to February, Spring from March to June
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students, across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler.
The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
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.
Location: Virtual
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.
Application deadline: On a rolling basis. Applications for fall cohort have closed September 3, 2023.
Program dates: Various according to the cohort
Program selectivity: Moderately selective
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.
Application Requirements: Online application form, answers to a few questions pertaining to the students background & coding experience, math courses, and areas of interest.
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.
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!
Application deadline: Registrations open in February, and close when seats are full.
Eligibility: Different subject-specific camps have different age-wise eligibility criteria.
Program dates: There are four different 4-day camps that take place in June.
Location: University of Nevada, Reno
Fee: $380-$480
Financial Assistance: Some financial aid is available.
These four-day summer camps are immersive, and offer hands-on experiences to students passionate about engineering. They provide a unique opportunity to explore various engineering disciplines, including computer science and mechanical engineering. Through engaging workshops, interactive projects, and laboratory sessions, you will work on your practical skills and insights into real-world engineering applications, guided by expert faculty and industry professionals.
Application deadline: June 7, 2023
Eligibility: High school juniors from Washoe, Douglas, Carson City, Lyon, and Storey counties are eligible to apply, and will be selected based on recommendations from a teacher or administrator. An ability to be admitted to the University of Nevada, Reno is required. The camp has only 12 seats available.
Program dates: June 20, 2023 - June 30, 2023
Location: University of Nevada, Reno
Fee: Free
This camp, hosted in collaboration with the SmallWood foundation and the University of Nevada, is a dynamic program designed for students interested in multimedia and digital arts. It will cover a wide range of subjects, including graphic design, video production, photography, and web development. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, creative projects, and mentorship from industry professionals, you will learn valuable skills in multimedia creation and storytelling. The camp will encourage you to explore your creativity and push the boundaries of your artistic abilities. By the end of the program, you will have the foundational knowledge to pursue your passion in the multimedia industry.
Application deadline: Applications are currently open. No other information is available.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
Program dates: June 10, 2023 - July 8, 2023. Five 5-hour sessions every Saturday during this period.
Location: Ty’s Place a Safe Space for Teens, 205 W, Centennial Pkwy, North Las Vegas, Nevada.
Fee: Free
This program offers a transformative experience focused on civic engagement, leadership, and community activism. Through interactive workshops, discussions, and experiential learning activities, you will explore various subjects such as civic responsibility, social justice, community organizing, and public policy. You will learn essential leadership skills, including effective communication, collaboration, and advocacy. The program empowers students to make a positive impact in their communities and become active agents of change.
Application deadline: No information is available.
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
Program dates: Two to four-week program held in the summer. Since this is a federally-funded program, dates differ for various host universities. You can write to mp@unlv.edu for more information on the program in Nevada.
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Fee: Free
This is an engaging and educational program offered by the Department of Education. NSTI aims to introduce you to the exciting world of STEM and transportation. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on activities, you will explore various aspects of transportation, including engineering, logistics, planning, and policy. You will gain valuable knowledge and skills related to transportation systems, technology, and sustainability. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for site visits, guest speakers, and team projects that will encourage you to apply your learning in real-world scenarios.
Application deadline: Registrations open on January 1, 2023 and close when spots are full.
Eligibility: High school students, including graduating seniors, are eligible to apply for this program.
Program dates: Three sessions in 2023 (July 10-14 | July 17-21 | July 24-28)
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Fee: $550
Financial Assistance: Need-based scholarships are available.
If you’re interested in exploring the field of nursing, this program is for you. It is a hands-on experience that provides a comprehensive understanding of the nursing profession and its various specialties. Through interactive workshops, simulations, and clinical observations, you will build your practical knowledge in areas such as patient care, medical procedures, and healthcare ethics. The program also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication in the nursing profession.
Application deadline: June 1, 2023. There is a waitlist when seats are full.
Eligibility: Students entering grades 7-12 are eligible.
Program dates: July 2, 2023 - July 8, 2023
Location: University of Nevada, Reno
Fee: $585
Financial Assistance: Scholarships are available. Deadline to apply for the same is March 1, 2023.
This residential camp is designed for students passionate about music. It offers a unique opportunity for young musicians to enhance their musical skills and immerse themselves in a vibrant musical community. Through a combination of masterclasses, rehearsals, private lessons, and performances, you will receive comprehensive training in your chosen instrument or vocal discipline. The camp covers a wide range of musical subjects, including music theory, ensemble playing, solo performance, and music appreciation.
Application deadline: June 2, 2023 | May 31, 2023
Eligibility: Students entering their senior year are eligible to apply. Students who identify as female can apply to the Nevada Girls State, and those who identify as male can apply to the Nevada Boys State.
Program dates: June 11, 2023 - June 17, 2023 | June 18, 2023 - June 24, 2023
Location: University of Nevada, Reno
Fee: $290 | $60
Financial Assistance: Some aid is available,
This is a prestigious summer program that empowers young students to become engaged and informed citizens. Hosted annually, this leadership and government simulation program offers an immersive experience for you to learn about the democratic process and develop your leadership skills. You will engage in a range of activities, including mock legislative sessions, campaign simulations, and leadership workshops. Through hands-on experiences, you will gain a deep understanding of government, public policy, and civic engagement.
11. Engaging Girls in Ubiquitous Intelligence and Computing (GUIC) at University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Application deadline: March 6, 2023
Eligibility: Female students entering grades 7-12 can apply.
Program dates: May 19, 2023 - June 24, 2023
Location: University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Fee: Free
This is a unique and empowering summer program designed to foster interest and skills in the fields of ubiquitous intelligence and computing. You will engage with subjects such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and data analysis. Through hands-on activities, workshops, and mentorship, you will gain practical experience in these cutting-edge fields and develop a deep understanding of their applications in various industries. GUIC empowers students to pursue careers in STEM and equips them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the digital age.
Application deadline: Applications open in winter and close when seats are full.
Eligibility: Students aged 13 to 16 are eligible to apply. Students must submit a SAT or ACT score report when applying.
Program dates: July 8, 2023 - July 29, 2023
Location: University of Nevada, Reno
Fee: $4350
Financial Assistance: Need-based aid is available.
This is a prestigious program designed for high-achieving students seeking intellectual stimulation and academic challenge. It’s an intensive residential program, open to younger high school students, that offers a wide range of subjects across various disciplines, including STEM, humanities, and social sciences. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on projects, and engaging discussions, you will delve into advanced topics and expand your knowledge in your chosen field. The program adopts a seminar-style teaching approach, encouraging critical thinking, independent research, and collaboration among participants. Expert instructors and mentors provide guidance, fostering intellectual curiosity and scholarly inquiry.
Application deadline: June 15, 2023
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors are eligible.
Program dates: Three sessions in 2023 (June 18-23 | June 25-30 | July 9-14)
Location: Grizzly Creek Ranch Ropes Course, California
Fee: Free
This program is designed to cultivate leadership skills through a series of workshops, team-building activities, and inspirational sessions. At RYLA, you will develop essential leadership qualities such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. The program covers a wide range of subjects, including leadership theory, ethical decision-making, community engagement, and personal development. Expert facilitators and mentors guide students through experiential learning exercises, encouraging self-reflection and growth.
Note that while the program does not take place in Nevada, it is open to high school students from Nevada.
Another program worth considering is the DRI Research Immersion Internship 2023, which takes place in the fall.
One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you are passionate about research and would like to do it from the comfort of your home, you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students I founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 2100 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Image Source: University of Nevada, Reno logo