14 Summer Programs for High School Students in Oregon
If you’re a high school student in Oregon looking to make the most of your summer, look no further. Oregon is brimming with summer programs that can ignite your passion, expand your knowledge, and unlock new possibilities while guiding your way to college. Whether you're drawn to the wonders of STEM, or captivated by the arts and humanities, Oregon has a summer program for you. In this article, we have listed a handpicked selection of 15 summer programs in Oregon covering a range of subjects and experiences, ensuring you can build a strong foundation for your further studies.
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.
Application deadline: Registrations open in early spring, and close when seats are full.
Eligibility: To apply, you must be a resident of Oregon enrolled in high school. Further criteria, with regards to family, family income, and education qualifications, can be found on the program page.
Program dates: All subject programs will be a 1-week program (August 7-11 or August 14-18).
Location: University of Oregon (residential and non-residential options)
Fee: Free
The SAIL programs offer an exciting and immersive learning experience that you can consider applying to if you’re looking for an on-campus experience/immersive academic experience available in your state. With a strong focus on subjects across various disciplines, these programs provide an opportunity to explore academic interests and engage in hands-on learning. From STEM subjects like computer science, engineering, and biology, to non-STEM subjects like writing, journalism, and business, there’s a SAIL summer program for you. Through innovative teaching methods, interactive workshops, and collaboration with university faculty and staff, you’ll be working on your knowledge and skills in your chosen subject.
3. Veritas AI - AI Fellowship
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.
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.
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.
Application deadline: December 9
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors and seniors who excel academically and come from socially or economically disadvantaged backgrounds are eligible.
Program dates: June 20 - August 11
Location: OHSU Knight Cancer Research Building, Portland, Oregon
Stipend: $11 per hour and a bus pass for the duration of the internship
This 8-week program can be a great experience for students interested in biomedical research and health-related subjects, and aims to encourage those looking to pursue careers in these fields. It will provide hands-on learning and expose you to cutting-edge research conducted at one of the leading institutes in the country. You will engage in laboratory work and collaborate with renowned scientists and medical professionals. By immersing yourself in a research-intensive environment, you’ll gain valuable skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of medicine-related topics.
Application deadline: Registrations open on February 24.
Eligibility: Students in high school are eligible to apply.
Program dates: Each subject-specific program has different dates, all in June and July.
Location: Oregon State University
Fee: Different programs have different fees, some are free.
Financial Assistance: Need-based scholarships are available.
OSU’s STEM Academy offers programs focused on a range of subjects, from toxicology and food science to cybersecurity and microbiology. With such options, you have the opportunity to explore your interests and dive into projects - head first and hands on. The programs employ a combination of interactive lectures, lab experiments, and team-based challenges to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Led by experienced instructors and industry professionals, the programs offer a supportive learning environment where you can ask questions, receive mentorship, and gain practical skills relevant to your chosen field.
Application deadline: April 15 (Applications open on March 1)
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors who have enrolled in science classes are eligible to apply.
Program dates: July 30 - August 4
Location: Oregon State University (residential)
Fee: $825
Financial Assistance: Scholarships are available.
This is a unique opportunity for students interested in the field of veterinary medicine. Through a combination of classroom lectures, laboratory activities, and field experiences, you will get an insight into various aspects of veterinary science. The program covers subjects such as animal anatomy, physiology, disease diagnosis, and surgical techniques. You will also learn through supervised clinical experiences, which will allow you to apply your knowledge in a practical setting. The teaching style focuses on active learning, encouraging students to ask questions, participate in discussions, and engage in critical thinking.
Application deadline: March 3
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible to apply.
Program dates: 8-week internship from June to late-August.
Location: 110 internship positions across Portland-Metro, Albany, Corvallis and Eugene areas.
Fee: $35 non-refundable application fee.
Stipend: $1100
This internship program is the perfect way for students to learn and earn. Highly competitive, it offers an enriching opportunity for hands-on learning experiences in STEM fields. In this program, you will be paired with mentors – professionals in their respective fields – who will provide you with valuable guidance and support. You will work on real-world projects, conduct experiments, and gain practical skills in subjects including biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and engineering. By participating in this program, you will develop a deeper understanding of scientific and engineering concepts and gain valuable insight into pursuing a potential career in STEM.
Application deadline: Registrations open in the spring, and close when seats are full.
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 can apply.
Program dates: June 25-30
Location: Oregon State University
Fee: $400 for the non-residential program, $850 for residential.
Financial Assistance: Need-based scholarships are available.
This creative program is designed for students passionate about art. It’s an immersive program that covers visual art, fine art, and digital media. You can engage in workshops, and collaborate with experienced faculty, and explore your artistic potential in a supportive and inspiring environment. JumpstART emphasizes a student-centered approach to learning, encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression through interactive classes, studio sessions, and projects. Whether you’re interested in painting or photography, this program will allow you to thrive in your artistic pursuit.
Another art program worth considering is the Summer Camps: Illustrated Storyworld at Portland Art Museum.
Application deadline: Registrations open in spring typically. The virtual program was canceled this year.
Eligibility: Students aged 13-18 can apply.
Program dates: Three sessions are conducted - Virtual (June 26-31), Beginner (July 10-14) and Advanced (July 17-21).
Location:
Fee: $325 for the virtual program, $425 for the beginner program and advanced programs. The beginner program has a residential option, and the fees for that are $850.
Financial Assistance: Some need-based scholarships are available.
This program opens a window into the world of music technology and production, and is open to rising freshmen as well. It offers the opportunity to explore various aspects of music creation, recording, and production techniques. With guidance from experienced instructors and industry professionals, you will learn about audio recording, mixing, editing, and music production software. You will be working with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, including recording studios and music production labs. This program will prepare you for future endeavors in the field.
Application deadline: March 15
Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply.
Program dates: July 23-28
Location: Lewis & Clark College
Fees: $1750
This engaging program invites students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges through innovative thinking and problem-solving. You learn about circular economy principles and apply them to develop creative solutions. The program focuses on subjects related to sustainability, environmental science, and entrepreneurship. Through hands-on activities, workshops, and mentorship, you gain valuable knowledge and skills in designing sustainable systems and products.
Application deadline: Registrations open in the spring, and remain open till seats are full.
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-12 can apply.
Program dates: Two sessions are conducted (July 30 - August 4 and August 13-18)
Location: Oregon State University-Cascades, Bend, Oregon
Fees: $749 (day program) and $1195 (residential)
Financial Assistance: Some partial scholarships are available.
This program offers you a learning experience in a variety of subjects – from physiology to art, from technology to microbiology. The program encourages you to explore your interests, hone your knowledge and skills, and get a glimpse of college life. From STEM subjects to humanities and arts, there is a diverse range of courses taught by experienced faculty. The program also includes campus tours and social activities to enhance the overall experience.
If you’re interested in GIS (Geographic Information System) and Geomatics, then you can consider the GIS Summer Camp at Oregon Institute of Technology.
Application deadline: Applications open in the early months of the year, and remain open till seats are full.
Eligibility: Students aged 15-18 can apply.
Program dates: July 10-21.
Location: Pacific Northwest College of Art, Willamette University
Fees: $1750
Financial Assistance: Scholarships are available.
This program is an opportunity for you to explore various art disciplines and build a strong foundation for your creative journey. In this program, you will delve into subjects such as drawing, painting, sculpture, design, and more, under the guidance of experienced faculty and artists. The intensive curriculum combines hands-on studio work, conceptual development, and critical thinking to nurture your artistic skills and foster individual creativity. This experience will open a door into the world of art and design, preparing you for future studies and artistic pursuits.
Application deadline: Applications open in the spring, and close when seats are full.
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 can apply.
Program dates: August 7-18.
Location: Coastal Discovery Center, Newport, Oregon
Fees: $1697-$1885
If you’re interested in documentary filmmaking and environmental science, this program is for you. Explore the beautiful coastal regions of Oregon while learning about filmmaking techniques, storytelling, and environmental conservation from experts. You will work on your skills in videography, editing, and interviewing, and work collaboratively to produce your own short documentary. The program combines scientific exploration with the art of filmmaking, allowing you to create impactful visual narratives about the coastal environment.
Application deadline: Applications typically open around January and close around February.
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th and 12th graders can apply.
Program dates: June 25 - July 8
Location: Lewis & Clark College
Fees: $3500
Financial Assistance: Some need-based partial scholarships are available.
This program is ideal for students passionate about creative writing. It is a highly regarded workshop that offers an intensive writing experience for you to explore and develop your literary skills. Led by experienced faculty and accomplished guest writers, you will have writing exercises, workshops, and seminars that focus on fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. Through individualized feedback and peer critiques, you will refine your writing abilities and gain insights into the craft of storytelling. The program culminates in a public reading where you have the opportunity to share your work with a wider audience.
One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you are passionate about research, 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 Oregon logo