8 University of Michigan Summer Programs for High School Students in 2024-2025
Looking to make the most of your summer? The University of Michigan offers a range of summer programs designed specifically for high school students. Whether you want to explore new academic interests, develop valuable skills, or prepare for college, these programs provide a valuable opportunity to learn from faculty and meet peers who share your interests. From math to finance and environmental sustainability, these programs allow you to explore a range of subjects. These programs take place on campus at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI.
In this blog post, we’ll highlight 8 great summer programs for high schoolers at the University of Michigan in 2024-2025!
This summer program introduces high school students to scientific advancements and research, and it aims to inspire the next generation of scientists. Last year’s program offerings included subjects like cryptography, ecological and micrometeorological instrumentation, brain behavior, art and mathematics, and more. The courses are taught by scholars in the fields of math and science. While knowledge of the chosen subject isn’t necessary for most courses, you should pick the ones that align best with your interests. In addition to coursework, this program offers you a glimpse into college life through dorm living, recreational activities, and weekend trips. To enroll in this program for the upcoming summer, join their mailing list for updates.
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school
Cost: Starting fee of $2,400. Click here to see the full fee breakup and here to learn about financial aid
Application Deadline: TBA for 2025
Program Dates:
Session 1: June 22 – July 4, 2025
Session 2: July 6 – 18, 2025
Session 3: July 20 – August 1, 2025
This course is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of investing, empowering you to take control of your finances and make informed decisions. The curriculum covers key concepts like saving, stocks, bonds, and credit, breaking down complex topics such as the differences between the NYSE and NASDAQ, as well as the impact of interest rates, in simple terms. You will also get the opportunity to dive into corporate financial analysis, financial planning, and commodities trading, learning how businesses manage capital. You will invest virtual money to understand your risk tolerance without the pressure of real stakes.
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12
Cost: No information available
Application Deadline: TBA
Program Dates: July 6 – 12, 2025
The University of Michigan’s Stamps School of Art & Design offers summer pre-college programs that help high school students build portfolios, gain new skills, and network with university faculty. It offers both online and residential sessions to students from grades 9-11. This is a good option for students who want to create a competitive portfolio for college admissions and explore a variety of media and communication methods. As part of the “Portfolio Prep” program, you will be offered four studio classes—Drawing Studio, 2D Studio, 3D Studio, and 4D Studio.
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-11
Cost: $750 for the virtual program, $4,950 for the residential program
Application Deadline: Typically around March
Program Dates: Typically around June to August. You can sign up here for a pre-college info session
The Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy offers high school seniors an introduction to the world of business. It provides a unique opportunity to learn how companies operate from the inside out. You will gain insights into how business leaders approach problem-solving and decision-making while experiencing what it’s like to be a student at Michigan Ross. This program is taught by faculty across various business disciplines, and it focuses on the strategies that drive successful companies. In addition to taking college-level coursework through classes and workshops, you will also sharpen your understanding of business fundamentals. To learn more about this program, check out our full guide here.
Eligibility: High school seniors with a GPA of 3.0 and above
Cost: $5,500, scholarships are available
Application Deadline: January 21, 2025
Program Dates: TBA for 2025
The Michigan Health Sciences Pre-College Exposure Academy (SPEA) is a free hybrid program for motivated 10th and 11th graders interested in healthcare. Designed as an entry-level academic enrichment opportunity, SPEA focuses on students from underrepresented backgrounds in medicine or medically underserved areas, particularly those who want to address health equity. You will engage with University of Michigan healthcare professionals and follow a curriculum aligned with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Core Competencies, building essential skills for a future in healthcare.
Eligibility: Students in grades 10-11
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 7, 2025
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1, 2025
The Summer Engineering Exploration (SEE) Camp is a week-long residential program hosted by the Society of Women Engineers at the University of Michigan. Open to students entering grades 10 and 11, this co-ed camp is designed for those with limited access to engineering resources. You will get to explore diverse engineering fields and industries while gaining insight into the University of Michigan’s engineering programs. Working in small teams, you will solve a design challenge by applying the engineering design process.
Eligibility: Students in grades 10-11
Cost: $700
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
Program Dates: July 6 – 12, 2025
The MPulse Girls in Music and Technology (GiMaT) program is a day camp focused on the intersection of music and technology. Open to all genders, it offers hands-on learning in music-making with computers guided by faculty from U-M's School of Music, Theatre & Dance. MPulse, a broader residential performing arts summer program for high school students, attracts participants from Michigan, the U.S., and globally. It's designed for students who want to pursue higher education in the arts, providing essential skills, confidence, and preparation for the college audition process.
Eligibility: Girls in high school
Cost: An application fee of $75
Application Deadline: Typically around February
Program Dates: Usually July-August
8. ArcStart
UMich’s Taubman College’s ArcStart program offers a hands-on introduction to design for high school students. Guided by faculty and industry professionals, you will work on projects from concept to creation. Through studio work, site visits, and discussions, you will sharpen your design skills and develop a solid grasp of architectural principles. This program offers the Watson A. Young Scholarship to support students in need of financial assistance.
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Cost: $3,600. Scholarship available
Application Deadline: February 28, 2025. If you'd like to receive updates about ArcStart 2025, fill out the ArcStart Inquiry Form here
Program Dates: July 14 – August 1, 2025
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
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.