Research Opportunities Database for High School Students
A comprehensive guide to research opportunities and science competitions available for high school students across the US. We've compiled a detailed list of research opportunities by region, subject and institution below!
What research opportunity are you looking for?
Georgetown University Online Journalism & Media Course
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Georgetown University offers an online Journalism and Media course, introducing students aged 13 and up to the evolving field of journalism. Spanning 1 to 4 weeks, the program covers newsworthiness, reporting basics, story crafting, ethics, and multimedia storytelling. Taught by experts like Rebecca Sinderbrand, students learn through video lectures, engaging multimedia, and mentorship. The course culminates in a Final Capstone Project where students create a professional news story for a platform of their choice, guided by mentors. The program provides flexible learning and requires no transcripts or recommendations for application. Scholarships are available based on need. Upon completion, students receive a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University.
Foundations of Finance
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This course delves into the fundamentals of finance and investing, offering insights into wealth creation, stock market mechanics, and valuation models. Participants will learn to construct investment portfolios, navigate financial systems, and explore the impact of fintech and cryptocurrencies. Through a final capstone project, students analyze a public company, estimating returns, assessing risks, and identifying future opportunities. Mentoring support is provided throughout the learning journey. The course aims to equip students with foundational knowledge applicable to potential careers in investing, fintech, and related fields.
Georgetown University's International Relations Course
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Georgetown University offers an online International Relations course providing insights into global dynamics, human rights, and crisis management. Led by Dr. Anthony Clark Arend, the program covers historical context, international laws, and career pathways. Through lectures, simulations, and mentorship, students learn to analyze geopolitical challenges and propose solutions, culminating in a capstone project. Flexible scheduling accommodates diverse learners, with sessions ranging from 1 to 4 weeks. Mentors offer personalized guidance, fostering critical thinking and professional development. No transcripts required for application; scholarships available. Upon completion, students receive a certificate of achievement. Ideal for ages 13 and up, the course equips learners with essential skills for future roles in diplomacy, law, and political science. Apply for enriching insights into global affairs and your place within them.
Georgetown University Pre-College Online International Law Course
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Georgetown University offers a comprehensive Pre-College Online International Law Course designed for students aged 13 and up. Led by renowned faculty such as Dr. Anthony Clark Arend, the course delves into the complexities of international law, covering topics like the nature and sources of international law, jurisdiction, military force, enforcement mechanisms, and future trends. Through engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments, students explore real-life examples, treaties, and current issues like the war in Ukraine. The program includes a Final Capstone Project where students analyze a simulation involving the use of military force, applying their knowledge to assess legality and resolution. With mentoring support and flexible online learning, students gain insights into potential college majors and career paths related to international law. Upon completion, students earn a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University. The program also offers need-based scholarships to eligible students.
Becoming an Entrepreneur: An Inside Look at Innovation
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Georgetown University offers an Entrepreneurship course designed for students aged 13 and up, focusing on identifying needs in the marketplace, networking for support, understanding success and failure, exploring business models, and practicing business pitching. The program covers the history and foundations of entrepreneurship, encourages "failing forward," and helps students develop fluency in business concepts. It culminates in a Capstone Project where students present their business idea. Mentoring and flexible online learning are provided. No transcripts are required for application, which includes basic contact information and a statement of interest. Scholarships are available based on need.
Cybersecurity: Protecting Our Digital Future
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Georgetown University offers a comprehensive online Cybersecurity course designed for students aged 13 and up. The program delves into the evolution of cyberspace, cyberattacks, and the dark web, with insights from industry experts. Participants explore attack types, vulnerabilities, and the role of AI in cybersecurity. The course equips students with skills for professional certifications and offers insights into related career paths. Through flexible online learning, participants engage in multimedia content and receive mentoring support. The course culminates in a Final Capstone Project, allowing students to apply their knowledge. The program offers multiple session lengths and dates. Scholarships are available based on need. Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University.
Anatomy & Physiology: How the Body Works in Harmony
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Georgetown University offers an online Anatomy & Physiology course exploring the interplay of bodily systems to maintain homeostasis. The program covers musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal systems, providing understanding applicable to various fields. Eligible for ages 13 and up, the course offers flexible durations. Students learn key anatomical terms, analyze systems' functions, and delve into potential medical careers. The curriculum includes a final capstone project and mentoring support. Taught by Dr. Elise Orellana, the course integrates multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments. Scholarships are available, and applications are open for upcoming sessions.
College Credit Biology: The Science of Cells and Innovation
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Georgetown University offers a Biology program delving into the complexities of cells, their organization, and their role in diseases. Students, aged 13 and up, can opt for either a College Credit or Enrichment course. The curriculum covers cell basics, microscopy, recent discoveries, and biomolecular condensates in medicine. Participants gain insights into scientific epistemology and potential career paths. The College Credit option spans 6 weeks with 128 instructional hours, including a final project for college credit. The Enrichment course lasts 1, 2, or 4 weeks with 20-30 hours of instruction and a certificate of completion. Both feature mentoring and a final capstone project. Taught by esteemed faculty like Dr. Heidi Elmendorf, the program emphasizes interactive online learning with flexible schedules. Scholarships are available, and applications are ongoing.
SURA - Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship
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The Summer Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship (SURA) at Carnegie Mellon University offers undergraduates the opportunity to engage in research or creative inquiry under faculty mentorship during the summer. Students earn tuition-free elective credit by working on existing faculty projects, either in-person or remotely. SURA is a variable unit course based on hours worked, with a minimum requirement ranging from 45 to 180 hours. Eligible students must be currently enrolled undergraduates at Carnegie Mellon with limited or no prior research experience at the university. They are required to attend virtual workshops and adhere to all project timelines. Housing is not provided, but students can seek additional summer employment through Pre College Programs.
Summer Challenge
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The Boston University Summer Challenge is a two-week residential program designed for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Participants select two seminars from a diverse range of academic topics, engaging in lectures, discussions, projects, and field trips with small class sizes for individual attention. Alongside academic challenges, students partake in an admissions workshop offering insights into the college application process. The program fosters a close-knit community, providing opportunities for social interaction and exploration of Boston. Applicants must submit a personal statement and high school transcript, with admission decisions made on a rolling basis. The program emphasizes academic motivation and offers an immersive college experience, encouraging personal growth and exploration of interests.
What is a Research Project?
A research project is a structured and systematic investigation into specific topic or question. It involves a series of planned activities. Research projects often require students to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, surveys, or literature reviews, and present their findings in a clear and organized manner. These projects foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for the research process. They provide students with valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to their field of interest while enhancing their academic and personal growth.
Why do a research project as a high school student?
Research projects can play a pivotal role in shaping the academic journey and future prospects of high school students. Engaging in research while still in school not only helps students discover their passions but also significantly enhances their chances of successful college admissions.
Exploring research projects allows high school students to delve into various fields of study, providing them with a firsthand experience of what truly interests them. This hands-on exposure aids in identifying their passions and helps them make informed decisions when selecting a college major or career path. It's a crucial step in personal and academic development.
Moreover, active participation in research demonstrates dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to go beyond the standard curriculum, qualities highly valued by college admissions committees. Admissions officers are often impressed by applicants who have shown initiative and a genuine interest in learning through research experiences. These opportunities can set students apart from their peers and greatly improve their chances of gaining admission to their dream colleges.
Ready to start your own research project?
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We're so excited that you're interested in pursuing a path in research. Polygence is an online research academy dedicated to democratizing access to research opportunities for high school students. Whether you are interested in quantitative biology, fashion history, or privacy law, expert Polygence mentors will help you explore your area of interest.