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?
Saper Law Immersion Program
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The Saper Law Immersion Program offers a week-long camp for high school and college students interested in law. Led by Daliah Saper and other attorneys, the program includes negotiation exercises, writing tasks, mock legal proceedings, and field trips. Guest speakers from various legal backgrounds enrich the experience. Limited to 20 participants per class for focused attention, the program prioritizes small sizes. The curriculum focuses on entertainment, business, and internet-related law, reflecting Saper Law's expertise. Dress code is casual yet presentable, and daily activities include lectures, exercises, and virtual tours. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a deadline for withdrawal.
Summer Music Camps
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Summer music camps offer diverse options for young musicians, avoiding classical genres. Activities include steel band, jazz choir, marching band, and more. Camps accommodate various age groups, typically 9th to 11th grade, with costs ranging from $50 to $550. Deadlines vary, so early application is encouraged. Some camps may require audition materials. Early registrants before May 1 can avail a 20% scholarship. Camps run weekly sessions, with activities like instrument exploration, vocal training, and specific genre-focused camps like jazz and rock. Registration involves providing student details, music experience, and preferences. Additionally, an option for carpooling is available, and registrants can specify how they learned about the camps.
Summer Camps at SIUE
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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) offers a diverse range of summer camps catering to various interests including visual arts, sports, music/theater, science, engineering, foreign language, and health. From Band Camp to Engineering Camp, Dance Camp to Odyssey Science Camp, there's something for everyone. Additionally, programs such as the SIUE East St. Louis Center Visual & Performing Arts Summer Camp and the SIUE Freedom School Program provide enriching experiences. Whether it's honing musical skills at Jazz Camp or exploring entrepreneurship at the Imagine Summer Success Academy, SIUE's summer camps offer opportunities for students of all ages to learn and grow. With varying dates, details, and fees, interested participants are encouraged to browse the offerings and check for updates regularly. So why not explore the possibilities right in the heart of the cornfields with SIUE this summer?
Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI)
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The Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI) at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers an intensive and transformative experience for high school students aged 15-18. Participants have the opportunity to earn college credit in art and design while developing a competitive portfolio for college admission. With small class sizes and rigorous instruction from SAIC faculty, students engage in studio work and critique-based assessments, exploring diverse media and interdisciplinary approaches. The program operates on a variety of session lengths, from one to four weeks, allowing flexibility for participants. ECPSI provides an immersive environment where students from around the world come together to foster creativity, innovation, and self-expression.
STEM Camp
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Emagination STEM Camp offers a comprehensive program featuring four tech courses, small class sizes, and daily recreational activities. Campers receive personal computers with the latest software, access to 3D printers, and robotics kits. Registration is stress-free with flexible course selection. The camp provides a safe and healthy environment with on-site supervision and adherence to strict health and safety standards. Overnight campers enjoy air-conditioned dorms with WiFi and meals included, while day campers have lunch provided. Extended day options offer flexibility with extended drop-off/pick-up times and additional recreational activities. Emagination STEM Camp operates on premier U.S. university campuses since 1982, providing a rich and immersive learning experience for campers worldwide.
Illinois Chamber Music Festival and Camp
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The Illinois Chamber Music Festival, hosted at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, offers an enriching experience for classical musicians passionate about chamber music. Spanning from July 7-26, 2024, the festival provides intensive coaching, lessons, and classes for strings, piano, harp, and winds. Participants engage in rehearsals, masterclasses, and 15 concerts throughout the two-week program. Elective courses cover music theory, performance techniques, and diverse activities like handbell choir, conducting, dance, and tennis. Admission requires an audition or submission of a five-minute solo recording. Testimonials emphasize the profound impact on participants' musical growth and the formation of lasting friendships. Contact details and application information are available on the festival's website.
THE BRADLEY SFI 360 EXPERIENCE
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The Bradley SFI 360 Experience offers comprehensive training for speech and debate enthusiasts. With a focus on individualized attention, Bradley University's speech team, hailed as the most successful collegiate team by the Associate Press, provides personalized coaching in three key areas: Writing Focus (covering various speech events and writing skills), Performance Focus (emphasizing acting and character development), and Research Focus (teaching research strategies and persuasive speaking). The program, available in-person and virtually, includes interactive lectures, one-on-one coaching sessions, and skill-focused breakout sessions. Participants can expect to enhance their speech and debate skills under the guidance of experienced coaches and former champions.
Punahou School's Extended Learning Programs
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Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii, offers diverse Extended Learning programs including summer courses for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. These programs encompass a wide range of subjects such as aquatics, music, dance, tennis, theater, and SAT prep. Registration processes vary for credit-bearing Academy courses and non-credit courses, with credit courses open to current and incoming students. The school emphasizes individualized attention, diversity, and excellence in education, aiming to instill a lifelong passion for learning in its students. Punahou's rich history since 1841 underscores its commitment to producing leaders and innovators. While specific course offerings for 2024 are pending, past offerings have included classes in dance, music, athletics, and SAT preparation. Admission to Extended Learning programs is at the discretion of Punahou School and is subject to applicable laws and enrollment conditions.
College of Education Summer Programs
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Experience an enriching summer with COE Summer Programs at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. With an array of exciting classes and activities, our program offers engaging learning opportunities for students of all grade levels. From core academic subjects to specialized adventures, there's something for everyone. No prerequisites are required for enrollment, and grade levels serve as guidelines to help parents choose appropriate courses. Students receive necessary supplies and equipment, with optional items specified closer to the start date. With a focus on student safety and supervision, our staff ensures a supportive environment from arrival to departure. Full-day students enjoy supervised lunch breaks with meal options available, including hot lunches and field trip provisions. Dietary accommodations are accommodated upon request.
Air & Space Science Camp
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At Air & Space Camp, teens aged 13-17 delve into Earth's atmosphere, climate, astronomy, and space exploration. From exploring black sand beaches to launching rockets, participants engage in hands-on learning in Hawai'i. Activities include visits to observatories, studying atmospheric substances, and building solar-powered USB chargers. Discounts are available, including for military and local residents. The camp fosters understanding of climate change and provides opportunities for active participation in solutions. With a student-teacher ratio of 6:1, the 10-day residential program offers a unique blend of adventure, science, and exploration.
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?
Apply today!
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.