11 Research and Summer Programs in New Mexico For High School Students

The top research programs in New Mexico for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability. See research opportunities in other states here.

Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

Polygence Core is an online research program that connects motivated high school students with expert mentors from top universities. Founded by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, Polygence helps you explore any topic you're passionate about through one-on-one mentoring over 3–6 months, ending with a project of your choice—like an academic research paper ready for publication, a prototype, or podcast.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $2695

Application Deadline

Dec 23, 2024

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Categories

Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology

Explore the program

Polygence Pods Research Program

Summary

Learn Academic Research skills and build a foundational understanding of cutting edge subjects in Polygence Pods. Join a group of 6 students and meet weekly with a PhD-level mentor who is an expert in their respective field. Perfect for beginners, your program will culminate in a short-form research paper.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $495

Application Deadline

Varies by program

Short courses

Categories

Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other

Explore the program

Other programs

BEGINNINGS: Inquiring into the Origins of Politics, Poetry, and Mathematics

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Hosting Institution

St. John's College Summer Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe (NM)

Cost

$1,400

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

Social Science, History, Liter...

Summary

What are the origins of human society, language, and knowledge? Through classical works of history, philosophy, religion, mathematics, and poetry, we will explore the idea of the beginning. We encounter a range of classic “beginnings” in an effort to understand the diverse ways that they shape our experience of the world—from beginnings in time, such as political and religious foundings, to timeless beginnings, such as mathematical and philosophical first principles, to the creative and imaginative powers of poetry. Beginnings in a work of mathematics and in a work of religious narrative, for example, may connect in ways that we do not anticipate. Each text studied, including Plato’s Meno, the Book of Genesis, and Euclid’s Elements, will stake out a different, often startling, approach to this fundamentally human concern with the origin of things.

Summer STEM Experience

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Hosting Institution

New Mexico Tech

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Socorro, NM

Cost

$565

Application Deadline

Jun 28, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

The New Mexico Tech Summer STEM Experience offers high school students entering their sophomore, junior, or senior years the opportunity to immerse themselves in college life and explore specific science or engineering disciplines. Participants collaborate with faculty and peers during the week-long program, engaging in classes and activities centered around Science, Technology, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, and Math (STEM). The program provides a chance to earn college credit and meet like-minded individuals. Requirements include a minimum 2.75 GPA and completion of Algebra 1. Participants must sign consent forms and adhere to the NMT Code of Conduct. Deadlines for application vary for each session, and classes operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, with alternatives offered if the first choice is full.

Architecture & Design Summer Academy

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Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

$300

Application Deadline

May 6, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The Architecture + Design Summer Academy by the UNM School of Architecture + Planning introduces high school juniors and seniors to various disciplines through two- and three-week sessions in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The curriculum includes design activities, lectures, and field trips, providing a comprehensive understanding of architecture and design. Participants can opt for non-credit or dual-credit options, with dual-credit students earning 3 college credits and typically 1 high school credit. Dual-credit students have homework and different assignments, while non-credit students fully participate without homework. Scholarships are available, and COVID-19 protocols are followed. The program fosters learning from local professionals, offering valuable feedback during final reviews.

Hispanic Youth Research & Leadership Program

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Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 7, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Hispanic Youth Research and Leadership Program at the University of New Mexico offers a free summer initiative for Hispanic high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors, particularly those from low-income, first-generation, or underrepresented backgrounds. It focuses on exposing participants to STEM fields, providing college-like experiences, developing research and leadership skills, and offering career and college readiness preparation. Participants work on research projects in groups over a five-day camp, culminating in presentations to professional staff and families. The program also facilitates interactions with STEM professionals from the community and UNM. Successful completion may lead to a stipend.

College Readiness Program

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Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 7, 2024

Categories

Environmental Science

Summary

The College Readiness Program at the University of New Mexico offers year-round support for low-income, first-generation, and underserved high school sophomores and juniors in New Mexico. The program includes a summer residential camp focusing on leadership, team building, and college life experiences. Throughout the academic year, participants receive ACT preparation, college and career readiness curriculum, and one-on-one support. The program covers up to three ACT tests and emphasizes navigating the college application process, choosing majors, and developing career readiness skills.

Summer Law Camp

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Hosting Institution

The University of New Mexico

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 13, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The Summer Law Camp at the University of New Mexico offers a unique opportunity for current 6th and 7th grade students from New Mexico to explore the field of law. Participants engage in a week-long program where they experience college life, receive one-on-one instruction from local lawyers, and learn about various aspects of the legal profession through visits to courthouses, law offices, and the UNM School of Law. The program focuses on developing skills in research, critical thinking, team building, leadership, and techniques of persuasion and debate, culminating in a mock trial. It is free of cost and provides a chance for students to meet legal professionals, judges, and community partners to gain insights into pursuing a career in law. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to reside in UNM Residence Halls and connect with peers from across New Mexico.

Summer Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

St. John’s College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe, NM

Cost

$1400

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

History

Summary

The Summer Academy by St. John's College in Santa Fe, NM, offers a week-long residential program for high school students aged 15-18. Participants explore the origins of human society, language, and knowledge through classical works in history, philosophy, religion, mathematics, and poetry. Texts include Prometheus Bound, Genesis, and Euclid's Elements, among others. Through reading and discussion, students analyze various "beginnings," from political and religious founding to philosophical first principles and poetic creativity. The program aims to deepen understanding of how these texts shape human experience and enhance critical thinking skills. International students are welcome, but must arrange their own transportation and accommodations. Limited financial aid is available.

YWiC Summer Program

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Hosting Institution

New Mexico State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Las Cruces, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 30, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

NMSU's Young Women in Computing summer camps aim to foster community, interest, knowledge, and confidence among young women in computer science. Through interactive activities, including programming in Python, building webpages, and exploring AI, participants learn computational thinking and discover the creativity and rewards of the field. The program emphasizes fun, teamwork, and leadership, catering to both YWiC alumni and newcomers with no prior experience required. Assessment methods ensure ongoing improvement and excellence in teaching and learning.

Youth Entrepreneurship Summer (YES) Camp

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Hosting Institution

New Mexico State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Las Cruces, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 30, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Youth Entrepreneurship Summer (YES) Camp offers high school students a comprehensive exploration of entrepreneurship. Over 40 hours of classroom instruction and a 35-hour practicum, students delve into the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, including characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, market research, financial management, and business ethics. They develop business plans and present them to a panel of community business leaders for recognition. Successful completion awards three college credits through New Mexico State University's Dual Credit Program, facilitating early college exploration and elective credits towards high school graduation. Participants gain valuable insights into the role of entrepreneurship in economic growth and individual success, preparing them for future endeavors in business and innovation.

Think Summer

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Hosting Institution

Albuquerque Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Albuquerque, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 14, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

Think Summer at Albuquerque Academy offers an extensive summer program from June 10 to July 19, 2024, catering to students from pre-K to 12th grade. With a focus on safety, quality, and value, the program provides diverse academic and recreational options, ensuring engagement and growth for all participants. From full-day programs to individual classes and extended care services, families have flexible scheduling choices. The curriculum emphasizes active-learning strategies, project-based activities, and interdisciplinary courses, fostering curiosity and enthusiasm in students. Opportunities for employment exist for local students as camp counselors and teacher assistants, with hiring beginning in winter. Faculty are encouraged to bring creative teaching techniques to the relaxed summer environment. Overall, Think Summer aims to provide a dynamic, fun-filled educational experience that reinforces academic concepts and promotes personal development in a nurturing environment.

2024 Summer Physics Camp for Young Women

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Hosting Institution

New Mexico School for the Arts

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe, NM

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 30, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

The 2024 Summer Physics Camp for Young Women offers a two-week immersive experience in STEM and Energy Security, running from June 10-21 in New Mexico and Hawaii. Hosted at the New Mexico School for the Arts, the camp is supported by leading organizations including Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories. Participants engage in hands-on activities, tours, and lectures covering physics, engineering, chemistry, and more. They delve into energy sources like solar and nuclear power, while gaining professional skills and exploring career opportunities. Eligible students, primarily from New Mexico and Hawaiian tribal communities, can apply for free admission, with some receiving residential accommodations. Graduates may join SAGE, fostering ongoing STEM engagement. Volunteers, including LANL employees, are crucial to the camp's success, offering expertise and support across various roles. Flexible scheduling accommodates diverse participation. Apply online to volunteer or attend this transformative program shaping the next generation of female STEM leaders.

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in the state of New Mexico?

New Mexico offers numerous research opportunities for high school students. Renowned research institutions like the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University provide programs for student involvement in research. The state's diverse natural environment, including deserts, mountains, and national parks, offers unique research settings. Students can explore areas such as environmental science, geology, astronomy, and archaeology. Science fairs and competitions provide platforms for showcasing research projects. New Mexico presents abundant opportunities for high school students to engage in research and contribute to scientific discovery.

What other research opportunities are available?

For a full set of research opportunity listings, see our guide to research opportunities for high school students.

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