16 Research and Summer Programs in North Carolina For High School Students

The top research programs in North Carolina 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

Recommended for you

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

Summer Pre-College Programs

See website

Hosting Institution

University of North Carolina

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Asheville (NC)

Cost

$1,750

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Biology

Summary

River Ecology & Adventure learn about Southern Appalachian stream ecology while canoeing sections of pristine rivers, hiking to wilderness swimming holes and investigating local aquatic species, and be challenged to think critically about human impact on the environment while rafting exciting whitewater.

Psychology Institute

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winstom Salem (NC)

Cost

$3,000

Application Deadline

Jun 8, 2024

Categories

Psychology

Summary

Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. Dive into the structure of the brain through hands-on dissection and learn about how illusions, emotions, and biases affect how we see and interact with the world. Can you really trust everything you see and hear? You’ll conduct your own observational study to get a more in-depth look at the world and the people around you.

Neuroscience Institute

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winstom Salem (NC)

Cost

$3,000

Application Deadline

Jun 8, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience

Summary

Neuroscience is an exciting and rapidly growing interdisciplinary field encompassing the study of the nervous system and its role in regulating behavior. Students will examine the structure of the brain through hands-on dissection, learn how drugs affect the brain and how sensory systems detect stimuli in the environment, visit active neuroscience labs, and conduct exciting neuroscience experiments.

Medicine Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winstom Salem (NC)

Cost

$3,000

Application Deadline

Jun 1, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Interested in donning the white coat, but not sure what being a healthcare professional is really like? Gain hands-on experience in the medical field and insight into the many career opportunities available within the various disciplines of medicine. You’ll visit healthcare facilities in Winston-Salem, participate in simulations and labs, and learn basic skills like taking blood pressure and suturing.

Summer Institute for the Gifted (SIG)

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Hosting Institution

University of North Carolina

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chapel Hill (NC)

Cost

$3,699

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Arts, Neuroscience

Summary

Our unique STEAM+ curriculum focuses on applying creative thinking across multiple disciplines to solve real-world problems. Our curriculum spans all facets of STEAM and humanities.

Wake Forest: Finance and Investing Institute

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winstom Salem (NC)

Cost

$2,800

Application Deadline

May 30, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

Get ahead of the game. Learn and experience how investing works. Dive into the world of investments – stocks, bonds, and mutual funds/exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Explore popular investing approaches, techniques, and strategies to confidently learn how fundamental analysis plays a role in valuation. Meet and collaborate with Wake Forest School of Business faculty and industry experts to get a glimpse of finance and investing from the collegiate level to the professional world. Confidently pitch prospective investments, refine public speaking skills, and build your investment portfolio.

Leader in Training (LIT) Program

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Hosting Institution

Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Educational Center

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Reidsville, NC

Cost

$325-$430

Application Deadline

Jun 1, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

The Leader in Training (LIT) Program at Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Educational Center offers youth aged 15-17 a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills in a residential camp setting. Through mentorship, the program aims to enhance personal responsibility and character development while fostering necessary life skills for future success. Participants engage in activities designed to promote awareness of leadership roles and interactions within a camp environment. Selection is based on a first-come-first-serve basis, with applicants required to submit an application, essay, and references. LITs are assigned a staff mentor, undergo orientation training, and are prohibited from supervising children alone to ensure a professional and supportive atmosphere. The program encourages growth and may lead to paid staff positions for exceptional participants, emphasizing the importance of maturity, responsibility, and enthusiasm.

Business: Strategy & Innovation Online Course

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an online course focusing on business strategy and innovation, featuring insights from successful companies like Netflix and Apple. Geared towards high school students aged 13 and above, the program covers key aspects such as business model development, innovation analysis, customer experience evaluation, and strategic effectiveness. Participants learn from distinguished instructors Dr. Dan Fogel and Lee Weiss, alongside mentoring from industry professionals. The course includes engaging video content, interactive projects, and a final Capstone project for practical application of learning. Flexible scheduling allows students to access materials at their convenience. Upon completion, students earn a certificate of completion from Wake Forest University, enhancing their understanding of modern business practices and fostering strategic thinking skills.

Investing: The Future of Finance

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an immersive online course, "Investing: The Future of Finance," designed for students aged 13 and above. The program explores contemporary financial markets, including the impact of FinTech and cryptocurrencies. Participants delve into capital-raising methods, ESG investing, decentralized finance, and FinTech disruptions. Led by industry experts, students gain insights into investment strategies, shareholder roles, and emerging trends. Through flexible online learning, including videos and interactive assignments, students develop a comprehensive understanding of finance's evolving landscape. The course culminates in a capstone project where students analyze the implications of financial innovations on a chosen company. Mentors provide personalized guidance, fostering skill development and confidence. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from Wake Forest University.

Criminal Law Immersion Program

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an immersive Criminal Law program designed for students aged 13 and above. Participants delve into the intricacies of criminal cases, exploring evidence, witness examination, and sentencing through the perspectives of both prosecutors and defense attorneys. Key topics include 4th Amendment protections, rules of evidence, and the roles of judges and jurors. The course provides insights into potential careers in law and offers practical skills such as critical thinking and argumentation. With flexible scheduling and mentor support, students engage in a 4-week online course culminating in a final capstone project. Whether aspiring lawyers or simply interested individuals, this program equips participants with foundational knowledge and analytical skills essential in the field of criminal law.

Exploring Oncology: A Comprehensive Online Course

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an immersive online course titled "Cancer: An Inside Look at Caring, Curing and Treating," designed for students aged 13 and above interested in the medical field. Delve into the journey of cancer patients, from diagnosis to treatment, understanding genetics' role, diagnostic techniques, various treatment modalities, emotional impacts, survivorship, and alternative therapies. Led by experienced faculty from Wake Forest School of Medicine, including Dr. Lindsay Strowd and Dr. Roy Strowd, students benefit from mentorship, engaging multimedia content, and a final capstone project. This flexible, 2-week course, priced at $1295, offers insights into oncology careers and is ideal for aspiring physicians, nurses, therapists, and healthcare professionals.

Making the Rounds: An Insider’s Guide to Becoming a Doctor

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an online course designed for high school students, providing an immersive exploration into the world of medicine. Led by Wake Forest School of Medicine professors, Dr. Lindsay Strowd and Dr. Roy Strowd, the program delves into patient care, heart anatomy, social factors contributing to heart disease, and medical treatment processes. Participants gain insights into hospital operations and various healthcare professions, assessing their fit for a career in medicine. With flexible scheduling and mentoring support, students engage in multimedia learning, culminating in a Capstone project. Upon completion, students receive a Certificate of Completion from Wake Forest University.

Sports Medicine: Understanding Major Injuries & Treatments

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Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an online Sports Medicine course providing comprehensive insights into major sports injuries and their treatments. Through engaging modules, participants learn to diagnose and manage common injuries like ACL tears, shoulder dislocations, and concussions. Real-life case studies of professional athletes enrich the learning experience, offering insights into injury management and recovery outcomes. The course also explores career opportunities in sports medicine, culminating in a final project where participants diagnose and propose treatment plans for sports-related injuries. With flexible learning options and mentor support, this program equips students aged 13+ with valuable knowledge and skills in sports medicine, making it ideal for aspiring healthcare professionals, including future orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers, and sports physicians.

Women's Medicine Online Course

See website

Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jul 7, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Wake Forest University offers an immersive online course titled "Women’s Medicine: An Inside Look at Treatment, Intervention, and Surgery." Designed for students aged 13 and above, the program delves into the unique aspects of women's health, covering topics such as female anatomy, contraception methods, pregnancy stages, surgical conditions, and gender-specific health differences. Led by experienced instructors and mentors, participants engage in flexible learning with video lectures, simulations, and curated assignments. The course culminates in a capstone project where students demonstrate their understanding and insights into women's healthcare. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from Wake Forest University. This comprehensive program equips aspiring healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills to understand and address the diverse healthcare needs of women.

The Mystery and Science of Human Behavior: A Comprehensive Psychology Course

See website

Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Psychology

Summary

Wake Forest University offers "The Mystery and Science of Human Behavior: An Insider's Guide to Psychology," a comprehensive online course designed for students aged 13 and above. Through multiple 1-, 2-, and 4-week sessions, participants delve into the fundamentals of psychology, exploring topics such as perception, unconscious emotion, memory reliability, psychological disorders, and more. Led by experienced instructors and supported by mentors, students engage in hands-on activities, conduct psychological surveys, and develop a final Capstone project. The course emphasizes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and practical application, empowering learners to understand human behavior, identify biases, and think like psychologists. Upon completion, participants earn a Certificate of Completion from Wake Forest University, positioning them for future academic and professional pursuits in psychology or related fields.

Bioscience Immersion: Exploring Infectious Diseases

See website

Hosting Institution

Wake Forest University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Winston-Salem, NC

Cost

$1295

Application Deadline

Jun 2, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Wake Forest University offers a comprehensive online Bioscience course delving into the study of infectious diseases. Participants aged 13 and above explore diseases like Covid-19, tuberculosis, and HIV, understanding their causes, treatments, and epidemiological tracing. Led by experienced instructors and mentors, students engage in scientific research, study the history of major discoveries, and learn about molecular mechanisms of infection. The program emphasizes practical skills development, including database research, communication, and presentation abilities. Through a flexible online format, participants complete engaging multimedia simulations and assignments, culminating in a capstone project where they present their understanding of an infectious disease. Ideal for aspiring medical professionals, researchers, and science enthusiasts, the course provides valuable insights into careers related to infectious diseases.

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in the state of North Carolina?

Universities such as Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University offer research programs and internships specifically designed for high school students. These programs provide hands-on experiences across various disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and computer science. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty, researchers, and graduate students, gaining valuable insights into cutting-edge research.

Furthermore, organizations like the North Carolina Science and Engineering Fair (NCSEF) and the North Carolina Student Academy of Science (NCSAS) host annual competitions and symposiums where high school students can present their research projects and compete for scholarships and recognition. These events serve as platforms for students to showcase their scientific findings and connect with like-minded peers.

Additionally, research institutes and centers within the state, such as the Research Triangle Park, provide avenues for high school students to participate in research programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives. These initiatives foster collaboration and allow students to explore their interests in various scientific fields.

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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