Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in Washington DC

Washington Mall Lincoln

Top Research Opportunities for High School Students in Washington DC

The top research programs available for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability

Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

Genes in Space

See website

Hosting Institution

Boeing and miniPCR bio along with ISS U.S. National Laboratory and New England Biolabs

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

April 17, 2023

Categories

Biology, Engineering, Chemistr...

Summary

This program offers an opportunity to design a DNA experiment that tackles a challenge in space exploration, making it ideal for those interested in biology and deep space. Clear submission guidelines and instructions on how to enter the contest are provided, which can be helpful for individuals who have difficulty generating ideas.

Entrepreneurship Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washginton, DC

Cost

$5,500 USD

Application Deadline

May 15, 2023

Categories

Business

Summary

The Entrepreneurship Academy is a 2-week program that explores the challenges and advantages of running your own business. It includes discussions on selecting a start-up, testing prototypes, conducting market research, social innovation, global business, and operations. You will have the opportunity to interact with accomplished entrepreneurs from different fields and learn from their experiences to gain insights into what it takes to succeed in any profession. However, it's advisable to gather more information about the faculty involved in this program before making a decision to enroll.

Georgetown Summer High School Science and Medical Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

$2,500-3,225 USD

Application Deadline

May 15, 2023

Categories

Medicine, Biology

Summary

The Medical Academy, a one-week program, provides an introduction to the field of medicine and offers an opportunity to visit the Georgetown University Medical Center, which houses the highly regarded School of Medicine, School of Nursing & Health Studies, and the prestigious Lombardi Cancer Center. The program includes a comprehensive exploration of various medical topics, ranging from human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and infectious diseases to surgery, cancer, and biomedical ethics. Participants engage in hands-on lab activities, work with patient simulators, and study contemporary medical challenges such as COVID-19, preventative medicine, heart disease, and HIV.

NSLC on Psychology & Neuroscience.

See website

Hosting Institution

National Student Leadership Conference

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

$3,895 USD

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Neuroscience, Psychology

Summary

During the NSLC program focused on Psychology & Neuroscience, participants will have the opportunity to study the science of the mind by examining child development, personality types, and methods for motivating others. In addition, they will engage in clinical psychology simulations and practical neurology workshops that explore the connection between the brain and human behavior.

Creative Writing Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

$2,500-3,225 USD

Application Deadline

May 15, 2023

Categories

Literature and Languages, Arts

Summary

This week-long program offers workshops and tutorials for high school students to enhance their skills in creative writing. Led by renowned literary figures in the D.C. area and Georgetown graduate student instructors, the program covers various forms of writing, from poetry to personal essays. Through insightful feedback from peers, participants will have the opportunity to generate and refine their written works. The Academy also focuses on the professionalization of creative writing, including publishing and funding opportunities, available jobs, and undergraduate and graduate programs. The program includes excursions to Washington, D.C. landmarks, an ekphrastic writing exercise at the National Gallery of Art, and the chance to share their work at Busboys and Poets, a well-known literary venue.

Hoya Summer High School Sessions

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

$2,500-6,950 USD

Application Deadline

May 15, 2023

Categories

Social Science, History

Summary

Students have the opportunity to delve deeper into their areas of interest, whether it's International Relations, U.S. Campaigns & Elections, Washington & the World, or Foreign Policy, through a range of 1-week and 3-week Academies. The programs encourage students to broaden their perspectives and engage in deeper discussions as they explore their chosen field of study.

What is a Research Project?

Research projects involve conducting in-depth investigations on a specific subject matter, which presents an excellent opportunity for high school students to explore their interests, enhance their critical thinking and analytical abilities, as well as showcase their dedication and concentration, which can positively impact their chances of being accepted into college.

Why Do Research as a High School Student in Washington DC?

Over the years, many college admissions experts have seen that conducting research can drive strong results. Data from Harvard suggests that students that have demonstrated a history of “substantial scholarship or academic creativity”, including conducting independent research, have a much greater chance of gaining admission. In fact, 95% of students who completed our program were admitted to R1 universities. More importantly, Research allow students to pursue their passions, which helps develop self-esteem and leads to a variety of positive mental health outcomes

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in Washington DC?

As the seat of the American federal government, there are internships and jobs for students studying law, public policy, or political science abound. Beyond these more traditional D.C. majors, healthcare, history, art, education, and museum science students are especially well-placed for research opportunities and field experiences in a variety of institutes and organizations. Among the many prestigious institutions are George Washington University, American University, Georgetown University, and Howard University.

What research opportunities are available in other cities?

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

Want to start a project of your own?

Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors who can help take your project off the ground!

Student working on a rocket ship