Arranging summer activities can be confusing and time-consuming. There are so many summer programs for high school students that it requires intensive research to narrow down to the best ones for you.
Pioneer Academics has established the highest standards for high school students to do research. We applied similarly high standards to hand-pick the Best Medical Summer Programs that deserve your time this summer.
Remember, Pioneer offers valuable guides and resources to help you find the best summer programs for high school students.
Brett Fuller
Academic Development Manager | Pioneer Academics
Former Associate Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Wake Forest University
Former Senior Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
The “best” program is always going to be the program that best fits your needs, goals, and interests. Check out my thoughts on things to consider when selecting a summer program here: College Application: Tips on Selecting a Summer Program Meeting Admission Officers’ Standards.
Medicine is a far broader field than many students realize. Contrary to what you may believe, medical schools are just as interested in students with a wide variety of academic interests as they are in the student who has devoted their study exclusively to STEM. As such, the number of options for summer opportunities can almost be overwhelming. The first step, as it so often should be, is to look inward. Are you more interested in what may be considered the most “traditional” pre-med path (perhaps a long-term goal of becoming a doctor or surgeon), or are you considering a more interdisciplinary approach to your interest in medicine (perhaps research-based study or interest in biotechnology)? With that goal in mind, begin to identify the point where your interests intersect with your skills. The ideal summer program is going to allow you to develop those skills while stoking the passion you have already begun to cultivate.
This advice may sound obvious or straightforward, but it is not always easy to follow. For example, it can be tempting to select a program that offers practical experience in a hospital or lab environment, even when your gut tells you that another more interdisciplinary program you have been admitted to would be a better fit for your interests. Follow your interests. Genuine curiosity is very difficult to cultivate, and it is so important in the college search process.
Find the program that will give you a new experience, a new opportunity, or a new perspective. But most importantly, find the program that you’re excited to attend!
💡Bonus tips for choosing the right academic programs:
In no particular order, let’s dive into our picks for the Best Medical Summer Programs for High School Students.
Pioneer Academics
Pioneer Academics Research Program offers talented and intellectually motivated high school students worldwide with undergraduate-level research opportunities. This unique program is the only fully accredited online research program for high school students. Students selected for the Pioneer Research Program collaborate with prominent U.S. university professors in advanced study and research on their topic of interest, including Medical research. The program culminates in a full-length research paper. Pioneer has rigorous policies and procedures in place, including screening of faculty mentors, uniform guidelines, clear descriptions of roles and responsibilities, development and evaluation of pedagogical rubrics, and review of research product quality and evaluation criteria.
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | 6,650 US dollars |
| Program Dates | June-August (Some Students May Extend to September) |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 9, 2023 |
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | 6,650 US dollars |
| Program Dates | June-August (Some Students May Extend to September) |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 9, 2023 |
AIM: Introduction to Medicine – Boston University
The AIM program at Boston University offers students a comprehensive curriculum that includes hands-on research, shadowing healthcare professionals, attending medical seminars, and courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical ethics. The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion and provides mentorship from medical professionals to help students navigate their career paths in healthcare. Students also have the opportunity to participate in clinical rounds, observe medical procedures, and interact with patients, making the program a great summer medical program that prepares students for future careers in healthcare.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Application Fee (nonrefundable) - $50 Program Fee - $5,131 Room & Board (residential students) - $1,644 Lunch (commuter students) - $237 |
| Program Dates | Introduction to Experimental Psychology begins Sunday, July 2, 2023 Introduction to Medicine and Creative Writing begin Sunday, July 23, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | No deadline. Applications will be accepted until the program is filled |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Application Fee (nonrefundable) - $50 Program Fee - $5,131 Room & Board (residential students) - $1,644 Lunch (commuter students) - $237 |
| Program Dates | Introduction to Experimental Psychology begins Sunday, July 2, 2023 Introduction to Medicine and Creative Writing begin Sunday, July 23, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | No deadline. Applications will be accepted until the program is filled |
National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare – NLSC
The National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare (NLSC) is a unique program for high school students that offers hands-on experiences and simulations led by professionals in the medical field. This program provides valuable exposure to real-world scenarios that healthcare professionals encounter, such as clinical rounds. NLSC also offers individualized guidance and mentorship to help students create a personalized career plan and provides ongoing support beyond the program’s duration.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $3,895 - $6,495 |
| Program Dates | June 17 - August 6, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Operates on rolling admissions |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $3,895 - $6,495 |
| Program Dates | June 17 - August 6, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Operates on rolling admissions |
Rural Medical & Sciences Scholars Program – Mississippi State University
The Rural Medical & Sciences Scholars Program (RMSSP) at Mississippi State University (MSU) is a highly regarded program that prepares high school seniors and juniors for careers in medicine and related fields. The program offers a summer residential experience where students can participate in research, shadowing, and clinical rotations at rural clinics and hospitals. RMSSP also provides scholarships to eligible students to help them pursue their college and career aspirations. Students can earn up to six credit hours through MSU’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, giving them a head start on their college education.
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2600 |
| Program Dates | June 10 - June 29, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2600 |
| Program Dates | June 10 - June 29, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 1, 2023 |
Summer Child Health Research Internship – University of Colorado Boulder
The Summer Child Health Research Internship at the University of Colorado Boulder is a popular program for high school seniors, college students, and first-year medical students who are interested in child health research. The program provides hands-on experience in pediatric research and the opportunity to work alongside renowned researchers. Participants engage in a variety of activities, including experiments, data analysis, seminars, and presenting their findings. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, with interns from diverse backgrounds working together on research projects.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | No cost. Each student will be provided a stipend of $3,500 |
| Program Dates | June 5, 2023 to August 4, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Rolling basis |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | No cost. Each student will be provided a stipend of $3,500 |
| Program Dates | June 5, 2023 to August 4, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Rolling basis |
Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program – Stanford University
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is a highly competitive eight-week program for high school students held at Stanford University. The program offers students the opportunity to work in a medical research laboratory under the guidance of experienced scientists and researchers. Throughout the program, students engage in research projects, attend lectures and workshops, and present their findings. SIMR has a rigorous application process and a limited number of available spots.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $40 application fee |
| Program Dates | June 12- August 3, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 25th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $40 application fee |
| Program Dates | June 12- August 3, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 25th, 2023 |
Simon Cancer Center Summer Research Program – Indiana University
The Simon Cancer Center Summer Research Program, hosted by the Indiana University School of Medicine, offers students hands-on experience in a research laboratory under the guidance of experienced researchers. Participants engage in research projects, attend seminars and workshops, and present their findings. Students are assigned mentors who provide guidance on academic work, career development, and further education in the field. The summer program also includes career development activities, such as networking opportunities, to help students explore careers in cancer research.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | June 5 – Friday, July 28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | June 5 – Friday, July 28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
Summer Medical Academy – Rady Children’s Hospital
The Summer Medical Academy at Rady Children’s Hospital provides hands-on clinical experience, interactive workshops, and simulations for high school students interested in medicine or healthcare. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics, including patient care, anatomy, medical ethics, and research. Additionally, it provides college preparation activities for prospective pre-med students, such as essay writing workshops and admission counseling. Overall, the Summer Medical Academy is an excellent choice for high school students seeking to gain practical experience in healthcare and prepare for a career in medicine.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2,800 |
| Program Dates | Session 1: June 19-30 Session 2: July 10-21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 24, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2,800 |
| Program Dates | Session 1: June 19-30 Session 2: July 10-21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 24, 2023 |
National Institute of Health High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)
The National Institute of Health High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP) is an ideal program for high school students who are interested in science, research, and healthcare. The program offers students the opportunity to work in an NIH research laboratory with experienced researchers, engage in a wide range of activities, and gain exposure to various scientific research fields. HS-SIP is highly competitive, with a rigorous application process and provides a stipend to cover living expenses. This program offers students a unique opportunity to work with renowned researchers, deepen their scientific knowledge and skills, and gain an understanding of advanced scientific research practices.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | All interns must complete an orientation before joining their research groups. HS-SIP internships generally cover a minimum of eight weeks. |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | All interns must complete an orientation before joining their research groups. HS-SIP internships generally cover a minimum of eight weeks. |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 1, 2023 |
Medicine Institute – Wake Forest University
The Medicine Institute at Wake Forest University is a unique and comprehensive approach to healthcare education and practice. It consists of four distinct centers, including the Wake Forest School of Medicine, and emphasizes research and innovation in developing new treatments and therapies for various medical conditions. The Institute also places a strong emphasis on patient-centered health care programs itself, offering personalized treatment and attention. Additionally, it offers various educational programs for students and healthcare professionals, providing access to cutting-edge research facilities and renowned faculty.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 |
| Program Dates | June 11-16 or July 23-28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Rolling basis |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 |
| Program Dates | June 11-16 or July 23-28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: Rolling basis |
High School Senior Summer Internship Program – Cincinnati Children’s
The High School Senior Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children’s is a unique opportunity for high school seniors to engage in research and clinical experiences in a world-renowned pediatric research hospital. The program offers opportunities to work alongside experienced researchers and clinicians on projects related to various medical fields. It provides a comprehensive understanding of pediatric healthcare, including research methods, clinical care, and public health. The program also offers professional development opportunities, including career counseling and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals. Overall, it provides valuable research and clinical experience in pediatric healthcare for high school seniors preparing for a future in healthcare.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Entire Summer starting on June 6, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: December 7, 2022 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Entire Summer starting on June 6, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: December 7, 2022 |
Biomedical Research Internship for Minority Students – Cincinnati Children’s
The Biomedical Research Internship for Minority Students (BRIMS) program is a unique nine-week internship opportunity for minority high school seniors and college freshmen from the Cincinnati tri-state area. The program provides hands-on experience in cutting-edge scientific research at an academic medical center to encourage minority students to pursue biomedical research careers. BRIMS interns will be paired with a research mentor, participate in weekly networking luncheons, and shadow minority faculty in different clinical specialties. The program is highly competitive and sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs and Career Development at Cincinnati Children’s and the Charlotte R. Schmidlapp Fund. Applicants must be high achieving, have taken multiple science courses, and submit a one-page personal essay.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Entire Summer starting on June 5, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Entire Summer starting on June 5, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp offered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is unique because it offers middle and high school students a hands-on experience in public health and epidemiology. Participants in the program engage in activities that allow them to learn about and practice disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and public health interventions. Additionally, the program includes interactive exhibits, lectures by CDC scientists, and tours of the CDC campus. Students also have the opportunity to interact with healthcare professionals and researchers, gaining insights into careers in public health. Overall, the CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp is a unique and valuable opportunity for students interested in public health to gain practical experience in illness and disease prevention and explore career paths in the field.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Session 1: June 26-30 Session 2: July 24-28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 31, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Session 1: June 26-30 Session 2: July 24-28 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 31, 2023 |
Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program
The Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program is unique because it provides high school students with an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in women’s health and reproductive biology. The program offers a hands-on experience in a research laboratory, allowing students to work alongside experienced researchers and gain practical experience in scientific research. Additionally, the program includes a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics related to women’s health, such as fertility, pregnancy, and breast cancer. The program also includes professional development opportunities, such as workshops on scientific writing and presentation skills and career counseling sessions with healthcare professionals. Overall, the Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program is a unique opportunity for high school students to gain valuable research experience in women’s healthcare and prepare for a future in healthcare.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | 4-week program starting June 26th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 8, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | 4-week program starting June 26th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 8, 2023 |
Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA)
The Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA) is unique because it provides high school students with a comprehensive and immersive experience in healthcare education and practice. The program is led by experienced healthcare professionals and educators and includes a wide range of activities, such as clinical rotations, simulation labs, and interactive workshops. The program’s curriculum covers various topics related to healthcare, including anatomy, medical ethics, and patient care. Additionally, the program offers career counseling sessions and college preparation activities, such as essay writing workshops and college admission counseling, to help students prepare for a career in healthcare. Overall, the Medical Immersion Summer Academy is a unique program that provides high school students with a well-rounded understanding of healthcare and prepares them for a future in healthcare.
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,400 $50 non-refundable application fee |
| Program Dates | Cohort A: July 10th-14th, 2023 Cohort B: July 17th-21st, 2023 Cohort C: July 24th-28th, 2023 Cohort D: July 31st-August 4th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,400 $50 non-refundable application fee |
| Program Dates | Cohort A: July 10th-14th, 2023 Cohort B: July 17th-21st, 2023 Cohort C: July 24th-28th, 2023 Cohort D: July 31st-August 4th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: |
Georgetown Summer High School Science and Medical Program – Georgetown University
The Georgetown Summer High School Science and Medical Program is a unique and interdisciplinary program that provides high school students with a comprehensive experience in science and medicine. The program’s curriculum covers various topics related to anatomy, genetics, neuroscience, and public health. It includes hands-on laboratory experiments, clinical simulations, and workshops led by experienced faculty members and healthcare professionals. Additionally, the program includes college preparation activities to help students prepare for a career in healthcare. Overall, the program provides high school students with a well-rounded understanding of science and medicine, making it a valuable opportunity for those interested in either medical school or a future in healthcare.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2,500 - $3,225 |
| Program Dates | Jun 25, 2023 - July 15, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: May 15, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $2,500 - $3,225 |
| Program Dates | Jun 25, 2023 - July 15, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: May 15, 2023 |
Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience High School Internship
The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience High School Internship is a unique program that provides high school students with a hands-on research experience in neuroscience. Led by experienced scientists and researchers, the program offers students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects related to brain function, development, and disease. The curriculum includes attending seminars and workshops and interacting with leading scientists in the field, preparing students for a future in neuroscience. Overall, the high schoolers’ program is a valuable opportunity for high school students interested in gaining practical research experience and exploring careers in neuroscience.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | June 12 – July 21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | June 12 – July 21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: March 1, 2023 |
Biomedical Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
The Biomedical Research Academy is a unique, fully residential summer program that offers a comprehensive introduction to the experimental basis of cellular, molecular, and genetic aspects of biology, with a focus on disease relevance. The program includes daily lectures from scientists, clinicians, and faculty from the Department of Biology and Penn’s School of Medicine, faculty research talks, laboratory experiments, and small group investigations into current research topics. Students also participate in a journal club to learn how to analyze and critique primary research. The program provides hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques in Penn’s undergraduate labs, including determining blood type and investigating gene expression in bacteria.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $9,700 |
| Program Dates | July 9 – July 29, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $9,700 |
| Program Dates | July 9 – July 29, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: |
Achieve in Medicine (AIM–High) – Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine
Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine offers a unique five-day summer camp called Achieve in Medicine (AIM) – High, designed exclusively for high school students interested in pursuing a career in the health professions. AIM-High provides students with hands-on medical experiences, interactive educational sessions, and social events. The program offers learning opportunities in numerous specialties of medical practice, innovative and emerging technologies such as 3-D modeling and augmented reality, and first aid and CPR training. Students will also participate in sessions on how technology can improve community health and a disaster medicine training with Davie Fire and Rescue.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1500 |
| Program Dates | Session 1: July 10-14, 2023 Session 2: July 17-21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 1, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1500 |
| Program Dates | Session 1: July 10-14, 2023 Session 2: July 17-21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: April 1, 2023 |
Project Success: Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers– Harvard Medical School
Project Success: Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers is a unique summer program designed for underrepresented and disadvantaged high school students in Boston and Cambridge. The program offers paid, mentored research internships at Harvard Medical School and its affiliated institutions for eight weeks, from the last week in June to August 18th, 2023. The program is augmented by seminars and workshops given by faculty and administrators, site visits, and career counseling. Project Success aims to identify, recruit, and nurture talented students interested in pursuing biomedical careers, provide opportunities for hands-on research, and offer continuing support and resources for students in developing academic and professional career paths.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Last week in June to August 18th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 13, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | N/A |
| Program Dates | Last week in June to August 18th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Regular Admission Deadline: February 13, 2023 |
💡Bonus tips for choosing the right academic programs:
Doing research is commonplace.
