The term “Computer Science” refers to a wide range of topics that range from concrete to more abstract. Computer scientists study things like the best way to make a computer run quickly and efficiently and theorize new applications for software programs. In essence, computer science refers to theories about what computers are capable of doing. If you’re a high school student and these concepts sound enticing to you, there’s no reason you can’t start studying computer science now. Exposure to these concepts at a young age is sure to set you up for success and build skills that will help you stand out from your peers.
There are several programs that offer high schoolers the chance to start learning computer science, including Noble partner school NextGen Bootcamp’s live online computer science summer program and NYC computer science summer camp. Read on to learn more about computer science classes that high school students can take over the summer.
Why Learn Computer Science During the Summer?
One of the best reasons to learn computer science over the summer is if you are planning to take the Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science class in high school. AP courses are a smart investment, as they make for impressive additions to college applications. Students who do well on the accredited exam that follows the course have the opportunity to apply for exciting scholarships with major companies like Amazon and Google.
Scoring highly on the AP exam can also lead to thrilling internship opportunities. Google offers numerous different internships that include an IT program, a software engineering program, and several different business internships for students who plan to pursue an MBA degree. Through a partnership with the AP Program, students can also apply to Facebook University. Here, students will partner with a mentor engineer for eight weeks as they learn more about the company’s operations.
Students who begin their computer science education early are also setting themselves up for lucrative careers when they are ready to enter the workforce. Many computer scientists go on to work in cybersecurity. Careers in this field can earn nearly $100,000 annually. A computer science education can also prepare you for a career in Artificial Intelligence (AI). These careers are becoming increasingly common as humans are unable to analyze the huge amounts of data being produced. Artificial Intelligence Engineers can also earn approximately $100,000 per year.
Types of Computer Science Summer Programs for High School Students
The types of summer programs available to high school students vary widely to accommodate a range of academic and scheduling needs. One of the biggest differences between these programs is the in-person vs. virtual learning environment. There are some students who prefer to learn in a more traditional classroom setting, but virtual learning is an excellent alternative for those who live in more remote areas or have busy schedules and cannot afford to spend time commuting. These programs also vary in length, meaning some are intensive programs where classes meet every day and others have classes for an hour or two per week.
Another way these programs differ is that they cater to a range of experience levels with computer science. For those students who already have some familiarity with these concepts, they would likely enjoy a more advanced program so they can continue to be challenged and boost their skills. The courses are also provided by different entities. Some are offered through private companies while others are organized by colleges or universities. These programs generally give students the option to live on-campus while they attend classes.
#1: NextGen Bootcamp - Computer Science Summer Program
What is Taught in This Program?
NextGen Bootcamp offers its Computer Science Summer Certificate to high school students over the summer. This program, which can be taken in-person or live online, teaches students fundamental computer skills using both Java and Python. This curriculum also highlights data science and many industry-standard practices to ensure students are taught the most in-demand skills.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
This program is suitable for beginner learners with no prior computer science experience. Students do need to know basic computer skills before enrolling to be successful.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
NextGen’s campus is located in New York City. Students who participate online will use Zoom to engage with their instructor and fellow classmates.
How Long Does This Program Last?
The length of the program depends on which modality you choose. The in-person session lasts for four weeks with classes taking place from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The online session is six weeks long and classes are from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm EST.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
This class is recommended for high school students, particularly those who are planning to take AP Computer Science the following year.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
The in-person course costs $3,990 and the online version costs $3,695. There is no financial aid available to students. However, in addition to the several hours of live instruction, students will also receive supplemental materials that they can refer back to throughout their continued education.
#2: Noble Desktop - Python for Data Science Bootcamp
What is Taught in This Program?
Noble Desktop offers a Python for Data Science Bootcamp over the summer. This hands-on course is ideal for students who want to learn to code with Python and gain critical data analysis skills. The curriculum introduces students to data science concepts and machine learning models. Students will also learn to use Python to create data visualizations.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
This program is geared towards beginners with no previous experience using Python.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
Students can take this course in-person at Noble Desktop’s campus in the exciting Manhattan area. They also have the option to participate online using a teleconferencing program like Zoom. These courses are held live so students can still get to know their peers and receive real-time feedback from instructors.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This course lasts for one week in the summer, Monday through Friday. Sessions last from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm EST.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
Students who are 18 or will turn 18 soon can take this bootcamp.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
This bootcamp is $1,495 per person. For this price, students receive 30 hours of instruction and the option to retake the class for free within a year. While financial aid is not available, students can learn this material in one of Noble Desktop’s more extensive certification programs. These programs are made up of several related bootcamps at a discounted price. Some options include a Data Science Certificate and a Data Analytics Certificate.
#3: Emagination Tech Camps - Summer Coding Camp
What is Taught in This Program?
Emagination Tech Camps offers a Summer Coding Camp. Here, students are taught foundational Java programming skills that will help them build a wide range of programs including Windows applications, servers, and XML web services. Because physical health is a priority at Emagination, outdoor games are a big part of the curriculum. Students spend time outside of class playing outdoor games like dodgeball and capture the flag.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
This course is geared towards beginners. The curriculum is progressive meaning that students will start with basic skills before moving onto more advanced concepts.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
This program is offered in person. Emagination Tech Camps has locations in the following states: Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This program lasts for two weeks. The school offers both overnight and day camp options for students who live nearby.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
Students between the ages of 13 and 17 are eligible to attend this program.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
The prices for Emagination camps vary slightly depending on which state’s program you attend. In general, the overnight camp costs around $3,249, and the day camp is around $1,695. If you need financial aid, qualified applicants can receive up to $850 in tuition assistance.
#4: theCoderSchool - Java Camp
What is Taught in This Program?
A Java Coding Camp for Kids is available through theCoderSchool during the summer. This program covers advanced computer science topics related to conditionals, iteration, and variables. This program is meant to give students a head start if they are planning on taking the Advanced Placement Computer Science class during the following school year.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
Since this course focuses on advanced topics, students are required to have significant previous experience with Java programming before enrolling. Class sizes also maintain a student-to-teacher ratio of only 2:1 which ensures that students receive as much individualized attention as possible.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
TheCoderSchool has locations in the following states: California, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, and Ohio. There is also a virtual option for those interested students who don’t live in these states.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This course lasts for one week, from Monday to Friday.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
This camp is suitable primarily for students who plan to take AP computer science the following year. Qualified middle school students should speak with a staff member before registering as they are able to enroll on a case-by-case basis.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
This program is $599 per student.
#5: iD Tech - Code Apps with Java
What is Taught in This Program?
iD Tech has a course called Coding Apps with Java as part of its summer offerings. Students will learn how to code with Java using arrays and loops. They will also participate in numerous coding challenges and group activities that are designed to strengthen confidence in their problem-solving skills. For their final project, students will code a simple game using Java and add graphics with Processing.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
The programs at iD Tech cater to both beginner and advanced students.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
iD Tech has locations in 24 states across the country. If any of these locations are not convenient for you, students can take the class remotely instead. If you enroll in the virtual program, make sure you have access to a computer with a camera and microphone.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This class is one week long. Classes are four hours in total but they are broken down into two two-hour sections. The first two hours are used for live instruction and the second half is made up of self-paced learning so students can work on their final project.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
iD Tech accepts students who are between the ages of 13 and 17; students who are 12 years of age must turn 13 by the end of the calendar year to enroll.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
This summer camp starts at $1,049. In terms of financial aid, iD Tech offers a handful of scholarships as well as some promotional discounts on their website. Be aware that these are subject to change at any time.
#6: UCLA - Computer Science Summer Institute - Introductory Track
What is Taught in This Program?
UCLA offers an Introductory Computer Science Track through their summer partnership with the Computer Science Summer Institute. In this program, students will learn about different types of data and explore contrasting computer programs to learn more about how they work. Additional topics covered include conditionals, loops, and functional decomposition.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
Introductory program; the application does include a transcript and students are asked to explain their interest and motivation for pursuing a computer science education.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
This program is available in person only. Students who participate will study on the UCLA campus. There is also an overnight option that allows students to stay in the dorms.
How Long Does This Program Last?
The course lasts for a little over two weeks.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
To participate in this program, students must be entering grades 9 through 12 in the Spring of 2022.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
Including all application and registration fees, the cost of this program is $2,861. For those who wish to stay on campus in the dorms, housing for the duration of the course is an additional $2,223. Scholarships are available and all applicants are encouraged to apply. UCLA offers merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and a diversity scholarship.
#7: UCLA - Computer Science Summer Institute - Introductory Track
What is Taught in This Program?
UCLA offers an Introductory Computer Science Track through their summer partnership with the Computer Science Summer Institute. In this program, students will learn about different types of data and explore contrasting computer programs to learn more about how they work. Additional topics covered include conditionals, loops, and functional decomposition.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
Introductory program; the application does include a transcript and students are asked to explain their interest and motivation for pursuing a computer science education.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
This program is available in person only. Students who participate will study on the UCLA campus. There is also an overnight option that allows students to stay in the dorms.
How Long Does This Program Last?
The course lasts for a little over two weeks.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
To participate in this program, students must be entering grades 9 through 12 in the Spring of 2022.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
Including all application and registration fees, the cost of this program is $2,861. For those who wish to stay on campus in the dorms, housing for the duration of the course is an additional $2,223. Scholarships are available and all applicants are encouraged to apply. UCLA offers merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and a diversity scholarship.
#8: iD Tech - Java Coding and Game Development
What is Taught in This Program?
iD Tech also has a Java Coding and Game Development class for high school students during the summer. If students want to explore their passion for coding while gaining valuable design skills, this course is a great option. The class helps students learn to program arcade-style games that are interactive and engaging. Students can also add all of the projects they created throughout the program to their digital portfolio.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
This class is suitable for beginners with no prior coding or design experience. However, more advanced students can be accommodated by iD Tech instructors to ensure they still receive a valuable education.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
iD Tech has campuses in over 20 states across the US. If there isn’t an iD Tech campus near you, you can enroll as a virtual student instead. Remote students use Zoom to participate, so they must have access to a computer with a microphone and a camera.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This class takes one week to complete. Each session is made up of two sections. The first two hours are devoted to live instruction, while the remaining two hours are self-paced so students can work on their final project.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
iD Tech accepts students between the ages of 13 and 17. Students who are 12 years old can enroll as long as they turn 13 by the end of the calendar year.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
This camp costs $1,049 per student. In addition to the live instruction and support with their take-home projects, participants also receive an iD Tech t-shirt and an official transcript to demonstrate their new skills to potential employers or college admissions teams. There are scholarships available for students who feel that finances are a barrier to attendance. iD Tech also offers regular promotional discounts for their summer programs, but these are subject to change.
#9: Columbia University Pre-College - Computer Programming for Beginners: Coding in Java
What is Taught in This Program?
Columbia University offers a pre-college summer class called Computer Programming for Beginners: Coding in Java. Here, students gain proficiency in Java through a variety of methods like collaborating with peers, completing individual projects, and attending and hands-on labs. By participating in activities that focus on logical reasoning, students will leave the program with enhanced problem-solving skills and a boost in their confidence.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
While this course does not explicitly require previous experience coding with Java or another language, it is recommended that potential students consider their ability to be successful at things like challenging math problems and logic puzzles.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
This course is taught in-person at the Columbia University campus; there is no virtual option available.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This course lasts for three weeks in the summer. Sessions are held on weekdays from 11:10am to 1:00pm. Participants are then permitted a couple of hours to have lunch, take a break, and independently study before class resumes from 3:10 pm to 5:00 pm.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
This program is designed for older high school students as they prepare for the challenges of college-level courses.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
Columbia’s summer program is priced at $6,300 per student; this price does not include the non-refundable application fee of $80. A $1,000 deposit is required to secure a spot in the program, but this amount goes towards the total cost of tuition rather than being an additional fee.
Which Computer Science Summer Program is Right for Me?
After reviewing the many options that are available to learn computer science over the summer, you might be feeling anxious about making sure you choose the right program for you. There are many factors that you should consider that will help you narrow down your choices and feel more confident when applying.
For many families, finances are the chief concern. Although computer science is a lucrative field to work in, spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars can be a burden too big for many families to take on. You can choose to focus your search on programs that offer financial aid or scholarships. However, it’s important to look at how much you get for your money rather than just the total cost of a particular program. For example, the virtual NextGen program costs $3,695 for 95 hours of instruction and the virtual iD Tech program costs $1,049 for ten hours of instruction. The NextGen course is more expensive, but the price per hour is significantly less making it a better investment overall.
Considering how you learn best is also important when narrowing your search. While virtual learning is convenient, it may not be for everyone. Some students find it difficult to focus while trying to learn in their home environment. Many of the programs above offer virtual learning as an option. If in-person learning is a necessity for you, programs through iD Tech might be the best option since they have the most locations
A final thing to consider is your current level of experience with computer science. Enrolling in a class that will help you learn in a challenging environment without overwhelming you is key to maximizing your education. Many of these programs are good for beginners, but theCoderSchool’s advanced Java program might be a good fit if you’ve already learned the basics of computer science.
It’s clear that summer computer science programs can meet a range of needs; there are options out there for students who prefer to learn online, students who require financial assistance, and students who have busy schedules. Enrolling in one of these programs is a significant investment, so taking the time to decide which program is best for you will go a long way towards better preparing you for your future career.
Can high school students learn computer science?
Absolutely and learning science can provide you with a fascinating array of excellent benefits! First, you can start coding fun and useful apps you can quickly sell for money using Android and Apple stores. Even better, you can easily transition into college-based courses and master more advanced concepts like database management, computer science theory, and more. Knowing all these techniques can help you become a more skilled coder.
Should high school students attend a computer science summer program?
If you’re interested in the tech industry and want to join this rapidly growing and always exciting field, you should take computer science classes in the summer. The skills you’ll learn about database management, programming languages, networking, and security can translate to almost every tech field! As a result, it should be easy for you to transition into a fun and unforgettable career, mainly if you use these courses to prepare for a college education.
Which computer science summer program is best for high school students?
NextGen Bootcamp provides several high-quality computer science courses you can take over the summer! Designed to fit into your busy lifestyle (typically taking only a few weeks), these programs immerse you in computer science concepts to teach you Java, Python, database management, and much more. Computer Science Summer Program NYC and Computer Science Summer Certificate Program Live Online take 95 hours to complete.
Is it worth attending a computer summer program as a high school student?
Are you looking to become a computer specialist in fields as diverse as web design, coding, network security, and ecommerce? Taking a high school computer science summer program can help you by immersing you in the unique skills necessary to succeed in this field. You’ll learn essential subjects like Python and Java and practice data management and other techniques that can ensure you transition easily into a college or professional career.