From college prep programs to immersive George Washington University summer programs for high school students, there is a wide variety of summer programs in Washington, DC. However, finding the right match is not always easy.
To help with your search, here are the top 10 summer programs in DC.
1. George Washington University Summer Programs
Estimated Cost: $5,000
George Washington summer programs offer students an immersive college-like experience, helping to prepare them for what’s to come. The available programs include a one-week program and a two-week program with several fields of study to choose from.
George Washington University summer high school programs cover medicine, biomedical engineering, counterterrorism, cognitive neuroscience, and more.
The programs are available to sophomores, juniors, and seniors in the DC area. Unfortunately, the university does not have programs for students outside of the region. The following year’s programs will likely be open for enrollment in early 2024.
2. American University Summer Programs
Estimated Cost: $2,000
American University is a private charter research university in DC with several summer programs for high school students. Most of the programs include two to four weeks of classroom learning, hands-on simulations, guest speakers, trips, and tours.
As with the George Washington University high school summer programs, the programs from American University cover several different fields of study. The available programs include biotechnology, digital arts, film production, forensic science, journalism, health care, intensive medicine, nursing, and psychology.
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3. Georgetown University Pre-College Programs
Estimated Cost: $10,500
Georgetown University has several courses designed to help high school students with the college application process. The College Prep Program lasts five weeks and gives students the chance to work on their college applications and prepare for their SAT and ACT exams.
This is one of the most expensive summer programs for high school students in Washington, DC. However, it offers a comprehensive approach to helping students get into the colleges of their choice. Scholarships are also available for qualifying students.
4. Smithsonian Youth Programs
Estimated Cost: $2,500
The Smithsonian Institute offers several youth summer programs in DC. This includes two summer internships for high school students. The Youth Engagement Through Science (YES) Internship Program lasts 12 weeks and gives students the chance to work side by side with professional scientists and researchers from the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.
Students receive mentorship in multiple science disciplines throughout the program. The program also includes several field trips and tours in and around the Washington, DC area.
5. The Fund for American Studies – DC Summer Programs
Estimated Cost: $5,000
The Fund for American Studies offers an immersive eight-week internship in Washington, DC. This internship includes academic courses, including courses on public policy and free-market economics. The courses are accredited through a partnership with George Mason University, which means that the credits may be transferable to a student’s college career.
Students also work about 30 hours per week through their internships. When applying, students can choose a specific professional field. Some of the available options include journalism, government relations, public policy, business, and philanthropy.
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6. Pharm STEP 1 from Howard University
Estimated Cost: Unknown
Pharm STEP 1 is an introductory program for students interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy. It includes six weeks of courses and increases the student’s chances of gaining acceptance to a Doctor of Pharmacy Program at Howard University.
Students must be US citizens and high school juniors or seniors with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. Students from underrepresented minorities and financially disadvantaged households receive priority when it comes to admissions.
While the 2023 classes have already ended, Howard University offers the same program annually. Visit the website for more details or contact information to find out when to apply.
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7. The School of the New York Times – DC Summer Academy
Estimated Cost: $6,000
The New York Times has its school. It was founded to give students the chance to study with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists. Students can sign up for different courses, including DC Bureau: The Political Beat, Public Policy & Activism, Political Commentary, and International Relations.
As with many of the top DC summer programs, the 2023 courses are already completed but the same programs are typically offered each year. Those wanting to sign up should keep an eye out for updates on the website or contact the administrators for more details.
8. SEGL Summer Institute in Washington
Estimated Cost: $7,250
The School for Ethics and Global Leadership (SEGL) offers a summer program devoted to nurturing the next generation of leaders. It lasts five weeks and includes a combination of classroom learning, tours, and lectures. Students will learn from distinguished leaders, including a former President.
The program is aimed at helping students improve their public speaking, collaboration, and leadership skills. Students live on campus and receive three meals per day.
9. Gallaudet University Immerse into ASL Camp
Estimated Cost: $750
The “Immerse into ASL” program is a DC summer school program available at Gallaudet University. It is made to help people who are new to sign language. By the end of the program, students should be fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). Students spend time learning ASL and attending various events and trips, including tours of major sites around the Capital area.
Applicants need a GPA of at least 2.75. Students who are deaf or hard of hearing receive priority over hearing students. Hearing students must also be at an intermediate level. Scholarships are also available to applicable students. Housing and meals are provided.
Related: Top 5 Summer Camps in San Antonio
10. Light the World! Summer Institute
Estimated Cost: $525
The Catholic University of America offers a summer program for students interested in learning how faith and modern culture can co-exist. Students will spend time exploring a wide range of topics, including business, politics, science, sports, and the arts.
Students will stay on campus attend daily mass and live in a dormitory. The program lasts one week and gives students a small taste of college life before they embark on their next chapter. It is intended specifically for faith-filled students preparing for college.
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