If you’re in high school now, the summer break is a great time to take on new challenges, learn new things, work on passionate projects, and explore things you don’t know much about. Florida has lots of different summer tech camps for high school students. These programs are made to fit different interests and skill levels.
These programs are an excellent way to learn by doing, especially in the area you like. You also get to meet people interested in the same things as you.
We have a list of programs to help you make the most of your summer in Florida and some Florida tech summer camps. Whether you’re into science, social studies, the arts, or just like learning new things, Florida has something for you!
What are the Best Summer Tech Camps in Florida for High School Students?
Here are some of the summer programs in Florida for high school students:
1. Young Scholars Program
This program from Florida State University is for high school students in Florida who want a job in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). You’ll take six-week math, science, and computer programming classes. Even though the classes are challenging, you’ll also have fun with dances, trips, fireworks, and games.
Who can apply? You need to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a high math score on tests like the SAT, PSAT, ACT, or PLAN.
Cost: This program gives you a scholarship of more than $3,000, covering your room, food, and classes.
2. Medicine Summer Institute by FSU
This program is for high school juniors and seniors wanting to learn more about medicine and healthcare. You’ll see different medical places and learn about scholarships and mentorship. You’ll also learn about college and medical school from your teachers.
It is one of the best summer programs in Florida and one of the best Florida Tech summer camps.
Who can apply: High school juniors and seniors with a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Cost: $1,400
3. Upward-bound Math and Science
This program is for high school students who like science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). You’ll learn in classes, get help from teachers, and even do research. They also help you prepare for college and consider what job you want.
4. Miami University Summer Scholars Program
This program lets high school students take classes like those in college. You can learn about design, engineering, technology, and data science. This is one of the best summer programs in Florida and one of the best Florida tech summer camps.
Who can apply: High school students who finished 10th or 11th grade and have a GPA of 3.5.
Cost: You must pay $350 to join and $730 for the program.
5. Theatre, St. Petersburg College
This program is for high school students who love acting, directing, and other parts of making plays. You’ll work with people who know a lot about theater and make a play at the end.
Who can apply: High school students
Cost: You might get a scholarship of $500 if you’re good at the theater.
6. Florida State University Summer Programs
Florida State University (FSU) offers various summer programs covering STEM, humanities, and languages.
Students can choose from programs like iCamp, which introduces them to computing and technology careers; American Legion Boys and Girls State, where they can learn about local government; and the Saturday-at-the-Sea Summer Day Camp, offering engaging nature exploration.
It is one of the best summer programs in Florida and one of the best Florida Tech summer camps. The College Reach Out Program focuses on leadership training, life skills, and music appreciation.
Who Can Apply: Students currently in grades 6–8 who are residents of Florida and can swim.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Fees/Stipend: The program fees differ depending on the chosen program, and financial assistance is available.
7. Florida A&M University
Florida A&M University provides a diverse range of summer programs for high school students, offering opportunities to explore various fields of study, enhance academic skills, and engage in college-level coursework.
Examples of these programs include the AGRI-STEM Summer Program and Forestry and Conservation Education for those interested in agriculture and food sciences.
Additionally, the Engineering program caters to students interested in technology and innovation, while other programs like Emerging Pharmacists and Creative Crafts offer valuable experiences in healthcare and the arts.
Eligibility: Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 in all music courses.
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Residential Fees: $700 (staying on-campus)
Non-Residential Fees: $500 (staying off-campus)
8. Theatre for Social Change, Eckerd College
In partnership with the Asolo Repertory Theatre, Eckerd College offers a unique opportunity for young artists to collaborate with industry professionals to create stories that promote social change. It is one of the best summer programs in Florida and one of the best Florida Tech summer camps.
Through this program, participants will develop artistic skills and inspire change by crafting impactful works of art.
Eligibility: Must be a rising junior or senior in the fall of 2023 and reside in St. Petersburg or nearby communities.
Location: Eckerd College
Fees: Program fees vary, ranging from $500 – $1,499.
9. Competitive Programming Overview: University of Central Florida
A summer program is available for high school students passionate about computer science, algorithms, and programming competitions, aiming to enhance their skills. The program is designed to prepare students for contests like USACO, CodeForces, and the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC).
The two-week curriculum includes instruction on algorithms and commonly used data in competitions, practice competitions, and personalized coaching.
Eligibility: Students must be enrolled in grades 9–12 and be at least 15 years old by the program’s start.
Location: Orlando, Main Campus
Fees: $3000
10. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Aerospace Camp
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a unique four-week summer camp for high school students, providing exposure to college life and exploring diverse career paths in flight, mechanical engineering, global security, and NASA astronautics.
The program covers various topics, including space flight history, propulsion theory, orbital mechanics, Space Shuttle operations, and US space policy, offering participants three college credits upon completion.
Eligibility: Students Ages 15–18
Location: Daytona Beach, FL
Fees: $4,500
Conclusion
There are many excellent summer programs in Florida, as well as some Florida Tech summer camps. These programs are designed to enhance students’ learning and critical thinking abilities.
Covering a range of subjects, including science, art, and culture, there is something to suit every student’s interests. This is one of the best summer programs in Florida and one of the best Florida tech summer camps.
Florida’s natural beauty and attractions make these programs even more unique, helping students learn and create lasting memories. Participation in these programs boosts students’ knowledge and builds their confidence, a crucial asset for success in a competitive world.
