Pre-College Summer Technology Programs and Bootcamps for High School Students
Summer technology programs help high school students learn technology skills such as coding, computer science, and web design. Some programs, called summer technology bootcamps, offer intensive courses where students learn new skills in a short time.
Both types of programs let learners take classes in subjects not offered at their high schools. They might offer more advanced courses or more sophisticated facilities than those available at most high schools. Participants gain skills and experience that will benefit them in college and make them more competitive college applicants.
This page covers basic information about summer technology programs and bootcamps. It ends with a list of available programs.
Pre-College Summer Technology Programs and Bootcamps for High School Students
Pre-college programs let high school students take classes on college campuses over the summer. Besides studying their favorite subjects in-depth, participants experience college life and meet peers who share their interests. The independence and academic rigor that pre-college programs provide helps prepare students for college.
Many technology programs for high school students include classes in robotics, engineering, and nanoscience. Participants might go on to pursue college degrees in engineering or computer science. After college, they can pursue computer programming, data science, and software engineering careers.
Questions About Summer Programs and Bootcamps
Q. Are there free bootcamps?
You can find some free bootcamps online. Self-motivated students save money by taking online versions of in-person coding classes from well-known institutions and bootcamps.
Q. Can a high schooler learn coding?
Yes, high schoolers can learn coding. Learning coding in high school prepares students for careers in a world that relies increasingly on computers and technology.
Q. How much does a technology bootcamp cost?
The cost of summer technology bootcamps ranges from free to around $3,800. The cost varies depending on the length and nature of the program.
Q. How long is a summer technology program?
Summer technology programs for high school students typically last 1-6 weeks.
What Is a Bootcamp?
Unlike summer technology programs offered on college campuses, technology bootcamps for high school students occur anywhere, year round. Bootcamps vary in length. According to a 2019 report by RTI International, bootcamps take an average of 16.5 weeks to finish.
Students do summer technology bootcamps in person or online. Some online bootcamps cost nothing, while in-person bootcamps cost up to $3,800.
At summer technology bootcamps, students explore technology fields and get mentored by experts. Students learn coding, data science, and software engineering skills.
Benefits of Attending a Bootcamp
Attending a summer technology program or summer technology bootcamp has many benefits. Technology programs for high school students provide an opportunity to build valuable skills.
- Learn In-Demand Skills:
More than ever, employers want job candidates with technology skills such as coding, computer science, and engineering. Most high schools, however, still do not offer classes in these growing fields. At technology bootcamps for high school students, teenagers get a head start on learning these in-demand skills.
- Build Your Network:
Summer technology programs give high school students the chance to meet peers and mentors. Joining a network of like-minded students and professionals can benefit students when they apply to colleges and jobs.
Prepare for a Degree or Career in Technology: Attending a technology bootcamp lets students study subjects that their high schools might not offer. The skills and knowledge they gain helps prepare them to pursue a degree or technology career in the future.
Summer Technology Programs and Bootcamps for High School Students
UCLA hosts the Applications of Nanoscience Summer Institute, a two-week program held on campus in Los Angeles. The summer technology program lets students explore applications of nanoscience, design-thinking, and entrepreneurship. UCLA offers optional on-campus housing for the program.
The program prepares students for majors and careers in science. During the first week, students discover what professional scientists do. During the second week, they work in teams to design, conduct, and present their own research experiments.
Applicants need a strong background in chemistry, biology, and physics. UCLA offers some full and partial need- and merit-based scholarships to qualified applicants. Students should bring their own laptops.
