10 Summer Programs in Michigan for High Schoolers
What’s Covered:
Home to a number of educational programs and institutions, including one of the country’s top “Public Ivies,” the University of Michigan, Michigan is full of opportunities for students of all ages. If you’re in high school, there are plenty of ways to learn, grow, and get a taste of your future career over the summer. Just take a look at these top programs for exploring your passions.
Summer Programs in Michigan
1. ArcStart
Dates: June 20-July 1, 2022
Location: Taubman College
Application deadline: March 31
Cost: $1,300
Currently virtual, ArcStart is a pre-college program for future architects. Students participate in a college-level architecture studio, learning through skills-building workshops and exploring projects. The two-week program introduces high schoolers to the many aspects of the craft, from specialized drawing to history to portfolio curation. Students will also watch presentations on college preparation.
The program is open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, as well as rising college freshmen. The cost includes supplies that will be mailed to students’ homes. Scholarships are available.
2. Center Stage Strings
Dates: June 19-July 16, 2022
Location: University of Michigan
Application deadline: February 21
Cost: $4,500
Founded by University of Michigan professor Danielle Belen, Center Stage Strings helps develop the talents of serious young classical music students in solo and chamber music performance. The four-week institute offers intense practice, lessons, and coaching, along with recreational trips, including kayaking and hiking, to downtown Ann Arbor. Students will also watch guest artist recitals and faculty concerts.
3. Cyber Camp
Dates: June 27, 2022—July 15, 2022
Location: Northern Michigan University
Application deadline: N/A
Cost: $50
For students in grades 9-12, Cyber Camp offers an exciting look into the world of coding, programming, and creating through technology. The week-long program takes place at NMU Seaborg Center at Northern Michigan University. No previous coding or cyber experience is necessary for participation.
4. EdReady
Dates: Summer 2022
Location: Michigan Virtual
Application deadline: N/A
Cost: free for Michigan students
EdReady offers programs in Math and English to empower students to meet their college and career aspirations with a personalized study plan to master skills. The web-based programs will assess student competencies, map their strengths and weaknesses, target knowledge gaps, and help students develop competencies that are assessed on standardized tests like the SAT and ACT.
5. Michigan Math and Science Scholars
Dates:
Session 1: Sunday, June 26 – Friday, July 8
Session 2: Sunday, July 10 – Friday, July 22
Session 3: Sunday, July 24 – Friday, August 5
Location: University of Michigan
Application deadline: rolling
Cost: $1,300
This summer enrichment program for high school students offers a sneak peek into current developments and research in the sciences. It is intended to encourage the next generation of researchers to develop and retain a love of mathematics and science. Four two-week sessions are available throughout the summer. The program takes place at the University of Michigan.
There is an additional $900 fee for residential attendees.
6. MREACH
Dates: August 2022-April 2023 Saturdays
Location: University of Michigan
Application deadline: July 3
Cost: free
Michigan Ross Enriching Academics in Collaboration with High Schools (MREACH) is an academic preparation, career exploration, and business activity program for rising 10th-12th graders who are members of groups that are underrepresented in business school. Students from diverse backgrounds will receive mentorship from current University of Michigan BBA and MBA students, receive instruction from Ross School of Business Faculty, visit Fortune 500 company offices, and much more.
The program takes place on Saturdays between August and April.
7. MSU High School Engineering Institute
Dates:
Session 1: June 26-30, 2022
Session 2: July 10-14, 2022
Location: Michigan State University
Application deadline: June 16
Cost: $899
Open to students entering grades 10-12, this one-week, residential program prepares students who are seriously considering a career in engineering or an education in the field. Students will learn about the major and spend time with faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students, while attending lectures, observing demonstrations, and engaging in hands-on activities, team-based problem solving, and tours.
8. Musical Theater Workshop
Dates: July 10, 2022 – July 30, 2022
Location: University of Michigan
Application deadline: rolling
Cost: $5,225
The 2022 Musical Theatre Workshop is designed for rising high school seniors who are considering BFA degree programs. The 3-week program, offered by the University of Michigan Department of Musical Theatre, explores topics like acting techniques for songs, Broadway dance styles, contemporary trends, song lyric analysis, audition skills, and much more.
9. NMU Environmental Science Camp
Dates: July 17 – July 23, 2022.
Location: Northern Michigan University
Application deadline: rolling
Cost: $599
During this week-long program, students in grades 9-12 will explore the scenic vistas and natural resources of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. They will gain first-hand experience with the technology and field research of real scientists, studying the changing environment and sustainability issues.
10. Summer Discovery
Dates: varies by program
Location: University of Michigan
Application deadline: rolling
Cost: varies by program
Summer Discovery takes place at several prestigious college campuses, including the University of Michigan. Through the program, students will explore courses in STEM, arts, business, leadership, psychology, and more. They will connect with industry-leading instructors, engage in exciting subjects, and hone important education and career skills. They will also take part in activities, trips, and events in Ann Arbor.
Additional programs are available at the University of Texas Austin, UCLA, Georgetown University, UC Santa Barbara, and New York University. Costs vary.
How do Summer Programs Impact Your College Chances?
Many selective colleges assess your extracurricular activities according to four tiers. Tier 1 includes the rarest and most exceptional activities, while Tier 4 includes those that are relatively common — the ones adcoms encounter often on applications. You should aim to have at least a couple of Tier 1-2 activities if you’re aiming for top colleges and universities.
Summer programs are usually considered Tier 3-4 activities. However, if the program you’re considering attending is particularly selective (and free or low cost), it may fall within a higher tier.
To find out how your extracurriculars will impact your chances of admission, check out CollegeVine’s free chancing engine. This tool will not only estimate your real odds of acceptance to hundreds of colleges across the country but give you free tips on how to improve your profile.