17 Summer Chemistry Programs for Middle School Students in New York
- Stephen Turban
- Jun 23
- 11 min read
Summer chemistry programs can be an excellent way for you to explore science beyond what is typically offered in a middle school classroom. Through these programs, you can gain exposure to college-level academics, hands-on experimentation, research methods, and STEM careers while developing practical problem-solving skills. Many programs also allow you to interact with university faculty, researchers, industry professionals, and like-minded peers, helping you build valuable academic and professional connections early on. The best part is that many summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York offer financial aid, scholarships, or low-cost participation options, making advanced STEM learning more accessible.
If you are particularly interested in chemistry, an online summer program can be a flexible way to explore specialized topics while working alongside mentors and experts from anywhere. To help you identify the strongest opportunities, we have narrowed down a list of summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York based on factors such as academic rigor, selectivity, mentorship opportunities, networking potential, funding availability, and affiliation with prestigious institutions.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies, financial aid available
Dates: Eight weeks | Timing varies by cohort
Application Deadline: Varies based on cohort
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8
Lumiere's Junior Explorer Program is a selective online research experience designed to help you develop advanced research, writing, and analytical skills. You begin by selecting an area of interest, including chemistry, biology, environmental science, or other STEM fields, before being matched with a PhD-level mentor from a leading university. Throughout the program, you learn how to identify research questions, evaluate academic literature, and conduct an independent project. A key feature of the program is the individualized mentorship model, which allows you to explore a topic in depth with expert guidance. You conclude the experience by producing a formal research paper that communicates your findings and develops skills commonly used in advanced academic settings. Among summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York, this program offers one of the most personalized research experiences available online.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; CTY qualification required
Location: Sarah Lawrence College, Bronxville, NY
Cost: Residential tuition plus laboratory fee; financial assistance available
Dates: Multiple summer sessions available
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Students in grades 7-11 who meet CTY eligibility requirements
This intensive course introduces you to chemistry through real-world applications such as pharmaceuticals, energy production, food science, and environmental sustainability. You explore topics including atomic structure, chemical reactions, acids and bases, calorimetry, and molecular interactions through both classroom instruction and laboratory activities. The curriculum emphasizes how chemistry shapes everyday life and public policy decisions. You must qualify for CTY through approved testing criteria before enrolling. The residential format also gives you a taste of college life while allowing you to collaborate with academically motivated peers. For highly advanced learners, it is one of the strongest summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Small-group learning with a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies, financial aid available
Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (weekends) or 25 hours over 2 weeks (weekdays)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8
AI Trailblazers introduces you to artificial intelligence, machine learning, Python programming, and data analysis through a project-based curriculum. Although not exclusively focused on chemistry, the skills you develop can be applied to modern fields such as computational chemistry, drug discovery, materials science, and biotechnology. You learn concepts including regression, neural networks, image classification, and AI ethics while working closely with mentors. The program's small-group structure allows for substantial interaction with instructors and peers. Previous projects have included recommendation systems, classification models, and predictive algorithms. If you are interested in the growing intersection between chemistry and technology, this program offers a valuable complement to traditional summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY
Cost: Varies by course and format
Dates: Multiple sessions throughout the summer
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions while space remains available
Eligibility: Middle and high school students depending on course offerings
Columbia's SHAPE program offers STEM-focused courses that expose you to university-level scientific concepts through project-based learning. Depending on the course selected, you may study chemistry-related topics such as biomedical engineering, environmental science, materials science, or molecular biology. The program combines lectures, collaborative projects, and applied problem-solving activities. You will learn from instructors connected to Columbia University while gaining exposure to a college academic environment. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry, experimentation, and interdisciplinary STEM thinking. This makes it a strong option if you are looking for summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York connected to a major research university.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive global selection
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: Year-round challenge cycles
Application Deadline: Typically fall admissions cycle
Eligibility: Students ages 13-17
The Junior Academy connects you with students, researchers, and industry professionals from around the world to solve real-world STEM challenges. Many projects involve chemistry-related themes such as sustainability, clean energy, environmental health, and biotechnology. You work in teams to develop innovative solutions and present them through structured challenge platforms. Participation is fully funded and provides opportunities to engage with professionals from leading organizations. The experience emphasizes collaboration, scientific communication, and innovation. It is one of the most accessible and globally connected summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Location: The Cooper Union, New York, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: Summer session dates vary
Application Deadline: Spring application cycle
Eligibility: Middle and high school students depending on program track
This STEM enrichment program introduces you to engineering, materials science, chemistry, and applied scientific research through hands-on projects. You work with faculty and instructors on design challenges and laboratory-style investigations. Activities often emphasize the relationship between chemistry and engineering in developing new technologies. The program is tuition-free, making it one of the more accessible STEM opportunities in New York City. You also gain exposure to a highly respected institution known for its engineering programs. Students interested in chemistry's practical applications may find this experience particularly valuable.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Cost: Financial aid available
Dates: Summer sessions vary
Application Deadline: Spring deadline
Eligibility: Middle and high school students depending on program offering
This interdisciplinary STEM program encourages you to investigate scientific challenges through research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Chemistry-related topics often arise through sustainability, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental science projects. You collaborate with peers to develop solutions and communicate findings through presentations. The program combines scientific exploration with problem-solving and innovation-focused learning. Exposure to Cornell's academic environment also provides insight into university-level STEM education. It is a useful option if you want a broader STEM experience connected to chemistry.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly competitive
Location: American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: Summer research sessions vary
Application Deadline: Typically spring
Eligibility: Select middle and high school students depending on program requirements
The museum's research initiatives expose you to authentic scientific inquiry through projects led by researchers and educators. Depending on available opportunities, you may engage with chemistry-related topics in environmental science, earth science, biology, and materials analysis. The program emphasizes data collection, scientific reasoning, and communication skills. You may have opportunities to interact directly with museum scientists and research staff. The experience is particularly valuable if you are interested in scientific research and public science communication. It remains one of the most prestigious research-focused summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Free
Dates: Summer session
Application Deadline: Spring application cycle
Eligibility: Middle and high school students depending on cohort requirements
NYU's GSTEM initiative focuses on STEM enrichment, leadership development, and research exploration. Through laboratory exercises, engineering projects, and collaborative activities, you gain exposure to scientific methods and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Chemistry concepts often appear in areas such as materials science, environmental engineering, and biotechnology. The program places a strong emphasis on mentorship and professional development. You also interact with faculty, graduate students, and STEM professionals throughout the experience.
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited enrollment
Location: Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: Varies by program
Dates: Summer sessions available
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: Middle school and high school students, depending on program requirements
Brooklyn College periodically offers STEM enrichment opportunities that expose you to scientific concepts through laboratory demonstrations, research activities, and hands-on workshops. Chemistry-related programming may include environmental chemistry, laboratory techniques, and interdisciplinary STEM projects. You develop practical scientific skills while learning from college faculty and instructors. Many activities emphasize experimentation, collaboration, and scientific communication. The college setting also provides an introduction to university-level learning environments. This program rounds out our list of summer chemistry programs for middle school students in New York by offering accessible STEM enrichment within New York City.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; serves approximately 300 students across various tracks.
Location: The City College of New York (CCNY), New York, NY.
Cost: Varies, financial aid available.
Dates: Five weeks (typically July 6 – August 6).
Application Deadline: May 15 (Rolling).
Eligibility: Middle school students (Grades 6-8) who reside or attend school in NYC
The CCNY STEM Institute provides an intensive "General Chemistry" track designed to ignite scientific curiosity through interactive, group-based learning. Students explore fundamental concepts such as stoichiometry, thermochemistry, and atomic structure within a dynamic environment at the Grove School of Engineering. The program emphasizes hands-on exploration, ensuring that theory meets practice through lab-based experiments and design projects. A unique highlight is the integration of a research project into the curriculum, which concludes with a formal poster presentation at the Research Symposium. Participants benefit from a high level of support, with each class staffed by both an expert instructor and a teaching assistant to guide their scientific journey. This program is a premier choice for those seeking a rigorous, academic experience that mirrors the demands of university-level study.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited to 24 students per grade level.
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY.
Cost: $700 (non-refundable), financial aid available.
Dates: June 29 – July 9 (Monday - Thursday).
Application Deadline: First come, first serve.
Eligibility: Students entering 7th or 8th grade.
The Science Exploration Program at Stony Brook University is designed to challenge middle schoolers with laboratory-based research and experimentation that goes beyond the standard school curriculum. Students entering the 7th grade focus on fundamental laboratory skills through scientific explorations in chemistry, physics, and microbiology. For those entering the 8th grade, the program pivots to more complex topics like biotechnology and environmental chemistry, using case studies such as bioremediation and genetics to highlight the theme of homeostasis. Each session is a blend of computer-based research, collaborative group work, and hands-on lab projects led by experienced university instructors. Participants gain significant industry exposure by utilizing campus resources and engaging in rigorous academic exercises. This immersive experience is specifically crafted to reinforce scientific concepts and better prepare students for the transition to high school coursework.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; based on academic merit and character.
Location: Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY.
Cost: Varies, financial aid available.
Dates: Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 2 PM (July).
Application Deadline: Late Spring (TBA).
Eligibility: New York State residents in grades 7-12 who are economically disadvantaged or from underrepresented backgrounds
The State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP) at Columbia University is a rigorous academic initiative designed for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine and STEM fields. During the summer session, middle school students engage in high-level coursework including chemistry, biochemistry, and brain and cognitive science. The program goes beyond classroom instruction by offering college preparation workshops, career development counseling, and field trips to medical facilities. Participants have the unique opportunity to interact with Columbia University Irving Medical Center faculty, gaining valuable industry exposure and professional mentorship. Additionally, students admitted to the program can access exclusive summer research apprenticeships, such as the BRAINYAC program, which provides hands-on laboratory training and a stipend. This program is an ideal fit for students who are committed to academic excellence and wish to explore the practical applications of chemistry in healthcare and research.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; typically 40–50 students.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY.
Cost: Full Scholarship (Program is free of cost).
Dates: July 6 – July 30 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM).
Application Deadline: May 15.
Eligibility: New York City residents, ages 12–14 by the program start date
The Science of Smart Cities (SoSC) program is an intensive three-week journey that immerses middle school students in the engineering and technology required to build sustainable urban environments. Participants work in collaborative teams to design projects that address real-world urban challenges using electronics, circuitry, coding, and microcontrollers. The curriculum bridges the gap between theoretical physical sciences and practical application, teaching students how sensors and hardware can be leveraged to make cities safer and more efficient. A unique feature of the program is the integration of "Irondale," a mandatory theater-based workshop where students use improvisation to sharpen their public speaking and communication skills. Throughout the program, students receive direct mentorship from NYU Tandon faculty and graduate students in a materials-rich laboratory environment. The experience concludes with a final presentation where teams demonstrate their innovative prototypes to experts and the local community.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; requires application and letter of recommendation for in-person sessions.
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY (In-person) and Online options.
Cost: Varies, financial aid available.
Dates: July 19 – August 1 (Columbia session); various dates for online sessions.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; priority given to early applicants.
Eligibility: Ages 12–18 for introductory online courses; ages 14–18 for Columbia University workshops.
The Rosetta Institute offers high-achieving middle school students an intensive look at the molecular foundations of human health through its Molecular Medicine Workshops. Participants explore how normal cellular processes are disrupted during disease development, with specific tracks at Columbia University focusing on Cancer Bioinformatics, Immunoinformatics, and Bioinformatics of Cancer. The curriculum emphasizes experimental design, modern drug development, and the burgeoning field of personalized medicine through engaging lectures and laboratory simulations. For younger students or those seeking flexibility, the "Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Medicine" and "FutureMD" online summer programs provide two-hour daily sessions tailored to ages 12 and up. Students conclude their experience by designing an original research project based on a gene or molecular process of their choice. This program provides significant industry exposure and academic networking, as all workshops are taught by PhD-level instructors with extensive research experience.
16. AEOP GEMS
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited to the first 500 students.
Location: Online (Virtual Summer Camp).
Cost: Free.
Dates: One-week sessions in July (e.g., July 6–10, July 13–17, July 20–24, July 27–31).
Application Deadline: Rolling; registration is first-come, first-served.
Eligibility: Rising 6th–8th graders
The GEMS program, specifically the STEM Force Discovery Lab, offers a highly accessible online summer program for middle school students to explore the wonders of science from home. This virtual camp is designed to let students experiment, explore, and discover what a career in STEM truly entails through daily self-paced activities and live virtual events. Participants engage in hands-on experiments using materials provided by the program, allowing them to bridge the gap between digital learning and physical discovery. Throughout the week, students meet real scientists and engineers, gaining valuable industry exposure and professional mentorship from experts in various fields. The program is structured to be flexible and independent, requiring minimal parent support while providing daily guidance from facilitators. It is an ideal option for students looking to earn prizes and raffle entries while determining if their passion for science could lead to a future career.
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; sessions fill quickly.
Location: Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY.
Cost: $2,400 per two-week session, financial aid available.
Dates: Session 2: July 13 – July 24; Session 3: July 27 – August 7.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until sessions are full.
Eligibility: Campers entering Grades 2–10.
Hofstra University’s Adventures in Science Camp is a two-week hands-on adventure designed to immerse middle school students in the diverse fields of biology, chemistry, and rocketry. The curriculum focuses on real-world investigations and high-energy experiments that encourage campers to think and act like professional scientists. For students in the 6th through 10th grade bracket, the program offers a balanced schedule of specialized afternoon scientific labs paired with morning recreational activities, including instructional swim and sports. Throughout the session, participants engage in creative projects and teamwork challenges that bring complex chemical reactions and aerospace principles to life. The program leverages Hofstra’s campus facilities to provide a glimpse into university-level academics and life. It is an excellent choice for students who value a mix of rigorous scientific discovery and traditional summer camp social experiences.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program in which students work one-on-one with a mentor to develop an independent research paper.