15 Summer Programs for High School Students in Kansas City, MO
- Stephen Turban
- 2 hours ago
- 12 min read
As a high school student, summer programs are a good way for you to explore academic interests beyond the classroom. These programs offer exposure to college-level academics and projects, while also helping you build transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. They also allow you to meet mentors and peers who share your interests, helping you form connections that can guide your academic and career goals.
Why should you attend a program in Kansas City?
Kansas City, Missouri, offers a range of summer programs that leverage the city’s universities, research institutions, nonprofits, and industry partners. You might conduct research, participate in design or engineering projects, or explore entrepreneurship and healthcare alongside professionals in the field. Whether you’re a local student or visiting from another city, these programs provide valuable academic and professional experiences that can help you prepare for future opportunities.
In this list, we’ve narrowed down 15 summer programs for high school students in Kansas City, Missouri.
If you are looking for STEM programs in Kansas, check out our blog here.
15 Summer Programs for High School Students in Kansas City, MO
Location: Children’s Mercy Research Institute, Kansas City, MO
Cost/Stipend: Free; $2,600 stipend provided
Dates: June 15 – July 23
Application Deadline: January 9
Eligibility: Current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors attending public or charter high schools in Missouri or Kansas; no prior research experience required; interest in science or medicine preferred
The STAR 2.0 Summer Training in Academic Research Program is a six-week, in-person medical research experience that allows you to explore careers in science and medicine through hands-on work. You will work alongside physicians and research scientists in an active clinical research environment, gaining direct experience in how medical research is designed, conducted, and applied to patient care. Throughout the program, you will develop skills in scientific writing, data interpretation, and research presentation. You will receive mentorship from faculty, staff, and peers as you learn about educational and career pathways in biomedical research and medicine. You will also have opportunities to present your work at scientific meetings and may contribute as an author to peer-reviewed publications.
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by program type; full financial aid available
Program Dates: Varies by cohort (summer, fall, winter, or spring); options range from 12 weeks to 1 year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a strong academic record
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive one-on-one research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high school student. The program pairs high school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here and review students' experiences with the program here and here.
Location: Kansas City, MO (primarily in-person; limited remote options)
Cost/Stipend: Free; $12–14/hour compensation plus a $2,500 scholarship upon completion
Dates: Session 1: June 2–June 27; Session 2: July 7–August 1
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: Rising seniors or students completing their junior or senior year of high school; must be able to commit to a 30-hour workweek; preference for students able to attend in-person internships and Friday site visits
The Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) is a competitive, paid summer internship that places you directly inside high-growth startups across the Kansas City area. You will be matched with a startup aligned to your interests and strengths, where you will work on real business projects while gaining firsthand exposure to entrepreneurship and early-stage company operations. Throughout the program, you will visit a different local company every Friday, allowing you to learn about multiple industries, business models, and support systems for entrepreneurs. You will be part of a close-knit cohort and gain access to an active alumni network that continues to connect and support students after the program ends. The internship runs in two summer sessions, and you may participate in one or both while remaining at the same company.
4. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; full financial aid available
Program Dates: Multiple 12–15 week cohorts offered year-round (spring, summer, fall, and winter)
Application Deadline: Rolling. You can apply to the program here.
Eligibility: High school students; AI Fellowship applicants should have prior exposure to AI concepts or Python, or have completed the AI Scholars program
Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers programs for high school students who are passionate about artificial intelligence. Students who are looking to get started with AI, ML, and data science would benefit from the AI Scholars program. Through this 10-session boot camp, students are introduced to the fundamentals of AI & data science and get a chance to work on real-world projects. Another option for more advanced students is the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase. Through this program, students get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from top universities on a unique, individual project. A bonus of this program is that students have access to the in-house publication team to help them secure publications in high school research journals. You can also check out some examples of past projects here and read about a student’s experience in the program here.
Location: University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), Kansas City, MO
Cost/Stipend: Free; breakfast, lunch, and parking provided (nonresidential)
Dates: July 22–July 26 or July 29–August 2
Application Deadline: Not specified; typically before summer starts
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th grade students; no prior cybersecurity experience required
The GenCyber Camp is a one-week, in-person cybersecurity program designed to introduce you to core concepts in digital security and ethical computing. Sponsored by the National Security Agency’s GenCyber initiative, the program combines short lectures, group discussions, and hands-on lab activities to help you understand how cybersecurity principles are applied in real-world contexts. You will explore topics such as internet safety, cryptography, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and cybersecurity laws, building a foundational understanding of the field. As the week progresses, you will work on more advanced topics, including steganography, network scanning, blockchain, deepfakes, and basic programming through interactive projects and games. The camp emphasizes responsible technology use, collaboration, and problem-solving while exposing you to potential academic and career pathways in cybersecurity. The sessions run full days on campus, providing a structured, immersive learning experience in a university setting.
Location: University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS
Cost/Stipend: Free
Dates: July 13 – July 25
Application Deadline: Applications are currently open
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from rural Kansas with an interest in STEM, particularly aerospace or computer science
The Advanced Aerospace Technologies Exploration Experience (AATEE) Camp is a two-week, in-person summer program that allows you to explore aerospace engineering and computer science through applied, hands-on learning. You will receive instruction in applied physics and modern programming tools such as Python and robotics operating systems while working on collaborative research projects in real-world environments. The program introduces you to autonomous systems through projects involving race cars and drones, including hands-on experience with open-source autopilot platforms like NVIDIA’s Racer RTX, Dronecode, and ArduPilot. You will validate your work through experiments and testing, gaining insight into how aerospace technologies are developed and evaluated. In addition to technical training, you will receive career guidance and an introduction to college life at the University of Kansas. The program also includes social activities, offering a balanced experience that combines rigorous STEM exploration with community building.
Location: University of Missouri–Kansas City, Kansas City, MO (hybrid: online and on-campus options)
Cost/Stipend: Free; full summer scholarship covering tuition, meal plan, textbooks, housing (if residential), transportation, excursions, and fees; $500 fall scholarship upon completion
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: Not specified; typically before summer enrollment
Eligibility: Incoming first-year college students admitted to or conditionally admitted to UMKC; must meet program participation and attendance requirements
The Summer Bridge Scholars Program is an eight-week, academically rigorous experience designed to help you transition successfully from high school to college at UMKC. You will enroll in two eight-week college courses that count toward your degree, allowing you to earn at least four college credits before the fall semester begins. The program combines academic coursework with structured support through tutoring, supplemental instruction, writing assistance, and mentorship. During the first three weeks, you will participate in virtual classes and programming, followed by five weeks of on-campus learning where you can choose to live in the residence halls or commute. Throughout the program, you will engage in professional development, cultural enrichment, peer mentoring, and team-building activities that help you build confidence, independence, and a strong connection to campus life. When you complete the program, you will be ready for full admission in the fall.
Location: Kansas City, MO
Cost/Stipend: Free or low-cost programs; funding supported by grants and industry partners
Dates: Varies by program; summer offerings available
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: K–12 students in the Kansas City area; specific requirements vary by program
The KC STEM Alliance is a comprehensive STEM outreach initiative that allows you to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through structured programs and partnerships across the Kansas City region. Through summer programs and year-round initiatives, you will engage in hands-on STEM learning experiences that complement your school coursework and introduce you to real-world applications. The Alliance supports programs such as Project Lead The Way, STEM-focused coursework, robotics competitions like KC FIRST, and other experiential learning opportunities designed to build problem-solving and technical skills. You will gain early exposure to STEM pathways while developing study habits, academic confidence, and interest in science and engineering careers. By participating in KC STEM Alliance programming, you can connect with educators, industry partners, and peers while preparing for advanced coursework and future college opportunities in STEM fields.
Location: Cleveland University–Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
Cost/Stipend: Free (district-supported partnership program)
Dates: June 2 – June 6
Application Deadline: Not publicly specified; coordinated through participating school district
Eligibility: High school students from the Blue Springs (MO) School District interested in life sciences or healthcare careers
The CUKC Human Biology & Health Sciences Summer Camp is a one-week, immersive program designed to introduce you to careers in healthcare and the life sciences through problem-based learning. You will work on a single, in-depth project centered on the care of a mock patient, allowing you to apply concepts from anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology in a clinical-style setting. Throughout the week, CUKC faculty will guide you through hands-on activities that expose you to fields such as radiologic technology, exercise science, exercise physiology, sports performance, and chiropractic care. Rather than traditional classroom instruction, you will learn in simulation labs and applied environments used by college and doctoral students. The program helps you understand how different healthcare disciplines collaborate in patient care and how academic programs translate into real-world clinical roles. This experience-heavy format makes the camp especially valuable if you are exploring future pathways in medicine, health sciences, or allied healthcare fields.
Location: Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
Cost/Stipend: Not specified; typically includes housing and program activities
Dates: June 7–June 12 or June 21–June 26
Application Deadline: Applications open in January
Eligibility: Incoming high school juniors and seniors interested in healthcare careers
The Health Professions Exploration Program is a one-week, residential experience that allows you to explore careers in healthcare through hands-on learning and direct exposure to professionals in the field. You will join a small cohort of students with similar interests and participate in interactive activities such as practicing clinical skills, exploring laboratory techniques, and learning how different healthcare roles work together. Throughout the program, you will meet K-State faculty, health professions advisors, current students, alumni, and working healthcare professionals who share insights into academic and career pathways. You will also explore professional school preparation, including how to become a competitive applicant for health-related programs. By living on campus, you’ll gain a firsthand experience of college life while building a clearer understanding of the many ways to pursue a career focused on human health.
Location: Newman University, Wichita, KS
Cost: $400 if paid by April 15; $450 after April 15 (covers two college credits, housing, and all meals); need-based scholarships available
Dates: June 8 – June 13
Application Deadline: May 30
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least one completed high school science course; limited consideration for freshmen or graduating seniors
The Investigative Summer STEM Program (ISSP) is a five-day, residential research experience that allows you to explore STEM through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. You will select an interdisciplinary research topic in biology or chemistry and work in a small group to conduct literature reviews, design experiments, collect and analyze data, and draw evidence-based conclusions. The faculty mentors will guide you through the research process using small-group discussions and one-on-one supervision rather than traditional lectures. You will earn two hours of college credit upon successful completion of the program while building skills in scientific reasoning, teamwork, and communication. The program also features guest speakers from STEM fields who share real-world applications and career pathways. By living on campus and working in state-of-the-art science facilities, you’ll gain early exposure to college-level research and academic life while exploring whether STEM is the right fit for your future.
Location: Benedictine College, Atchison, KS
Cost/Stipend: $1,900; early-bird rate of $1,700; holiday discount of $1,600 available through January 6 (includes room, board, studio access, lectures, and supplies)
Dates: July 12 – July 25
Application Deadline: April 12
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recently graduated high school students; no minimum GPA or portfolio required; limited to 18 participants
The Intensive in Classical Architecture at Benedictine College is a two-week, residential studio experience designed to introduce you to the foundations of classical architectural design and theory. You will work closely with architecture faculty, alumni, and current majors as you study the principles, proportions, and precedents that shape historic and contemporary architecture. Through hands-on studio work, you will develop skills in hand drafting, field sketching, composition, and architectural analysis while designing and rendering an original aedicule, façade, or pavilion for your portfolio. The program immerses you in a traditional architecture studio environment, offering long, focused workdays that closely mirror the rigor of an undergraduate architecture program. You will live on campus, engage with the broader Benedictine College community, and explore the architectural and cultural context of Atchison and St. Benedict’s Abbey. The experience concludes with a professional-style final review conducted by practicing architects, providing valuable feedback and early exposure to the expectations of architecture school.
Location: College of Architecture, Planning & Design, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
Cost/Stipend: $800; limited need-based scholarships available (priority for Kansas and KC Metro students)
Dates: June 24 – June 27
Application Deadline: Registration opens in March
Eligibility: High school students interested in architecture, planning, or design-related fields
The Summer Design Experience at Kansas State University is a three-day, faculty-led program that introduces you to careers in architecture, planning, and design through hands-on studio work. You will explore disciplines such as architecture, interior architecture, industrial design, landscape architecture, and regional and community planning while learning core concepts in environmental design and the creative design process. Working in state-of-the-art design labs, you will engage in guided projects that incorporate design technology and problem-solving skills. You will receive individualized feedback and mentorship from APDesign faculty throughout the program. The experience culminates in a final project presentation that allows you to showcase what you’ve learned. In addition to studio work, you will live on campus, experience residence hall life, and participate in social and recreational activities, offering a realistic preview of college life in a design-focused program.
Location: University of Kansas School of Engineering, Lawrence, KS
Cost/Stipend: Not specified; typically includes housing, meals, and program activities
Dates: July 12 – July 17 (rising 9th–10th graders) or July 19 – July 24 (rising 11th–12th graders)
Application Deadline: Not yet announced
Eligibility: Rising 9th–10th or rising 11th–12th grade students; all participants must stay overnight in campus residence halls
The Engineering Summer Camp at the University of Kansas is a weeklong, overnight program that allows you to explore engineering through hands-on, immersive activities. You will work with KU engineering faculty and staff to investigate engineering concepts across multiple disciplines while using university facilities and labs. The camp is designed to give you an in-depth look at how engineers approach problem-solving, design, and innovation. In addition to academic activities, you will gain exposure to the KU campus, engineering resources, and the broader Lawrence community. By living in the residence halls for the duration of the program, you’ll experience a realistic preview of college life while building connections with peers who share an interest in engineering.
Location: Bethel College, North Newton, KS (in-person option available; online option offered separately)
Cost/Stipend: $60 registration fee (program costs largely sponsored by alumni donations)
Dates: July 13 – July 18
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students entering grades 10–12; high school graduates considered if space allows
The Bethel College Summer Science Institute (BCSSI) is a weeklong, research-focused summer program that allows you to explore advanced topics in science and mathematics beyond the standard high school curriculum. You will participate in two hands-on research groups—one in the morning and one in the afternoon, working closely with Bethel faculty on projects that emphasize data collection, hypothesis testing, coding, statistical analysis, and scientific reasoning. Research areas span biology, psychology, engineering design, and chemistry, among others, giving you exposure to multiple STEM disciplines. Throughout the week, you will engage in laboratory work, field studies, group discussions, and joint sessions focused on understanding how scientific research is conducted. You will live on campus in a residence hall, collaborate with college student research assistants, and present your findings at the end of the program. Upon successful completion, you will earn a certificate and receive one hour of college credit.
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned an A.B. in Statistics. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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