What’s Covered:
- Summer Programs in Georgia
- How Do Summer Programs Impact Your College Chances?
If you’re looking for a way to stay productive during the summer, then summer programs might be the answer. By helping you develop your interests and learn more about different career paths, summer programs can allow you to make the most of your summer.
We’ve rounded up 23 summer programs in Georgia to help you figure out how to engage your unique interests and goals this summer.
Summer Programs in Georgia
1. SCAD Rising Star
Grade Eligibility: Rising 12th graders
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 18 – July 21, 2023
Program Cost: $6,165
Students have the opportunity to earn college credit during this challenging five-week course at either the Savannah or Atlanta campus. They will choose two courses from the general education program, foundational studies, and major-specific courses in fields ranging from architecture to fashion to animation.
Participants in the SCAD Rising Star program live in a SCAD residence hall and enjoy meals at a SCAD dining hall, getting an early taste of what their future college life might be like.
2. SCAD Summer Seminars
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 25-30, July 9-14, July 16-21, or July 23-28, 2023
Program Cost: $1,700 for residential program or $1,400 for commuter program
Students in this program have the opportunity to attend a variety of creative workshops at the Savannah or Atlanta campuses to develop their unique vision and talents. Students choose workshops in any of SCAD’s disciplines, including advertising, illustration, sequential art, and even equestrian riding. Classes consist of fewer than 20 students, which allows for a personalized approach to learning.
Participants enjoy an all-access pass to the university’s extensive resources and libraries. Additionally, they have access to workshops, demonstrations, lectures, studio work, and local field trips.
3. Emagination STEM Camp
Grade Eligibility: Up to age 17
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 11-23, 2023 or June 25 – July 7, 2023
Program Cost: $1,735 for commuter program or $2,995 for residential program
This two-week technology-based camp allows students to specialize in an industry by choosing specific classes and taking advantage of the resources available at Mercer University. Students can select from Digital Art & Media, Coding, Engineering, or Game Design classes, along with recreational electives like swimming, field games, indoor games, or Dungeons and Dragons.
Each camper is given access to a personal computer with all the latest software, as well as access to 3D printers and robotics kits. Additionally, the camp boasts an instructor-to-student ratio of 1:7.
4. Odyssey Atlanta
Grade Eligibility: Rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: 5 weeks in June-July
Program Cost:$35 registration fee only; program is free
Odyssey Atlanta offers unique project-based learning to enrich students’ education and encourage them to think more deeply about how social issues are interconnected. Students will explore topics such as civil rights and technology, the food industrial complex and teen wellness, and college admissions guidance.
Students will visit Dekalb Farmers Market, Sevananda, Clark Atlanta University, Georgia Gwinnett College, International Rescue Committee, East Lake Foundation, Ponce City, Market Beltline, and the Escape Room. The program culminates in the creation of a physical model, a digital Sim City (with necessities such as zoning, power, and water).
5. CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp
Grade Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in December 2023
Dates: June 26-30 or July 24-28, 2023
Program Cost: Free
Perfect for any student interested in public health, this engaging program immerses students in topics such as epidemiology, environmental health, emergency preparedness, public health law, and global health. They’ll use their knowledge to try to solve case studies of disease outbreaks.
Campers can expect a variety of experiences, including dealing with made-up outbreaks, mock press conferences, lab work, an introduction to chronic disease surveillance, and lectures from world-renowned CDC scientists.
6. Athena Music and Leadership Camp
Grade Eligibility: Female rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 18-22, 2023
Program Cost: $750
This weeklong camp at Reinhardt University allows female high schoolers to develop self-confidence and leadership ability through music and performance. Students will learn directly from accomplished musicians and performers as they gain insight into music performance and music education as a profession.
The camp is specific to brass, woodwind, or percussion instruments.
7. Kennesaw State University Summer Music Intensives
Grade Eligibility: Rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders, as well as students who just graduated high school
Deadline: May 1, 2023
Dates: Varies based on instrument (percussion, strings, or trumpet)
Program Cost: $125 for commuter program
Students will get the chance to explore a variety of musical styles during this weeklong program at Kennesaw State. They’ll receive personalized attention from the instructors during one-on-one reviews and small group practices. They’ll also have the opportunity to watch current college students and faculty rehearse and perform.
Students can participate in residential programs or commuter programs specific to percussion, strings, or trumpet.
8. The Summer Math and Science Honors Academy
Grade Eligibility: Apply during 9th grade
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: July 8-28, 2023
Program Cost: Free
Once you’re accepted into this competitive five-week program, you’ll be able to attend every summer for the next three summers and attend monthly STEM workshops during the school year. Not only do students gain valuable STEM skills from this program, but they also receive peer mentors and an academic support network to help them succeed in high school and in the transition to college.
SMASH aims to include participants from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, including first-generation college students and students from low-income families. During the program, scholars build relationships with facilitators and STEM professionals that reflect their same demographics.
9. MSM S.T.E.A.M. Academy: Laboratory Techniques and Anatomy
Grade Eligibility: Rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in February 2024
Dates: June 5-23, 2023
Program Cost: $600
This three-week session introduces students to biomedical research and health careers as they master laboratory techniques used by researchers today. Designed primarily for students underrepresented in STEM, the program also offers students mini-courses on how health interacts with society and on career planning.
Areas covered include healthcare app development, anatomy, health career explorations, laboratory techniques, college workshops, and more.
10. MSM S.T.E.A.M. Academy: Authentic Research Experience
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in February 2024
Dates: June 6 – July 14, 2023
Program Cost: $1,000
A truly immersive research experience, this program pairs students who are serious about biomedical research with a mentor who guides them during a six-week scientific investigation. Students will walk away with an in-depth understanding of what it takes to be a researcher and of the rewards of pursuing graduate education.
11. University of Georgia Jewelry and Metalworking Summer Academy Camp
Grade Eligibility: Ages 14-17
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 5-9, 2023
Program Cost: $470 for commuter program or $1,120 for residential program
This program, offered by the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education, provides students with an introduction to designing and making their own jewelry. Students learn the basic technical skills for creating beautiful artwork in metal.
The program’s instructor is Demitra Thomloudis—a studio jeweler, visual artist, and an Assistant Professor in the Jewelry and Metalwork area at the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia.
12. University of Georgia SAT Summer Institute
Grade Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: Varies
Program Cost: $449 for one week
The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education offers summer programs that—in addition to bolstering students’ resumes and helping them find community—help them prepare for their SATs. The program was created by current and former test item writers who have years of experience. This means students will be prepared with the exact math, writing, and critical reading skills that will show up on the test.
The university offers weeklong courses and monthlong courses, which vary in structure but have the same goal of preparing students for success on the SAT.
13. 21st Century Leaders EarthCare: The Leadership Challenge for the 21st Century
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in January 2024
Dates: June 11-16, 2023
Program Cost: $395
The Leadership Challenge for the 21st Century is a weeklong summer institute that focuses on STEM and leadership. Students who apply should have an interest in engineering and technology. The program is focused on the importance of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The program boasts a hands-on approach to learning, guided by experts and professionals. It is highly selective—only 100 students are chosen to participate each year.
14. 21st Century Leaders Healthcare & IT Institute
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in January 2024
Dates: June 25-30, 2023
Program Cost: $395
HII is a residential program hosted on the Kennesaw State University campus. During the day, students participate in hands-on workshops with corporate partners, peers, and alumni, then they spend their evenings in residential housing with their new friends.
Some benefits of this program involve building connections with industry professionals, improving your problem-solving skills, and learning about the future of healthcare. Portions of the program specifically focus on the clinical, technological, and business aspects of healthcare, as well as career preparation.
15. 21st Century Leaders Summer Youth Leadership Institute
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in January 2024
Dates: June 4-9, 2023
Program Cost: $395
This 21st Century Leader program focuses on business and entrepreneurship. For one week in June, students travel to Emory University, where they connect with other business-minded high schoolers to explore careers in business and develop their leadership skills.
This program is highly selective—only 75 students are chosen each year.
16. B.L.A.C.K. Engineering
Grade Eligibility: Ages 15-17
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: June 5-9, 2023
Program Cost: Free (cost fully covered by the B.L.A.C.K. Engineering scholarship)
This intensive weeklong residential camp exposes students from underserved and underrepresented populations to the engineering design process through hands-on projects. Students practice communication skills, problem solving, and ethics.
The program instructor is Dr. Racheida S. Lewis—an Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia in the Engineering Education Transformations Institute (EETI) and the Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering.
17. Discovering Engineering at UGA Internship Program
Grade Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in March 2024
Dates: June 5-23, 2023
Program Cost: Free (participants receive a stipend of $12/hour)
Students in this selective engineering internship program will conduct science and engineering research at the I-STEM Factory, interact with other interns, attend professional development workshops, learn from esteemed faculty, visit engineering labs and facilities, and gain exposure to the various fields within STEM.
At the end of the program, interns are required to write an essay about the internship and their learning experience. They’ll also participate in a final team presentation. The program mentors are Jaime Camelio, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Hunter Halloran, Research Engineer.
18. Winship Cancer Institute Summer Scholars Research Program
Grade Eligibility: Rising 12th graders, as well as students who just graduated high school
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: June 5 – July 14, 2023
Program Cost: Free (participants receive a stipend of $2,400)
This selective internship program is offered by the Emory Winship Cancer Institute and is intended for students who plan to pursue a career in cancer research. The program only accepts 10-12 students each summer. These students conduct research, attend field trips, and hear lectures from oncology specialists.
The program culminates in a final project, which is presented at a symposium on the last day of the program.
19. GTAE Science, Technology, and Engineering Pipeline (STEP)
Grade Eligibility: Must be 16 years old on program start date
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: June 19-30, 2023 (Albany) or July 10-21, 2023 (Atlanta)
Program Cost: Free
STEP is an engineering immersion program, designed to teach students through hands-on learning. Students in the STEP program work in teams on a challenge problem that is inspired by an active Georgia Tech research effort. Teams then present the results of their work to parents, teachers, faculty, and industry representatives at a poster session at the end of the program.
The program now operates at two locations—4C Academy in Albany and Georgia Tech in Atlanta.
20. Georgia State University Academy for Future Teachers
Grade Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders
Deadline: Rolling
Dates: June 5-23, 2023
Program Cost: Free (participants receive a stipend)
Students in the AFT program travel to Georgia State’s downtown campus to explore a future in teaching math or science. Each day, from 8 AM to 1 PM, students learn about current real-world challenges then brainstorm ways to teach the solutions to these challenges. The program focuses on practical teaching skills.
A unique element of the program involves participants teaching actual middle school, elementary school, and Pre-K students each week. This allows participants to receive feedback on their performance and to acknowledge areas needing improvement.
21. PCOM Suwanee Summer STEM Program
Grade Eligibility: Any Gwinnett County area high school students
Deadline: May 12, 2023
Dates: June 26-30, 2023
Program Cost: Free
This summer program, offered by the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) Opportunities Academy, aims to help students who identify as African American, Black, Hispanic, or Latinx to explore careers in STEM and to meet professionals in the healthcare industry.
Students in the program participate in clinical skills simulations in the PCOM Georgia Simulation Center, visit the anatomy lab, participate in research labs, learn CPR, and more.
22. VOX Media Café
Grade Eligibility: Ages 13-19
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in 2024
Dates: June 5-16 or June 20-30, 2023
Program Cost: Free
VMC offers in-person two-week sessions for skill-building and media-making. The program focuses on the fundamental skills for careers in media—journalism, interviewing, podcasting, videography, photography, and public speaking.
Sessions take place on weekdays from 10 AM to 4 PM in a downtown Atlanta office.
23. Camp Carlos
Grade Eligibility: Ages 13-17
Deadline: Passed, but registration will reopen in February 2024
Dates: July 10-14, 2023
Program Cost: $350
Camp Carlos is invested in creativity and visual arts. Hosted by Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum, each weekday students dive deep into understanding the creation and implications of a visual art technique.
The 2023 course for high schoolers was “Place, Space, and Me” and focused on exploring identity, self, and place through DSLR digital photography. Camp Carlos offers a sibling discount and discounts for members of the Carlos Museum.
How Do Summer Programs Impact Your College Chances?
Some summer programs are more competitive than others, requiring letters of recommendation and standardized test scores, while other programs are open to all students within a particular grade level. Consequently, some summer programs are given more weight in college admissions than others.
The 4 Tiers of Extracurricular Activities are a good way to conceptualize how colleges value activities—like summer programs—outside of the classroom. The most impressive, rare, and influential programs are placed in Tiers 1 and 2, while programs in Tiers 3 and 4 have less of an influence on the admissions process.
While less prestigious programs may not have a major influence on admissions—if your program is specific to your interests—when combined with your essays, recommendations, and declared major, it could help admissions officers see your dedication to a specific career path.
Curious how the summer program you participated in affects your odds of college admission? CollegeVine can help! Our free chancing calculator uses a variety of factors, including grades, test scores, and extracurriculars to estimate your odds of getting into hundreds of colleges and universities, while also providing insight into how to improve your profile.
As an education expert with a profound understanding of summer programs and their impact on college admissions, I'll delve into the concepts covered in the article "Summer Programs in Georgia" by Brooke Elkjer. The article outlines various summer programs in Georgia, emphasizing their potential influence on college chances. Let's explore the key concepts and the significance of these programs:
Summer Programs in Georgia:
-
SCAD Rising Star:
- Concept: College credit for rising 12th graders in diverse fields.
- Significance: Exposure to college life, courses in architecture, fashion, animation.
-
SCAD Summer Seminars:
- Concept: Creative workshops for 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Personalized workshops in disciplines like advertising, illustration, and more.
-
Emagination STEM Camp:
- Concept: Technology-based camp for students up to age 17.
- Significance: Specialization in Digital Art & Media, Coding, Engineering, and Game Design.
-
Odyssey Atlanta:
- Concept: Project-based learning on social issues for rising 9th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Exploration of civil rights, technology, and other interconnected topics.
-
CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp:
- Concept: Public health program for rising 11th and 12th graders.
- Significance: Immersive experience in epidemiology, disease outbreaks, and global health.
-
Athena Music and Leadership Camp:
- Concept: Weeklong camp for female rising 9th to 12th graders in music and leadership.
- Significance: Development of self-confidence and leadership through music education.
-
Kennesaw State University Summer Music Intensives:
- Concept: Exploration of musical styles for rising 9th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Personalized attention, one-on-one reviews, and exposure to college-level performances.
-
The Summer Math and Science Honors Academy (SMASH):
- Concept: Competitive five-week program for STEM skills.
- Significance: Focus on underrepresented backgrounds, peer mentors, and academic support.
-
MSM S.T.E.A.M. Academy: Laboratory Techniques and Anatomy:
- Concept: Biomedical research and health careers for rising 9th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Mini-courses on health interactions, anatomy, and career planning.
-
MSM S.T.E.A.M. Academy: Authentic Research Experience:
- Concept: Immersive research experience for rising 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Hands-on scientific investigation guided by mentors.
-
University of Georgia Jewelry and Metalworking Summer Academy Camp:
- Concept: Introduction to jewelry design for ages 14-17.
- Significance: Instruction by Demitra Thomloudis, Assistant Professor in Jewelry and Metalwork.
-
University of Georgia SAT Summer Institute:
- Concept: SAT preparation for rising 11th and 12th graders.
- Significance: Courses developed by experienced test item writers.
-
21st Century Leaders EarthCare: The Leadership Challenge for the 21st Century:
- Concept: STEM and leadership institute for rising 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Focus on energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and hands-on learning.
-
21st Century Leaders Healthcare & IT Institute:
- Concept: Residential program on healthcare for rising 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Workshops with industry professionals, career preparation.
-
21st Century Leaders Summer Youth Leadership Institute:
- Concept: Business and entrepreneurship focus for rising 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Selective program at Emory University, developing leadership skills.
-
B.L.A.C.K. Engineering:
- Concept: Engineering camp for ages 15-17, focused on underserved populations.
- Significance: Hands-on projects, communication skills, and exposure to the engineering design process.
-
Discovering Engineering at UGA Internship Program:
- Concept: Selective engineering internship for rising 11th and 12th graders.
- Significance: Science and engineering research, professional development, team presentations.
-
Winship Cancer Institute Summer Scholars Research Program:
- Concept: Cancer research internship for rising 12th graders.
- Significance: Research, field trips, lectures, and a final project presented at a symposium.
-
GTAE Science, Technology, and Engineering Pipeline (STEP):
- Concept: Engineering immersion program for 16-year-olds.
- Significance: Hands-on learning, team projects inspired by Georgia Tech research.
-
Georgia State University Academy for Future Teachers:
- Concept: Teaching exploration for rising 10th to 12th graders.
- Significance: Practical teaching skills, teaching experiences with real students.
-
PCOM Suwanee Summer STEM Program:
- Concept: STEM exploration for Gwinnett County high school students.
- Significance: Clinical skills simulations, research labs, and exposure to healthcare professions.
-
VOX Media Café:
- Concept: Two-week media-making sessions for ages 13-19.
- Significance: Skill-building in journalism, podcasting, videography, and public speaking.
-
Camp Carlos:
- Concept: Visual arts camp for ages 13-17.
- Significance: Deep dive into visual art techniques, with a specific theme each year.
How Summer Programs Impact College Chances:
-
Competitiveness and Tiers:
- Concept: Not all summer programs carry the same weight in college admissions.
- Significance: Tiers 1 and 2 programs are more influential, while Tiers 3 and 4 have less impact.
-
Individual Program Impact:
- Concept: The impact of a program depends on factors like selectivity and relevance to the student's interests.
- Significance: While prestigious programs may carry more weight, specific interests and dedication also matter.
-
Extracurricular Value:
- Concept: Extracurricular activities, including summer programs, are evaluated based on their rarity and influence.
- Significance: Even less prestigious programs can contribute positively when aligned with a student's interests, essays, recommendations, and declared major.
-
Chancing Calculator:
- Concept: CollegeVine's chancing calculator assesses the odds of admission based on various factors.
- Significance: It provides insights into improving a student's profile and highlights the importance of a holistic application approach.
In conclusion, participating in summer programs not only offers valuable experiences but can also impact college admissions, with the article providing a comprehensive guide to various programs in Georgia and their potential significance.
