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Science, Tech & STEM Programs


Acton Academy Columbus

A private K-8 school using Montessori and Socratic methods, play, mixed age groups, STEAM, and hands-on projects. Programs open to non-Acton students ages 5-13 include half-day and full-day STEAM Summer Camp, Spring Nature Groups, and an annual Children’s Business Fair for young entrepreneurs to present their products and services to real customers. Find program details and fees online.
5762 Wilcox Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 603-7227
actonacademycolumbus.com

Africentric Personal Development Shop (APDS)

Provides alcohol and drug treatment, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), licensed counseling, domestic violence education and intervention programs, and support services for families impacted by addiction. Youth programs include summer camp, UCANN Serve and UCANN Lead programs for ages 11-17 to experience mentorship and civic engagement, Urban GEMS science and gardening after-school program for ages 12-19, and two scholarships per year for youth ages 17-22 pursuing higher education. The organization was founded by and centers the African community but serves all regardless of race, gender, disability, or economic status.
1409 East Livingstone Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-4448
apdsinc.org

Archaeology, Can You Dig It?

Mobile outreach program educating students about anthropology, archaeology, and STEM topics through hands-on activities and demonstrations. Organizations request and pay for outreach services from a local, experienced educator and archeologist. Programs vary in cost and age ranges. Programs include Chemistry, Castles & Catapults, Mummy Rap, Puzzle of Pots, Dig Pits, and more. They often host programs at Columbus Metropolitan Library locations. Go online for program details and to see if there is a program happening near you.
(614) 530-9678
archaeologydigs.wixsite.com/acydi

B-WISER and B-WISEST STEM Camps at the College of Wooster

The College of Wooster offers two residential summer camp options for young women interested in STEM. Students take a full daily curriculum with classes in advanced science topics including physics, robotics, chemistry, and biology. Students use campus science labs, stay in college dorms, and learn from professional women in science. B-WISER is for girls in 7th and 8th grade. B-WISEST is for girls in 9th and 10th grade, and incorporates college readiness, leadership, and advanced laboratory experiences. Financial aid scholarships are available for income-eligible families. Visit the website for applications details.
308 East University Street, Wooster, Ohio 44691
(330) 263-2105
bwiser.spaces.wooster.edu

Be WISE Camp at Muskingum University

A camp designed to develop excitement, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence in middle school girls through real-life, hands-on experiences in STEM/STEAM. They host a day camp at Philo Junior High School in Philo, Ohio for girls grades 5-6, and a residential camp at Muskingum University for girls grades 7-8. Scholarships are available, scholarship applications include proof of guardian income and two teacher evaluations. Visit the website for details.
bewisecamp.org

Camp CAR (Center for Automotive Research) at The Ohio State University

A free, week-long summer camp for students 14-18 years old. Students learn various aspects of automotive engineering, research, and manufacturing. Participants learn from researchers, complete hands-on projects, and take field trips. Application with essay is required.
930 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 292-5990
car.osu.edu/camp-car

Career & Technical Schools in Central Ohio

Career Technical Schools offer training programs that can prepare students for the workforce or college degree programs. Career-Technical Education (CTE) is available at every public school in the state of Ohio free of tuition. High school students should check with their home school district to see what CTE school they are eligible to attend, and for transportation options. Students may attend CTE schools for half-day or full-day programs to continue extracurriculars or classes at their home school. Program pathways typically include healthcare careers such as nursing, information technology, automotive services, welding, cosmetology, graphic design, and others. Check with each CTE school to see what programs they offer. Many CTEs offer adult education programs such as free diploma and GED programs, career certificates, and personal enrichment classes.
List of Ohio Career Technical Centers: highered.ohio.gov/about/ohios-campuses/career-technical-education/career-technical-education-ohio-technical-centers

Columbus City Schools Career-Technical Education: Serves high school juniors and seniors in the Columbus City Schools district. Adult & Community Education offers programs for health occupations, skilled trades, computer applications, high school equivalency, and free ESL/ESOL classes.

  • Columbus Downtown High School: 364 South Fourth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (380) 997-4213
  • Fort Hayes Career Center: 546 Jack Gibbs Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43215
    (380) 997-6126
  • Adult & Community Education: 2323 Lexington Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
    (614) 365-6000
    ccsoh.us/Page/11802

Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools: Offers programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties. Programs for adults include GED, ESL/ESOL, STNA, HVAC, and welding. Employability Prep is a personalized, transitional program for Franklin County students ages 16-21 with learning differences to receive hands-on training at community job sites. They offer free summer day camps for Grades 6-8 to experience hands-on learning.
4300 Amalgamated Place, Groveport, Ohio 43125
High School: (614) 836-4530
Adult Workforce: (614) 836-4541
Summer Camp: (614) 836-4530
eastlandfairfield.com

Delaware Area Career Center (DACC): Offers a variety of career-readiness opportunities for middle school and high school students on their campus and through satellite programs. They offer summer day camps for rising 7-9th grade students in Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, and Westerville school districts. Adult Education includes free adult diploma, GED, ESL/ESOL, and personal enrichment classes.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 548-0708
delawareareacc.org

South-Western City Schools Career Tech: For junior and senior high school students in South-Western City School District. They also offer free adult workforce development courses in the evenings for HVAC, Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA), auto maintenance, and more.
4750 Big Run South Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 801-3400
swcsdcareertech.com

Tolles Career & Technical Center: Serves Dublin, Fairbanks, Jonathan Alder, Hilliard, London, Madison-Plains, and Jefferson school districts. Adult educational opportunities include free ESL, GED, STNA EMT, personal enrichment classes, and more.
7877 U.S. Highway 42 South, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 873-4666
tollestech.com

Center for Architecture & Design

Promotes accessible architecture and design in Central Ohio. Youth Design Programs include one-week summer camps for Grades 3-8 to experience design through hands-on activities, tours, field trips, presentations, and imaginative games. The High School Design Studio is an immersive two-week experience for  Grades 9-12 in a collegiate-level studio environment to learn from design educators and professionals in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, city and regional planning, interior design, graphic design, industrial design, and engineering. Financial scholarships are available. Find details and apply online.
50 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 469-1973
columbuscfad.org

Columbus School for Girls (CSG) Summer Programs

Columbus School for Girls hosts week-long IDEAS Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 3-12 years old. Campers experience art, science, athletics, technology, and more fun activities centered around a weekly theme. Extended care and snack are included in camp fees. Discounts are available for siblings and groups.
65 South Drexel Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(844) 516-2267
summercampatideas.com

Columbus Urban League (CUL)

A community‐based organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services. Their many programs include:

  • Career Services: Provides comprehensive support for job seekers, including workforce readiness training for ages 14-19 and individual coaching for all ages.
  • Re-Entry HUB: Reentry support and workforce development for individuals with prior justice system involvement.
  • Minority Business Assistance Center: Empowering small and minority businesses through access to capital, technical and professional assistance. These services are available in 18 Ohio counties.
    (614) 266-0897
  • I Am My Brother’s Keeper: Mentorship program for young men of color in middle and high school throughout the school year and summer. The program offers safe and healthy ways to have fun while building career, artistic, academic, professional, and physical strengths. Participants may be placed with internships, hands-on learning experiences, drug, alcohol and violence prevention activities depending on their individual needs. Participants must be ages 9-15 whose families meet income eligibility. Call for enrollment.
  • Homebuyer Education: Educates families on how to budget, save, and improve credit to qualify for home loans.
  • Housing Accelerator: Eligible participants receive financial assistance for housing deposit, financial coaching to increase credit scores, and increased access to job opportunities.
  • My Brother’s Closet: Provides a free suit and professional coaching for income-eligible men. Call to make an appointment.
  • STEP: An 8-week intervention program for families with children 11-17 years old on the cusp of entering the justice system.
  • Young Engineer’s Society: Afterschool and summer STEAM program for ages 10-14
    3443 Agler Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
    (380) 239-1474
  • Find all programs by category here: www.cul.org/our-initiatives/#all-initiatives

788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium & The Wilds

Offers several educational opportunities for youth in addition to zoo exhibits. They offer week-long summer day camps for grades PreK-7. ZooKids is a preschool program for ages 3-5 multiples days per week during the school year. They also offer Dayventures outdoor recreation for grades 2-12 at The Wilds conservation center in Cumberland, Ohio. Scholarships for programs are available.

  • Columbus Zoo & Aquarium: 4850 West Powell Road, Powell, Ohio 43065
    (614) 645-3400
    columbuszoo.org
  • The Wilds: 14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43732
    (740) 638-5030
    thewilds.org

Data Science Summer Camp at Ohio State University

A free, week-long summer camp that introduces young women entering grades 7-9 to the field of data science and analytics. Students gain hands-on experience and work with mentors to learn how to analyze data from a wide variety of fields, discuss biases in data, explore career opportunities, learn problem-solving skills, and more. Visit the website to apply.
The Ohio State University, Pomerene Hall: 1760 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
tdai.osu.edu/education/data-science-women-summer-camp

Dawes Arboretum

Enriches lives through the conservation of trees, nature and history in Newark, Ohio. They offer regular programs and events for families including Home School Investigations, Preschool Storybook Science, and Camp Dawes summer day camp for ages 5-14. Scholarships are available for family programming. The campus has nearly 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens, hiking trails and natural areas for anyone to learn and explore.
7770 Jacksontown Road, Newark, Ohio 43056
(740) 323-2355
dawesarb.org

Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services (ETSS)

Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), case management for victims of domestic violence and more. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org

Explorations in Neuroscience Summer Camp at Ohio State University

A one-week camp for rising high school juniors and seniors who are interested in learning about Neuroscience, brain health and disease. Students learn through a variety of approaches including lecture, discussion, debate, games, laboratory visits, and hands-on experiments. Interested students must apply for admission. Applications are typically due in March. Financial need scholarships are available upon request.
Department of Neuroscience: 460 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 688-5501
medicine.osu.edu/departments/neuroscience/outreach-and-events/summer-camp

Family Adolescent & Child Community Engagement Service (FACCES)

Provides community programming for families on the South side of Columbus. Programs include a free fresh market, urban gardening, cooking classes, family fitness classes, access to healthcare through OSU Wexner Medical Center Community Care Coach and family gatherings. FACCES Life Ready Urban Gardening Class is a free, weekly program for youth to learn about how to grow their own food, careers in agriculture, and environmental stewardship. They offer additional Afterschool programs and an Afterschool Cafe with free meals for children ages 1-18. Call or go online to register your family for programs.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH  43207
(614) 319-6070
Current Program Bulletin Board: canva.com/design/DAGMY8TT25I/ZTzIlPG1mkJlVENPYa3Mog/view
Website: thefacces.org

Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Offers family-friendly exhibits and classes in gardening, cooking, fine art, and wellness for all ages. Check the online Calendar for upcoming events and classes, which are sometimes free. General admission is free on the first Sunday of the month for Community Day. Active or Retired service members get $1 off each ticket. SNAP, EBT, WIC and Medicaid recipients get tickets for $3 each with ID and proof of participation. Visit the website for a full list of Admission Discount programs. Programs for youth include Homeschool days, Summer Camps for ages 3-8, and Teen Corps paid summer work experience for ages 13-18.
1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org

Geosciences Bridge Program at University of Maryland

Offers a 6-week paid internship for graduating high school seniors planning to pursue a career in geoscience/Earth sciences at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. The program includes lectures, field trips, hands-on activities, two for-credit college courses, housing, meals, travel expenses, and a stipend. Students must complete an application, and students enrolled at partner universities are given priority.
University of Maryland Eastern Shore: 30665 Student Services Center, Princess Anne, Maryland 21853
(410) 651-7747
cp.umes.edu/geosciences

Girls Who Code

Offers free, online coding clubs from beginner to advanced for girls, women, and non-binary people. Their website also has free, downloadable activities from beginner to advanced for anyone to learn coding at home. Their summer programs for high school students include a 2-week intensive immersion experience with financial assistance available, or a free 6-week self-paced option. Free and in-person clubs are available throughout the country at various schools and community locations, visit the website to find a club near you.
girlswhocode.com

Grange Insurance Audubon Center

Nature center providing conservation and education services in downtown Columbus. The center is a pet-friendly, public space and admission is always free. They host regular STEAM programming and events for all ages, including bird walks, preschool story time, and art shows. They offer summer day camps for grades PreK-4, with limited scholarships available.
505 West Whittier Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 545-5479
grange.audubon.org

Heart of Unlimited Boundaries (HUB)

Provides therapeutic, recreational, and employment programs for children and adults with disabilities or critical illnesses. They are known for their adapted Go-Karting program (therapeutic karting), which enables severely disabled individuals to drive a vehicle on an outdoor course. They also offer 3-D printing classes and an adaptive equipment lab for development of inclusive technology.
308 Reynolds Street, West Liberty, Ohio 43357
(614) 800-3310
unlimitedboundaries.org

Highland Youth Garden

This teaching garden is located in the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus. They offer garden tours, field trip experiences and donation-based produce bags for pick-up. Hilltop families can sign up for a garden bed kit with everything needed to grow an edible garden in their backyard, including access to a Garden Mentor to help get the most from their garden. They also offer Garden Club (a free weekly after-school program for Grades K-6), Green Teens (a paid summer work program for youth ages 14-19) and a low-cost Summer Camp for ages 6-13.
67 South Highland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 653-8263
Español: (614) 407-4540
highlandyouthgarden.org

iD Tech

Offers summer camps, immersive Teen Experiences, virtual STEM camps, and private lessons across the country for youth ages 7-19. Programs include coding, game development, robotics, design, and more. Columbus programs are held at Ohio State University. Program fees are significant but scholarships are available.
(888) 709-8324
iD at Ohio State: idtech.com/locations/ohio-summer-camps/ohio-state-university
Scholarships: idtech.com/scholarships

Leaders Emerging & Developing (LEAD)

Organization bringing STEM education to underserved youth. Programs include STEM mentorship, leadership development, and tutoring for students K-12. The ACT Advantage Academy provides affordable ACT prep for 8th-12th graders. Some services are free and scholarships are available. Visit the website for a list of participating locations.
PO Box 361061, Columbus, Ohio 43236
(614) 407-6049
leademerging.org

Makerspace Central

Provides STEM/STEAM experiences to underserved and under-represented K-12 youth in Columbus. They serve students across the region through pop-up makerspaces and hands-on workshops to teach students foundational STEAM principles. Their workshops are free for students and can be found at various libraries, community centers, and community organizations. Visit their website or social media to find an upcoming workshop.
(408) 713-0568
makerspacecentral.org

MD Camp at Ohio State University

An intensive, three-week summer day camp for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in pursuing careers in medicine, including biomedical research. Students participate in lectures, hear from guest speakers, get clinical exposure, and participate in a community project at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Applicants are awarded full and partial scholarships based on financial need and quality of application. Visit the website for application details.
370 West Ninth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 688-8489
medicine.osu.edu/diversity/initiatives/md-camp

Medical Academy Camp at Ohio University Dublin

A free, 4-day summer camp for high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio to explore careers in healthcare at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in Dublin, Ohio. Selected students engage in hands-on, experiential learning activities, build confidence, and work directly with health professionals. Go online for application details.
6775 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 793-5556
ohio.edu/medicine/about/campuses/dublin/reach

Mezzacello Urban Farm

Operates sustainable gardens and an urban farm at several sites in downtown Columbus. They also offer school and community visits with mobile labs. The Urban Garden operates as an Applied STEM Learning Lab for youth, families, and community members to learn about composting, bioengineering, biodiversity, sustainability and renewable energy. Families can take a stroll through their gardens or sign up for educational workshops. They offer several hands-on STEM Summer Camps through partnerships with The PAST Foundation and Columbus Recreation and Parks each year. The Environmental and Climate Justice Academy is a free, year-round program for middle and high school students to learn about environmental crime scene investigation, climate change, and complete hands-on STEM projects. They also offer several volunteer and internship opportunities. Visit the website to register for a program or to contact the organization.
33 North 20th Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
mezzacello.org

Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) at MIT

A free, six-week residential academic enrichment program for high school juniors with a strong academic record and desire for rigorous STEM/science education. Selected participants receive college admissions counseling, high-level coursework, social events and exploration of the Boston area, and a written evaluation to use for college applications. Underrepresented students are encouraged to apply. Housing, meals and activity costs covered by the program but families must cover transportation costs. Students can apply online during the fall semester of their junior year in high school. Find additional application details online.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology: 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
(617) 253-8052
oeop.mit.edu/programs/mites

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Athletic Training Workshop

Summer workshop for high school students interested in athletic training, emergency medicine, nursing, physical therapy or other medical professions. Participants also have the option of becoming certified in CPR. The 3-day workshop is held in Westerville, Ohio at the Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center, and at Otterbein University. There is a fee. Go online to register.
nationwidechildrens.org/athletic-training-workshop

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Mechanisms of Human Health & Disease

This summer program offers college-level experiences in medicine and research to motivated and high-achieving high school students. Students explore career options, attend lectures, and complete projects investigating diseases. The top student from the program is given the opportunity to participate in an internship at Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Students must apply for the program and there is a program fee, find details online.
575 South Eighteenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0662
2025 Brochure: nationwidechildrens.cloud-cme.com/assets/nationwidechildrens/data/W1345168%20Comm%20Ed_MHHD%20Brochure_2025_Final.pdf
Registration Website: nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/courses-for-parents-and-kids

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Summer Scientist Education Series

This free program exposes high school students to the scientific method and careers in medical research during the summer. Students can register to attend free in-person or virtual classes exploring careers in medical research.
700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 355-0589
nationwidechildrens.org/young-scientist-series

Ohio State University (OSU) Extension

The OSU College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences works with families, farmers, business owners, and community leaders to offer programs for community enrichment across Ohio. Programs in Franklin County include:

  • 4-H Youth Development Club: Children ages 5-19 years old can participate in hands-on learning projects to build leadership and life skills. Projects include animal sciences, career exploration, creative arts, STEM, and more.
    (614) 292-4444
    ohio4h.org
  • Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP): Provides free nutrition education for income-eligible children, young adults, and parents to learn about nutrition, food safety, food security, and physical activity. Classes are available in Spanish and Somali. They also offer a pregnancy and infant feeding course.
    (614) 292-7833
    fcs.osu.edu/programs/nutrition/efnep
  • Dining with Diabetes: Nutrition and diabetes management courses for those with diabetes. Participants may be entered to win a gift card for participating.
    franklin.osu.edu/program-areas/family-and-consumer-sciences/dining-diabetes
  • Community Education: Offers courses on financial wellness, urban gardening, food preservation, brain health, beginner’s grant writing, and more. Course offerings vary each year, call or go online to sign up.

2548 Carmack Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 866-6900
franklin.osu.edu/program-areas

Ohio State University Arts & Sciences Summer Exploration Program (ASSEP)

A week-long summer day program for Columbus middle and high school students (rising 7-12th graders, ages 11-18) to experience academic enrichment in STEAM topics. Participants engage in intensive academic courses and hands-on learning with Ohio State faculty, staff, and graduate students. Interested students must apply online. Program fees include course materials, lunch, and snacks. Limited need-based financial aid is available.
230 North Oval Mall, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-8208
artsandsciences.osu.edu/future-students/arts-and-sciences-summer-exploration-program

Ohio State University Beyond the Classroom – Math Day Camp

A summer day program for students Grades 6-9 at The Ohio State University Department of Mathematics. Students experience recreational mathematics, movies, puzzles, and problem-solving with OSU students and faculty. The program is free of charge. Interested students must complete the online application.
The Ohio State University, Department of Mathematics: 231 West Eighteenth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
u.osu.edu/mathoutreach/btc/btc-2025

Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC) Summer Institute

Offers several summer programs for Ohio students and educators to gain hands-on experience in computer science and STEM. The STEM Institute is a two-week residential program for academically-gifted students grades 9-11. The Youth STEM Institute is a week-long residential program for grades 6-7. Participants experience project-based learning, explore topics and problems in science, and enjoy recreation at The Ohio State University campus. Interested students must apply for admission in the spring. No scholarships are available for these programs. They also offer educational opportunities for educators.
1224 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 292-9248
osc.edu/education/summer_programs

Ohio Wesleyan University Junior League (OWjL) Camp

Offers summer programs for academically-gifted students: a day camp for grades 4-6 and a residential camp program for grades 6-8. Campers select four courses from an academic program that includes mathematics, logic, computing, science, humanities and creative development. Students stay on the Ohio Wesleyan University campus and enjoy cultural and recreational activities. Applications are typically due in January. Scholarships are available.
(740) 368-3939
61 South Sandusky Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015
owu.edu/about/offices-services/owjl-camp

Ohio Wildlife Center (OWC)

Offers educational and community programming in addition to the animal services offered at the Ohio Wildlife Hospital. They offer summer day camps for ages 3-16 with programs that include outdoor adventuring, arts and crafts, helping with animal care, and more. Limited, need-based financial aid for camp fees is available. They also offer summer internships for ages 18+ in animal sciences and non-profit administration. Anyone can visit the center in-person to learn about wildlife, enjoy free events, or rent the facility for birthday parties.
Ohio Wildlife Center: 9000 Dublin Road, Powell, Ohio 43065
Ohio Wildlife Hospital: 2661 Billingsley Road, Columbus, Ohio 43235
(614) 734-9453
ohiowildlifecenter.org

Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) Youth Programs

Serves underrepresented students and professionals in the aerospace professions. They offer several programs for youth to help remove barriers to aerospace careers, including career exploration, mentorship, and scholarships for flight training programs. Aerospace Career Education (ACE) Academy is a week-long summer program for students ages 12-18 to experience hands-on flight experiences. Interested students must complete the online application. Program fees are meant to be affordable, and financial aid may be available for income-eligible families. Visit the website for additional program details and to contact the organization. Meetings are held at National Veterans Memorial in Columbus.
300 W Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 362-2800
ACE Academy Columbus: obap.org/ace/columbus
Main Website: obap.org

OSU Manufacturing & Materials Joining Innovation Center (Ma2JIC) Summer Internship Program

A paid summer internship program for rising high school juniors and seniors interested in exploring welding engineering. High-school students are matched with graduate students and assist with an ongoing research project in an engineering laboratory, and give a capstone presentation at the end of the program. Interns are expect to work up to 24 hours per week with a flexible schedule. Applications are generally available in winter and due in February.
1248 Arthur E. Adams Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 292-1182
ma2jic.osu.edu/resources/osu-summer-internship-program

PAST Foundation

Educational organization offering experiential programs for students based in Anthropology, STEM, and problem-solving. They offer a variety of summer day programs, after school programs, community events, and professional opportunities for educators.
1003 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 340-1208
pastfoundation.org

Pills, Potions, & Poisons – College of Pharmacy Summer Day Camp

A week-long summer program for high school students at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy. Students who have completed a high-school level Biology or Chemistry course are eligible to apply. A Teacher Recommendation is also required. Students learn through experiments, field trips, projects, and explore careers in pharmaceuticals. The program cost includes supplies, meals, field trip expenses, and a T-shirt. Applications are typically due in April with decisions announced in May. Financial assistance is available, contact the program for details.
College of Pharmacy: 500 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-2266
pharmacy.osu.edu/practice-teaching-engagement/public-professional-education/pills-potions-and-poisons

Ross Mathematics Program at Otterbein University

An intensive six-week residential summer program for high school students to explore higher-level mathematics. Programs are held at Otterbein University in Columbus, Ohio and Rose-Hulman Institute in Indiana.  Students must apply to participate. Applications typically open in January and are due in March. Program fees are significant but financial aid is available. Go online for program details and contact information.
rossprogram.org

Science Near Me – STEM Resources

This project through the National Science Foundation provides a database of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) opportunities near you. Search by name, location, or activity type to find after school programs, community events, citizen science projects, and more.
sciencenearme.org

Stratford Ecological Center

An educational farm and nature preserve offering workshops and classes for children, farm tours, and family programs. Visitors may explore the trails, gardens, greenhouses, and livestock for free. Programs include Farm School, which offers hands-on farm experiences and qualifies as an Alternative Learning Experience credit in Ohio. Farm Camp offers week-long summer camp experiences for grades Prek-8, and Counselors in Training leadership experience for grades 8-12. Internships are available for ages 18+ with opportunities ranging from Environmental Education to Communication & Marketing to Farming & Sustainable Agriculture. Visit the website to find upcoming community events.
3083 Liberty Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 363-2548
stratfordecologicalcenter.org

Summer Academy for Mathematics & Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University

A 6-week residential program for students from communities underrepresented in STEM to receive STEM education and mentorship at Carnegie Mellon University. Selected students participate in the program for free, including housing and dining. Students must be 16 years old and a junior in high school to apply. Application includes essays, two letters of recommendation, and demonstration of financial need. Applications are typically due by February.
5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213
(412) 268-5914
cmu.edu/pre-college/academic-programs/sams.html

Summer Institute for Future Nurses at Ohio State University

A free, three-day program for high school students to explore nursing careers through hands-on activities, tours, and engagement with faculty, staff and students. High school students grades 9-12 who meet GPA requirements are eligible to apply. Visit the website for application details.
The Ohio State University College of Nursing: 1577 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-8900
nursing.osu.edu/offices-and-initiatives/office-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/summer-institute-future-nurses

Summer Linguistics Institute for Youth Scholars (SLIYS) at Ohio State University

SLIYS (pronounced “SLICE”) is a one- or two-week online summer program for students grades 9-12 at the Department of Linguistics at The Ohio State University. Participants explore linguistic sciences and learn from native-language speakers. There is tuition for the program but need-based financial aid is available. Interested students must complete and application with a teacher recommendation. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis March through May. Visit the website to apply.
Oxley Hall: 1712 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-4052
linguistics.osu.edu/undergrad/sliys

Tech Corps

Provides high-quality computer science and IT learning experiences for students K-12 at locations across the country. Techie Camp and IT On Ramp are week-long summer camp programs for students grades 3-12 to engage in hands-on STEM and technology activities. TECHCORPShack is a one-day mobile app hackathon that lets high school students learn new skills, collaborate with industry pros, and compete for cash prizes. They also provide professional development opportunities, and the website has free lesson plans for teachers. Visit the website and sign up for the newsletter for upcoming program details.
6600 Busch Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 583-9211
techcorps.org

The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology

Interactive museum located in Newark, Ohio offering STEAM learning labs, planetarium, art gallery, and history exhibits. Admission rates are low and they offer many discounts for veterans, teachers, SNAP recipients, and more. They offer free programming for families and adults year-round. STEMfest is a fun event for the public, with a competition for grades 3-12. Camps during school breaks are available for ages 5-7. Summer Camps are available for ages 4-11 and need-based scholarships are available. They also provide teacher professional development across east central Ohio.
55 South First Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
(740) 349-9277
attheworks.org

Upward Bound Central Ohio

Upward Bound is a free program for income-eligible high school students to prepare for college applications and academics. Students can access year-round homework help and tutoring, cultural field trips, college tours, test prep and career guidance. The Summer program is a free, 6-week experience offering college prep, internship opportunities and more. Students receive money for full participation. Those typically underrepresented in postsecondary education (first generation, homeless, disabled, foster youth, or other barriers) are strongly encouraged to apply. Many colleges and universities across the state host Summer Upward Bound. Below are the organizations based in Columbus, Ohio. Requirements may vary between programs.

  • Columbus State Community College: For 9th and 10th graders at East, Linden-McKinley, Mifflin, Northland, or Independence High School. Participants are eligible for a free course at CSCC for college credit.
    550 East Spring Street, Columbus, OH 43215
    (614) 287-5875
    cscc.edu/services/upwardbound
  • Nationwide Children’s Hospital: For high school students who attend or whose home district Linden-McKinley STEM Academy, Marion-Franklin, or South High School. Participants may receive transportation assistance and internship opportunities with Nationwide Children’s Hospital departments.
    700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205
    (614) 722-2000
    nationwidechildrens.org/upwardbound
  • The Ohio State University: For 9th-11th graders who attend or live in the service areas of Briggs, East, South, or Walnut Ridge High Schools. Eligible graduating seniors can take free courses at OSU for 6 hours of college credit.
    (614) 292-2344
    154 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210
    odi.osu.edu/pre-collegiate/upward-bound

Wellington School Summer Program

Independent school offering Pre-K through 12th grade education and after school programs. Tuition assistance is available for families based on demonstrated financial need. The Summer Program offers half-day or full-day experiences, with after-care options. Camp offerings include creative and performing arts, athletics, STEM, and more. Participants do not have to be Wellington School students to participate in summer programs. Fees vary by camp and are due at time of registration.
3650 Reed Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
(614) 457-7883
wellington.org/summer

Youth for STEM Equity (YSE)

Provides free programs for youth, including STEM Escape Room events, museum visits, and educational lectures. They are student-led non-profit based in Columbus, Ohio promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the field of STEM. They also post helpful STEM-related content and scholarship opportunities on their Instagram. Go online to learn more and find their next event.
yforse.org



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