As a high school student interested in social sciences, you may already find yourself asking big questions about how people, societies, and systems work. Why do communities function the way they do? How do politics, media, history, and economics shape everyday life? Social sciences summer schools for high school students help you explore these questions through structured learning, discussion, and real-world examples.

Imagine spending your summer discussing global issues, researching history, studying human behaviour, or learning how the media influences society. These programmes give you the chance to think critically, work on real-world problems, and understand how ideas shape the world around you.

How do you choose the right social sciences summer school for high school students?

It can be difficult to know which program is actually worth your time. Some of the options might not give you enough space for discussion and practical learning. Choosing the right program will help you gain knowledge and skills that are meaningful for your future goals.

Many universities and organizations offer social sciences summer schools that are academically strong, discussion-based, and connected to real-world issues. You might explore politics, economics, journalism, psychology, history, sociology, or public policy. Some programs focus on research and analysis, while others help you understand leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

Of course, no matter which program you choose, understanding people and society takes curiosity and effort. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of the 15 Best Social Sciences Summer Schools for High School Students. These programs were selected for their strong academics, meaningful discussions, and opportunities for real-world learning.

For subject-specific programs, you can check out psychology summer programs, economics summer programs, and law summer programs.

15 Social Sciences Summer Schools for High School Students

1. University of Southern California – Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement

Location: USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, Los Angeles, CA.
Cost: Free
Dates: June 15th – July 2nd
Application Deadline: April 19th
Eligibility: Los Angeles County High school students 

Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement offers a three-week intensive summer learning opportunity to high school students. You’ll gain knowledge through college-level courses and understand the importance of communications and journalism in giving rise to socially responsible thought leaders and innovators. You’ll interact with scholars and practitioners leading the industry and solving complex issues in organizations and society.

The program will allow you to develop a range of skills in public speaking, critical thinking, multimedia production, ethnography, and more. You’ll explore the undergraduate programs and services at USC Annenberg, along with gaining exposure to multiple careers in media and journalism.

Why it stands out: You’ll take college-level media courses, learn from industry professionals, and build skills in journalism, public speaking, and multimedia storytelling.

2. Immerse Education’s PPE Summer School

Location: Cambridge, and Oxford
Cost: Varies by format; summer school scholarship available through our bursary programme
Dates: Multiple 2-week cohorts
Application Deadline: Rolling basis
Eligibility: Students ages 13-18 worldwide 

Immerse Education’s Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Summer School is one of the most multidisciplinary social sciences summer schools for high school students, offering a two-week immersive learning experience. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of societal issues, analyse real-world case studies, participate in critical discussions, and attend seminars.

The program will allow you to explore a range of topics, including how public policy influences global economies and the impact of government decisions on economic stability. You’ll develop problem-solving skills, learn through a university-level curriculum, and explore careers in social sciences. The program gives you the chance to work on individual projects, enjoy day excursions, and earn a recognised certificate of achievement.

Why it stands out: You’ll analyze real-world issues through case studies and discussions while exploring how politics and economics shape public policy and society.

3. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)

Location: Cornell University – Ithaca, NY; University of Maryland – College Park, MD
Cost: Free
Dates: June 21st – July 25th
Application Deadline: December 3rd
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors; Open to international students 

Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) offers a no-cost educational learning experience to high school students. The program aims to encourage education focused on a democratic community and critical thinking. You’ll join courses in humanities and social sciences and explore the impact of privilege and power on how social structures are formed and shaped. Through TASS-CBS and TASS-AOS, the two study areas offered by the program, you’ll attend seminars on varying topics.

Some of the topics covered through the seminars include history, politics, art, literature, and intellectual and cultural contributions by people of African Descent. You’ll participate in group work, attend lectures, watch art and films, while also engaging in reading articles and books. The program is led by experienced faculty and also allows you to engage in community service projects.

Why it stands out: You’ll explore topics like history, politics, and power through discussions, readings, and group work in a close-knit, community-focused setting.

4. Student Historian Internship

Location: The New York Historical, New York, NY
Cost/Stipend: Free; a $700 stipend is paid
Dates: July 7th – August 13th
Application Deadline: March 29th
Eligibility: Rising 10-12 grade students living and  attending  school in the NYC metro area (NYC five boroughs + parts of NY, NJ, CT

Student Historian Internship offers an in-depth research learning experience to high school students. You’ll gain access to valuable resources and work on creating creative digital projects. You’ll interact with staff and professionals and gain knowledge about the history fields, library, museum, and digital humanities.

The program will allow you to engage in hands-on research work and develop a range of skills in digital media, historical thinking, and communication. You’ll have the opportunity to work on the historical theme of Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America andearn a monetary stipend on program completion. 

Why it stands out: You’ll research the theme of Frederick Douglass’ America, use museum and library archives, and create a digital history project while earning a stipend.

5. Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PJSP)

Location: Princeton University
Cost: Free
Dates: Late June through Early August
Application Deadline: January 26th
Eligibility: High school juniors who are US residents with a 3.5 unweighted GPA. More information here 

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PJSP) offers a free learning opportunity to high school students. You’ll explore the link between journalism and political, social, and critical events. You’ll participate in workshops, attend lectures taught by the Princeton faculty, professional journalists, and alumni, and gain knowledge about current and world affairs.

Through the program, you’ll be matched with a college advisor and receive guidance and support for your college preparation. The program will conclude after a ten-day residential experience involving the publication of the Princeton Summer Journal.

Why it stands out: You’ll report on real social and political issues, learn from journalists and faculty, and publish your articles in the Princeton Summer Journal.

6. Penn State Business Opportunity Summer Session (BOSS)

Location: Penn State University Park campus
Cost: Free
Dates: June 14-26
Application Deadline: March 20th
Eligibility: Rising seniors from the USA and Puerto Rico 

Penn State Business Opportunity Summer Session (BOSS) offers a two-week residential learning experience to high school students. You’ll explore courses focused on business fundamentals, learn from experienced faculty at Penn State while interacting with participants from diverse backgrounds with shared interests.

The program will allow you to engage in hands-on learning components beyond classrooms and form meaningful friendships while enjoying life as a college student.

Why it stands out: You’ll learn core business concepts from Penn State faculty, take part in hands-on activities, and experience college life during a residential program.

7. The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

Location: New York, NY,  Remote and Hybrid options (varies by role)
Cost/Stipend: Free; $17/hour is paid
Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: March 27th (tentative)
Eligibility: High school graduates and undergraduate students living and permitted to work in the U.S.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History offers two internship cycles to high school students. You’ll have the opportunity to learn through academic-year internships and summer internships. The program allows you to explore a range of fields, including accounting, marketing, development, curatorial, digital, and education.

You’ll develop valuable skills in market research, database management, and more. The program will allow you to gain knowledge about American history through essays, public events, posters, videos, and a website with valuable resources. 

Why it stands out: You’ll work in areas like marketing or curation while building skills like research and database management, and learning about American history.

8. Leadership Seminars by the University of Notre Dame

Location: Notre Dame, IN
Cost: Free; $75 Application fee; $150 non-refundable enrollment fee
Dates: July 18-29
Application Deadline: January 21st
Eligibility: Current high school junior entering their senior year in the fall. More information here 

Leadership Seminars by the University of Notre Dame offer 10-day leadership-focused learning opportunities to high school students. The program offers a range of leadership seminars to choose from, including business, global issues, inequality in America, RADIANT, liberty for all, and the power of investing.

Through these seminars, you’ll have the opportunity to explore topics like peace and violence, research, data, artificial intelligence, financial literacy, social and economic inequities, and more. The program allows you to explore real-world problems and engage in thoughtful discussions while learning from experienced professionals.

Why it stands out: You’ll choose a seminar like business, AI, or global issues and explore real-world challenges through discussions and faculty-led sessions.

9. University of Montana – Mansfield Civics Institute

Location: University of Montana, Missoula, MT
Cost/Stipend: Free;
Dates: July 6-17
Application Deadline: Priority: March 16th; Final: March 31st
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors in Montana

The University of Montana – Missoula Civics Institute offers a two-week residential learning experience to high school students. The program is funded by the  US Department of Education and allows you to learn the fundamental principles of American democracy, such as freedom of speech, the Declaration of Independence, the rule of law, the Constitution, and federalism.

Along with academic learning, the program also gives you the chance to engage in extracurricular activities, go on civic theme-based excursions, and work on community service projects while also participating in leadership-building activities.

Why it stands out: You’ll study fundamental principles like the Constitution and the rule of law while taking part in civic projects, excursions, and leadership activities.

10. Kelley Women’s Leadership Institute

Location: In-person and virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: Vary. More information here
Application Deadline: March 20th
Eligibility: In-person: Rising juniors and seniors; Virtual: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors; Open to international students 

The Kelley Women’s Leadership Institute offers a selective business-focused learning experience. experience for high school students. You’ll attend lectures taught by leading faculty at the Kelly School of Business, work on real-world case projects, and gain knowledge about the opportunities for women in business.

You’ll interact with peers sharing similar goals and interests and develop valuable skills in communication and leadership. The program offers mentorship while exploring business areas to pursue a career in the field.

Why it stands out: You’ll learn business concepts through lectures and case projects while building leadership skills and exploring careers for women in business.

11. Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF)

Location: Purdue University, IN
Cost: Free
Dates: June 23rd – July 21st
Application Deadline: March 8th
Eligibility: US high school students ages 16-18; Citizens and residents of European countries must apply from the US Embassy in their own country

Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF) offers a four-week intensive learning opportunity to high school students. The program aims to introduce you to the ideas and legacy of Benjamin Franklin, promote social responsibility and mutual understanding among European and American youngsters, and build strong cultural and national relationships.

You’ll participate in workshops, attend seminars, panel discussions, and thematic presentations while also going on interactive site visits. The program involves four modules focused on communication and media, service and volunteerism, democratic citizenship and civic education, and international relations and diplomacy.

Why it stands out: You’ll explore Benjamin Franklin’s legacy through modules on diplomacy, media, civic leadership, and service while engaging in discussions, workshops, and site visits.

12. University of Colorado Boulder Business Leadership Program

Location: Boulder, CO
Cost: Free
Dates: June 21-27
Application Deadline: March 13th
Eligibility: Students living or attending high school in Colorado

The University of Colorado Boulder Business Leadership Program is hosted by the Opening Doors to Achievement (ODA) office at the Leeds School of Business. The program is offered at no cost and allows high school students to engage in practical, hands-on learning. You’ll form a team and work on the creation and implementation of a marketing campaign.

The campaign is aimed at corporate partners associated with the program and provides you with the opportunity to win a $1,000 scholarship. You’ll work on addressing real-world business challenges while developing valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and communication.

Why it stands out: You’ll work in a team to create and pitch a marketing campaign for real companies, with a chance to win a scholarship.

13. Syracuse University Summer College: Sociology Track

Location: Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
Cost/Stipend: Residential: $5,595; Commuter: $4,624
Dates: July 5-17
Application Deadline: May 1st
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors from around the world

Syracuse University Summer College: Sociology Track allows you to explore human behavior from a sociological lens. You’ll understand the relationship between individual life and the social world and gain knowledge about how social inequalities are introduced and challenged.

You’ll understand the importance of sociological knowledge in bringing social change while developing critical reading and academic writing skills. Through analysing research in sociology, you will have the opportunity to develop and apply social imagination to understand how institutions, individuals, behaviors, and processes lead to social inequalities.

Why it stands out: You’ll study how institutions and social processes create and challenge inequalities while building skills in research, reading, and academic writing.

14. Texas Tech University’s Anson L. Clark Scholar Program

Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost/Stipend: Free; a $750 stipend is paid
Acceptance rate/cohort size:
Dates: June 21st – August 6th
Application Deadline: February 16th
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors and recent high school graduates; Open to international students

Texas Tech University’s Anson L. Clark Scholar Program offers a seven-week summer research opportunity to high school students. You’ll gain real-world research experience through hands-on activities. You’ll learn from experienced faculty and professionals and have the opportunity to explore a broad range of research areas, including social sciences such as economics, along with physics, cancer biology, computer science, and more.

The program offers on-campus meals and allows you to engage in social and enjoyable activities, along with the development of intensive academic and research skills.

Why it stands out: You’ll work on a faculty-led research project in fields like economics, biology, or computer science while gaining hands-on academic experience.

15. UPenn’s Teen Research and Education in Environmental Science (TREES) Program

Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Free
Dates: June 30th – August 8th (tentative, based on previous years)
Application Deadline: Typically late February
Eligibility: Local students who have completed grade 9, 10, or 11 by the summer and have a minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA

UPenn’s Teen Research and Education in Environmental Science (TREES) Program offers a free, summer research mentorship experience to high school students. You’ll gain knowledge about scientific methodology, learn to convert ideas into testable hypotheses, and engage in data interpretation.

You’ll work on an independent research project focused on a specific environmental problem. The program will allow you to gain hands-on learning experience, attend seminars, go on field trips, and receive expert mentorships. You’ll also get to explore careers in environmental science and improve your college applications.

Why it stands out: You’ll work on an independent environmental research project, turn ideas into testable hypotheses, and build real laboratory and field research skills with mentor guidance.

From Civic Debates to Stronger Applications

A strong social sciences experience should make you question how people organise communities, challenge inequality, communicate ideas, and respond to change.

Across these 15 social sciences summer schools for high school students, you’ll find journalism, PPE, sociology, civic leadership, business, history, and research.

That variety can help you identify which questions matter most to you, then connect them to future essays, interviews, and subject choices.

Need help turning those questions into a clear university direction? Explore our University Preparation blogs for application strategy, writing advice, interview tips, and supercurricular planning.