medical research internships for high school students near me

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15 Medical Internships For High School Students

Gelyna Price

Head of programs and lead admissions expert, table of contents.

• Medical Internships:  The Perfect Boost for Your College Applications

What Is a High School Medical Internship?

But how do medical internships help people at hospitals, how about the benefits, medical internships in your network.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Are you a high school student interested in a career in medicine? Our blog highlights 15 medical internships specifically designed for high school students. Explore opportunities to gain hands-on experience, shadow physicians, and contribute to healthcare research. We provide valuable insights into prestigious institutions and organizations that offer these internships, guiding you towards valuable learning experiences that will enhance your college applications and future medical career. Discover the exciting world of medical internships and take the first step towards your dream of becoming a healthcare professional.

Medical Internships:  The Perfect Boost for Your College Applications

Whether you have your heart set on being a doctor, or you are simply curious about what it’s like to work in health care, a medical internship is a stellar way to gain hands-on experience while giving your college applications a huge boost. 

 (You can read about why we love pre-professional summer internships here .)

Healthcare currently accounts for almost one out of every five dollars in the U.S. economy.  Data published in 2020 by the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates that the U.S. could see a shortage of 54,100 to 139,000 physicians by 2033. That shortfall is expected to span both primary- and specialty-care fields.  At the same time, there is a growing need for scientists in medical research, according to The New York Times . 

There is a wide range of career possibilities in medicine.  In addition to traditional “stethoscope doctors” in clinical work, there are also many “microscope doctors” in biomedical research.  Medical professionals work in a wide range of contexts, from hospitals, clinics, labs, and universities, to tech startups, medical corporations, non-profit organizations, and governmental/international agencies.

Empowerly believes that summer medical internships are an excellent way to gain experience, build your network, and boost your college applications.

Summer medical internships range from more academic/classroom-based formats to programs that put you right in the surgical operating theater.  Either way, you get the opportunity to develop relationships with medical professionals who can write letters of recommendation for your college applications.

Here are some basic considerations:

• Where is the internship?   While there are a few residential “summer camp”-style programs, the majority are local.  This is why it is so important that you search for all of the opportunities in your local area (there are far too many to list in this article!).
• Who is eligible to participate?   Each program has different requirements for the minimum age of participants.  Many programs give preference to populations traditionally underrepresented in the sciences.  The more competitive internships may require a minimum G.P.A., letters of recommendation, and a personal statement (essay).
• When does the internship take place?   Most programs take place in the summer.  They range from a week long to the entire summer. 
• What does it cost?   The best internships pay a stipend or hourly wage.  There are also many tuition-based programs, but it’s a good idea to research what they include. (An authentic experience is more valuable for your growth than a medicine-themed summer camp.)

You should apply at least six months before your program starts.  (Please read our article on Why You Should Secure Your Summer Internships During the Winter.)  

We have picked 15 exciting medical summer internships to give you a sense of what’s out there.  This is only a small sample: you’ll need to do some research on programs in your area.  Local hospitals are the best place to start your search.  Look for programs with hands-on experience, and keep your eyes out for extras like college credit and CPR certification.  

• National Institute of Health (NIH) High School Summer Internship Program 

Where:  Primarily Washington D.C. (Bethesda, MD), with smaller cohorts in Baltimore & Frederick, MD, Research Triangle Park, NC, Hamilton, MT, Framingham, MA, Phoenix, AZ, and Detroit, MI.  

Who:  High school juniors and seniors who are U.S. citizens, pass federal background clearance, and will be at least 17 years old at the time of the internship.  The related HiSTEP program specifically recruits students in the D.C. area from populations that are less represented in the sciences.

When:  9 weeks during the summer

Pay:  $2190-2450 Stipend

The highly-competitive NIH High School Student Internship Program places students in real-life research capacities with medical professionals carrying out full-time biomedical research at the National Institute of Health.  Students are expected to work “just as hard as the postbac’s, graduate students, and postdocs in their research groups.”  This means that students will gain an authentic, hands-on experience that builds both career skills and one’s professional network.  

• University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) Summer Student Research Program

Where:  Oakland, CA (UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital)

Who:  High school juniors and seniors from low-income households and racial/ ethnic populations that are underrepresented in the sciences.  

When:  9 weeks from June to August

Pay:  $3000-$4500 stipend

Students work in local clinics and science labs to gain hands-on experience in biomedical research.  Participants are mentored on a one-on-one basis with healthcare professionals and researchers.  The program includes access to workshops, seminars, training, simulations, and networking opportunities.  The internship concludes with a final student research symposium.

(If you live in California, you should also read our article about Medical Internships in California.)

• Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience High School Internship

Where:  Palm Beach, FL

Who:  High school students who are entering junior or senior year in Palm Beach or Martin County and are interested in brain science

When:  6 weeks from June to July

Pay:  $12 per hour (40 hours per week)

Interns in the Max Planck program participate in research projects alongside neuroscientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer.  Students gain experience with hands-on “wet lab” techniques such as genetic engineering, microbiology preparations, histological staining, and microscopy.  

• High School Senior Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

Where:  Cincinnati, OH

Who:  Graduating high school seniors

When:  8 weeks from June to July

Pay:  $13 per hour (20 hours per week)

The Cincinnati Children’s Hospital offers a competitive, part-time internship that pairs students with a mentor in several pediatric clinical specialties.  Participants get to shadow a mentor in the clinic and choose from clinical projects, research projects, or a hybrid of both.  Interns can also apply to work with specific mentors.

•  Summer Child Health Research Internship at Children’s Hospital Colorado

Where:  Denver, CA

Who:  Rising senior high school students from Colorado

When:  2 months from early June to August

Pay:  $3500 stipend

Program participants have the opportunity to work in the lab with faculty from the Department of Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Colorado and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

• Harvard Medical School Project Success: Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers 

Where:  Boston, MA 

Who:  Boston high school students (particularly from disadvantaged and/or underrepresented populations)

When:  8 weeks from late June to August

Pay:  This is a paid internship (amount unspecified)

The competitive Harvard Medical School internship is a powerful experience that can open doors to colleges and beyond.  The program assigns students to work with mentors in Harvard research labs.   Students get to participate in seminars and carry out site visits to hospitals and biotech firms.  This program even offers access to college counseling and computer training.  

• Indiana University Simon Cancer Center Summer Research Program 

Where:  Indianapolis, IN (Bloomington)

Who:  High school students from populations underrepresented in the sciences

When:  8-week program from June to July

Pay:  Stipend (amount unspecified; 40 hours per week)

The Simon Cancer Center pairs students with mentors in a facility with over 100 world-renowned cancer investigators.  Participants get to carry out research involving laboratory experiments, clinical work, and medical data analysis.  Students apply what they learn about research methodology to a capstone research project which is presented to the group. 

• Medical College of Wisconsin Apprenticeship in Medicine (AIM)

Where:  Milwaukee, WI

Who:  Milwaukee area high school students from disadvantaged and/or underrepresented backgrounds

When:  6-7 weeks during summer

Pay:  Stipend (amount unspecified)

This program offers two tracks.  The Apprenticeship in Medicine (AIM) is an intensive 6-week program in which students learn anatomy and physiology, and participate in suture clinics and heart dissections.  The Research Opportunity for Academic Development in Science (ROADS) is a 7-week program that pairs students with a principal investigator who serves as a mentor on a research project.  

• Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP)

Where:  Northern California 

Who:  Low-income, first-generation high school juniors from specific counties in Northern California

When:  5-Week residential program from June to July 

Cost:  Free

Participants get to live on the Stanford University campus as they attend faculty lectures, professional development workshops, Stanford Medicine networking events, and a public health disparities research project.  The program provides mentorship and networking opportunities with Stanford faculty, health professionals, and pre-med college students.

• Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program

Where:  Southwestern PA region

Who:  High school juniors and seniors from local counties with an interest in biomedical research

When:  4 weeks from June to July

Pay:  Minimum wage

This program focuses on reproductive biology, women’s health, and infant care.  Interns work on individual research projects under the tutelage of a staff hospital investigator, carrying out translational or clinical research that culminates with a final project and group presentation.  Students benefit from career development luncheons where staff share their experience working in the field of biomedical science.

• Penn Summer Academies

Where:  the University of Pennsylvania

Who:  High school students from anywhere in the U.S.

When:  3-week residential program in July

Cost:  $5700; Penn Summer Scholarship is available for students at local public and charter schools

The Penn Summer Academies offer two programs in medicine.  The Biomedical Research Academy introduces participants to the experimental basis of cellular, molecular, and genetic aspects of biology.  The Neuroscience Research Academy explores the biological foundations of the brain.  Both programs include lectures, faculty research talks, laboratory activities, group investigation, and research projects.  

• Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego: Summer Medical Academy

Where:  San Diego 

Who:  15- to 19-year-olds from greater San Diego

When:   11-day sessions in both June and July 

Cost:  $2,800

Applicants are evaluated based on essay responses, enthusiasm for healthcare, academic success, extracurricular involvement and service, and a teacher recommendation.  Interested students should contact the program for more information.

• National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare

Where:  Washington, DC, Durham, NC, Chicago, IL, San Francisco, CA, Miami, FL, and New Haven, CT

Who:  High school students

When:  Several 8-day residential programs at each location throughout the summer

Cost:  $3795 – $3995

Students in this program perform clinical rounds, learn medical examination and surgical techniques, and participate in diagnosis and treatment.  Participants learn about today’s healthcare challenges and explore advanced scientific research in areas such as cancer and HIV/AIDS.  The program is offered on the campuses of American University, Duke University, Northwestern University, University of California at Berkeley, University of Miami, and Yale University. 

• Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine: Achieve in Medicine (AIM–High) 

Where:  Fort Lauderdale and Tampa Bay, FL

Who:  Academically strong high school students (frosh to seniors)

When:  5-day program in June (Tampa Bay) and July (Fort Lauderdale)

Cost:  $1500

This medical school immersion camp is designed specifically for high school students.  Participants gain hands-on medical experience with a focus on the use of technology in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.  Students can obtain CPR certification.

• Georgetown University Medical Academy

Where:  Washington, DC

Who:   High school students

When:  3 separate one-week residential sessions in June and July

Cost:   $3225 ($2,500 for commuter students)

Students study topics ranging from human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and infectious disease to surgery, cancer, and biomedical ethics.  The program includes hands-on labs, a patient simulator, and dissection exercises. 

How Can Medical Internships Help College Students?

Medical internships for high school students provide valuable opportunities that can greatly benefit individuals during their college years. These internships offer hands-on experience in the medical field, allowing students to gain practical knowledge, develop critical skills, and make informed decisions about their career path. Here are some ways in which medical internships can help students in college.

Firstly, medical internships for high school students provide a unique chance to explore the healthcare field firsthand. By working alongside professionals in various medical settings, students can witness the daily routines, challenges, and rewards of healthcare careers. This exposure helps them gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare system and different specialties, enabling them to make more informed decisions about their college major and future career goals.

Moreover, medical internships offer valuable opportunities to develop essential skills that are transferable to college and beyond. Through these internships, students learn to communicate effectively with patients, healthcare providers, and fellow interns. They also develop strong teamwork and collaboration skills by working alongside professionals in a multidisciplinary environment. These skills are crucial in college, where teamwork and effective communication are often required for academic projects and extracurricular activities.

In addition, medical internships allow students to cultivate their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. They are exposed to real-life medical cases, where they can observe and participate in diagnosing and treating patients. This hands-on experience helps them develop analytical skills, learn to think on their feet, and make quick and accurate decisions under pressure. Such skills are invaluable in college, where students often face complex academic challenges and are required to analyze information and solve problems in various subjects.

Furthermore, medical internships provide an excellent opportunity for students to build a professional network in the healthcare field. During their internships, students interact with healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and medical researchers. By establishing connections with these professionals, students can gain mentors who can guide them through their college years and beyond. These mentors can provide valuable advice, recommend research or volunteer opportunities, and even write letters of recommendation for college applications or future job opportunities.

Lastly, medical internships offer students a chance to strengthen their college applications. Admission officers value hands-on experience and extracurricular involvement, and a medical internship demonstrates a student’s passion, commitment, and drive to pursue a career in healthcare. By including their internship experience in their college applications, students can set themselves apart from other applicants and showcase their dedication to the field.

In conclusion, medical internships for high school students can be immensely beneficial during college. They provide firsthand exposure to the healthcare field, help students develop crucial skills such as communication and problem-solving, and allow them to build a professional network. Additionally, internships enhance college applications, demonstrating a student’s commitment and passion for the field. By participating in medical internships, students can lay a solid foundation for their future academic and professional success.

• Hands-on Experience: Medical internships provide participants with valuable hands-on experience within a hospital setting. Interns have the opportunity to observe and assist healthcare professionals in real-life scenarios, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical situations. This exposure helps interns develop a deeper understanding of medical procedures, patient care, and hospital protocols, preparing them for future roles within the healthcare field.
• Skill Development: Working in a hospital environment during an internship allows individuals to enhance their skill set. Interns often develop strong communication skills as they interact with patients, doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff members. Additionally, they acquire critical thinking and problem-solving abilities by participating in diagnosing and treating patients. These skills are invaluable in the fast-paced and challenging environment of a hospital, enabling interns to excel in their future healthcare careers.
• Networking Opportunities: Medical internships provide a platform for interns to connect with healthcare professionals working at hospitals. Building a network of industry contacts is essential for career growth, and internships offer the ideal opportunity for such connections. By establishing relationships with doctors, nurses, and administrators, interns can gain valuable mentors who can guide them in their career paths, offer advice, and provide future job opportunities.
• Career Exploration: Hospitals encompass a wide range of medical specialties and departments. Medical internships allow individuals to explore different areas of healthcare and gain exposure to various disciplines. Interns can rotate through different departments, such as emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and more, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future career paths. This exploration helps individuals find their areas of interest and discover where they can best contribute within a hospital setting.
• Professional Development: Internships at hospitals offer individuals the opportunity for professional growth and development. By immersing themselves in a hospital environment, interns learn to adapt to the fast-paced nature of healthcare, develop time management skills, and hone their ability to work in a team. These experiences contribute to personal growth, boost confidence, and instill professionalism, all of which are highly valued traits in the healthcare industry.
• Resume Enhancement: Having a medical internship on a resume can significantly enhance an individual’s job prospects in the healthcare field. Employers appreciate candidates who have gained practical experience in a hospital setting as it demonstrates their commitment to the profession and their ability to handle real-life healthcare situations. A medical internship serves as a strong testament to an individual’s dedication, passion, and readiness to contribute to a hospital’s mission.

Medical internships offer numerous benefits to individuals working at hospitals. They provide hands-on experience, skill development, networking opportunities, career exploration, and professional development. Moreover, internships bolster resumes, making individuals more attractive to potential employers. By participating in a medical internship, individuals can gain a competitive edge in the healthcare industry and pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in a hospital setting.

edical internships offer numerous benefits for aspiring healthcare professionals. These hands-on experiences provide invaluable opportunities for students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world medical settings. Through internships, participants gain practical skills, enhance their clinical acumen, and develop a deeper understanding of healthcare practices. These immersive learning experiences are instrumental in preparing future doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals for the challenges they may encounter in their careers. By actively engaging in internships, individuals can bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering their professional growth and setting a strong foundation for their future in the medical field.

One of the key advantages of medical internships is the chance to work alongside experienced healthcare professionals. Interns have the unique opportunity to observe and learn from seasoned practitioners, who can provide valuable insights, guidance, and mentorship. This exposure to professionals who have excelled in their respective fields can significantly influence interns’ career choices and aspirations. Furthermore, the networking opportunities provided by internships can lead to lifelong connections and potential job prospects in the future. Building relationships with mentors and colleagues during internships can open doors to further educational and professional opportunities.

Medical internships also offer a holistic understanding of healthcare systems and the multidisciplinary nature of medical practice. Interns often rotate through various departments, such as emergency medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine, gaining exposure to different specialties. This exposure helps interns discover their interests and aptitudes, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their future career paths. Additionally, internships foster teamwork and collaboration, as interns frequently work alongside other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary environment. These experiences cultivate effective communication skills, essential for delivering quality patient care in a healthcare team.

Participating in medical internships can enhance an individual’s resume and increase their competitiveness in the job market. Employers highly value practical experience, and internships provide a platform to showcase one’s skills, dedication, and adaptability in a clinical setting. The hands-on experiences gained during internships demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a proactive attitude toward learning. Furthermore, the exposure to real-world scenarios equips interns with problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills, which are highly sought after in the healthcare industry. Overall, medical internships play a pivotal role in shaping the careers of aspiring healthcare professionals, offering a range of benefits that contribute to their personal and professional growth.

Did you know that many esteemed doctors and medical professionals started their journey in the healthcare field as interns? Medical internships provide a valuable stepping stone for aspiring doctors, offering a hands-on learning experience that lays the foundation for a successful medical career. By starting out as interns, these individuals gained practical skills, developed their clinical expertise, and honed their patient care abilities. The rigorous training and mentorship received during their internships shaped them into the competent and compassionate doctors they are today.

Internships serve as a bridge between medical education and real-world practice, allowing interns to apply their knowledge in a clinical setting. This immersive experience helps interns gain confidence in their abilities while working under the guidance of experienced physicians. Doctors who began their careers as interns often attribute their clinical competence and diagnostic acumen to the practical exposure they received during this pivotal phase. The hands-on nature of internships equips future doctors with the skills necessary to navigate complex medical scenarios, make critical decisions, and deliver quality patient care.

Starting as interns also provides doctors with the opportunity to build a strong professional network within the medical community. During their internships, doctors often collaborate with a diverse group of healthcare professionals, including nurses, specialists, and administrators. These connections can prove invaluable throughout their careers, as they foster collaborations, referral networks, and lifelong learning opportunities. Building relationships during internships not only enhances doctors’ knowledge and skills but also opens doors to future career advancements and professional growth.

Doctors who began their journey as interns also understand the challenges and realities of the healthcare industry firsthand. The demanding nature of internships prepares doctors for the rigorous schedules, high-stress environments, and multifaceted responsibilities they will encounter throughout their careers. By experiencing the intensity of patient care, managing emergencies, and working long hours during their internships, doctors gain resilience and adaptability, qualities that are vital for success in the medical field. The valuable lessons learned as interns shape their approach to patient care, instilling a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to providing the best possible medical treatment.

If you’ve searched and are having trouble finding a good local program, consider asking anyone that you may know who works in health care if you can volunteer after school or during the summer.   If you would like to learn more about how a medical internship can vault your college applications to the next level, contact the expert counselors at Empowerly for a free, 30-minute video consultation .

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• Research Training

High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

This program is available to:

• High School Students

An opportunity for high school students to spend a summer working in the Intramural Research Program at the NIH.

On this page

About this program, diversity and inclusion, hs-sip cohort programs, eligibility criteria, stipend and other compensation, before you apply, how to apply, selection process.

This program is for 11th and 12th graders interested in exploring careers in research and healthcare. With the exception of the HiSTEP program , these are full-time research positions within one of the NIH Institutes and Centers (IC) in the NIH Intramural Research Program. Research groups are located on all NIH campuses, including the main campus in Bethesda, MD.

High school summer interns are selected by a central committee in each Institute/Center and placed in a research group to work under the supervision of a Principal Investigator (PI). HS-SIP applicants should not contact NIH investigators directly to explore possible positions.

We offer research opportunities in biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences with opportunities to explore basic, translational, and clinical research. Students interested in biology, engineering, epidemiology, psychology, mathematics, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, nursing, physics, computer science, bioinformatics, and other health-related fields are invited to apply. Summer interns may not work in administrative offices or outside of the NIH IRP.

All NIH summer interns have access to:

• professional development programs focused on core competencies needed for success in science careers
• educational and career advising
• a comprehensive well-being and resilience program

We also sponsor Summer Poster Day , where our interns share their research with the NIH community.

Diversity strengthens our community. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and strongly encourage applications from:

• people from racial and ethnic groups that have been underrepresented in biomedical research and healthcare fields
• people with disabilities
• people who identify as LGBTQ+
• people disadvantaged by life circumstances that have negatively impacted their educational opportunities.

Our goal is to support diverse students to enter careers in research and healthcare. To help us achieve this, we sponsor two cohort programs for high school students. Interns in these cohort programs have access to all resources of the broader HS-SIP program and also participate in orientation, leadership, professional development, and well-being programs as part of a learning community. The curriculum of each cohort program is tailored to the educational needs of the groups and includes a focus on science, professional, and personal skill development. The OITE sponsors two HS-SIP cohort experiences:

• HiSTEP for current high school juniors who will be rising 12th graders in the summer; this is a part-time program and interns do not work in NIH research groups.
• HiSTEP 2.0 for current high school seniors; this is a full-time program and interns are placed in an NIH research group.

To apply for the NIH HS-SIP, and HS-SIP cohort programs, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. In addition, you must:

• Be 17 years of age or older on June 15, 2024.
• Be enrolled in high school as a junior or senior when you submit your application. U.S. citizens may apply if they are enrolled at least half-time in high school. U.S. permanent residents must be enrolled in a high school in the U.S. to be eligible.
• If you are under 18 years old by June 15, live within 40 miles of the NIH campus on which you will intern when you submit your application.

Applicants with a family member working at NIH should be aware of the strict nepotism policy , which may limit your ability to work in certain NIH institutes, centers, or research groups.

Stipends for summer interns are adjusted annually and are based on educational level. There is free parking on each NIH campus; summer interns on some campuses may be eligible to participate in the Transhare program .

All summer interns must present proof of health insurance to participate in the program.

The decision to come to the NIH as a summer intern is an important one.  In most cases these are full-time research positions, and it is not possible to take summer classes or tend to other responsibilities during work hours.

Research groups are located on several different NIH campuses, including the main campus in Bethesda, MD. Before you begin your application, we encourage you to learn more about:

• the NIH IRP and the mission of each Institute and Centers
• the various NIH campuses and the specific focus of the work performed there

Watch this important video before applying. It talks about the program and provides a framework for deciding if the program is right for you. It also discusses the application process and provides information on finding appropriate research groups.

Opening and closing dates

The HS-SIP application is currently closed.

The HS-SIP application closed on Friday, February 16, 2024 at noon ET. Reference letters are due before Friday, February 23, 2024 at noon ET.

Complete your application

You must use the NIH Application Center to apply for this program:

• After you complete the required sections of your profile, you will be asked to select a preferred program. Choose 'Summer internships for high school students'.
• You must select 'Apply' next to ‘High School Summer Internship Program’ for your application to be considered for this program.
• Ensure that you are eligible for this program before clicking 'Start Application.'
• To complete your application, import any relevant information from your profile. You must also submit:
• Coursework & Exams - a list of coursework and grades
• CV/Resume - a list of your education, experience, and other relevant history ( see an example resume )
• References - the names and contact information of two references
• Letter/Statement - a cover letter broadly describing your prior research experiences, your current interests and career goals.

5. Review all of your materials carefully before you submit your application

HS-SIP applicants should not reach out directly to NIH Principal Investigators since HS-SIP selections are made centrally by the HS-SIP summer coordinator in each Institute/Center (IC). Reach out to the HS-SIP coordinator in the NIH IC you want to work. Follow the guidance they provide, as the application process differs in each IC.

Applications are reviewed by the NIH Institute/Center (IC) who select their own summer interns and provide the funding to support them. Successful candidates will be informed by the hiring IC. Many NIH research groups are unable to accommodate high school students due to safety concerns, and the acceptance rate of HS-SIP is ~7%. Therefore, we strongly encourage applicants to seek other internship and employment opportunities.

Have questions?

Check out our extensive frequently asked questions list to support you in the application process.

Reach out to us with questions at [email protected] .

Lori Conlan

• Deputy Director, Office of Intramural Training and Education

Alexis Schirling

• Program Specialist

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31 Research Opportunities + Internships for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

• Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students
• How to Find Research Opportunities in High School
• How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances?

Research drives innovation across every field of study, from natural sciences to health to history. Pursuing curiosity can impact industries, drive policy, and help us to better understand the world around us. Without curiosity and research, our society would surely stagnate. 

Contrary to popular belief, however, you don’t have to be a seasoned professional to conduct meaningful research. There are plenty of opportunities for high school students to get a head start on their future careers and contribute to substantial change. Keep reading to learn about 30 great opportunities for students looking for early chances to conduct research! 

Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students 

1. memorial sloan kettering human oncology and pathogenesis program.

Application Deadline: February 9

Location: New York, NY

Duration: Eight weeks (June 27 – August 22)

Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is one of the most well-known cancer centers in the world. The Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) at MSK hosts a Summer Student Program for students to conduct independent research projects while participating in extracurricular activities, training, and other opportunities.  

During the eight-week program, participants work with a mentor who will act as a supervisor to help them develop their research skills. Additionally, students have the opportunity to complete an independent research project that aligns with their mentor’s work. All participants will present their projects at a poster session at the end of the summer.

To participate, you must have completed at least 9th grade by June 2024, be at least 14 years old by June 27, have a 3.5 GPA in science subjects, and submit two letters of recommendation. This is a paid opportunity—participants will receive a stipend. 

2. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 5 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 8) 

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program allows high school students to conduct real, innovative research over seven weeks through the renowned Rockefeller University, under the guidance of leading scientists. 

SSRP scholars will be able to design and conduct their own research project as part of a themed research track, which is modeled after a Rockefeller research topic and/or technique, with the help of scientist mentors from the Rockefeller community. Most of the research will be conducted in the RockEDU Laboratory—a 3,000-square-foot research space specifically dedicated to developing biomedical research skills.

Students must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program to participate.  

3. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varies by cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Location:  Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year

Founded by Harvard & Oxford researchers, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program pairs high-school students with PhD mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have written an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as medicine, computer science, psychology, physics, economics, data science, business, engineering, biology, and international relations.

This program is designed to accommodate your schedule—you can participate in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, and the program is also conducted fully remotely. While you must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate high academic achievement (most students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3), no previous knowledge of your field of interest is required. The cost of the program ranges from $2,800 to $8,900, but financial aid is available.

Note that this is a selective program. Last year, over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the program. You can find more details about the application here .

4. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Application Deadline: December 13 

Location: Cambridge, MA

Duration: Five weeks (June 23 – August 3) 

The prestigious RSI, which takes place at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) annually, brings together 100 of the world’s top high school students. The free program blends on-campus coursework with off-campus science and technology research. 

Participants complete individual research projects while receiving mentorship from experienced scientists and researchers, and present their findings through oral and written reports in a conference-style setting at the end of the program. 

5. NYU Tandon – Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

Application Deadline: March 6

Duration: 10  weeks (June 3 – August 9)

Open to New York City high school students who will complete 10th or 11th grade in June 2024, the ARISE program provides access to college-level workshops and lab research across fields like bio, molecular, and chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, and AI.

Over the course of 10 weeks—four virtual and six in person—participants will receive guidance from graduate or postdoctoral students at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering. 

6. Simons Summer Research Program

Application Deadline: February 7

Location: Stony Brook, NY

Duration: Five weeks (July 1 – August 9) 

During Stony Brook ’s Simons Summer Research Program, high school students conduct hands-on research in areas like science, math, and engineering while working with faculty mentors. Simons Fellows have the opportunity to join real research teams and learn about laboratory equipment and techniques. They also attend weekly faculty research talks and participate in special workshops, tours, and events. 

At the closing poster symposium, students will receive a stipend for their participation. To apply, you must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and currently be in your junior year. 

7. SPARK Summer Mentorship Program

Application Deadline: N/A

Location: Greater Seattle area

Duration: 8-10 weeks 

SPARK is a summer mentorship program that pairs high-achieving and highly motivated high schoolers with industry experts, university professors, and mentors to conduct research on customers and financial markets. The program is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.  

8. MDI Biological Laboratory – Biomedical Bootcamp 2024

Application Deadline: March 18 

Location: Bar Harbor, ME

Duration: One week (July 15 – 19) 

In this bootcamp, students will receive a hands-on introduction to biomedical research at MDI Biological Laboratory. Participants will learn essential scientific skills such as experimental design and hypothesis testing, cutting-edge laboratory techniques, data analysis, bioinformatics, and scientific communication. 

During the program, scientists and bioentrepreneurs at the lab will help participants explore scientific ethics at large, as well as career paths in biomedicine, research, and entrepreneurship in Maine and beyond.

Participants must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and must be entering their junior or senior year in September 2024, or graduating in June 2024. 

9. Boston University – Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship  

Application Deadline: February 14  

Location: Boston, MA

Duration: Six weeks (June 30 – August 9)  

RISE is a six-week program for rising seniors with an interest in pursuing a major and/or career in STEM. There are a multitude of tracks available, in areas such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, and neuroscience. In each track, students conduct research under the mentorship of Boston University faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students. They will also attend weekly workshops with their peers. 

10. The Wistar Institute – High School Program in Biomedical Research

Application Deadline: March 31 

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Duration: Four weeks (July 15 – August 8) 

A leading biomedical research organization, The Wistar Institute is an ideal setting for students to learn research skills. Participants will complete their own research project while being trained in a principal investigator’s laboratory. They’ll also attend seminars, receive mentorship, and deliver a final presentation about their work.

Students are expected to participate Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Absences of more than two consecutive days cannot be accommodated. Students will receive a stipend of $1,000 upon completion of the program, to compensate for commuting costs or other personal expenses accrued during the program. 

11. California Academy of Sciences – Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Location: San Francisco, CA

Duration: Multi-year, year-round participation (after school and on weekends)

This long term program gives San Francisco students from communities that are underrepresented in STEM the opportunity to learn about the world of science and sustainability. Students receive mentorship, develop career skills, and more—all while getting paid for their work. Students also attend workshops and conferences throughout the course of the program. 

12. NASA OSTEM Internship

Application Deadline: February 2

Location: Varies

Duration: Varies

NASA offers a variety of internships for high school students across its numerous campuses. Interns gain real-world work experience by working side by side with research scientists and engineers, which will strengthen their resume and help prepare them for their eventual careers. All participants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school full time.

13. New-York Historical Society Student Historian Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 7

Duration: July 9 – August 15

Not all research is conducted in STEM subjects! Developed for students interested in history, the New-York Historical Society’s Student Historian Program gives participants the opportunity to conduct research on a history topic—2024’s theme is Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America . During the program, participants will work with historian mentors, visit history archives around New York City, lead gallery tours, and develop their historical thinking, communication, and digital media skills.

Applicants must be entering grades 10, 11, or 12, and live in the New York City metro area. This opportunity is unpaid for most participants, but some interns with demonstrated financial need can potentially receive a stipend.

14. Adler Planetarium Summer High School Internship  

Application Deadline: March 1

Location: Chicago, IL

Duration: Six weeks (July 8 – August 14)

During this summer internship program, students will learn about the Adler Planetarium and the career opportunities within it and planetariums and museums in general, in areas ranging from Visitor Experience and Learning to Research. Students will also get the chance to see how research gets translated into a museum experience. 

15. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University (BRAINYAC)

Application Deadline: TBA for 2025 program

Duration: Eight weeks  

BRAINYAC participants receive the rare opportunity to work on research in a lab at Columbia University , one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, as high school students, which results in a stronger, more comprehensive understanding of how scientific discovery happens. They connect with real scientists, acquire essential research and laboratory skills, and learn about advances in neuroscience research. 

In order to apply, you must be in 10th or 11th grade and must be nominated by one of the program’s partners—S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, or BioBus.  

16. Brookfield Zoo King Conservation Science Scholars Program

Application Deadline: Rolling admission 

Location: Brookfield, IL

Duration: N/A

Interactive workshops, fun activities, research, and community-based projects are at the core of this exciting internship. It’s an excellent opportunity for students who love animals and also want to gain research skills in the domains of zoology, environmental science, and conservation. 

As a King Scholar, you’ll learn about different topics through Foundation Courses, such as Diversity Awareness and Introduction to Conservation, all while networking with others and preparing for college and an eventual career in a related field. After one year of participation, you’ll be invited to apply for scholarships and paid positions at the zoo. 

17. The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) at the American Museum of Natural History  

Application Deadline: March 8

Duration: One year (August to June) 

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in New York City. Its Science Research Mentoring Program is an amazing opportunity for NYC high school students to conduct a yearlong research project with Museum scientists. 

Students in SRMP get paid to learn how scientific research is conducted. Depending on their topic of study, students can learn a variety of different research skills, like working with DNA in the lab, analyzing data from space-based telescopes, reading scientific articles, and learning to code and analyze data in Python, R, and other programming languages. 

18. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Application Deadline:   February 15

Location: Lubbock, TX

Duration: Seven weeks (June 16 – August 1) 

Through the Anson L. Clark Scholar Program, an intensive seven-week summer research program for twelve highly qualified high school juniors and seniors, students will gain hands-on experience with practical research alongside experienced and knowledgeable faculty at Texas Tech University .

Students can choose to participate in research in one field from a broad variety of options, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering, history, and more! 

To apply, students must complete an online application that includes short essays, high school transcripts, test scores (at least a PSAT if no others are available), three recommendations (at least two from teachers), and a list of the student’s top five activities.

19. UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program  

Application Deadline: January 16 

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 2)

The Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program is an immersive eight-week paid summer research program at the University of Chicago . During the program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with a data science mentor, whose expertise could be in computer science, data science, social science, climate and energy policy, public policy, materials science, biomedical research, or another related field.

Participants will hone their research methodology, research practice, and teamwork skills. No prior research experience is required to apply. All participants will receive access to applied data science research, which they will use to craft a research project. The project findings will be presented in a video that will be shown at an end-of-summer symposium.

20. UT Austin College of Natural Sciences High School Research Academy

Application Deadline: March 24

Location: Austin, TX

Duration: Five weeks (June 10 – July 17) 

Through UT Austin ’s HSRA, high school students participate in interdisciplinary research projects being conducted by active College of Natural Sciences laboratories in fields such as biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. 

There is a scholarship fund for underserved groups, so some stipends and free tuition scholarships may be available to students with demonstrated financial need. 

21. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience – Summer Research Internship

Location: Jupiter, FL

Duration: Six weeks (June 17 – July 26) 

The MPFI Summer Research Internship offers rising juniors and seniors an immersive laboratory experience where they can learn from seasoned researchers. The program is designed specifically for students with an interest in brain structure, function and development, and the advanced imaging techniques and technologies used in neuroscience. 

Program participants will participate in research projects alongside MPFI scientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer. Research tracks include neuroscience, scientific computer programming, and mechanical engineering as it relates to neuroscience.

Applicants must be entering their junior or senior years in a Palm Beach or Martin County high school, be residents of one of those two counties, and be at least 16 by the beginning of the internship. Interns will be paid at a rate of $12.50 per hour.

22. Lincoln Park Zoo Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Application Deadline: March 11 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 9) 

During this paid seven-week program, high school students learn how to educate others about animal and conservation sciences while crafting digital messages to engage audiences. The program culminates in a final project. Throughout the internship, students meet with researchers and the Animal Care staff to explore careers in the animal science and conservation fields. 

Applicants must be Chicago residents between the ages of 15-18, and must be entering grades 10-12 or their freshman year of college by the start of the internship.

23. The Scripps Research High School Internship Program  

Application Deadline: April 19

Location: La Jolla, CA

Duration: Seven weeks  

The Scripps Research Institute’s La Jolla, California headquarters is proud to offer a seven-week hands-on research experience for San Diego County high schoolers. The program is specially designed to expose students to careers in the biological and chemical sciences, to provide hands-on laboratory experience, and to motivate and prepare students for continuing education in STEM. 

Because Scripps is committed to increasing the number of students from underrepresented communities in STEM college programs, a special emphasis is placed on identifying and recruiting students who are from groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences. All students will receive a $4,760 stipend.

24. QuarkNet Summer Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 31

Location: DuPage County, IL

Duration: Seven weeks (June 17 – August 2) 

High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong interest in STEM have a unique opportunity to work with scientists on research projects during this paid seven-week program at the prestigious Fermilab, located just outside of Chicago near Batavia, IL.

Interns are encouraged to indicate areas in which they have a particular interest, although research projects vary yearly based on the work ongoing at the lab. Broadly speaking, Fermilab’s focus is on particle physics.

Required application materials include a questionnaire, a letter of recommendation, and an essay. To apply, students must have U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status and must provide evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Participants will be paid at a rate of $17.20 per hour.

25. RISE Environmentor Internship

Location: Far Rockaway, NY

Duration: Six weeks (July 1 – August 15)

The Environmentor Internship offers a great opportunity for 9th through 11th graders who live or attend school near the Rockaway Peninsula to gain firsthand research experience. Participants are mentored by scientists from local universities and research institutions as they work on projects focused on the Rockaway shoreline. Past research topics have included sea turtle strandings, octopus behavior, mussel denitrification, and dolphin fin morphology.

Students will also take part in water safety courses, receive CPR training, and explore on-water activities like kayaking and surfing. Students receive up to a $1,200 stipend, as well as community service hours for their participation in the program.

26. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Application Deadline: February 24

Location: Stanford, CA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 1)

Students in this summer program are given the chance to perform research on a medically oriented project and work side by side with Stanford University students, researchers, and faculty. Students can choose from eight areas of research, including topics like immunology, cancer biology, and bioinformatics, which are all designed to increase their interest in the biological sciences and provide a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted.

The program is open to current high school juniors and seniors. Students will receive a minimum $500 stipend for their participation in the program.

27. Secondary Student Training Program

Application Deadline: February 16

Location: Iowa City, IA

Duration: June 19 – July 26

High schoolers in grades 10 and 11 can take part in an immersive research experience, which will allow them to explore their interests, enhance their academic skills, and build relationships with their peers during this research-focused summer program.

Participants can choose from a multitude of research areas, ranging from biology to industrial and systems engineering to religious studies. The program culminates with students creating and presenting a poster of their findings. All participants will live on the University of Iowa ‘s campus for the duration of the program, and have access to all of the university’s libraries, study areas, and computer facilities.

Although this program is quite expensive, with a fee of $7,500, financial aid is available to cover up to 95% of the cost.

28. Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program

Location: Urbana, IL

Duration: Six weeks (June 20 – August 2)

This program, offered by the prestigious Grainger College of Engineering at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) , allows students to gain hands-on research experience in fields such as cancer immunology, AI, physics, quantum mechanics, and electrical engineering. They will also build valuable general life skills by participating in seminars on topics ranging from the college admission process to how to communicate scientifically.

The program is open to rising 10th through 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

29. Summer Science Program (SSP)

Duration: Varies depending on location and field of focus

Students in the SSP get the chance to work in small teams on a real research project and gain firsthand experience taking and analyzing data. Research opportunities are offered in three fields—astrophysics, biochemistry, and genomics—and are held at a variety of institutions, including University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Georgetown University , Purdue University , and New Mexico State University .

The program is open to high school juniors, although a small number of exceptional sophomores have attended the program. You must be between 15-19 to participate, and have completed prerequisite coursework, which varies by field. Financial aid is available for this program.

30. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: January 29

Location: Bar Harbor, ME, and Farmington, CT

Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 10)

Students immerse themselves in genetics and genomics research while learning about laboratory discovery and scientific communication, as well as building professional skills. Over the course of the 10-week program, students work with a mentor to develop a research project, implement their plan, analyze their data, and report their results.

This prestigious program is competitive. Just 40 students are selected to participate annually. Participants receive a $6,500 stipend and have their room, board, and travel expenses covered.

31. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: March 31

Location: Seattle, WA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 24 – August 16) 

This full-time, paid internship opportunity offers students a chance to immerse themselves in activities at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, one of the top cancer research centers in the world. The program begins with two weeks of laboratory training and is followed by six weeks of mentored activities, research seminars, workshops focused on college and careers, and social activities.

The program is open to high schoolers entering their senior year with a strong interest in science and high academic achievement, and is specifically aimed at students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

How to Find Research Opportunities in High School 

Define your area of interest .

Before you start looking for opportunities, narrow your area of interest a bit, whether it’s cancer, engineering, computer science, neuroscience, or something else entirely. Also bear in mind that while there may be more STEM opportunities available for high school students, research isn’t limited to these fields—research is also a key component of the social sciences, humanities, and other non-STEM fields. 

While you should be somewhat specific about what you’re hoping to research, don’t narrow your scope so much that it’s impossible to find a valuable opportunity, especially since opportunities for high schoolers in general are more limited than they are for students who have completed at least some college.

Talk to People in Your Immediate Circle 

Teachers, neighbors, your family, parents of friends, friends of your parents—any of these people could know about a research opportunity for you, or at least know someone else who does. Throughout your life, you will find that networking is often the key to finding career opportunities. 

Leveraging your network can help you uncover unique opportunities crowdsourced by the people who know you best—the best opportunities aren’t always hosted by large universities or programs. 

Reach Out to Local Institutions and Laboratories 

In addition to networking with your immediate circle, reach out to local facilities, such as labs, hospitals, clinics, and universities that conduct research. Even if opportunities aren’t publicized, these institutions and laboratories may be willing to make room for you. Remember: when pitching your idea, don’t make it too niche—this will make it more difficult to find a fit and market your skills to labs. 

Cast a Wide Net 

Research opportunities are hard to secure, especially when you’re a young student, so you need to be persistent. You may need to write a hundred emails, but if you put in the effort and cast a wide net, you’ll vastly improve your chances of landing a great opportunity. 

Try not to be too picky, either. Of course, you shouldn’t just accept any offer , especially if it doesn’t appeal to you. But even if the opportunity doesn’t align perfectly with your skills and interests, it can still be a great chance to gain experience and make you a better candidate for future experiences.

How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances? 

How much participating in research enhances your college admissions profile depends on many factors, including the scope of the project, the prestige of the program or institution, your individual role and performance, the institution’s connections to or sponsorships by certain colleges, and even how much weight a college places on extracurricular activities in general. 

Generally speaking, there are four tiers of extracurricular activities that colleges think about when reviewing applicants’ activities. Selective, competitive, and prestigious activities are often found in the top tiers, Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 includes things such as being a highly recruited basketball player or an award-winning national science fair competitor. 

Tier 2 is similar, but is usually reserved for activities that are less exceptional than those in Tier 1. Tiers 3 and 4 are reserved for more common extracurricular achievements, such as holding school leadership positions or being a member of a debate team.

Research usually falls into Tier 2, and some particularly prestigious opportunities could even be Tier 1. That’s because it’s somewhat unusual for high school students to conduct research in professional and collegiate settings, so it’s more likely to impress colleges than other kinds of extracurricular activities.

Do you want to find out the impact research and other extracurricular activities might have on your chances of admission to top colleges and universities? Try using CollegeVine’s free chancing calculator ! 

Our tool evaluates your admissions profile, by accounting for factors like your grades,standardized test scores, and extracurriculars (including research!) to show you how you stack up against other applicants and how likely you are to get into hundreds of different colleges and universities. You’ll also receive tips on how to improve your profile and your odds—all for free.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 61 great medical programs for high school students + advice.

Extracurriculars

Thinking about a career in medicine? I highly recommend trying out some medical experiences in high school before committing to a pre-med track . Many of my high school friends who hoped to go into medicine ended up changing their major during college when the pre-med courses got too difficult.

Doing a medical internship, summer program, or community service project in high school can help you decide if medicine is the right track for you before you waste time and money going pre-med in college. This guide will explain what experiences are open to you as a high school student, what those experiences involve, and how you will benefit from them.

What Medical Experiences Are Available to High School Students?

There are lots of ways to get a taste of what it's like to work in medicine. In my opinion, the best time to do this is over the summer. You have the most free time during the summer, and there are more experiences available.

There are many summer medical programs and summer medical internships for high school students across the country. These opportunities range from research experiences to in-hospital experiences. Some of these programs and internships charge you a fee to attend, some are paid for, and some even pay you to attend.

I've compiled a list of over 60 summer medical programs for high school students. Several of these programs and internships are limited to students from a specific state or area, so be sure to check specific programs for application requirements and fees. I've provided links to each program below.

If you'd like to get experience during the school year (on weekends and after school), you should consider shadowing a doctor or volunteering at a hospital. I'll discuss the details of volunteering and job shadowing later in the article.

List of Summer Medical Programs for High School Students

I've divided up the summer medical programs into three categories: Medical Programs, Medical Research Programs, and general Science Research Programs.

Medical Programs

In the medical programs category, I list programs that offer high school students the chance to get hands-on experience in medicine (non-research related) such as learning simple medical procedures, watching surgeries, shadowing doctors, working in hospitals, interacting with patients, and more . There are very few programs that offer this type of experience to high school students, and I highly recommend them since they'll give you the most realistic look at what life's like as a pre-med student, medical student, and medical professional.

Medical Research Programs

If you're unable to do one of the above medical programs, the next best thing is a medical research program. In these programs, you'll be working in a lab and helping with medical research that's in progress (i.e. looking at slides under a microscope, recording changes) or assisting with on-going clinical research (i.e. interviewing participants in an on-going trial of new medication, logging participant information in the computer). Many of these programs pair you with a mentor who works at your location. Also, several of these programs require you to give a presentation at the end of the program.

These medical research programs are extremely valuable because, as a pre-med student, you'll likely end up doing lab work either for class or as an extracurricular for your medical school application. If you do one of these programs in high school, you'll be a step ahead of your pre-med classmates.

(One quick note: many of these programs are free or pay stipends, but not every program provides free housing . Make sure you check each program's housing accommodations before you apply!)

Science Research Programs

If you can't do one of the medical research or medical programs, you should consider trying to do a science summer program/internship . These programs are not medicine-specific and cover a wide range of science topics (from plant life to space). However, these programs are still very valuable because as a pre-med student, you'll be learning a ton of science. As a part of your pre-med track, you'll be required to take Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Organic Chemistry, and more. Doing one of these science programs will give you a preview of the coursework ahead of you.

Also, many of these programs are lab work, and, although they're not focused on medical research, they will still give you good general insights into how to do lab work . As I said before, as a pre-med student, you'll likely end up doing lab work either for class or as an extracurricular for your medical school application. If you do one of these programs, you'll be well-prepared to do that research.

What Are the Pros and Cons of These Programs?

These medical programs can be a great experience for many high school students, but they can have some drawbacks. In this section we'll look at the pros and cons of medical programs for high school students.

• These programs and internships provide a real look at what life's like as a researcher, scientist, or medical student. You'll have a great sense of whether or not you'd like to pursue a career in the medical field after you finish your program.
• If you do a college campus program, you'll get a preview of college life . You can experience living away from home, and you can decide if you like the college. I did a summer program at UCLA during high school, and it made me realize that UCLA was not the school for me.
• As I said before, these opportunities give you the chance to evaluate if pre-med is the track you want to go down before you waste time and money in college. If you love your program, you'll be even more motivated to work hard to become a medical professional .
• You'll meet like-minded students who're interested in medicine/science.
• You'll have a great program or internship on your college application . By actually participating in a medical/science program, you'll show colleges that you're committed to pursuing a career in the medical field.
• If you attend a college campus program, and you're interested in going to college at the school that hosted the program, you'll have shown real interest in that college (which admissions officers always like to see).
• These programs can be expensive . However, some programs pay you to attend! Make sure you check out the individual program websites to find out the cost. And like we mentioned before, pay careful attention to housing! Some programs might offer stipends, but they may not cover housing or transportation costs.
• Also, these summer medical programs for high school students can be highly competitive (some admit very few students or have special qualifications such as having a 3.5 GPA or higher).
• Some programs may not provide you with the best insight into medicine , especially those that are less hands-on or only offer research exposure (which is not what you'll necessarily be interested in).

Other Options: Hospital Volunteer or Shadowing a Doctor

Volunteering and job shadowing are both great ways to participate in medical experiences at your local hospital. You can do them during the school year or the summer. Also, both opportunities are free!

What's the difference between volunteering & job shadowing a doctor? As a hospital volunteer, you'll have to apply (and likely interview) to be a volunteer (along with getting a TB test and filling out paperwork). You'll attend a hospital volunteer orientation and be assigned a specific "job" at the hospital, such as assisting the nurses or assisting hospital visitors in navigating the hospital. As a volunteer, you'll be required to commit to volunteering for a certain number of shifts per week. You also may have to commit to volunteering for six months or more.

Job shadowing is a shorter experience and much less formal. You can shadow a doctor for as little time as a few hours or a day or two. While shadowing, you follow a doctor around while they go about their normal activities. They may ask you to help them with basic tasks (grabbing a chart or taking notes), but probably not. You'll be there to see what a doctor does in their daily routine to determine if it interests you.

To sign up to be a hospital volunteer, apply through the hospital's website. If you're having trouble locating the hospital's website or contact information, check with your school academic advisor. They may have a connection to the local hospital or might know another student who has volunteered or job shadowed there and who could help you get involved.

To find a job shadowing opportunity, reach out to any friends or family who work in the medical field. See if they know any doctors whom you could shadow. Also, ask your school's academic advisor if they know other students who shadowed a doctor and could give you more information. If your school can't help you, get in touch with the hospital directly to see if they can help you set up a job shadowing opportunity. If you need more advice on job shadowing, read our other guide.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Shadowing a Doctor or Being a Hospital Volunteer?

Shadowing a doctor or being a hospital volunteer is a significantly different experience than participating in a summer medical program, and they have their own set of pros and cons.

• As opposed to summer programs, these experiences are always free. As I said above, some medical programs and internships can cost a lot of money. Job shadowing and being a hospital volunteer are free experiences that will only cost you your time. These are great options if you can't afford the cost of a summer program.
• Job shadowing and being a hospital volunteer can provide a real look into life as a doctor or nurse. By following them around or working in a hospital, you'll get a sense of the work environment and what life is like on a day-to-day basis for a medical professional.
• As I said before, these opportunities give you the chance to evaluate if pre-med is the track you want to go down before you spend time and money in college. If you don't like your experience job shadowing or as a volunteer, you might realize pre-med isn't the right path for you. However, if you love your experience, you'll feel more motivated to work towards your goal of becoming a medical professional.
• Job shadowing is a great experience if you don't have a lot of time to commit. You can choose to job shadow for a few hours, a full day, or for several days. It's very flexible.
• If you want to be pre-med, volunteering at a hospital is a great extracurricular activity for your college application. While volunteering elsewhere (at a homeless shelter, animal shelter, etc.) can be great for a college application, it's good to keep your extracurriculars focused on your future goals. Volunteering at a hospital will show colleges that you're serious about a career in medicine.
• Volunteer experience may not provide you with quite the medical experience you're looking for. Volunteering may not be very hands-on, and your duties may be repetitive and not directly related to medicine, such as answering phones, filing papers, and helping visitors find where they're going.
• If you only job shadow for a day, it's not a great experience for your college application. It's not an extracurricular activity if you only do it once because that doesn't show enough commitment. However, I recommend doing job shadowing just to get insight into the medical field.

How to Choose the Right Medical Experience for You

Each of the medical experiences listed in this article has value, but to decide which is right for you, you should ask yourself three questions:

#1: What Is Your Main Medical Interest?

Are you more interested in research or patient care? If research, look into one of the summer research programs. If patient care, look into one of the hospital-based programs, job shadowing or being a hospital volunteer.

#2: How Much Money Are You Willing to Spend?

Do you have money to spend, do you have no money to spend, or do you need to have a job that pays? If you have money to spend, you can consider all of the options. If you have no money to spend, look into an all-expenses paid program (or one with financial aid). Also, consider volunteering or job shadowing since both are free experiences. If you need a job that pays, look into the programs with stipends for participants.

#3: How Much Time Do You Want to Invest in Your Experience?

Do you want to spend a day, a few hours per week, or a few weeks full-time on this experience? If you want a quick experience, consider job shadowing a doctor for a day or two. If you'd like an on-going experience to use as an extracurricular, consider volunteering since you could do that a few hours per week throughout the school year. If you'd like an intensive experience, consider doing one of the summer programs or internships.

Also, always make sure to research a program or experience before you commit to it. Doing so will help avoid a bad experience (such as a program that's not very hands-on or volunteer work that's mostly grunt work). Whatever you're interested in doing, try to find another student who did it previously and ask them about their experience. For the programs, get in touch with the program coordinator to see if they can put you in contact with a program alum you can speak with.

College take a close look at your extracurriculars. Like, a really close look.

How Will Colleges View These Experiences?

Colleges mainly look for extracurriculars that show your commitment, passion, and ability to handle responsibility and leadership. Job shadowing isn't a great experience for your college application because it's not enough of a commitment if you only do it for a few days. On the other hand, volunteering at a hospital is a great extracurricular activity for your college application because it shows a commitment to medicine.

The summer programs and internships are also great experiences for your college application because they show that same interest in and commitment to medicine. Also, many of these programs and internships are competitive, and colleges know that. If you're accepted into one of those programs or internships, colleges will view it like you won a prestigious award.

What's Next?

Doing a medical program is a great step, but what else do you need to do to prepare for med school? Check out our step-by-step guide to preparing for med school as a high school student and our list of the best books for pre-med students .

Also, you should learn about how to write about extracurriculars on college applications . Check out four amazing examples of extracurriculars for college applications.

Interested in a BS/MD program? They can be a great way to save some time and get your medical degree sooner. Read our guide on getting into BS/MD programs to learn more.

As an SAT/ACT tutor, Dora has guided many students to test prep success. She loves watching students succeed and is committed to helping you get there. Dora received a full-tuition merit based scholarship to University of Southern California. She graduated magna cum laude and scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. She is also passionate about acting, writing, and photography.

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80+ Best Medical Internships for High School Students

Medical internships for high school students can be the first step toward a rewarding career in medicine or biomedical research. If you’re looking to find the best high school medical internships to gain hands-on experience, build connections, and beef up your college applications, we’ve got you covered! 

Types of medical internships for high school students: clinical and biomedical research.

If you’re looking to pursue a career in medicine or biomedical research, finding the right high school medical internship can be helpful to your future success. Fortunately, there are a wealth of opportunities available to help you gain hands-on experience and explore your interests. Medical internships for high school students can generally be divided into two categories: clinical internships and biomedical research internships.

Clinical Medical High School Internships provide the opportunity to experience a hospital or clinic setting. These internships are designed to introduce students to the daily routines and responsibilities of doctors and other medical professionals.  You may shadow doctors and nurses, assist with patient care, and learn about the various medical specialties. 

High School Medical Internships Focused on Biomedical Research , on the other hand, provide the opportunity to work in a research lab and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and techniques. These internships are designed to introduce students to the research process and the role of scientists in developing new treatments and therapies. You may work on projects related to genetics, neuroscience, or other areas of biomedical research. 

How to Find the Medical Internships for High School Students That Are Right for You 

At Lateenz, we understand how important it is for high school students to find the right medical internships to help them achieve their career goals. That’s why we offer two ways of helping you find medical internships for high school students:

Check Our Teen Resources Database – Search our huge database of High School Internships to get targeted information (it’s completely free and you don’t need to register or provide any information to use it!); and

Read This Article – Look through the List of Clinical and Research Medical Internships for High School Students we have curated below. 

For best results, we recommend you do both to get a complete picture of all the opportunities available. Our Teen Resources Database includes a wide range of medical internships for high school students and our search engine allows you to customize your filter them by your age, location, and other helpful characteristics.  Meanwhile, our curated List of Clinical and Research Medical Internships for High School Students below is a great way to get an overview of the many available opportunities.  Whether you’re looking to work in a hospital or research lab, there’s sure to be an internship that’s right for you!

Clinical Medical Internships for High School Students

1. Advocate Lutheran General Hospital: Kendall Smith Healthcare Exploration Scholarship

The Kendall Smith Healthcare Exploration Scholarships is a paid six-week medical internship for high school students (juniors and seniors) in the Park Ridge, Illinois area who are interested in healthcare careers. Participating students are immersed in one hospital area of their choice. At the end of the internship, students prepare a presentation about their hospital experience for staff and guests.  

• Location: IL (Park Ridge)
• Duration: 6 Weeks, Summer
• Grades: 11, 12
• Attendance: Commuter
• Paid? Yes (Contact Program Sponsor for $ Amount)
• Outreach? Students from Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Harwood Heights, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Norridge, Palatine, Park Ridge, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Skokie and Wheeling

2. Brigham and Women’s Hospital Student Success Jobs Program

The Student Success Jobs Program (SSJP) is a medical internship for high school students at Brigham and Women’s Hospital designed to introduce Boston high school students to medical, health, and science professions. The program partners with Boston public high schools and The Boston Private Industry Council (PIC) to recruit students from seven specific schools (Boston Latin Academy, Community Academy of Science and Health, Edward M. Kennedy Academy for Health Careers, Fenway High School, John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Science, Madison Park Technical and Vocational High School, and New Mission High School). The program accepts applications from sophomores and juniors who attend the seven partnering high schools and are interested in pursuing a science, medical, research, or health career. Students are hired for a full year (ten hours per week) and must take their academic success seriously. The program provides students with unique opportunities to envision a promising future for themselves through participation in and exposure to health careers. Since 2004, 96% of SSJP students have enrolled in or graduated from college, with 85% majoring or having majored in health, science or medicine.

• Location: MA (Boston)
• Duration:  1 Year
• Grades: 10, 11
• Attendance:  Commuter
• Paid? Contact Program Sponsor
• Outreach? Students of 7 Public High Schools in Boston

3. Brigham and Women’s Hospital Youth Summer Program

The Brigham and Women’s Hospital Youth Summer Program is a 7-week paid medical intership for high school students on the BWH campus in Boston. Students work in various departments and gain professional development, healthcare career exposure, community health, and health equity experiences. The program is open to students who are: enrolled in high school; 16 years old by June 1 of the application year; residents of Boston; and able to work the entire length of the program.

• Duration:  7 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: High school students 16 and over
• Outreach? Residents of Boston

4.  Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center: High School Senior Summer Internship Program

The Cincinnati Children’s High School Senior Summer Internship Program is an eight-week, part-time paid medical internship high school students (graduating seniors) in the Cincinnati metropolitan area only. Interns work 20 hours per week at $13 per hour and are required to attend an orientation day. They will work with a mentor in one of several pediatric clinical specialties and can participate in clinical or research projects. Interns attend a weekly group luncheon, engage in community service, and have the opportunity to observe in other specialties upon request. At the end of the program, they present their experiences to the group at the graduation party. The program is competitive and requires a two-phase application process. Eligible applicants must provide academic records, test scores, resume, and a personal statement essay, and obtain two letters of recommendation.

• Location: OH (Cincinnati)
• Duration: 8 Weeks, Summer
• Paid? Yes ($13/Hour)
• Outreach? Not Indicated

5. Cleveland Clinic Nursing Institute: ASPIRE Nurse Scholars Program

The ASPIRE Nurse Scholars Program is an enrichment program designed for high school juniors who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing. The program is sponsored by Cleveland Clinic and The Howley Foundation in collaboration with Ursuline College Breen School of Nursing. The program offers a $500 monetary stipend. Students can expect to receive instruction on various topics, such as healthcare technology, nursing and the community, and personal branding. The program is open to U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or legal permanent residents who are enrolled in the 11th grade during the 2022/2023 academic year, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale, and meet two of the following three criteria: underrepresented minority in nursing, first-generation college student, or demonstrate financial need. Students must attend all 12 sessions.

• Location: OH (Cleveland)
• Duration: 12 Weeks (Saturday Sessions), Spring
• Paid? Yes ($500)
• Outreach? Underrepresented (All), Economically Disadvantaged, First Gen. College

6. Cleveland Clinic: Science Summer Internship Program

The Cleveland Clinic Science Summer Internship Program offers a four-week paid summer internship that provides 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th graders from the Northeast Ohio counties of Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain and Summit.  Participants get real-world experience in clinical-focused areas of healthcare (pathway examples include but are not limited to: Allied Health, Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Science, Science Research) and the opportunity to interact with Cleveland Clinic caregivers as their mentors. All students must be at least 15 years of age at the start of the internship.

• Duration: 4 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12 and 15 or older
• Paid? Yes (Contact Sponsor for $ Amount)
• Outreach? High School Students Who Live and Attend School in Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain and Summit Counties

7. Dartmouth Health – Dartmouth Hitchcock Workforce Readiness Institute: High School Summer Internship Program

The Dartmouth Health High School Foundations Summer Internship Program is a paid medical internship for high school students that combines work experience, professional development, mentoring, and experiential learning in the healthcare industry. It is designed for students going into their junior or senior year who are interested in exploring careers in healthcare and who are local or regional to the Dartmouth Health System (Lebanon, NH). During the 7-week program (optional 8th week), students will work 30-40 hours per week in different departments at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, rotating through 2-3 departments to gain a broad perspective of the industry. The program includes a professional development curriculum to develop important skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. To be eligible, applicants must be at least 16 years old by the start of the internship, have availability to commit to the full program, and be able to arrange their own housing and transportation. 

• Location: NH (Lebanon)
• Duration: 7-8 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 10, 11 and 16 or older
• Paid? Yes (Contact Sponsor for $ Amount)
• Outreach? Not indicated 

8. Faces for the Future Coalition: Summer Medical Academy 

The FACES Summer Medical Academy (FSMA) is an opportunity for motivated and responsible high school students aged 15 and older to explore their interests in health, clinical skills, and the art of medicine. The program provides in-depth, hands-on experiences that expose students to new ideas, mentors, and other teens who share similar interests. Whether students are already set on a medical career or still exploring their options, the FSMA program offers exciting opportunities to learn about saving lives, responding to crisis situations, exploring potential diagnosis and treatment plans for a patient, and meeting professionals in the field. The program’s curriculum includes earning professional certifications to respond to crisis situations and a week-long Medical Mystery in learning the process of how to diagnose a patient. Trainers and presenters come from diverse health professions.

• Location: CA (Oakland)
• Duration: 2 Weeks, Summer
• Ages: 15 or older
• Outreach? Underrepresented (All)

9. G0vernor’s Institute of Vermont: Health & Medicine Institute Summer Program 

The Governor’s Institute of Vermont Health & Medicine Institute is a partnership between the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont and the Northern Vermont Area Health Education Center that offers students in grades 9-11 an opportunity to explore health science, research, and medicine. Students can earn certifications in CPR and First Aid, learn clinical skills such as diagnostic reasoning, and work closely with medical student mentors throughout the week. The program offers hands-on activities, scenario-based learning, and interactive case discussions. Students live in dorms on their host college campus and tuition is based on a sliding scale model. Out-of-state students are considered on a case-by-case basis.

• Location: VT (Lyndon)
• Duration: 1 Week, Summer
• Grades: 9, 10, 11
• Attendance: Residential
• Paid? No, Students Pay to Participate/Financial Aid is Available
• Outreach? Vermont Residents

10. Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine: M.I.N.D.S. (Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science)

The M.I.N.D.S. (Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science) program is a 6-week paid medical internship for high school students (juniors and seniors) interested in pursuing a career in medicine. The program is open to underrepresented or financially disadvantaged students who identify as African American, Latino/Hispanic American, Native American, or are first-generation or financially disadvantaged. The program offers hands-on medical experience, field trips, SAT prep for a year, and a $1,200 stipend. Interns will learn about various medical professions, social determinants of health, and will create a research project on health disparities in New Jersey. 

• Location: NJ (Nutley) 
• Grades: 11 12
• Paid? Yes ($1,200)
• Outreach? Black, Economically Disadvantaged, First Gen. College, Hispanic / Latinx, Underrepresented (All)

11. Hawai’i Pacific Health Careers Summer Internship Program

The Hawaii Pacific Health Careers Summer Internship Program is a 6-week paid high school medical internship for juniors and seniors interested in exploring different careers in the healthcare industry. The program offers students an opportunity to gain firsthand experience in hospital systems, interact with experienced healthcare professionals, and explore various healthcare professions. The program is available at various medical centers in Hawaii, including Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children, Pali Momi Medical Center, Straub Medical Center, Wilcox Medical Center, and Kauai Medical Clinic. Over 900 students have participated in the program since its inception in 2004. Testimonials from previous interns emphasize the opportunity to shadow adults in different specialties, learn about medical procedures, and connect with healthcare workers and doctors.

• Location: HI (Various Locations)

12. Johns Hopkins MERIT Health Leadership Academy

MERIT Health Leadership Academy is a high school medical internship for students from underrepresented backgrounds in Baltimore (MD) aspiring to have careers in health. Applicants must be a freshman or sophomore in high school, live in Baltimore City or attend a Baltimore City high school, and have a 2.75 or higher unweighted GPA.  The program includes Saturday college prep classes, professional internships, college admissions guidance, and longitudinal mentorship. The curriculum includes various health-related courses, college application support, financial aid literacy, and exposure to various college settings. Rising juniors complete clinical internships, while rising seniors participate in life-changing career exposure through summer internships. Scholars receive mentorship from health professionals, and the program strives to build a support network for scholars from joining the program to college and beyond.

• Location: MD (Baltimore)
• Duration: 2-3 Years
• Grades: 9, 10
• Outreach? Underrepresented Baltimore City High School Students

13. Lifespan Summer Youth Employment Program 

The Lifespan Summer Youth Employment Program is an eight-week paid medical internship for high school students aged 16 to 19 years old. The program offers opportunities for career exploration, professionalism, and essential skills development by placing teens in various departments throughout Lifespan, including healthcare, information systems, human resources, and food and nutrition. Participants can expect to receive career-building help from professional career experts and possibly gain employment beyond the summer. Eligibility criteria include attending pre-summer trainings, being a resident of Providence or possessing a valid CNA license and having a willingness to learn and interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. Program completion requirements include mandatory attendance and successfully completing the program to receive a certificate.

• Location: RI (Providence)
• Ages: 16-19

14. Manhattan-Staten Island Area Health Education Center: Summer Health Internship Program

The Manhattan-Staten Island Area Health Education Center offers high school medical internship — the  Summer Health Internship Program (SHIP) — designed to provide exposure to health careers and community health issues. The program lasts for six weeks and includes placements in local hospitals, health centers, and organizations. High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, as well as college freshmen, are eligible to apply. The program features weekly didactic sessions with health professionals, field trips, and opportunities to learn about various health careers and community health concerns. To be eligible, students must be between 16-22 years old, reside or attend school in Manhattan or Staten Island, have an interest in pursuing a career in the health field, and provide two recommendations, one of which should be from a teacher or faculty member.

• Location: NY (New York City)
• Duration: 6 Weeks, Summer 
• Ages: 16-22

15. Mayo Clinic Career Advancement, Research, and Education Summer (CARES) Program

Mayo Clinic CARES is a high school medical internship for students in Arizona interested in exploring careers in healthcare. The program aims to expose students to a wide range of healthcare careers and provide them with mentorship opportunities. There are two options available: an in-person program based at Mayo Clinic campuses in Phoenix and Scottsdale, and a virtual program. The in-person program requires a four-week commitment in June, while the virtual program involves a two-week commitment in July. The program includes exposure to various healthcare careers, hands-on experiences in a hospital setting, identification of personal strengths, and long-term mentorship beyond the program. The application process is open to high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors in Arizona, with special consideration given to students from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities. There is no cost to participate, and selected students receive a stipend. The program offers a holistic approach, integrating life skill-building activities and fostering community engagement. Applications open in December of each year for the following summer. 

• Location: AZ (Phoenix. Scotsdale), Virtual
• Duration: 2-4 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach? Diverse, First-Generation College, Upward Bound or STEAM Pipelines, Underserved, Economically Disadvantaged

16. Medical Career Collaborative Program (MC²) at Children’s Hospital Colorado and Denver Health

The Medical Career Collaborative (MC²) Program is a two-year program designed to provide Denver-area high school juniors and seniors with hands-on experiences and professional development opportunities in healthcare. This high school medical internship is open to current high school sophomores who are selected by a committee based on several criteria, including school activities, community involvement, references, and GPA. MC² focuses on recruiting under-represented groups in the healthcare workforce, such as students of color and those from low-income backgrounds. Participants engage in field trips, service-learning/volunteering, personal and professional development opportunities, and post-secondary coaching. MC² students are also eligible for paid internships at Children’s Colorado or Denver Health, where they work alongside hospital team members. The fall and spring internship sessions are 12 weeks long with students working approximately 10 hours per week, while the summer session is six weeks with students working 30 hours per week. The program receives over 350 applications for around 60 spots each year, and students from any high school across the Denver metro region are eligible to apply.

• Location: CO (Denver – MC² prioritizes applicants from Denver, Aurora, Adams, Jefferson, Douglas, Mapleton, Sheridan, Englewood, Westminster and Cherry Creek)
• Duration:  12 Weeks, Winter; 6 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach? Black, Economically Disadvantaged, First Gen. College, Hispanic/Latinx

17. Medical College of Wisconsin: Apprenticeship in Medicine Program (AIM) 

The Apprenticeship in Medicine program offered by the Medical College of Wisconsin is an intensive six-week summer medical internship for high school students. The program provides a variety of enrichment experiences, including classroom lectures on anatomy and physiology, suture clinics, heart dissections, clinical shadowing, and team exercises. AIM is open to high school students from ethnically, economically, and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligible students must attend a high school in the Milwaukee Public system, Milwaukee charter, local private school, or surrounding suburban school district. They must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a current U.S. green card and should be at least rising juniors, 16 years old, and have a strong science and math GPA of at least 3.0.

• Location: WI (Milwaukee)
• Duration:  6 Weeks, Summer
• Grades: 10, 11, 12

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWyV0owjzZw&t=7s

18. Minnesota Hospital Association: Summer Health Care Internship Program

The Summer Health Care Internship Program (SHCIP) is a high school medical internship in Minnesota that provides the opportunity to gain experience in the healthcare industry. Administered by the Minnesota Hospital Association on behalf of the Minnesota Department of Health, the program connects students with healthcare employers who employ them for six to 12 weeks between Memorial Day and Labor Day, paying them at least minimum wage. Possible duties for interns include patient registration, instrument sterilization, appointment scheduling, lab specimen transport, exam room preparation, chart management, patient transport, data entry, accompanying residents to appointments, nutritional services, social activities, companionship, and healthcare data collection. Various areas of employment and observation include radiology, laboratory, occupational therapy, nutrition/dietary services, business office, transport, pharmacy, activities/special events, inpatient care, and respiratory therapy. To be eligible for the program, students must have completed their junior or senior year of high school in Minnesota and intend to fulfill graduation requirements. Participating students may work in one department or rotate through various departments within the healthcare organization. The program prioritizes sites seeking interns from minority communities.

• Location: MN (Various Locations)
• Duration:  6-12 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach? Black, Hispanic/Latinx

19. Norton Healthcare: High School Academy Program

The Norton Healthcare High School Academy Program is a high school medical internship that helps students explore careers in healthcare and gain valuable work experiences. The program offers volunteering, shadowing, and hands-on learning opportunities. Students are treated as employees and receive training in their chosen area of interest, such as patient care or pharmacy. They gain practical experience with electronic medical records, patient care, and interacting with healthcare professionals and patients. The program provides ongoing support, including career coaching and mentorship. In their senior year, students can further expand their knowledge through job shadowing, clinical symposiums, and transition into other healthcare roles. Tuition assistance resources are also available for postsecondary degree programs.

• Location: KY (Louisville)
• Duration:  Contact Program Sponsor
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12 and 17 or older
• Outreach? Not indicated

20. Northern Vermont Area Health Education Center: Health Exploration Resources & Opportunities (HERO) Program

The Vermont Health Exploration Resources & Opportunities (HERO) Mentoring Progream is available to 9th- through 12th-grade students living in specific counties in Vermont. It is a free four-month online mentoring program that pairs high school students with volunteer medical students who have been trained in mentoring and STEM education. The program consists of ten modules, including health career exploration, goal setting, and human biology and health science. These sessions are held once a week from October to January, and the timing is flexible to accommodate the availability of the student and mentor. The application process for the HERO Mentoring Program opens in August. To be accepted, students must demonstrate a strong interest in health and medicine and a commitment to completing the program. There are no academic requirements or prerequisites, and previous knowledge or experience in the field is not necessary.

• Location: VT (online for students residing in Caledonia, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Washington, and Chittenden Counties)
• Duration:  4 months, Fall/Winter
• Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
• Attendance:  Online

21. Parkview Health: FutureREADY Internships

Parkview Health Education Services in Fort Wayne sponsors FutureREADY, a high school medical internship for high school students needing to fulfill a semester-long internship requirement. Students participate in six week-long observations and then select their top one to three areas of interest for the remainder of the semester, gaining valuable insights into potential career paths.

• Location: IN (Fort Wayne)
• Duration:  6 Weeks
• Grades: Contact Program Sponsor

22. Pee Dee Area Health Education Center: Summer High School Internship Program

The Pee Dee Area Health Education Center in South Carolina offers a four-to-six-week high school medical internship (the Summer Internship Program ) designed for underrepresented minority and disadvantaged students in the Pee Dee Region. The program aims to provide students with an educational and work experience in the healthcare field. During the internship, students are placed in a healthcare setting based on their career interests, allowing them to gain firsthand knowledge of working as a healthcare professional. They will learn about the healthcare industry, the roles and responsibilities of health professionals, and the importance of teamwork in healthcare settings. Interns are assigned specific responsibilities and will assist their designated supervisor as determined by the site and the Health Careers Program Coordinator. The program includes a stipend for participants. The application process for the internship program is competitive, and there are limited spaces available. Priority is given to high school upperclassmen. The Pee Dee AHEC serves the following counties: Clarendon, Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Sumter, and Williamsburg.

• Location: SC (Various Locations)
• Duration:  4-6 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach? Students residing in Clarendon, Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Sumter, and Williamsburg counties

23. Prisma Health: Medex Academy

The Health Sciences Center at Prisma Health offers the MedEx Academy to provide high school and college students with an opportunity to explore various healthcare careers. The program aims to increase the number of healthcare providers in South Carolina and make healthcare employment accessible to a diverse group of students. Participants can receive academic credit at partner universities, merit-based college scholarships, financial assistance for the program’s duration, funds for academic development, and year-round access to mentoring and support services.  The program consists of different tiers.  Tier I is designed for rising high school seniors and lasts for four weeks, from July to August.  Tier I focuses on career exploration and developing foundational skills for a successful health career. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.75 or higher. Participants are selected based on factors such as adhering to directions, displaying a desire to learn, exhibiting professionalism, possessing effective communication skills, having reliable transportation and personal housing accommodations, working well with others, and being available to volunteer at weekend events.

• Duration:  4 Weeks, Summer
• Paid? Contact Program Sponsor 

24. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program

The Stanford Medical Youth Science Program is a free, 5-week high school medical internship focused on science and medicine that is open to low-income, first-generation high school juniors who live in Northern California. The program is held on the Stanford campus and includes a hospital internship (with hands-on laboratory and departmental activities, shadowing experiences and observation, and patient interaction), a public health research project, weekly academic lectures, and community building and mentorship activities. Students are expected to spend approximately 30-40 hours/week in the program, Monday through Friday and receive a $1250 clinical research stipend. Housing and transportation are not provided, and participants are required to live with a family member or legal guardian during the program.

• Location: CA (Stanford)
• Duration:  5 Weeks, Summer
• Paid? Yes ($1,250)
• Outreach? For economically disadvantaged and first-generation college students only

25. Stanford Medicine Cardiothoracic Surgical Skills and Education Center: High School Student Summer Internship

The Stanford Summer Internship offered by the Cardiothoracic Surgical Skills and Education Center is aimed at high school students interested in pursuing careers in science and medicine. These 2-week medical internships for high school students provides an intensive course focused on cardiothoracic surgical anatomy, physiology, and techniques relevant to pre-medical and medical training. Stanford University faculty, surgical residents, and staff supervise and conduct lectures and laboratory sessions. The course consists of daily lectures from 9 am to 12 noon, Monday through Friday. In the afternoons, interactive skills sessions are conducted from 1 pm to 4 pm, allowing students to engage in hands-on learning. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, except for juniors in high school who may be considered if below the age requirement. The program takes place in person on the Stanford University campus. There is a non-refundable application fee of $95 USD, and the program fee is $5,500 USD, covering daily snacks, lunches, and educational supplies; however, scholarships and financial aid are available for academically excellent students who demonstrate financial need.

• Duration:  2 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12 and 16 or older 
• Paid? No – students must pay to apply and attend, but financial aid is available

26. Stillwater Medical Foundation: High School Fellowships

The Stillwater Medical Foundation in Oklahoma offers high school medical internships for students who are completing their sophomore, junior, or senior years in a school within Stillwater Medical’s service area (Stillwater, Blackwell, Carney, Coyle, Cushing, Glencoe, Morrison, Mulhall-Orlando, Pawnee, Perkins/Tryon, Perry, Red Rock/Marland, Ripley, or Yale). Fellows have the opportunity to shadow physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals at Stillwater Medical Center and local clinics. They also observe surgeries, births, and emergency treatments at SMC. The fellowship program typically begins in the first week of June and lasts for six weeks, equivalent to 30 full days of activity. Some evening or weekend hours may be required to complete the program, with normal hours falling between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. Upon successful completion of the fellowship, each student receives a stipend of $1,750.

• Location: OK (Stillwater)
• Paid? Yes ($1,750)

27. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences: Healthcare Education Active Learning Experience for Regional Scholars (HEALERS)

The UAMS Healthcare Education Active Learning Experience for Regional Scholars (HEALERS) offers two-week summer high school medical internships for students in Pulaski County entering their junior or senior year of high school. This program allows students to: learn about various medical careers directly from professionals in those fields; acquire skills in administering first aid, such as bandaging, bleeding control, splinting, and spinal immobilization; learn Basic Life Support (CPR) techniques; develop a better understanding of medical terminology; increase their awareness of health-related issues affecting teenagers, and enable informed decision-making based on scientific data; and gain practical experience by actively volunteering in a clinical setting.

• Location: AK (Little Rock)
• Paid? No (Program is free)

28. UMass Chan Medical School: High School Health Careers Program

The High School Health Careers Program (HSHCP) offers four-week residential high school medical internships at the UMass Chan Medical School. It aims to introduce high school sophomores and juniors to various careers in Biomedical Research, Biotechnology, and the health professions (BBHP). The program focuses on improving academic study and communication skills. Participants attend enrichment classes in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science/Biology, and Information Technology. They also have the opportunity to intern with healthcare professionals and receive cultural and contemporary health seminars. Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate of Achievement and a stipend. The program is open to Massachusetts residents who meet certain eligibility requirements. The curriculum includes academic classes, field trips, and a Health Disparities Research Project. Evaluation instruments are used to measure participants’ progress and outcomes. The program has shown positive results in terms of high school completion, post-secondary education, and employment in the BBHP.

• Outreach? Massachusetts Residents who are Hispanic/Latinx, Black, Economically Disadvantaged, First Gen. College 

29. University of Nebraska Medical College: High School Alliance Program

The UNMC High School Alliance offers one-year high school medical internships for juniors and seniors in participating Nebraska school districts . Participants get to observe, shadow, and take college-level classes from healthcare professionals at UNMC. They also conduct hands-on research in advanced labs. The program replaces high school classes, provides iPads, and requires students to wear uniforms. Admission is limited, with only 65 spots available each year. Eligible students must: be a junior or senior and at least 16 years of age at the beginning of the school year; have completed and received a grade of “B” or above in Algebra 1, Biology, a physical science course, and a third year of science; and be enrolled in a participating high school district for the entire school year.  

• Location: NE (Omaha)

Medical Internships for High School Students in Biomedicine

30. baylor college of medicine: student helpers internships.

Baylor College of Medicine Student Helper Internships are medical internships for high school students in various areas of biomedical research. There are also positions available in hospital administration and operations.  Baylor offers positions both in the academic year and over the summer.   

• Location: TX (Houston)
• Duration: Varies (Check Website), Summer
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12
• Paid? Yes (Check Website for $ Amount)

31. BioBuilder: High School Apprenticeship Challenge

The BioBuilder: High School Apprenticeship Challenge is a specialized, 8-week program to prepare economically disadvantaged students high school students from the Boston Metro Area to participate in paid summer internships in the life sciences. Students learn technical knowledge, lab techniques, research-based thinking, and professional skills specific to work in academic labs and life science companies. From mid-March through mid-May, students attend a Lab Training Program. During this period, students may also interview and possibly advance to a six-week paid summer internship. This program is for students who: (1) attend an under-resourced high school in the metro Boston area or who self-identify as economically disadvantaged; (2) can be nominated by a teacher or academic adviser; (3) are 18 years old as of June 1st following the Apprenticeship AND who want to work in a biotechnology company in the summer – Or are 16 years old as of June 1st following the Apprenticeship AND who want to work in an academic lab setting or a non-lab setting in a biotechnology company; (4) are committed to pursuing a summer internship in the life sciences. There is a small stipend ($100) for students who successfully complete BioBuilder’s Apprenticeship Challenge, and students who participate in internships get paid varying amounts.

• Location: MA (Boston Metro Area)
• Duration:  8 Weeks, Spring; Summer, Varies
• Outreach? For economically disadvantaged students only

32. BioBus High School Junior Scientist Internship

BioBus offers three STEM internships for high school students through its BioBus Junior Scientist Internships program: the Lower East Side Junior Scientist Internship, the Harlem Women in STEM Junior Scientist internship, and the Harlem Junior Scientist Internship. These internships aim to give New York City high school students the chance to get training and mentorship from research scientists, develop their own independent projects using research-grade microscopes, and gain teaching and leadership experience by serving as co-instructors in BioBus programs. Internship details and eligibility requirements vary. For the Lower East Side Junior Scientist Internship, applicants must be in 9th, 10th, 11th grades, must live or go to school in the Lower East Side or Chinatown, and must be available for 6 weeks during the summer and two days after school during the academic year. For the Harlem Women in STEM Junior Scientist Internship, applicants must be in 9th, 10th, or 11th grades, must identify as a woman, non-binary, or gender non-conforming person, and must live AND/OR attend school in Harlem, Washington Heights, Inwood & South Bronx. Interns must be available Tuesdays after school during the academic year.  For the Harlem Junior Scientist Internship, applicants must be in 9th, 10th, or 11th grades, and must be available for 6 weeks during the summer and two days after school during the academic year. Interns will be paid by the hour ($15.00/hr).

• Duration: 9 Months – 1 Year (Academic Year, Summer)
• Outreach? Preference is given to historically excluded and economically disadvantaged students

33. Broad Institute: Broad Summer Scholars Program

The Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP) offers paid research-focused STEM internships for high school students with a passion for science. BSSP offers students the opportunity to work with Broad Institute scientists on projects in fields such as cancer biology, psychiatric disease, chemical biology, computational biology, infectious disease, and more. Participants will receive a $3,600 stipend and can attend scientific talks, a college fair, social events, and more. To be eligible for BSSP, applicants must be a rising senior in high school, attend a high school in MA within commuting distance to the Broad, have earned a B or better in science and math classes, and be a US citizen, permanent resident, or non-US citizen with employment authorization. BSSP encourages applications from students who are underrepresented in the sciences, underserved, could be the first in their family to attend college, or have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion through their extracurricular activities. The program is free to apply for and attend, and students will have access to an on-staff tutor, training on scientific posters, and more.

• Outreach? Underrepresented and first-generation college students encouraged to apply

34. Brown University – Dept. of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine: Summer Research Institute

The Brown University Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine’s Summer Research Internship is designed to provide a unique opportunity for Rhode Island high school students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to engage in hands-on, immersive research experiences in diverse areas of pathology. During the six-week program, students will be individually placed in research labs where they will work on specific research projects as part of a team of scientists. In addition to the research component, interns will shadow pathologists at local university-affiliated hospitals and participate in career development and college prep workshops. Applicants must be highly motivated rising Rhode Island high school juniors and seniors from historically marginalized communities or economically disadvantaged backgrounds and must be at least 16 years at the start of the program. This program is free, and students will receive a stipend for their participation.

• Grades/Ages: 10, 11 and 16 and older
• Cost: Paid (Contact Sponsor for $ Amount)
• Outreach: Economically Disadvantaged, Underrepresented (All)

35. Case Western Reserve University – Case Comprehensive Cancer Center: SEO and YES Programs

The Case Comprehensive Cancer Center at Case Western Reserve University offers two related programs for Cleveland-area high school students to engage in medical research projects: The Scientific Enrichment and Opportunity (SEO) Program and the Youth Engaged in Science (YES) Program . In both programs, students are placed in research labs where they work with outstanding faculty investigators. SEO Program students participate in research projects on a full-time basis, for an eight-week period during the summer months. YES Program participants have the same laboratory schedule for the summer, but also have the opportunity to do part-time lab work during the school year. Both SEO and YES students receive stipends.  To be eligible for this program, applicants: must attend a Cleveland-area high school; have a minimum GPA of 3.0; and be at least 14 years old by the time they begin research activities.

• Duration:  8 Weeks (Summer); Varies (Academic Year)
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12/ 14 and older
• Outreach? Underrepresented students are encouraged to apply

36. Centro SOL: Summer Scholars

The mission of the Centro Sol Summer Scholars Program is to expose bilingual and bi-cultural youth to careers in medicine, research, and healthcare and equip them to make informed decisions about their education and their careers. The curriculum incorporates a student-centered approach and includes workshops to develop and reinforce professional development, college readiness, and community outreach. Students must be fluent in Spanish and English. Participants receive a stipend of $1,200.

• Grades: 9 , 10, 11, 12
• Outreach? For bilingual Hispanic and Latino/x students only

37. Children’s Hospital Colorado: Summer Child Health Research Internship

The Summer Child Health Research Internship offered by the Department of Pediatrics is a summer research opportunity for high school seniors, college students, first-year medical students and residents of Colorado. The program will introduce students to child health research and offer opportunities to participate in a research series, present their research and receive a stipend of $3,500 to assist with travel and housing costs. The program runs from 9 weeks from June to August and requires students to be available for the entire period. During the program, students will attend weekly research seminars and provide a written and oral summary of their research experience at the end of the program. Mentors will be selected based on applicant preferences.

• Location: CO (Various)
• Duration: 9 Weeks, Summer
• Cost: Paid ($3,500)
• Outreach: Not Indicated

38. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles: Samuels Family Latino and African American High School Internship Program (LA-HIP)

The goal of the Samuels Family Latino and African American High School Internship Program is to provide students who identify as an underrepresented minority in medicine and science with the opportunity to learn hands-on laboratory-based research and to support them in their quest to become scientists or physician-scientists. Eligible students are those who are applying in the fall of their junior year of high school, and who have a strong interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). During the seven-week-long summer program, interns work full-time learning and performing research in a laboratory of a faculty scientist at The Saban Research Institute on a project relevant to pediatric health and disease. In addition, to help interns become competitive college applicants and guide them to the schools where they will thrive, students also will be immersed in an SAT course, college readiness workshops, and college campus tours.

• Location: CA (Los Angeles)
• Outreach? For Black and Hispanic or Latino/x students only

39. Children’s Mercy Kansas City Research Institute: Star 2.0 Program

The STAR 2.0 Program at the Children’s Mercy Research Institute in Kansas City, Missouri offers a 6-week summer research experience for high school students and educators. Participants work with Children’s Mercy faculty on an original research project and have the opportunity to develop a research publication for a peer-reviewed journal. The program also provides education in clinical and translational research methodology, writing, statistics, medical ethics, and career development. The program seeks current freshmen, sophomore, and junior high school students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in medicine and science. No prior research experience is required, but academic performance and an interest in medicine or science are preferred. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds and those attending public or charter schools, particularly in the Kansas City metropolitan area, will be given preference. Participants will gain insights into the world of science and medicine, practical research experience, and contacts in the medical research community. They will also have the opportunity to publish their work in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, a stipend of $2,600 is provided to cover participation costs, enabling students who had planned to work during the summer break to attend the program.

• Location: MO (Kansas City)
• Paid? Yes ($2,600)
• Outreach? Underrepresented, Economically Disadvantaged 

40. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital: Biomedical Research Internship for Minority Students (BRIMS)

The Cincinnati Children’s Hospital BRIMS program is a 9-week summer internship for minority students interested in biomedical research. It is open to high-achieving graduating high school seniors and college Freshmen from the Cincinnati tri-state area. Participants will be paired with a research mentor and will receive hands-on experience in a research laboratory at the Children’s Hospital Medical Center. The program includes weekly networking events and shadowing opportunities with minority faculty. Interns will receive $13/hour and are expected to present their research project at the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Capstone poster competition. Application is open to US citizens or green card holders from underrepresented racial or ethnic groups. The program is competitive, based on academic achievement, science courses taken, and extracurricular activities. To apply, candidates must submit an online application form with a personal essay, resume, transcript, and two letters of recommendation.

• Duration:  9 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach? For underrepresented students only

41. City of Hope – Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences at Beckman Research Institute: Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy and YES2SUCCESS Program

The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope gives high school and university students possessing exceptional potential for performing biomedical research an opportunity for a “hands-on” research experience. The National Cancer Institute’s Youth Enjoy Science: Seeking Useful Comprehensive Cancer Education Strategies for Students program (or YES2SUCCESS ) provides outreach and mentored research experiences in cancer research laboratories to underrepresented students specifically. In both programs, students design and work on their own research projects in areas of their specific interests. City of Hope faculty members act as mentors providing valuable guidance and support, while also encouraging independent thought and exploration. Students must be at least 16 years old; be US citizens or permanent residents; and have completed high school courses in chemistry and biology.  The Summer Student Academy is a 10-week commitment.  YES2SUCCESS is a two-summer commitment, with each session lasting 12 weeks.

• Location: CA (Duarte)
• Duration:  10 Weeks for SSA (Summer); 12 Weeks for YES2SUCCESS (x 2 Summers)
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12/ 16 or older
• Outreach? YES2SUCCESS is for underrepresented students only

42. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory: Partners for the Future

Partners for the Future is a program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory that offers high school students hands-on experience in biomedical research. Students entering their senior year who are nominated by their school science chairperson can apply. Selected students spend a minimum of 10 hours per week, September through March of their senior year, doing original research under the guidance of a scientist mentor. At the end of the program, students present their projects to an audience. The program exposes students to day-to-day life in a working lab, allowing them to gain valuable research skills and decide if bench or field research is for them.

• Location: NY (Long Island)
• Duration:  9 Months, Academic Year
• Paid? No (but program is free)

43. Coriell Institute for Medical Research: Coriell Summer Experience for Students

The Coriell Summer Experience for Students is an opportunity for high school and college students to work alongside world-renowned scientists and researchers and gain insights into careers in science or related areas. The program offers eight paid positions, and students will have the opportunity to experience and be part of the day-to-day research activities in dynamic research and biobanking environments. Students will have the option to apply for a summer experience in biobank laboratories, biobank operations, or research laboratories. The program also includes seminars and presentations.  Applicants must be at least 17 years old, have a strong interest in science, and be available to participate in all four weeks of the program.

• Location: NJ (Camden)
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/must be 17 by July 1

44. Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research: Summer Visiting Scholar

The Feinstein Institute Summer Visiting Scholar Program is an 8-week research mentorship open to current high school students who are at least 16 years old at the start of the program. To participate, students need to reach out to a Feinstein faculty member directly (there is a link on the website) and ask if they will agree to serve as a mentor. If the mentor says yes, the Summer Visiting Scholar program will initiate the onboarding process.

• Grades/Ages: 16 or older
• Paid? No (But the program is free)

45. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center: Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP)

The Fred Hutchison Cancer Center Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) is a full-time, 8-week paid internship for rising 12th graders. It is designed for students from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical science and provides hands-on training and mentored research in Seattle. The program includes laboratory safety techniques training, immersion in a research group, research seminars, professional development workshops, and social activities. Students must be available for the entire period. The program ends with presentations to the Fred Hutch community.

• Location: WA (Seattle)
• Outreach? For disabled, economically disadvantaged, and underrepresented (racial/ethnic) students only

46. Harvard University Medical School: Project Success for High School Students

Project Success : Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers is a paid, summer STEM internship for high school students in Boston and Cambridge, particularly underrepresented and/or disadvantaged students. Participants take part in mentored research experiences at Harvard Medical School and its affiliated institutions. The program is augmented by seminars and workshops given by faculty and administrators, site visits, and career counseling.

• Location: MA (Boston Metro)
• Outreach? Focus on economically disadvantaged and underrepresented students

47. HYPOTHEKids: New York Bioforce

The HYPOTHEKids: New York Bioforce program is designed for NYC public or charter high school students who are interested in life sciences research. It combines an intensive lab training program with opportunities for students to connect with paid summer internships in cutting-edge research labs at Columbia University, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The program runs each spring/summer, with training starting on Saturdays following NYC public school Spring Break and ending the first week in July. Internships begin the following week and run through the middle of August.

• Duration: 5 months (Spring, Summer)
• Paid? No (Volunteer)

48. Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center: Future Scientist Program 

The Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center is a summer science program designed for high school juniors from Indianapolis and Marion County public schools. It offers students the opportunity to engage in an eight-week research project under the guidance of a university researcher. The program aims to address the current shortage of students pursuing careers in science by cultivating the next generation of scientists. Students with a strong interest in science, the ability to work independently, and a sense of responsibility are encouraged to apply. The program serves as both an educational and employment experience during the summer, and it is located on the downtown Indianapolis campus of the IU School of Medicine at IUPUI. Eligibility for admission is based on factors such as scholastic ability, maturity, school attendance record, the ability to obtain a work permit if under 16 years old, and evidence of interest in scientific research. Applicants must be juniors in a Marion County public high school and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

• Location: IA (Indianapolis)

49. Institute for Systems Biology (ISB): High School Summer Internship

The Institute for Systems Biology (ISB): High School Summer Internship is an 8-week paid STEM internship for high school students in the summer after 11th grade. In this internship, high school interns learn about systems biology and apply their learning to a current ISB research project which is driven by an ISB mentor. Depending on the project, students will also learn and/or deepen their understanding of scientific, engineering, math, coding, and other professional and computer-based skills. All projects also include: a) interviewing ISB professionals to learn about various career paths, b) building a website that describes the internship project and experience, and c) helping out with school-based curriculum development if pertinent. Example internship topics include but are not limited to: computational biology (which can include scenarios in health and/or the environment), microbial interactions, resilience and collapse of complex systems, the microbiome, microbial evolution, cancer, systems medicine (medicine that is predictive, preventative, personalized and participatory), and bioengineering with algae. Interns receive a stipend of $5,000 for the entire 8-week experience.

• Paid? Yes ($5,000)

50. Johns Hopkins Medicine: Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)

The  Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a summer research program that exposes junior and senior high school students to careers in the neurological sciences. There is an 8-week, paid in-person internships for Baltimore-area students from underrepresented backgrounds, and there is a 5-week online summer research experience open to high school juniors and seniors across the U.S.  The in-person internship is held at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Department of Neurology on the East Baltimore campus. Over the 8-week period in the summer, interns will have the opportunity to participate in a research project guided by faculty, staff and student mentors and participate in clinical rotations with Johns Hopkins neurologists. The virtual research experience includes numerous activities related to science including educational presentations, professional development training, learn basic laboratory techniques and experiments, mentorship training and more! Virtual interns who successfully complete the 5-week program will receive a $500 scholarship to support their education.

• Duration: Summer, 8 Weeks (In-Person), 4 Weeks (Online)
• Attendance: Commuter, Online
• Cost: Paid (In-Person, $10/Hour; Online, $500 Scholarship)
• Outreach: Underrepresented (All)

51. Lifespan: Future Gen Cancer Scholars Program

The Lifespan Cancer Institute has launched the Future Gen Cancer Scholars Program , a unique mentoring initiative for Rhode Island public high school students of color in Central Falls, Pawtucket, and Providence. This program aims to address the underrepresentation of physicians of color in Rhode Island, a state with significant Black and Hispanic populations, which has led to the underuse of cancer screening and mistrust of the medical system among communities of color. The Future Gen Cancer Scholars program brings together researchers from Lifespan, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and students to provide high-tech research opportunities and innovative education. It offers selected students the chance to shadow renowned cancer doctors and scientists at Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children’s Hospital, and The Miriam Hospital during a six-week program over two consecutive summers. Participants will have access to cutting-edge laboratories at the Lifespan Cancer Institute and the Cancer Center at Brown University. They will receive a stipend of $2,500 per summer, with transportation expenses reimbursed, and will also benefit from college preparation counseling. The program aims to enroll up to 20 sophomore students of color each year, nominated by their high schools and selected through an application process. 

• Duration: 6 Weeks x 2 Summers
• Paid? Yes ($2,500)
• Outreach? Black, Hispanic/Latino/x

52. LSU Health Sciences Center: Summer Research Program 

The LSU Health Sciences Center: Summer Research Program offers paid , eight-week summer research STEMs internships for high school students in the New Orleans area interested in pursuing medical and research careers in the basic or clinical sciences or public health. Interns work with mentors in laboratories or clinics at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, University Medical Center, or Children’s Hospital where they: learn techniques used in the health sciences laboratories; gain research study skills; experience professional development and career preparation; and receive training in presentation skills. Interns are expected to conduct their own small research projects or work on part of an ongoing research project.  At the end of the program, all interns present their research findings at a poster session or oral symposium. Applicants must: (1) live in the New Orleans area or vicinity during the time of the summer internship; (2) be in their junior or senior year of high school and between the ages of 16-18 at the time of the application submission; (3) attend an all-day mandatory orientation; and (4) be available during all dates of the program. Interns receive a stipend of $2,645.00 which will be received in three increments over the course of the summer.

• Location:  LA (New Orleans)
• Duration:  8 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/16-18 years old

53. Mayo Clinic: SPARK (Science Program for the Advancement of Research Knowledge) Research Mentorship Program

The Mayo Clinic SPARK Program provides high school students from Duval and St. Johns counties in Florida with unparalleled mentored research experience in world-class laboratories at the Mayo Clinic campus in Jacksonville, Florida. SPARK scholars produce highly competitive projects that they enter in science fairs, and many have won regional and state awards, honors, and prize dollars for their research. Many SPARK scholars go on to prestigious colleges and universities to pursue studies in fields related to science and medicine. SPARK scholars gain experience in basic science, the research process, critical thinking, and professional conduct — and they do it all in Mayo Clinic’s state-of-the-art facilities working with some of the top researchers in their fields.  Applicants must: (1) be enrolled as a junior or senior at a school in Duval County or St. Johns County in Florida for the upcoming academic year; (2) have an interest in the biomedical sciences; (3) have a minimum 3.5 unweighted grade-point average; (4) provide a letter of recommendation from the current high school science teacher; and (5) complete a one-page research abstract, using the program abstract form, for the original research they wish to pursue. Participation requirements include spending at least 20 hours a week working in mentor laboratories during the summer break from school, plus time during the school year.

• Location: FL (Jacksonville)
• Duration: 20 Hours/Week , Summer and Academic Year
• Grades:  10, 11
• Paid? (No, but program is free)

54. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience: High School Summer Research Internship (FL)

The Max Planck Institute High School Summer Research Internship is open to students in a Palm Beach or Martin County (FL) high school entering their junior or senior year. This 6-week, paid STEM internship for high school students offers an immersive laboratory experience in brain structure, function, and development, and advanced imaging techniques used in neuroscience. Applicants must be 16 years or older, available to work full-time, and legally authorized to work in the US. The program has three tracks: Neuroscience, Scientific Programming, and Mechanical Engineering. Applicants must complete an online application, which includes a 600-word essay explaining why they want to participate and the skills that make them a qualified candidate. Interns will be compensated at $12/hour and will prepare a written scientific abstract and give a presentation at the end of the summer.

• Location: FL (Palm Beach)
• Grades/Ages: 10, 11/16 and older
• Outreach?  Not indicated

55. McLaughlin Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences: High School Internships

Students who participate in the McLaughlin Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences High School Internships will spend 8 weeks in the laboratory of one of the Institute’s faculty or in the Animal Resource Center actively engaged in a current research project under the direction of the scientist, postdoctoral fellow, or research assistant. In addition to providing hands-on experience in investigatory science, the students will observe and interact with other high school and college students in a laboratory-learning environment rather than a classroom. Journal clubs and seminars supplement the research experience. Each student will give a formal presentation at the end of the 8 weeks summarizing his/her project. Students in their junior or senior year of high school, or freshman through senior year of college are eligible. Students should be on track for four years of math, biology, chemistry, and/or physics. Stipends are paid to all participants; however, the Institute does not provide housing for interns. Preference will be given to local high students.

• Location:  MT (Great Falls)
• Grades:  11, 12

56. Medical College of Wisconsin ROADS Program

The Research Opportunity for Academic Development in Science (ROADS) program at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) offers a summer training experience for Milwaukee-area high school students interested in science, medicine, and biomedical research. The program aims to ensure diversity in the future of science and medicine by supporting underrepresented students in pursuing biomedical careers. ROADS interns serve for seven weeks during the summer, assisting MCW principal investigators on research projects. The program provides participants with hands-on experience in a research laboratory setting and aims to stimulate their interest in science and medicine. The program particularly encourages applications from African American, Mexican American, Puerto Rican, Native American, Hmong American, and LGBTQIA+ students. During the program, interns actively participate in research teams, develop abstracts, present findings, and engage in activities and field trips. Interns receive a stipend at the end of the program, which can be used to support their education. Eligibility criteria include being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 16 years old, from an ethnically, economically, and/or educationally disadvantaged background, having a strong science and math GPA of at least 3.0, and attending a high school in the Milwaukee Public System, Milwaukee charter school, Milwaukee area private school, or surrounding suburban school district. Rising juniors, seniors, or June graduates are eligible to apply.

• Location:  WI (Milwaukee)
• Duration: 7 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 10, 11, 12/ and 16 or older
• Outreach? Encourages applications from African American, Mexican American, Puerto Rican, Native American, Hmong American, Economically Disadvantaged, and LGBTQIA+ Students

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4HB_nuETCg&t=1s

57. Monell Center Apprenticeship Program

The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program ‘s mission is to stimulate an interest in biomedical science or medicine as careers – particularly in groups typically underrepresented in science, including females, ethnic or racial minorities, and the economically disadvantaged.  The program includes: (i) at least seven weeks of paid full-time structured research activity with a Monell scientist ; (ii) a public conference where apprentices present their research to scientific staff, family members, and friends; (iii) enrichment activities that include lectures on scientific topics; public speaking and written communication; and ethical principles guiding human and animal research; and (iv) opportunities to learn about different careers in medicine and science. Students must reside in the Philadelphia (PA) or Camden (NJ) areas.

• Location: NJ (Camden), PA (Philadephia)
• Outreach: Encourages applications from Black, Economically Disadvantaged, Female, Hispanic / Latinx, and Underrepresented (All) Students

58. National Institutes of Health – National Cancer Institute: Werner H. Kirsten Student Internship Program

The WHK Student Intern Program is a unique, one-year internship designed to expose high school seniors in participating Maryland schools (or homeschooled) to research and administrative management in a healthcare environment. Interns gain experience using basic methods of biomedical research through hands-on laboratory training, You MUST be in your junior year at an ELIGIBLE high school to apply (see School Point of Contacts on the website for a list of eligible schools) or homeschooled within 30 minutes of the NCI at Frederick main campus located at Fort Detrick in Maryland.) Students will work for a mandatory eight weeks during the summer break between their junior and senior years of school under the Summer Cancer Research Training Award (SCRTA) Program, with a total stipend of approximately $3,600. At the beginning of their senior year of high school, the student will be converted to a Special Volunteer appointment for the remainder of the internship, working 3 hours every day during their senior year that school is in session. Interns will not be compensated for their service during the school year but will receive four weighted credits towards their state diploma for this time.

• Location: MD (Frederick)
• Duration:  1 Year
• Grades/Ages: 11/17 or older before start of internship

59. National Institutes of Health – National Eye Institute: Diversity in Vision Research and Ophthalmology Internship (DIVRO)

The DIVRO Summer Internship Program offers high school medical internships for students from diverse backgrounds, including students from groups traditionally underrepresented in vision research. Interns work closely with leading research scientists at NEI and get hands-on experience working in a research environment that will prepare them to continue their studies and advance their careers in basic and clinical research. NEI summer internships take place in Maryland and last anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks. Applicants must: (1) be at least age 17 by the start of the internship; (2) be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; (3) be enrolled at least half-time in high school or accepted at an accredited U.S. college, university, or professional school (like medical, dental, or veterinary school); and (4) have completed course work relevant to biomedical, behavioral, or statistical research.

• Location:  MD (Bethesda, Rockville)
• Duration:  8-10 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/17 or older by the start of the internship
• Outreach? For underrepresented, disabled, and economically disadvantaged students only

60. Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine – Partnership for Scientific Inquiry Program and Internship

The Partnership for Scientific Inquiry Program accepts sophomore, junior, and senior high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine or biomedical research,  Through a 16-week course from February – June, students are introduced to the scientific process and gain access to research scientists from OHSU and other Portland research institutes. The semester-long program typically ends with summer high school medical internships where students work alongside a research mentor. (This internship requires students to be at least 16 years old.)

• Location: OR (Portland)
• Duration:  16 Weeks, Spring
• Cost: Paid (For Internship only, Contact Sponsor for $ Amount))

61. Rockefeller University: LAB Jumpstart Program

The Rockefeller LAB Jumpstart program aims to jumpstart the development of research skills and exposure to laboratory culture. LAB Jumpstart takes place in two phases. During phase one, students participate in after-school sessions that take place Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 pm- 7 pm, March through June. Phase two is the full-time summer mentored research experience happening Monday-Friday from 9 am-5 pm, which runs from the end of June through mid-August. Must be a high school junior or senior (aged 16+ at program start) enrolled in a NYC High School, and must commit to participating in the entire program. Students from underserved communities and minoritized backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Duration:  14 Weeks (1 Day/Week Mar. – June); 6 Weeks (Summer)
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/16 and older
• Outreach? Underrepresented students are strongly encouraged to apply

62. Rockefeller University: Summer Science Research Program

The Rockefeller Summer Science Research Program offers 6-week high school medical internships where students design and conduct their own research projects. The majority of research will take place in the RockEDU Laboratory – a 3,000-square-foot authentic research space exclusively dedicated to supporting biomedical research skills development. SSRP scholars should expect to spend up to 35 hours per week engaging in the scientific process. Students must be current high school juniors or seniors (age 16+ at program start) and must commit to the entire program.

63. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center: High School Summer Programs

The Roswell Park Summer Cancer Research Experience Program offers seven-week summer high school medical internships for juniors who are local residents of Western New York. (Applicants must have a permanent address and be enrolled in school districts in the following counties in Western New York: Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua.) Applicants rank their choices in the following key cancer science areas: biostatistics, cancer biophysics, cancer cellular/molecular biology, cancer genetics, cancer prevention/epidemiology, health behavior/cancer health disparities, molecular pharmacology and cancer therapeutics, tobacco regulatory science, and tumor immunology.  They are then paired with mentors (research scientists) and get first-hand scientific research experience working on their own independent research projects. There is a program fee is $65.  Limited funding is available to support subsistence allowances for a select number of applicants to the summer program.

• Location:  NY (Western New York)
• Duration:  7 Weeks (Summer)
• Grades/Ages: 11/15 and older
• Paid? Program costs $65; students who are economically disadvantaged can apply for a stipend

64. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey: Rutgers Youth Enjoy Science (RUYES) Program

The RUYES program offers paid, two-year high school medical internships for underrepresented NJ juniors and seniors who want to pursue careers in cancer research and healthcare. It offers hands-on training in cancer research and opportunities to present research findings. Eligibility requirements for the RUYES program include belonging to underrepresented backgrounds (African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Alaska Native, Pacific Islander), being a first-generation college student, coming from a lower socioeconomic background, being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, committing to two years of participation, having a strong motivation and academic ability to pursue a career in biomedical/cancer science, attending a school or university in New Jersey, and turning 16 by June 15th. 

• Location:  NJ (New Brunswick)
• Duration:  2 Years
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/ 16 or older
• Outreach?  For Underrepresented, Economically Disadvantaged, and First-Generation College Students Only

65. Salk Institute: Heithoff-Brody Summer Scholars

Heithoff-Brody Summer Scholars offers eight-week paid high school medical internships that provide real-life experience performing scientific research while developing skill sets needed for STEM careers. Students will be expected to dedicate 30-40 hours per week to the program. When not working in the lab students will be expected to participate in virtual lab meetings and seminars, and complete independent projects offsite. Applicants must be San Diego County residents and have completed their most recent semester of high school at a public or private high school within San Diego County. Students will attend an unpaid pre-internship training course before beginning the seven-week paid internship program.

• Location:  CA (San Diego)
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12/16 or older

66. Sanford Research: PROMISE Scholars Medical Internships for High School Students

The Sanford PROMISE Scholars Summer Internship offers 10-week high school medical internships that provide a total immersion experience in biomedical laboratory research. Work alongside scientists as part of the research team, connect with peers through in-house scientific interest groups, and present your work as a scientific poster at the Sanford Research Symposium. PROMISE Scholars earn 3 undergraduate elective credits at the University of South Dakota and are awarded a $2,500 scholarship. Applicants must: (1) have a strong interest in a career in research; (2) be entering senior year in the fall of the upcoming academic year (home-schooled students are eligible); (3) be at least 16 years old by June 1; (4) and committed to participating in the entire 10-week summer program (minimum of 35 hours/week). Candidates are encouraged to participate in other Sanford PROMISE programming for an introduction to the research environment. Opportunities include: Research Shadowing Program, Teen Science Café, and Community Lecture Series.

• Location:  ND (Sioux Falls)
• Duration:  10 Weeks (Summer)
• Grades/Ages: 11/at least 16 years old by June 1

67. Scripps Research Translational Institute: Medical Internships for High School Students

The Scripps Research Translational Institute: Student Research Internship offers 10-week residential medical internships for high school students who are highly motivated to do medical research. Interns work with and learn from a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, who include internationally-renowned investigators in the areas of genomics, bioinformatics, digital medicine, and community engagement. The primary aim of the internship program is to train and prepare students interested in health sciences, statistics, and computational/computer science to become future leaders in the realm of translational medical research.  High school students must be at least 16 years of age before the start of their internship.

• Location: CA (La Jolla)
• Duration: 10 Weeks
• Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12/16 or older
• Attendance:  Residential
• Paid? No (but program is free, and interns may receive school credit)

68. Scripps Research Institute: High School Student Summer Internship Program

The Scripps Research Institute High School Student Summer Internship Program in Jupiter, Florida offers nine-week hands-on medical internships for high school students preparing to enter their junior or senior year at a high school in Palm Beach and Martin Counties. The program is designed to expose students to a variety of contemporary issues in basic biomedical research, provide hands-on laboratory experience, and motivate and prepare students for continuing education in the sciences. Scripps Research is committed to increasing the number of students underrepresented in the sciences who pursue undergraduate and graduate programs in the biological and chemical sciences.

• Location:  FL (Jupiter)
• Duration:  9 Weeks (Summer)

69. Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine & Imaging: Summer Research Internship

Stanford’s Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) offers a free, 2-week summer virtual Summer Research Internship for high school students to explore the technical and clinical aspects of AI in healthcare. The program includes lectures, hands-on research projects, and mentoring activities with Stanford researchers. There is also an extended independent research internship opportunity available. AIMI encourages students from all backgrounds, particularly underrepresented groups, to apply. No previous coding, AI, or data science experience is necessary.

• Location: Online
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11, 12/ 14 or older
• Attendance: Online
• Paid? No (but program is free) 
• Outreach: Black, Hispanic / Latinx, Underrepresented (All)

70. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers eight-week medical internships for high school students to engage in medical-oriented research with Stanford faculty and researchers. The program aims to foster interest in biological sciences and medicine, provide insight into scientific research, and promote diversity in the field. Eligible students must be juniors or seniors, at least 16 years old, and U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The program offers various research areas, and participants receive a minimum stipend of $500. Additionally, students have the option to participate in a bioengineering boot camp for hands-on learning in the field. Applicants must have living arrangements in the Bay Area, and the selection process heavily favors local (Bay Area) students. 

• Paid? Yes ($500) 
• Outreach: Not indicated

71. Stanford Medicine – Department of Surgery: STaRS Medical Internships for High School Students 

The Stanford STaRS Internship Program offers 7-week medical internships for high school students interested in biomedical and biological sciences or healthcare. The program aims to provide mentorship and hands-on experience to aspiring individuals. They seek students with curiosity, enthusiasm, and drive, and encourage applications from underrepresented and underresourced backgrounds. The internship lasts for seven weeks, and applicants must be at least 16 years old. The program does not typically provide financial compensation, and participants are responsible for their own travel, housing, and meals. Prior laboratory experience is not required, and individuals with no previous research background are encouraged to apply.

• Outreach: Encourages applications from underrepresented and economically-disadvantaged students

72. Temple Health – Fox Chase Cancer Center: Immersion Science Program

The Fox Chase Cancer Center Immersion Science Program offers 11-week high school medical internships that aim to train students in cutting-edge cancer research with the potential to impact patients’ lives. The program is open to all students in the Philadelphia-Tri-State area, with a Philly-only section for the School District of Philadelphia. Participants must be at least 16 years of age and have completed both biology and chemistry. The program is not based on GPA or standardized tests but is looking for students who can contribute academically, socially, and intellectually to the ISP Community and have collaborative natures. Students will work with professional scientists and educators to design projects aimed at understanding how diet influences cancer signaling.

• Location:  PA (Philadelphia, Warminster)
• Duration: 11 Weeks (Winter, Jan.-March)
• Paid? No (but the program is free)

73. Temple Health – Fox Chase Cancer Center: The TRIP Initiative

The TRIP Initiative offers comprehensive high school medical internships for high school students from Philadelphia and surrounding communities interested in scientific careers. Students work on projects involving fruit flies to gain hands-on training in basic laboratory techniques and conceptual skills including hypothesis generation, experimental design, and data analysis. Beyond the lab, students also receive one-on-one mentoring with Fox Chase faculty; they learn team-building and leadership skills and become part of a family of driven and curious students. Twice per calendar year, TRIP has an open call for applications. In the Winter/Spring, TRIP has a home at William Tennent High School in Warminster. Students generally apply in October for a course that runs on consecutive Saturdays from late January through early May. During the summer, TRIP is offered at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The call for applications launches in early March, while the course begins after July 4th and concludes in mid-August.

• Duration: 5 Months (Spring) or 2 Months (Summer)
• Grades:  9, 10, 11, 12

74. Translational Genomics Research Institute: Helios Scholars Medical Internships for High School Students 

Helios Scholars at TGen offers paid, eight-week summer medical internships for high school students (seniors – for the summer after graduation) in Arizona focused on biomedical research. Interns work full-time on a research project under the mentorship of a TGen scientist to unravel the genetic components of diabetes, neurological disease, and cancer. At TGen North in Flagstaff, interns focus their summer research on public health and pathogens such as Valley Fever and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

• Location: AZ (Flagstaff)
• Duration:  8 Weeks (Summer)
• Grades/Ages: 12/16 and older

75. University of Arizona – Health Sciences Center: Summer Institute on Medical Ignorance

The Summer Institute on Medical Ignorance offers a seven-week medical internship for high school students that focuses on hands-on research. Students work full-time in various medical laboratories and clinics at The University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, doing research on such subjects as cardiovascular disease, genetics, cancer, neuroscience, and preventive medicine. It aims to improve health literacy, foster relationships between students, teachers, and medical professionals, and enrich education beyond classroom lectures. The program prioritizes junior and senior students from disadvantaged backgrounds with a 3.0 GPA or higher and an interest in science. Approximately 25 students are accepted each year and are paid the minimum federal hourly wage to work 40 hours per week.

• Location:  AZ (Tucson)
• Outreach? Priority given to economically disadvantaged juniors and seniors

76. University of California San Francisco – Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland: Summer Student Research Program

The UCSF Summer Student Research Program offers medical internships for high school students in local clinics and basic science labs focused on active biomedical research projects. Students receive one-on-one mentorships with healthcare providers and researchers, along with access to unique workshops, seminars, training, simulations, and networking opportunities.  The overall goal of the program is to stimulate interest in health sciences for underrepresented students, arming them with professional skills and confidence, thereby improving their likelihood of success in STEM careers. High School applicants must be juniors or seniors (with at least one completed year in math and biology) from a group underrepresented in the sciences, and at least 16 years old at the start of the program.  Participants receive a stipend of $3,000.

• Location:  CA (Oakland)
• Grades/Ages: 11, 12/16 or older
• Outreach?  Underrepresented students only

77. University of California San Francisco (UCSF): Medical Internships for High School Students

The UCSF High School Intern Program (HIP) at UCSF offers 8-week summer medical internships for high school students (juniors) in the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). Interns conduct original biomedical science research under the direction of a UCSF scientist mentor. Unlike many other high school research programs, this program isn’t just looking for students who have the best grades or have accomplished the most. Instead, HIP is looking for students who want to develop a sense of belonging in science and broaden their ideas about college and careers in the biomedical sciences. Most program participants come from backgrounds underrepresented in the sciences, such as minorities, women, students with disabilities, and students from lower-income families or families without a history of college attendance.  Students who are current juniors, attending an SFUSD school or SF charter, and from a background considered underrepresented in the sciences are eligible to apply. There are two options: Students can work part-time for $3200, or full-time for $4500. The program also provides support for college counseling, science communication skills, and building professional networks.

• Location:  CA (San Francisco)
• Grades:  11
• Outreach?  Underrepresented, economically disadvantaged, and first generation, college students are encouraged to apply

78. University of Chicago Medicine: EYES (Educators and Youth Enjoy Science) on Cancer

The University of Chicago EYES on Cancer Program is a paid, two-year medical internship for high school students interested in careers in biomedicine. The program consists of two eight-week summer research experiences plus monthly academic year activities. High school applicants must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors and at least 16 at the time of the program. Priority is given to applicants from groups underrepresented in biomedicine, encompassing all relevant social, behavioral as well as health sciences. Applications are encouraged from any individual with a demonstrated commitment to increasing the full participation of underrepresented groups in biomedicine. Please note that students are responsible for their own housing and transportation to and from the University of Chicago during their summer research experiences. High school students receive a stipend of $3,100 for participation.

• Location:  IL (Chicago)
• Duration:  2 Years (Monthly during the academic year, 8 weeks during the summer)
• Grades/Ages: 10, 11, 12/ 16 or older
• Outreach? Priority is given to underrepresented students

79. University of Chicago Medicine: ResearcHStart Medical Internships for High School Students

ResearcHStart offers 8-week medical internships for high school students from the Chicago and Urbana-Champaign areas to explore exciting careers in cancer research. Participants work full-time in the laboratories of established cancer researchers, gaining hands-on experience in areas at the forefront of the field: cancer immunology, bioengineering, experimental cancer therapeutics, cancer disparities, and more. Applicants must be high school juniors or seniors at the time of application and at least 16 at the start of the program.  Participants receive a stipend of $3,000.

• Duration:  6 Weeks (Summer)

80. University of Connecticut School of Medicine: High School Student Research Apprenticeship Program 

The UConn Health High School Student Research Apprenticeship Program offers paid, 5-week summer medical internships for high school students (11th and 12th graders) students in Connecticut interested in medicine, dental medicine, or biomedical research. The program provides students with a research experience in one of the basic science or clinical laboratories. Priority consideration will be given to pipeline participants. Students must: (1) be able to commute daily to UConn Health or Central Connecticut State University; (2) be from groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in the health professions (African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Native Alaskan, Native Hawaiian) or others from disadvantaged backgrounds who meet all eligibility criteria; and (3) have a high probability of fulfilling the social and educational goals of this program.

• Location: CT (Farmington, New Britain)
• Duration: 5 Weeks, Summer
• Outreach: Black, Economically Disadvantaged, Hispanic/Latino/x, Underrepresented (All)

81. University of Michigan – Life Sciences Institute: Aspirnaut Program

The University of Michigan Aspirnaut Summer Research Internship Program offers medical internships for high school students (seniors) in Michigan who are interested in life sciences research. The program is six weeks long and takes place on the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus. Participants work with a team of researchers in the life sciences, conducting their own research project that contributes to cutting-edge research. They are also provided with a stipend, housing, meals, and access to university resources such as campus recreation facilities and the student health service. The program also offers professional development and enrichment opportunities, including individualized meetings with mentors, preparation for standardized tests, college advising, networking opportunities with scientists, and cultural and social activities. The program is intended to expand interest in basic science research, particularly among high school students from under-resourced areas in Michigan, including rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

• Location:  MI (Ann Arbor)
• Duration:  6 Weeks, Summer
• Paid? Yes (Sponsor also provides housing and meals)
• Outreach?   Economically disadvantaged students are encouraged to apply

82. University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Hillman Cancer Center Academy Medical Internships for High School Students

The Hillman Academy offers immersive mentored medical internships for high school students. The academy accepts applications from all high school students but preference is given to rising juniors and seniors. Participants in the Hillman Academy receive free tuition and lunch for the eight weeks of the summer program. (Those who choose to stay in a University of Pittsburgh dormitory are responsible for the cost of room, board, security, and activities which amounts to $7,000. However, fully-funded dormitory housing may be available to a limited number of stipend-awarded scholars considered to be underrepresented in the biomedical sciences.)

• Location:  PA (Pittsburgh)
• Grades/Ages: 9, 10, 11/15 or older
• Attendance:  Commuter or residential
• Paid? Program is free for commuters; residential students must pay for housing (although there is financial aid and a stipend for qualified underrepresented students)

83. University of Texas – Health Science Center at San Antonio: Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy

The Voelcker Biomedical Research Academy is an immersive biomedical research, educational, and college preparatory program for San Antonio and surrounding area high school students. Rising high school Sophomores partner with outstanding biomedical scientists from UT Health San Antonio to promote excellence in scholarship and biomedical research training for a 3-year period. In year 1, the Academy consists of an engaging, hands-on, 7-week summer research program, in addition to participation in a number of special enrichment and research-oriented activities throughout the academic year. In years 2 and 3, students participate in a faculty-mentored research experience. Students are supported through stipends during the summers of the program and parental involvement is also required. Every high school in the Greater San Antonio Area will be given the opportunity to submit up to 3 potential candidates.

• Location:  TX (San Antonio)
• Duration:  3 Years, Summer

84. Vanderbilt University – Aspirnaut High School Summer Research Internship

The Vanderbilt Aspirnaut High School Summer Research Internships are non-clinical, hands-on, medical internships for high school students from rural and diverse backgrounds interested in a career in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). Participants reside for six weeks on the Vanderbilt campus and conduct mentored biomedical research projects at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for a $2,000 stipend. Students are responsible for the cost of travel to and from the program in Nashville, (TN) but some travel scholarships are available.

• Location:  TN (Nashville)
• Outreach? Focused on students from underrepresented and rural backgrounds

85. Wistar Institute: High School Summer Fellowship Program in Biomedical Research (PA)

The Wistar High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research offers hands-on medical internships for high school students in experimental research projects in areas such as cancer biology, genetics, vaccine development, bioinformatics, and infectious diseases. Students will learn biomedical laboratory techniques through curriculum-based, real Wistar science in our state-of-the-art training lab. In addition, students will be introduced to valuable research skills including searching and reading scientific literature and effective science communication. This paid internship program gives preference and may be limited to students enrolled in the School District of Philadelphia. Students receive a stipend of $1,000 for completion of the program to defray commuting costs or other expenses. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and have successfully completed at least one high school science course.

• Location:  PA (Philadelphia)
• Duration:  3 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages:  16 or older

86. Yale School of Medicine: Discovery to Cure (DTC) High School Internship

The Yale Discovery to Cure (DTC) High School Internship offers medical internships for high school students in Connecticut (specifically, juniors who are at least 16 years old) in Yale’s biomedical laboratories. The internship includes training and six full weeks of hands-on research in one of Yale’s biomedical laboratories working under the mentorship of a Principal Investigator and participating in a research project as directed by the PI. Participation in the summer internship program is a full-time commitment, and interns are expected to come to their assigned lab every day, Monday through Friday for 6 weeks. The program does not provide housing or transportation; students must be within commuting distance of Yale’s campus. High school students must have a teacher or other educator coordinate their application. Interested students are encouraged to contact either their guidance counselor, science teacher, or another committed educator to be the school representative. This program does not accept applications from students without a teacher’s recommendation, and teachers can only recommend 3 students from their school.

• Location:  CT (New Haven)
• Duration:  7 Weeks, Summer
• Grades/Ages: 11/16 or older

Find EVEN MORE Medical Internships for High School Students 

Want to see more? There are just too many medical internships for high school students on our site for us to include them all in this list! So, be sure to head over to our Teen Resources section and search our Internships and Programs databases.

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10 Medical Research Opportunities for High School Students

Experience with medical research is one of the best tools to help a student navigate their path into the medical profession. It can give them a head-start into their journey toward college, by offering them hands-on experience and an early exposure to the pressures and rewards of their chosen field of interest. Students have the opportunity to learn in a variety of venues, including universities, hospitals and clinics, and research centers, as well as meet with industry professionals. In this article, we list 10 of the best avenues to get an early start in the field of medicine for a high school student.

Here are 10 Medical Research Opportunities for High School Students:

1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program

Students at SIMR collaborate with Stanford faculty and researchers to conduct medical research. Students select one of eight study fields and are then allocated to a lab where they will be mentored one-on-one. SIMR is an 8-week program open to current juniors and seniors that gives a $500 stipend to participants.

2. Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA)

At MISA, students learn about healthcare through hands-on research, skills training (EKG, suturing, CPR, splinting, and taking vitals), shadowing, mentorship, and clinical immersion. They also participate in VIP lunches with health professionals, observe patients and medical procedures, and engage in patient-case workshops and discussions with physicians.

The five-day program is open to all high school students in grades 9-12. Students must be at least 15 at the time of applying.

3. Indiana University Simon Cancer Center Summer Research Program

Participants in this six-week online program are partnered with mentors and spend 40 hours per week on assignments such as laboratory research, database research, or clinical research. They also attend weekly workshops and professional development sessions on issues such as seeking admission to graduate and professional programs of study. The program offers a stipend to participants.

4. Children’s Hospital Colorado—Summer Child Health Research Internship Children's Hospital Colorado offers this internship. Hosted by the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado, the program provides rising high school seniors, college students, and first-year medical students the opportunity to work with faculty on child health research. Interns will also have the option to take part in a lecture research series and will present their findings at the end of their internship. Interns receive a $3,500 stipend to help with travel and housing expenses.

5. Magee-Womens Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program

This is a four-week, 160-hour virtual internship for high school juniors and seniors that allows them to participate in basic, translational, or clinical scientific research at MWRI and Magee-Womens Hospital under the supervision of an investigator and their team. Interns also take part in sessions where investigators talk about their own adventures and perspectives in biomedical science. Interns will report their findings to other program participants as well as MWRI instructors and staff at the program's completion.

6. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience High School Internship

This six-week internship is for high school juniors and seniors who are interested in brain structure, function, and development, as well as sophisticated imaging techniques and technology utilized in neuroscience. Interns in neuroscience gain hands-on experience with genetic engineering, microbiological preparations, histological staining, and microscopy by participating in laboratory research. Students will prepare a scientific abstract and give a short presentation at the end of the internship.

7. National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare

NSLC provides a forum for high school students to learn about contentious medical issues, current health-care concerns, and cutting-edge scientific research in areas like cancer and HIV/AIDS. Students will engage in clinical research, study medical examination, and surgical methods, and participate in diagnosis and treatment.

Cost: $3695

8. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program

This five-week online program provides intensive coursework in medicine and health science, professional development workshops, networking opportunities with health professions, college admissions guidance, and mentoring to high school sophomores and juniors. Students will also complete a college-level research project and get experience in navigating the medical profession.

9. Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship Program

This 8 week research program is organized by the Rheumatology and Immunology Laboratories at Stanford University and the University of California, San Francisco. The program is open to high school juniors and seniors. Selected students work in top research and clinical laboratories at Stanford University and the University of California, San Francisco, under the guidance of renowned experts. Students work 40 hours per week in either basic laboratory research or clinical epidemiological/translational (patient-focused) research. The program offers a $1500 stipend.

10. National Institute of Health High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

HS-SIP provides students with the opportunity to do full-time biomedical research at NIH facilities, working alongside world-renowned professionals. Applicants must be juniors or seniors at the time of application and 17 years old at the commencement of the program to be considered. The program is 8 weeks long and offers a stipend of $2080 per month to selected students.

Cost: None If you're looking for a real-world internship in medicine that can help boost your resume while applying to college, we recommend Ladder Internships!

Ladder Internships  is a selective program equipping students with virtual internship experiences at startups and nonprofits around the world!  

The startups range across a variety of industries, and each student can select which field they would most love to deep dive into. This is also a great opportunity for students to explore areas they think they might be interested in, and better understand professional career opportunities in those areas. The startups are based all across the world, with the majority being in the United States, Asia and then Europe and the UK. 

You can explore all the options here on their application form . As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship - the Ladder Coach serves as a second mentor and a sounding board, guiding you through the internship and helping you navigate the startup environment. 

Cost : $1490 (Financial Aid Available)

Location:   Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.

Application deadline:  April 16 and May 14

Program dates:  8 weeks, June to August

Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates and gap year students!

One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in a selective, structured research program, consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers. The program pairs you with a full-time researcher to develop your own independent research project, in any discipline of your choice. Last year over 1500 students applied to 500 slots in the research program! You can find the application form here.

2 Kommentare

this is very useful list.

Thank you for a great collection for medical students. I have an acquaintance who is a doctor from a clinic gainswave com that treats erectile dysfunction, and he studied at the National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare. From his words, I understood that he recommends studying at this institution.

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Top Medical Internships for High School Students and How to Find Them

Featured Expert: Dr. Gurmeet Lall, PhD

Medical internships for high school students are amazing opportunities to explore a career in healthcare. Gaining these experiences are useful, too, if you want to know how to get into medical school , how to get into nursing school , dental school, veterinary school or even how to get into PA school . Many medical internships are focused on fostering students’ interest in science and healthcare, regardless of what area of health you want to pursue as a future career. The opportunities are plentiful, but this can make choosing the right one for you a little tricky. In this blog, we’ll look at just some of the incredible medical internships available for high school students, how they can benefit you, where to find them and how to choose the right one for your future.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Listen to the blog!

Article Contents 8 min read

List of medical internships for high school students (us).

Here are some of the top medical internships for high school students in the US. Keep in mind this list is far from exhaustive, and there may be a variety of opportunities available at each institution.

• University of Chicago Medicine Pre-College Programs
• University of Pennsylvania Penn Medicine Summer Program
• Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP)
• Stanford Clinical Anatomy Summer Program – Virtual and in-person
• Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego Medical Academy
• Harvard Medical School MEDscience Program
• Harvard Medical School Project Success for High School Students
• Boston Leadership Institute's Biomedical Research and Medical Programs
• UCSF Summer Student Research Program
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Internship Program
• Center for Disease Control (CDC) Museum Disease Detective Camp
• Indiana University Simon Cancer Center Summer Programs 
• High School Senior Summer Internship Program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
• Health Care Career Exploration Camp
• The Seacole Scholars Program
• Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA)
• Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine: Achieve in Medicine (AIM–High)
• Magee-Women’s Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program
• Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience High School Internship
• National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine & Healthcare
• KP Launch High School Internship
• Youth Health Service Corps
• Summer Child Health Research Internship
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Summer Internship in Biomedical Research
• Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program
• Medical College of Wisconsin Apprenticeship in Medicine (AIM)
• Georgetown University Summer Medical Academy
• Wake Forest University Summer Medical Immersion Program
• Cleveland Clinic Summer Internship Program
• Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Programs
• Salk Institute Heithoff-Brody High School Scholars Program
• National Human Genome Research Institute Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research
• The Wistar Institute High School Program in Biomedical Research
• J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) Internship Program
• Scripps Research High School Student Summer Internship Program
• University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program
• Washington University School of Medicine Young Scientist Program (YSP): Summer Focus
• TGEN Helios Scholars
• Forsyth Institute Student Scholars Summer Internship Program

Finding medical internships for high school students in Canada may be a bit challenging compared to some other countries due to the regulations and requirements in the Canadian healthcare system. However, there are still opportunities for high school students interested in gaining exposure to the healthcare field. Here are some options to consider:

• University of Toronto Youth Summer Program – Medicine (Med YSP)
• Focused Ultrasound High School Summer Research Program at the Sunnybrook Research Institute
• University of Alberta High School Youth Researcher Summer Program (HYRS)
• BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute High School Summer Research Program
• University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine Summer Studentship Program

There are many more places to look for summer programs for high school students , including:

Engaging in community service related to health and wellness can also be valuable. Consider initiatives like organizing health fairs, participating in fundraising events, or volunteering at seniors' homes. "}]">

Medical internships for high school students can cover a variety of different programs, from summertime programs to innovative camps to paid jobs.

Medical internships aim to introduce high school students to the field of healthcare and medicine, usually through research projects, seminars, shadowing, hands-on learning opportunities, team projects and even paid work.

What can medical internships do for me?

They can be an excellent way to introduce yourself to a career in medicine and help you decide whether you want to become a doctor, nurse, dentist, veterinarian or other type of healthcare provider. A medical internship, summer program or research program can give you a glimpse into the world of healthcare and deepen your understanding and interest in science and medicine. If you participate in a shadowing program, you can actually witness the day-to-day life of a healthcare practitioner such as a nurse or a doctor.

These can be eye-opening experiences for anyone thinking of applying to medical school, and it can confirm your decision to enter medicine as a career or allow you to explore alternative career paths you haven’t yet considered.

Not only this, but participating in a medical internship or summer program for high school students can help you stand out in a medical school application or be a nice bonus on your extracurriculars for college. Participation in a medical internship demonstrates you have a passion and curiosity for medicine, and that you’ve worked on developing the skills and mindset that will help you become a successful healthcare practitioner.

What opportunities do medical internships offer?

Medical internships for high school students come in many forms, but primarily they offer the opportunity to high school students to participate in premed research , shadow a doctor or healthcare professional, participate in hands-on learning simulations or work on group projects.

These are all invaluable experiences that can help you get into college and medical school. Research is important for medical school applicants, as it can help you stand out and show you have a strong passion for medicine, as well as essential skills required to succeed in medical school. Similarly, many medical schools require you to have at least some shadowing experience or clinical hours for medical school , and a medical internship can not only provide you with both, it can open doors to more extensive clinical experiences and premed jobs .

While a medical internship is not a guaranteed acceptance to medical school, it is a springboard you can use to build momentum. Exploring your interest in medicine during your high school years has a greater benefit than waiting until your undergraduate years to explore a career in medicine, as it can give you a head start.

What are the pros and cons of medical internships for high school students?

The pros of participating in a medical internship are numerous. They can help you decide whether healthcare is the career track for you, instill you will invaluable skills and personal growth, be an asset on your college and medical school applications, and prepare you for college-level learning.

Despite the many benefits of medical internships, there are some drawbacks. Some of these opportunities can be extremely expensive, costing thousands of dollars for you to participate in them. There may also be travel and accommodation costs included, depending on where the program is located or if you need to travel abroad to participate in-person.

Not all of these programs are available to all students, as some are restricted to applicants who are local and regional, or are only open to students from underrepresented communities. It’s important to check the eligibility criteria, cost and location of a program beforehand, so you can see if you qualify.

Here’s a summary of how to go from high school to medical school :

How to Apply for Medical Internships for High School Students

To apply to medical internships for high school students is usually quite straightforward. Most programs allow you to submit an application yourself online, so long as you meet the eligibility criteria and pay any registration fees.

Some medical internships are free to attend, but require a small registration fee, while others may have a cost to participate. Still others are actually true internships, meaning you are paid a stipend to cover your expenses or a salary as a working student.

The eligibility and application requirements for medical internships can vary depending on what they are and how competitive they are. Here are some common requirements you may need to prepare:

• Registration fee
• Must be a certain age
• Must be located in a specific geographical area (some programs only accept students from certain high schools, counties or cities)
• Must be from a minority or underrepresented community
• Unofficial transcripts or minimum GPA in specific high school courses
• Personal essay or cover letter
• High school resume
• Recommendation letter from a teacher or guidance counselor

Where to find opportunities for high school students

Aside from official internships and summer programs, there are many ways to find internships for high school students . Also check out some of the best companies for premeds to get a better idea of what resources are out there.

• Local Hospitals: Contact hospitals in your area and inquire about any internship or shadowing programs for high school students. Many hospitals offer such opportunities.
• Youth Volunteer Programs: Look for youth volunteer programs at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. While not always formal internships, volunteering can provide exposure to the healthcare field.
• Research Opportunities: Check if any local universities or research institutions offer research internships for high school students in medical or biomedical fields.
• Medical Associations: Some medical associations and organizations, like the American Medical Association (AMA) or local medical societies, may have outreach programs or resources for high school students interested in medicine.
• Medical Camps: Explore medical camps or workshops designed for high school students. These often include hands-on experiences and introductions to various medical specialties.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations like the American Red Cross or Doctors Without Borders may have opportunities for high school students to get involved in healthcare-related activities.
• Clinical Shadowing: Reach out to healthcare professionals in your community (doctors, nurses, dentists, etc.) and inquire about the possibility of shadowing them to gain insights into their daily work.
• Online Internships: Some organizations offer virtual medical internships or online courses related to healthcare and medicine. These can be a good option if in-person opportunities are limited.
• STEM Programs: Look for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs in your area, as they may include medical components or partnerships with healthcare institutions.
• Museums and Science Centers: Many large museums and science centers offer workshops, seminars and summer camps for high school students interested in science and medicine, including the American Museum of Natural History and the California Science Center.
• Local Health Departments: Contact your local health department to see if they have any programs or initiatives for high school students interested in public health or healthcare.
• Health Science Magnet Schools: If your high school offers a health science or biomedical magnet program, they may have connections with local healthcare institutions for internships.
• Scholarship Programs: Some scholarship programs for aspiring healthcare professionals may include internship components as part of the award.
• Community Colleges: Community colleges with allied health programs may offer opportunities for high school students to take introductory healthcare courses or participate in related activities.

Choosing the right medical internship for you can be tough when there are so many to choose from. You’ll need to do a bit of research to narrow down the list of potential programs you are eligible for and then make a list of programs that are of interest to you and will give you the best experience possible.

Consider the following things when researching medical internships for you:

All medical internships offer unique opportunities, but they may not immediately spark your interest. For example, a summer research internship may not be of interest to you, while a hands-on workshop might be more your style. Think about what the medical internship includes and what types of experiences it can offer you. Decide whether it is worth pursuing or if there is a program that better aligns with your interests. ","label":"Type of experience","title":"Type of experience"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

Medical internships can include summer programs for high school students interested in pursuing a career in medicine or healthcare, but they also include paid internships and other types of learning opportunities. Medical internships are designed to introduce high school students to the field of healthcare through observerships and shadowing, research projects, hands-on learning and workshops.

If you are interested in a career in healthcare, yes! Applying for a medical internship as a high school student is a great way to introduce yourself to a potential future career and explore your interest in medicine.

The requirements for a medical internship often include a registration fee or participation fee, plus an application. Applications usually include your academic record or GPA, an essay, a recommendation letter, a cover letter or a resume. 

Yes, completing a medical internship or participating in a summer program can be well worth it if you plan to apply to medical school or pursue a career in healthcare. Medical internships can give you valuable first experiences in medicine, fostering your passion for the field, and can be a great addition to your applications. They can also help you confirm whether medicine is the right career path for you and what your options are.

Some medical internships are very competitive and tough to get into because they are well-known and popular. They might receive hundreds or thousands of applications for a small number of spots. However, many medical internships have strict eligibility criteria which makes them tougher to get into. 

No, it is not necessary to complete a medical internship in high school to get accepted to medical school or any other professional program. Nor does completing one guarantee your acceptance to a program. However, an internship can be a good bonus to have on your application, it can help you develop important skills needed to succeed in medical school and provide you with a lasting learning experience.

What you do during a medical internship can vary depending on the program. Some allow you to participate in a research project or team project related to medicine, others are merely instructional. Some programs are observerships or shadowing opportunities where you are a passive observer only. Hands-on programs might give you a chance to work on simulated problems or work in a lab environment.

There are many medical internship opportunities out there. To find ones near you, reach out to local hospitals, medical schools or universities or community health organizations. There are also medical internships you can find through regional and national health organizations, nonprofits, and scientific organizations.

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Research Opportunities for High School Students

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research apprenticeships a valuable and rare commodity for high school students. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

College Transitions’ list of Research Opportunities for High School Students includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as a list of internships and apprenticeships that are indeed offered during the school year. For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, whether there is a residential component offered, the length of the program, any associated costs or—on the other end—stipends, when the application window opens and closes, and the eligibility criteria for participation. We hope that this collection of research opportunities leads to you/your teen finding the laboratory experience of their dreams.

To view additional data columns, click the + icon to the left of the program’s name

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Internship For High School Students

Discover intriguing medical internship options for high school students with our organization. Gain useful experience while also making a difference in your community. Examine a variety of opportunities, such as medical research assistants and community outreach coordinators. Apply now to begin your journey toward a successful career in healthcare.

Gain valuable experience in data management and analysis

Opportunity to work with a dynamic and passionate team

Flexible schedule to accommodate school commitments

Possibility for academic credit or community service hours

Internship openings for high school students

Outreach and recruitment intern.

New York, NY, USA

Remote Position

Writing and Editing Intern

Graphic design intern, research and development intern, community service intern, social media intern, program development intern, data analysis intern, data collection and entry intern.

We want to hear from you ...

We want to hear from you if you are a high school student who is passionate about making a difference in your community! We think that young minds have the potential to affect great change, and we are committed to giving you with the mentorship and platform you need to explore your ideas. We encourage you to join our team as an intern whether you have a project in mind that resonates with our vision or simply want to learn more about the pre-med sector and obtain useful experience. Our experienced volunteers will guide and support you as you work towards your goals, and we can't wait to see what you can accomplish! Don't hesitate to contact us and begin your road to make a difference today.

Introducing PolyPilot:

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Top 10 Medical Summer Research Opportunities for High School Students

By Jordan Ellington

Project Support Manager at Polygence

4 minute read

The field of medicine is a broad topic with wide-ranging specialities and young people with a curiosity for “medicine” may not know how broadly or narrowly they want to study it. A medical research program can help refine a student’s interest, providing focus and direction. Many students ask us where they can go to get hands-on with a medical research opportunity over the summer - you asked and we listened!

Here is a list of 10 Shortlisted Medicine Research Opportunities for High School students listed in order of application deadlines. If you’re searching for a virtual research opportunity, you can also consider doing a project through Polygence .

1) High School Senior Summer Internship Program

Hosting Institution : Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cost : paid internship: $13/hour; 20 hours/week

Format : In person (Cincinnati, OH)

Application deadline : January 31, 2023

This eight-week paid internship for Cincinnati-area 2023 graduating seniors is an opportunity to work closely with a mentor in one of multiple pediatric clinical specialties. This competitive program offers students an opportunity to learn more about careers in Medicine and Clinical Research.

Create a research project tailored to your interests and your schedule

Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in your area of passion. Together, you work to create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own. We also offer options to explore multiple topics, or to showcase your final product!

2) Summer Child Health Research Internship

Hosting Institution : University of Colorado Boulder

Cost : $3,500 stipend offered

Format : In person (Boulder, CO)

Application deadline : February 1, 2023

This is a paid internship for rising high school seniors. After a summer of hands-on experience, students will provide a 2-3 page written summary along with an oral summary of their research. Students and mentors will also be encouraged to produce abstracts for submission to local, regional and national meetings.

3) Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

Hosting Institution : The National Institutes of Health

Cost : None

Format : In person (Bethesda, MD) 

HS-SIP invites high-school juniors and seniors (17 years old) in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, area  to do biomedical research for eight weeks at the NIH offices, working alongside experts in the field. The program requires a two-month commitment and may provide a stipend. 

4) Rady Children's Medical Academy

Hosting Institution : Rady Children’s Hospital

Cost : $2,800

Format : In person (San Diego, CA)

Application deadline : February 24, 2023

These two-week sessions are designed for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare: physician assistant, nurse, and mental health. Designed for commuters with proximity to San Diego, these programs feature hands-on skills & interactive learning opportunities.

5) Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) 

Hosting Institution : Stanford University

Cost : $500-1,500 stipend is offered

Format : In person (Stanford, CA)

Application deadline : February 25, 2023

This eight-week program, occurring from June-August, brings together high school students from diverse backgrounds to perform basic research on a medically-oriented project. The program aims to increase interest in biological sciences and medicine in high school students, helping students to understand how scientific research is performed, and increasing diversity of students and researchers in the sciences.

Your Project Your Schedule - Your Admissions Edge!

Register to get paired with one of our expert mentors and to get started on exploring your passions today! And give yourself the edge you need to move forward!

6) CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp

Hosting Institution : CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Format : In person (Atlanta, GA) 

Application deadline : March 31, 2023

While topics vary year to year (i.e.: public health interventions, global health, infectious disease, chronic disease, injury prevention, data analysis, etc.) these one-week sessions are both fast paced and academically demanding. Participants are expected to fully immerse themselves, work together, and become a diverse team of disease detectives!

7) Georgetown Summer High School Science and Medical Program 

Hosting Institution : Georgetown University

Cost : $2,500-3,225

Format : In person (Washington, DC)

Application deadline : May 15, 2023

The 1-Week Medical Academy in June or July introduces students to the field of medicine. Participants explore topics ranging from human anatomy and physiology, to cancer and biomedical ethics. Learning occurs via hands-on labs, using a patient simulator, and focuses on current medical concerns like COVID-19, preventative medicine, heart disease, and HIV.

8) Medical Immersion Summer Academy (MISA)

Hosting Institution : Alameda Health Systems, Samuel Merritt University, and private clinicians

Cost : $1,400

Format : In person (Oakland, CA)

Application deadline : None

This 5-day program is designed to give pre-med high school students the opportunity for hands-on experience. MISA offers experiences in a variety of healthcare settings by partnering with local health institutions and clinicians.

9) Medicine Institute

Hosting Institution : Wake Forest University

Cost : $3,000

Format : In person (Winston-Salem, NC)

This week-long opportunity will help students gain a better understanding of what being a healthcare professional is really like. Offering hands-on experience in the medical field and insight into the many career opportunities available within the various disciplines of medicine, participants visit healthcare facilities in Winston-Salem, participate in simulations and labs, and learn basic skills like taking blood pressure and suturing.

10) AIM: Introduction to Medicine 

Hosting Institution : Boston University

Cost : $5,131 + room/board

Format : In person (Charles River, MA)

In this three-week program students explore a broad introduction to the field of medicine, combining coursework in related sciences with experiential learning activities and explorations of the various career possibilities that exist within the field.

Interested in a more customized medical research program for high school students? At Polygence, we offer students the opportunity to get 1:1 project mentorship from expert mentors and researchers. Students are in the driver’s seat of their education here, and whatever project you want to do, we will help you make it happen! 

Register now to get matched with one of our expert mentors.

Want to Learn More?

Join Polygence and do your own research project tailored towards your passions and guided by one of our expert mentors!

Department of Human Genetics section navigation

Nextgen high school internship program.

The Department of Human Genetics at Emory University recognizes that our differences make us stronger. To deliver the highest quality of care, we need a team with a wide variety of ethnic, cultural, and experiential backgrounds. That's why we're actively recruiting learners, faculty members and staff from underrepresented in medicine groups, to help us improve health outcomes for all members of the diverse community we serve.

Because there is a clear lack of underrepresented minorities (URM) at all stages of academic learning for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields*, we are proposing to address this gap by initiating a paid summer internship program for high school students in the metropolitan Atlanta area beginning in the summer of 2022. We believe that an earlier exposure to the diverse and exciting career possibilities that are available in the STEM field will begin to address this difference in representation.

As not all students will have been exposed to the same STEM background based on the schools they are attending, there will be multiple facets to the internship program to ensure that all students are able to achieve the learning objectives of the internship program. Students will attend lectures for general information, but they will also be paired with mentors to allow them to have hands on experience in both the lab and clinical setting. We will also utilize the diverse programs and businesses that are proximal to Emory University We believe that the rich and diverse culture of the Atlanta area will be an asset in our efforts to expose high school students to the myriad of opportunities that are available to them. We will also continue to have activities and programs throughout the school year for students to participate in.

Read more about the program here.

*National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine 2020. The Impacts of Racism and Bias on Black People Pursuing Careers in Science, Engineering, and Medicine: Proceedings of a Workshop . Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.

In this video essay, Randolph Douge describes his rich and varied summer experience as a 2023 NextGen Intern.

Requirements for Applying

Rising junior or senior in high school

Must be 16 years old by June 3, 2024

Must be from a historically underrepresented minority group

2024 NexGen Program

Important Dates and Information

Application Deadline is   February 16, 2024

Program Dates June 3 – July 10, 2024 Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

Students will be paid $2,500 for completing the program

For questions or more information contact NextGen

Application

You will need to complete the application  and submit a high school transcript and two letters of recommendation from teachers by February 16, 2024.

Program Sponsors 2023

The Schneider Foundation

The Warren Alpert Foundation

The Avantor Foundation

Contact NextGen to become a sponsor of the NextGen High School Internship Program.

Medical Internships for High School Students

Thinking about a future in medicine or a related field? Medical school is an exciting but rigorous path. If you enjoy working in the science field or helping others through medical care, this may be the right path for you. You also may want to consider attending one of the many high school medical internships to ensure this path is what you want.

As a high school student, you should consider applying for summer medical programs for high school students. Programs range from research-intensive (working in a lab, conducting trials, comparing data) to hands-on clinical experiences (learning to suture, taking vitals, diagnosing patients) and may highlight any number of different specialties.

Medical internships may even make great gap year ideas for high school students.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

They may be offered through a university, an area hospital or clinic, or a research organization, and may be open to local residents or students worldwide.

20 Medical Internships for High School Students

Medical summer programs for high school students are an excellent way for students to test the waters.

Here are 20 internships for medical field careers available for high school students.

Achieve In Medicine (AIM-High)

• Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship Program

Center for Disease Control (CDC) Museum Disease Detective Camp

Della keats health sciences summer program, health care career exploration camp, high school senior summer internship program at cincinnati children’s hospital, indiana university simon cancer center summer research program, kendall smith healthcare exploration summer program, lifespan summer youth employment program, magee-women’s research institute high school summer internship program, max planck florida institute for neuroscience (mpfi) summer research internship, medical immersion summer academy (misa), national student leadership conference on medicine & health care, nih high school summer internship program, penn medicine summer program for high school students, stanford medical youth science program, summer child health research internship, summer medical academy, the center of excellence high school summer enrichment science academy (hssesa), the seacole scholars program.

These programs allow medical opportunities for high school vs. college students to see if this field is something they want to pursue in college and eventually as a career. Research each one to find the program that best fits your needs.

Eligibility : High school students Must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 to be eligible for this program

Cost : $1200 (Day Camp) $1800 (Residential Camp)

Location : Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

The Achieve in Medicine program is a 5-day medical school program. Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine hosts this program and offers it to all high school students. The program allows students to gain hands-on experience alongside NSU medical students and staff.

Students can choose from a day camp or a residential camp. The residential camp is an on-site camp with dorm rooms for boarding while the day camp is a full day of instruction, events, and networking.

 Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship Program

Eligibility : High school juniors and seniors First and second-year college undergraduates Age 17 or older Must live in or attend school within northern California

Cost : No cost. Participants work 40 hours per week for 8 weeks. High school students are paid $1,500 in total.

Locations : University of California San Francisco (San Francisco, CA) Stanford University (Stanford, CA)

Over 8 weeks, you will receive hands-on experience learning about rheumatology and immunology, with a focus on arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. You may participate in either basic/bench laboratory research or patient outcomes-oriented research.

Eligibility: Must be a student entering junior or senior year Must be 16 or older

Cost: No cost

Location: CDC Headquarters (Atlanta, GA)

If you’re more interested in collecting and analyzing data than treating patients, this 5-day non-residential program may be for you.

While topics vary year to year, some examples include public health interventions, global health, infectious disease, chronic disease, injury prevention, data analysis, surveys, school wellness programs, violence prevention, environmental health, emergency preparedness, outbreaks, scientific communication, laboratory technology, disease surveillance, epidemiology, and public health law.

Expect a demanding but exciting experience, with re-created outbreaks, mock press conferences, a laboratory session, introductions to chronic disease surveillance and public health law, lectures from well-known CDC scientists, and more.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors Residents of Alaska Must meet one or more of the following criteria: come from an ethnic minority background, live in rural Alaska, be a first-generation American, be the first in your family to go to college, speak English as a second language, be economically disadvantaged

Cost: No cost. Participants receive a small stipend to help cover food and expenses.

Location: University of Alaska Anchorage School of Medical Education (Anchorage, AK)

This 4-week residential program is designed to foster, affirm and encourage your interest in the medical field. During your time at the University of Alaska campus, you will explore different healthcare professions and get a taste of college life.

Eligibility: High school sophomore, junior or senior Residents of Nebraska and Iowa

Cost: No cost.

Locations: CHI Health Immanuel (Omaha, NE) CHI Health Lakeside(Omaha, NE) CHI Health, Good Samaritan (Kearney, NE) CHI Health, St. Francis (Grand Island, NE) CHI Health, St. Elizabeth & Nebraska Heart (Lincoln, NE)

These week-long day camps provide a close-up look at a variety of healthcare careers. You will learn from experts in fields including but not limited to: athletic training, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, radiation therapy, and respiratory care.

Eligibility: High school senior Graduating from Cincinnati metropolitan area high school

Cost : No cost. Participants work 20 hours per week, and are paid up to $1328.

Location : Cincinnati, OH

If you’re a senior about to graduate from a Cincinnati area high school, you have the opportunity to design an 8-week non-residential internship to fit your interests in pediatric medicine.

Choose which specialty and faculty member you would like to work with and whether you’d like to focus on clinical shadowing, research, or a combination of both. Your experience will be completely unique, but you will meet with program peers weekly for some hands-on training with computerized simulated pediatric patients, a tour of the Radiology Department, and a presentation.

Eligibility: Students who have completed their junior year Must have GPA of 3.0 or higher Must display an aptitude for science and math

Cost: No cost. Participants work 40 hours per week for 8 weeks and receive a stipend (amount varies).

Location: Indiana University Cancer Center (Indianapolis, IN)

This 8-week non-residential summer program is designed to expose students from underrepresented populations to biomedicine and behavioral science and encourage them to pursue careers in these fields.

You will interact with and learn from other students and faculty while conducting laboratory-based research, computer-based database research, and clinical research. You will also attend workshops to learn about professional development. At the end of the program, you will present your work.

Eligibility: High school junior or graduating senior

Cost: No cost. A limited number of scholarships are available.

Location: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital (Park Ridge, IL)

You will spend 5 weeks learning about various healthcare careers, and immersed in learning in the hospital area of your choice, including the ambulatory surgery center, adult nursing unit, adult or pediatric physical therapy, and administrative office. At the end of the residential program, you will give a presentation about your experience. This is one of the various hospital internships for high school students.

Eligibility: Ages 16-18 Residents of Providence, Mount Hope, and Newport

Cost: No cost. Participants work 24 hours per week for 7-8 weeks and earn $8.10 per hour.

Location: Lifespan Health System (Providence, RI)

More than 80 Lifespan youth employees are given the opportunity to explore a variety of healthcare careers and network with industry professionals.

During the 8-week non-residential paid program, you may be placed in departments such as radiology, physical therapy, cardiology, nursing, respiratory care, and more. You will gain personal and professional experience, and perhaps even permanent employment.

Eligibility : Junior or Senior in high school All applicants must have permanent/primary residence in the local southwest Pennsylvania region Students under the age of 18 who are selected for the program will be required to obtain a work permit

Cost : No cost.

Location : Magee-Women’s Research Institute (Pittsburgh, PA)

Magee-Women’s Research Institute High School Summer Internship Program gives high school students the opportunity to participate in basic, translational, or clinical scientific research. During the 4-week program (160 total hours) you will work on your own research project under the guidance of the staff at MWRI or Magee-Women’s Hospital.

Eligibility: Applicants must be entering their junior or senior years in a Palm Beach or Martin County high school in the Fall of 2024. Applicants must be 16 years of age or older by the start date of the summer internship. Applicants must be available to work full-time and legally authorized to work in the United States

Location: Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) (Jupiter, FL)

This is a 6-week internship designed for juniors and seniors who are interested in neuroscience. This includes brain structure, function and development, and advanced imaging techniques, and the various technologies used in neuroscience. You will also conduct research in the laboratory, gaining hands-on experience in various categories.

Keep in mind that students are expected to work full-time but are also compensated at a rate of $11.50/hour.

Eligibility: Age 15 or older Grades 9-12

Location: Oakland, CA

MISA offers 5 days of hands-on skills training, mentorship, and clinical immersion. You will be introduced to medical research and step into the shoes of MD workshops.

Through the simulation lab, you will gain hands-on training of medical techniques and procedures including EKG, suturing, CPR, splinting, and taking vitals. Though the program is non-residential, you will interact daily with medical experts and leaders and have the opportunity to shadow them in a busy urban hospital and area clinics.

Eligibility: Ages 14-18 Must have completed at least one year of high school

Cost: $3095-3395 (depending on location) Scholarships are available

Locations: American University (Washington DC) Georgia Tech (Atlanta, GA) Harvard Medical School (Boston, MA) Northwestern University (Chicago, IL) Rice University (Houston, TX) University of California, Berkley (San Francisco, CA) University of California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) University of Washington (Seattle, WA) Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN)

This 9-day residential summer program will give you a glimpse of all aspects of the medical field. Interactive lectures and small group workshops will focus on leadership topics such as personality styles and group dynamics, conflict resolution, public speaking, and ethical decision-making.

You will participate in clinical rounds, gaining hands-on experience in suturing, testing vital signs, tying surgical knots, and identifying cranial nerves. You will work with a team to research a controversial health issue and brainstorm interventions, then put that knowledge to the test by diagnosing and treating patients in an outbreak simulation exercise.

Guest speakers include top researchers in the medical community. Off-campus you will get a behind-the-scenes look at prominent sites around the city, with tours specifically tailored to the area of medicine.

Eligibility: Must be 17 years old or older by June 15, 2024 Must be a high school junior or senior at the time of application, Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Location: National Institute of Health (NIH) (Bethesda, MD)

This internship allows students to work with some of the world’s leading biomedical research scientists. Internships last 8 weeks wherein students will join in on activities like lectures from NIH investigators, career and professional development workshops, and seminars for college preparedness.

The internship’s stipend varies yearly and depends on the level of education completed before beginning the internship.

Eligibility: Ages 16-18 Grades 11-12

Cost: $7925

Location : University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)

Students will spend 4 weeks at the University of Pennsylvania, learning all things medicine. Join in interactive lectures and labs on topics such as transplant surgery, emergency medicine, cancer, resuscitation science, kidney disease, and sports medicine.

Try your hand at suturing, drawing blood, and minimally invasive surgical techniques at Penn’s Clinical Simulation Center. You will even have an opportunity to dissect an eye and a brain! Weeknights may be spent at scheduled activities both on and off campus, and on weekends you can choose from a variety of trips to regional destinations like New York City and Washington DC.

Eligibility: Residents of northern and central California (specified counties) Low-income and/or underrepresented minority students High school sophomores and juniors B average in science classes

Location: Stanford University (Stanford, CA)

Low-income and underrepresented groups will be introduced to health-related career opportunities and undergraduate life at Stanford University during this 5-week residential program. You will participate in laboratory workshops, attend lectures by university professors and medical professionals, and work in the hospital.

The program’s mentoring and team approach to learning will be apparent throughout, with leadership workshops that focus on networking, public speaking, and multicultural issues. You will also receive college admission counseling and guidance in essay and resume writing.

On campus, ten Stanford undergraduates will direct the program and live in residence housing with participants. Each Sunday there will be time scheduled for family visits.

Eligibility: Rising senior in high school, undergraduate, graduate, or first-year medical student

Cost: No cost. Each student will receive $3500 to assist with travel and housing costs.

Location: Children’s Hospital Colorado/University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (Aurora, CO)

Students will spend 9 weeks researching and learning all about child health. You will have the opportunity to choose your mentor from a long list of highly respected faculty in the Department of Pediatrics at Children’s Hospital Colorado, with varied interests and areas of expertise such as stem cell biology, neuroscience, nutrition, hematology, gastroenterology, neonatology, and more.

At the conclusion of the program, you will provide a written summary and presentation of your research experience.

Eligibility: Ages 15-19 Consideration is given to geographic proximity to San Diego

Cost: $1975

Location: Rady Children’s Hospital and University of California San Diego (San Diego, CA)

This 2-week non-residential program is designed to inspire students with an interest in healthcare to become caring, insightful health professionals. Through lectures, interactive discussions, hands-on skills clinics, group projects, career panels, and team building and networking activities, you will reflect on your motivation for pursuing a career in the medical field and identify a specific area of interest.

You may also consider the condensed Weekend Medical Academy in which you will focus on a timely healthcare topic or career field. For example, 2018’s programs highlighted mental health and nursing.

Eligibility: Students entering their junior or senior years Must be in a college preparatory curriculum Must have taken and passed biology or chemistry, a mathematics course, and two English courses with a C or better Must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher

Location: Howard University College of Pharmacy (Washington DC)

This 6-week residential program is aimed at encouraging underrepresented minority students to pursue careers in pharmacy or other health professions.

You will learn about the expectations within these fields, sample some of the required courses including biology, chemistry, medical terminology, mathematics, and computer science, and gain career exposure in clinical settings.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday will be spent in classes, and Tuesday and Thursday will be spent at clinic hospital sites. Weeknights and weekends will be spent in scheduled tutorials, workshops, and excursions.

Eligibility : Must be between the ages of 16 to 19 Must possess a valid CNA license.

Cost : Free

Location : Rhode Island Hospital  (Providence, RI)

This is a 7-week paid summer internship where accepted students work on nursing units for 4 days of the week and then 1 day will be spent attending Lifespan Workforce and Youth Development training.

A perk of this program is that it offers career counseling after graduation, which can help you make connections and find employment.

How to Know if a Medical Career is Right for Me

Whether a career in medicine is a good choice for you or not is a very personal decision. While most physicians choose a career path in order to help people through science and healthcare, it is not always for everyone.

Some things to consider when deciding on a medical career path include:

• Commitment : Careers within the medical field require a huge commitment to your patients.
• Education : The medical field is always evolving and requires you to stay up to date with new information.
• Collaboration : Physicians must be able to work in a team atmosphere.
• Flexibility : Most medical jobs are in demand and require physicians and other medical professionals to work a set schedule.

Once you have a medical career path in mind, it may be a good idea to shadow a professional in that specific career. This will give you a glimpse into what to expect.

Pros and Cons of Medical Internship Programs for High School Students

Medical programs for high school students can be a great learning opportunity and overall experience. However, they are not without some drawbacks. It’s important to understand both the pros and cons of choosing a program for you.

Medical programs offer a lot of great opportunities, so let’s take a look at the pros.

• You will get a real-life look at what it’s like to work in the medical field. This will give you a good feel if this is the right path for you.
• You will meet like-minded students who share the same passion as you do for science or medicine.
• These programs look good on college applications that show your commitment to the medical field
• You can earn money toward your college education with a paid internship.

Now that you know some of the pros, it’s always important to also consider the cons.

While these medical programs can be a great learning experience, they do not come without some drawbacks that you should consider as well.

• Medical programs can be expensive. Make sure you do your research as to the cost of each program and what is included. Most programs do not offer housing and that would be an added expense.
• Summer medical internships for high school students are extremely competitive
• Some programs are more research-based rather than hands-on. Depending on your career path, this may not be a good fit for you.

Be sure to research the program that best suits your needs. Consider all of the pros and cons, and make sure your application is complete and submitted prior to the deadline.

Choosing a Medical Internship Program

When you are working toward a medical career, choosing the right medical internship program can be really important. But, how do you know which program is right for you? Consider these points:

• Interest : What is your main interest in the medical field? Consider if you are looking into a more research-based career or a patient-care career. Some programs are based solely on research while others are set in a hospital and offer shadowing and hands-on experiences.
• Cost : Medical programs can be expensive. It’s important to have a budget in mind when making your choice. Remember to consider living expenses and housing as well. You can also look for an all-expenses-paid program or a program that offers a stipend or pay for students.
• Time : Some medical programs require a large time commitment. It’s important to know how much time you can devote to your summer program. Do you want to spend full-time hours shadowing or researching, or would you rather spend a few hours per week? The more intensive experiences will require a larger time commitment.

It’s important to do your research before making a decision. Check out the various requirements of each program, costs, what you’ll learn, and what is expected of you. This can help narrow down your choices and choose the right program for you.

How Long Are Medical Internships for High School Students?

Medical internship programs for high school students typically take anywhere from 5 days to 12 weeks. The length of a medical internship is really dependent on what will be covered throughout the internship.

Shorter programs, like the Disease Detective Camp, hosted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC, is a 5-day camp where students learn about the various components of public health. However, longer programs, like the NEI Summer Intern Program, hosted by the National Eye Institution range from 8 to 12 weeks. In this program, students engage in a long-term research study.

The longer programs typically offer more hands-on experience and learning opportunities, however, the shorter programs give students an educational experience and insight into their chosen career path.

How Does an Internship Impact Your Chances in College?

When you should start thinking about college comes sooner than you may think and colleges look for extracurriculars that showcase your passion for your chosen path and your overall commitment to the program. While attending a medical program does not guarantee you admittance into college, it does show that you are serious about your career and education.

Colleges receive many applications, and many of those applicants have great overall grades, so a great way to stand out is by adding extracurriculars, like a medical program, to your application. Many medical programs and internships for high school students are highly competitive. If you’re accepted into one of those programs, it may help colleges see your potential.

A medical program is a great step toward your career path. It allows you to gain some hands-on experience and see what it is like working in the medical field.

Acceptance into a medical summer internships for high school students also shows prospective colleges that you are committed and stand out among the pack. This can be a great asset as you start applying to very competitive college programs.

Whether you are looking for a research-based medical career or one that is more focused on patient care, there are plenty of medical programs and internships for high school students. Get started today researching the various programs and choose one that is right for you! It’s never too early to start thinking about your future.

Elizabeth is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Foreign Policy and earned her master's degree in business administration. For her undergraduate studies, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in international business. Elizabeth's research is focused on universities offering online degree programs.

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Student internships.

Research Institute

Phoenix Children's Research Institute (PCRI) Research Internship Program gives qualified students the opportunity to participate in research at Phoenix Children's to concurrently support PCRI’s research objectives and the student(s) academic pursuits. This program is designed for students who are interested in a career in research, patient care or medicine. Students will participate in a research project under the directorship of a research mentor and/or directly observe clinical patient care while spending time with researchers and physicians.

For High School Students

Highlighted program.

Northwestern Medicine Scholars Program Inspires a New Generation of Physicians and Scientists

This online course, subtitled "Your Future Job in Medicine and Healthcare," offers insight into healthcare career options and strategies for entering the workforce.

Chicago Youth Programs

Chicago Youth Programs was founded in 1984 by Northwestern University Medical Students to improve the health and life opportunities of at-risk youth. CYP uses a comprehensive approach aimed at developing their capabilities by providing tutoring, enrichment programs and healthcare to children from birth to young adulthood.

CPS Career & Technical Education Summer Program

This summer internship is offered in partnership with NM's Pharmacy and IT departments.

Cristo Rey High School Corporate Work Study Program

Through this program, high school students receive tuition assistance and work experience at NM.

Discovering Healthcare Careers (DHC)

This six-week summer internship at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago is for Hispanic/Latinx and African-American/Black high school studentswho are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare.

EMPOWER (Encouraging Mentoring & Preparing on Workforce Education Readiness)

This six-week paid internship for young adults with minor or chronic disabilities places students in non-clinical entry-level positions.

Health Professions Recruitment & Exposure Program

Known as HPREP, this six-week educational and exposure program gives high school students of diverse backgrounds from the Chicago area firsthand exposure to the medical school curriculum, career options in healthcare, tools for academic success and opportunities to interact with healthcare professionals.

Huntley & McHenry East and West High School Residency Program

More than 20 departments at NM host students from these high schools for learning opportunities.

Kimberly Querrey Summer Research Program

This six-week paid internship is designed for students who plan to pursue degrees in biological science and combines intensive research training with support for their academic and professional development.

Junior Mentoring Educational Development (M.E.D.)

Junior M.E.D. is an 11-week program for ITW Speer Academy students to gain experience within a department at Lurie Children's.

NM Discovery Program

This program from Northwestern Medicine exposes high school students to a broad range of healthcare careers through activities such as tours, guest speakers, group discussions and hands-on projects.

NM Scholars

The Northwestern Medicine Scholars Program enables outstanding high school students at Westinghouse College Prep to explore and be better prepared for potential careers in medicine as future physicians and biomedical scientists.

One Summer Chicago

Lurie Children's partners with the mayor's One Summer Chicago to provide paid internship opportunities in six-week, non-clinical, entry-level positions. This program is in partnership with Chicago Public Schools Career and Technical Education.

PRISM Outreach Program

Promoting Inner-City Youth in Science and Medicine (PRISM), in collaboration with the Pedersen-McCormick Boys & Girls Club, encourages inner-city youth to explore science and medicine career opportunities through mentor-guided, interactive educational opportunities and activities. It was started by Northwestern University Medical Scientist Training Program students.

Project Search

Multiple NM clinical sites participate in this program, which prepares young people with significant disabilities for success in competitive integrated employment.

Radiology Internship Program

During this eight-week program, prospective radiology professionals will be exposed to multiple roles within the field. Successful participants will be offered a role at NM while they pursue their degree.

  careers( at )nm.org

SciHigh Summer Program

Led by NU GoKidney, the SciHigh Summer Program is an eight-week, immersive enrichment program for Trinity High School students that aims to leave trainees with the skills and confidence to achieve success in science and kidney research.

Esmeralda Liz, NUGoKidney Program Assistant

  esmeralda( at )northwestern.edu

Shades for the Future

This program engages high school freshmen and sophomores in a 6-week virtual learning series featuring healthcare professional speakers, mental health sessions and workforce development workshops.

SQE Inspire

This program from the Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics exposes students to STEM through field trips, science teacher development/continuing education, internships, workshops and other outreach opportunities.

Year Up is an intensive skills-training program for underserved young adults.The first Year Up Chicago cohort working within Feinberg’s Research Administration recently completed the program.

• Jun 5, 2023

Medical Internships For High School Students

Hey there, high schoolers with a passion for medicine! Ever dreamt of wearing that white coat and saving lives like your favorite TV doctors? Well, guess what? A medical internship designed just for high school students can bring you one step closer to your dreams.

5 Medical Internships For High School Students:

1. Summer Child Health Research Internship

Application Deadline: February 1

Duration: Nine weeks (June through August)

Description: Attention to all interested in a medical internship for high school students, undergraduates, and first-year medical students! Prepare for an incredible opportunity to delve into the world of child healthcare research. This prestigious medical internship invites you to work alongside brilliant faculty members from the Department of Pediatrics at Children's Hospital Colorado and the University of Colorado on the Anschutz Medical Campus.

As the program concludes, you'll showcase your research prowess through a written summary and an engaging presentation. Plus, high school participants who reside in Colorado will receive a generous $3,500 stipend. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

2. Georgetown Medical Research Internship

Application Deadline: On rolling

Duration: 4 weeks

Description: For any high schooler interested in a future in STEM, medical research, pharmaceuticals, or medical school, this course is tailored just for you. In the world of medicine, every breakthrough vaccine, drug, and treatment relies on solid evidence-based research. If you've ever wondered how medical researchers find answers to critical questions like "Will this cancer therapy work?", this course is your chance to unravel the process. Get ready to dive into the world of formulating, conducting, and evaluating research evidence. With hands-on experience, you'll develop your very own study using professional methods. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity!

3. Cincinnati Children's Internship

Description: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center is an eight-week program in which graduating high school seniors work 20 hours per week with a mentor in one of multiple pediatric clinical specialties. This internship is a paid, part-time position for Cincinnati-area graduating high school seniors only. The program is very competitive, offering an exciting opportunity for highly motivated students interested in pursuing higher education (MD, PhD, or MD / PhD) to learn more about careers in Medicine and Clinical Research.

4. Seattle Children's Research Program

Application deadline: Open for summer 2024 Duration: 3 weeks

Description: Seattle Children’s Research Institute is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, physicians and healthcare workers. During the summer, our Science Education Department offers high school students the opportunity to learn more about biomedical research.

5. Medical Assistant Trainee (CMA)

Application deadline: On Rolling Duration: Full time position

Description: The UVA Earn While You Learn Trainee Program provides structured coursework and paid on-the-job-training as a full-time, benefitted employee. Certified Medical Assistants perform a variety of patient care and administrative support functions under the supervision of

Medical Center professionals in an ambulatory or outpatient setting.

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