10 Best Data Science Internships for High School Students

Are you fascinated by the potential of data to solve real-life problems? If so, data science might be the perfect field for you! It combines statistics, computer science, and creativity to extract meaningful insights from data. The data science field is booming, and there’s no better time than now to get started.

The good news is that you don’t have to wait until college to get started. This blog shares the top 10 data science internships for high school students. These data science internships offer you a chance to learn from professionals, contribute to advanced projects, and jumpstart your journey in this progressive field.

Benefits of Data Science Internships for High School Students

The data science internships for high school students are a chance to explore, learn, and build a strong foundation for the future.

• Early exposure: Internships provide a glimpse into the real world of data science. Students get to see how data is used in businesses, organizations, and research institutions. This can solidify their interest or help them discover a different path.

• Hands-on learning: In classrooms, data science is often theoretical. Internships allow students to apply what they’ve learned to solve real problems. They can work with datasets, learn programming languages like Python, and gain experience with data analysis tools.

• Skill development: Data science internships go beyond technical skills. Students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. They also learn communication and collaboration skills as they work with mentors and colleagues.

• Industry insight: Internships expose students to different industries that leverage data science. This can help them discover areas of interest, like healthcare, finance, or marketing, for future studies or careers.

• A head start: Internships on a resume show initiative and interest in the field. This can be a major advantage when applying for college programs or future data science jobs.

The 10 Best Data Science Internships for High School Students

1. Yocket High School Summer Internship

The Yocket High School Summer Internship offers an intensive 4-week virtual program designed to prepare you for success in data science. You’ll gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects like artificial intelligence or machine learning. Our expert mentors will guide you every step of the way, from project completion to crafting a stellar college application.

This program goes beyond just skill development. Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments, an official letter of recommendation, and a director-signed certificate will solidify your academic profile and impress potential employers. With limited spots for only 50 students and scholarship applications closing soon, don’t miss this chance to join a global network of ambitious students and take the first step toward your future.

2. Code Connects Summer Research Program (with Columbia University)

The Code Connects Summer Research Program at Columbia University is a 5-week virtual program. It offers rising sophomores and recent high school graduates the chance to develop in-demand data science skills and gain firsthand research experience alongside Ph.D. researchers.

The program is divided into two parts. The first two weeks provide intensive training in the fundamentals of data science, including coding in R, data visualization, cleaning, and analysis. Provided with these tools, students then transition to the program’s highlight: working as research assistants on real-world projects with Columbia faculty.

Here, you’ll put your newfound skills to the test and potentially contribute to research that could be published in academic journals. This program offers an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, strengthen your college applications, and build a competitive skill set for the future.

3. Columbia’s Pre-College Program (Data Science Track)

Columbia University offers a summer program titled “Big Data, Machine Learning, and Their Real-World Applications” for high school students. You’ll learn about the advancements in data, cloud computing, and machine learning and how they’re transforming various industries. The program teaches the strategic use of data and innovative technologies to gain business insights.

You’ll be introduced to data analytics tools, gain programming experience, and learn to manipulate, visualize, and analyze data. By the end, you’ll have a strong foundation in data-driven problem-solving, be comfortable working with data, and even implement machine learning techniques to develop solutions.

4. Quinnipiac University’s Data Science Summer Camp

Quinnipiac University’s Data Science Summer Camp is a two-week program designed to introduce high school students to data science. Led by experienced Quinnipiac faculty, the camp offers a comprehensive exploration of the field. Students will gain a foundational understanding of big data, data science theory, and methodology. Through hands-on projects, they’ll learn to analyze datasets, uncover patterns, and solve problems.

The program also exposes participants to diverse career possibilities and shows how data science is used across various industries. With residential and commuter options available, this program offers an opportunity for students to explore their passion for data and problem-solving.

5. Stanford University’s Introduction to Data Science

Stanford University’s Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes is a 2-week virtual program. It provides high school students with the foundational skills to solve real-world challenges using data. You’ll work on real-world datasets from the natural and social sciences, using them to answer questions that resonate with your interests.

Stanford’s program integrates R programming exercises throughout the course. This allows you to apply machine learning concepts and develop a strong technical skill set. By the end, you’ll be able to approach any dataset with a scientific mindset and strong coding abilities. This highly selective program is open to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who have completed AP Statistics or a computer science course.

6. Syracuse University’s Data Visualization and Analysis Course

Syracuse University offers a data visualization and analysis course in the summer. This hands-on program will provide you with the skills to transform raw data into impactful visuals.

You’ll work on the entire data lifecycle, learning how data is collected, assessed for quality, and cleaned for analysis. The course will leverage popular tools like Microsoft Excel and Tableau while also exploring design principles for effective dashboards and the science behind choosing the right charts for your data.

By the end of the program, you’ll be able to confidently approach an unknown dataset, understand how to visually explore and clean the data, and leverage basic statistics to extract insights. You’ll also gain the skills to present your findings effectively and make informed decisions quickly. The program combines lectures with interactive group activities and labs to solidify your learning. This intensive program runs on the Syracuse University campus in NY. It’s open to rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent graduates.

7. The University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute Summer Lab

The University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute’s (DSI) Summer Lab is a 10-week program. It is open to high school and undergraduate students and offers a paid research experience focused on applying data science across various disciplines. You’ll be paired with a mentor who will guide you through research methodologies, practices, and teamwork.

The program provides you with fundamental data science skills and specialized training in your chosen domain, like climate and energy policy or computer science. Throughout the summer, you’ll work on a research project culminating in a final video presentation. This professional conference-style setting allows you to show your findings, interact with peers, and get feedback on your work.

8. University of Washington’s A14ALL

The University of Washington’s A14ALL is a free, virtual 2-week introductory course designed to provide students from underrepresented backgrounds with the foundational knowledge of data science and artificial intelligence. This program is perfect for both STEM and non-STEM majors, with a focus on the interdisciplinary applications of this field and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

A14ALL fosters dialogue and learning in small groups through a disability studies lens to explore questions of bias and fairness in AI development. However, it’s important to note that the application deadline is typically around April 15th and the program dates are tentatively set for August 8th–28th, so be sure to check the University of Washington’s Taskar Center for Accessible Technology website for the most up-to-date information.

9. Veritas AI programs

Veritas AI offers a variety of artificial intelligence programs designed specifically for high school students. These programs range from collaborative learning in small groups to individualized project development with one-on-one mentorship from Harvard graduate students and alumni.

The AI Fellowship program allows students to dig even deeper, working alongside Ph.D.s from top universities on their research projects that bridge data science and AI. Past projects have worked on topics like AI in finance and medicine, educational software development, and even the applications of computer science in gaming.

All Veritas AI programs are virtual and run in cohorts throughout the year, with financial aid available for those who qualify. While the AI Scholars program (a 10-week boot camp) has open enrollment, the AI Fellowship (12–15 weeks with 1-on-1 mentorship) is moderately selective.

10. Wharton Global Youth’s Data Science Academy

The Wharton Global Youth Program’s Data Science Academy is an intensive summer program held on the Wharton campus in Philadelphia. It is designed for high school students with a strong background in math, coding, and data analysis (prior statistics knowledge is a plus).

Led by Wharton undergraduate and graduate teaching assistants, you’ll gain hands-on experience with essential data science techniques like data visualization and wrangling while also being introduced to advanced machine learning methodologies that are crucial in today’s AI scenario.

You’ll then apply these learnings to a final project that you’ll present to your peers, giving you a chance to show off your newfound skills. Financial aid is available for qualified students, and applications are reviewed selectively.

From the Desk of Yocket

Data science internships for high school students are an incredible way to jumpstart an interest in this rapidly growing field. These programs provide a blend of learning and doing. Students like you gain exposure to the foundational skills and tools used by data scientists, like programming and data analysis.

But more importantly, internships allow high school students to see how data science is applied in real-world settings. This hands-on experience can solidify a passion for the field and guide future academic and career choices. With strong foundational knowledge gained through internships, high school students are better prepared for college-level data science programs and internships, which gives them a significant head start in this competitive field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a data science internship?

A data science internship is a temporary position where you gain hands-on experience in the field of data science. You’ll work alongside professionals to collect, clean, analyze, and visualize data to uncover insights and solve problems.

Are there data science internships for high school students?

Absolutely! While less common than college-level internships, some companies and research institutions offer programs specifically designed for high school students. These internships might be shorter in duration but they can provide valuable hands-on experience.

 What skills do I need to be a competitive applicant?

Advanced degrees aren’t required. However, building a foundation in math, statistics, and programming languages like Python will make you stand out. Additionally, data analysis skills and a passion for exploring information are valuable assets.

What can I expect to do in a data science internship?

Tasks may vary, but you could assist with data collection, cleaning, and visualization. You might help develop presentations or reports based on data analysis. Some internships might even involve working on smaller, mentored data science projects.

I don’t have any experience in data science, how can I prepare for an internship?

There are many online resources to learn the basics of data science. Take online courses, participate in MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), or code bootcamps. Look for volunteer opportunities that involve data analysis or research.