Passionate about the humanities, social sciences, or creative fields? These top summer programs offer immersive experiences in economics, journalism, law, politics, and more. Below are the 10 best arts and humanities programs for high school students.
For students interested in research in the arts and humanities, be sure to check out the MehtA+ Humanities Research Mentorship program. For a personalized list of opportunities in the arts and humanities and support with applications, check out the MehtA+ Admissions Consulting Program.
1. Foundation for Teaching Economics (FTE) – Economics for Leaders
Type: Summer Program
Age: Students who are currently in their sophomore or junior year of high school
Timeline: Varies
Location: Varies
Cost: In-person: $2,300; Virtual: $800
The Economics for Leaders program is a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, designed to deepen your understanding of economic principles in a real-world context. Through the use of simulations, the program offers experiential learning opportunities that bring economic theories to life, demonstrating their reliability and relevance in everyday scenarios. These simulations are not just educational but also engaging, allowing studnets to experience firsthand the dynamics of economic decision-making. Additionally, the program is led by outstanding economics instructors who are committed to fostering critical thinking about complex social problems. They encourage students to examine current national and international issues, promoting discussions that are not only intellectually stimulating but also pertinent to understanding the global economic landscape.
2. Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop
Type: Summer Program
Age: Rising 10th-12th graders
Timeline: Varies
Location: Online and in-person at Kenyon College
Cost: Tuition based
The Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop is one of the most respected creative writing programs for high school students. Hosted by Kenyon College, the program immerses students in an intensive, college‑level writing environment. Participants explore a variety of genres through workshops and writing exercises.
3. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)
Type: Summer Program
Age: High school sophomores and juniors. Participants must be at least age 15 and no older than age 18 at the start of the program (June 22)
Timeline: June 22, 2025 – July 26, 2025
Location: Cornell University, University of Maryland, and University of Michigan
Cost: Free
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a remarkable opportunity for you if you are a sophomore or junior who is passionate about the humanities. This prestigious program, completely free of charge, offers a six-week summer educational experience that goes far beyond the typical classroom setting. The program’s philosophy centers around fostering critical thinking and building a strong, democratic community among its attendees. Telluride Association covers all associated costs, including tuition, books, room and board, field trips, and facilities fees, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder talented students from benefiting from this enriching experience. TASS not only provides students with an academic challenge but also surrounds them with a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
4. Princeton Summer Journalism Program
Type: Summer Program
Age: Juniors in high school at the time of application
Timeline: Multi-week hybrid summer intensive beginning with online workshops in July and culminating in a 10-day residential experience on Princeton’s campus in early August
Location: Online and in-person at Princeton University
Cost: Free
The Princeton Summer Journalism Program is a great way for you to dive into the world of journalism, blending online workshops, lectures, and a residential institute to provide a multifaceted learning opportunity. Throughout the month of July, students engage in online sessions with distinguished journalists from across the country, immersing themselves in the intricacies of the field. These workshops not only cover essential journalistic skills but also include discussions on current events, ensuring that students stay informed about the ever-evolving landscape of news and media.
5. Anson L. Clark Scholar Program
Type: Summer Program
Age: Applicants must be at least 17 years of age by the program start date, and should graduate in this or next year. International students are eligible.
Timeline: June 22, 2025 to August 7, 2025
Location: Texas Tech University
Cost: Free
The Anson L. Clark Scholar Program is a highly selective and enriching opportunity for you if you have a deep interest in the humanities. This intensive seven-week summer research program, designed for twelve highly qualified students, offers a chance for students to immerse themselves in advanced research. History and economics are two of the key research areas students can explore, allowing them to delve into topics that resonate with their academic interests. Students will engage in independent research under the guidance of expert mentors, gaining valuable experience in academic inquiry and research methodology. This program is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a journey into the depths of historical events and economic theories, where students can contribute their own insights and perspectives.
6. Bank of America Student Leaders Program
Type: Summer Program/Internship
Age: Current high school juniors and seniors
Timeline: 8 weeks (June – August)
Location: Washington DC
Cost: Free, includes paid hourly stipend
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a great opportunity for you if you have an interest in the humanities and community service. This program provides more than just an educational experience; it offers a practical, hands-on approach to learning about social issues and leadership. Students will be engaged in a paid eight-week internship with notable nonprofits such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Habitat for Humanity. This experience allows students to contribute meaningfully to community projects while gaining real-world insights into how nonprofit organizations operate.
7. The Concord Review History Camp
Type: Research Program
Age: High school students
Timeline: 2 weeks
Location: Various Locations and Online
Cost: $2,000
The Concord Review History Camp are intensive online and in-person workshops in which high school students learn and practice a toolbox of skills for researching and writing history. With the guidance of experienced instructors, they learn and practice fundamentals of the craft needed to complete a historical research paper, a long-term project that takes upwards of two to six months.
8. USC Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement
Type: Summer Program
Age: Students must reside and attend high school in Los Angeles County
Timeline: 5 weeks
Location: University of Southern California Campus
Cost: Free
The University of Southern California’s Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement (AYA) is a transformative four-week summer intensive that is perfect for you if you have a keen interest in sociology and a passion for exploring the intersection of media, communication, and civic engagement. AYA brings together 26 talented students from the local communities surrounding USC’s University Park and Health Science Campuses, offering students an immersive academic experience that mirrors first-year college-level courses. The program fosters a deep conceptual understanding of the vital role that media communications and journalism play in shaping civic-minded thought leaders and innovators.
9. Stanford Summer Humanities Institute
Type: Summer Program
Age: Rising high school juniors and seniors
Timeline: 3 weeks
Location: Stanford Campus
Cost: $8,250
The Stanford Summer Humanities Institute is a great opportunity for you if you are passionate about sociology and want to dive deeper into the humanities, immersing yourself in fields of inquiry that are often beyond the scope of standard high school curriculum. One of the program’s distinctive features is its emphasis on original research projects. During the third week, students will collaborate closely with Stanford professors, graduate students, and writing mentors to create their own research projects, fostering a sense of academic independence and critical inquiry. This hands-on experience allows students to explore sociological topics of your choice, encouraging them to engage deeply with the subject matter and apply this knowledge in a meaningful way.
10. Yale Young Global Scholars – Politics, Law & Economics
Type: Summer Program
Age: At least 16 years old, current sophomore or junior (or international equivalent), first-time participants
Timeline: 2 weeks (summer)
Location: Yale Campus
Cost: $6,500 USD (scholarships available)
The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) session on Politics, Law, & Economics (PLE) is an enriching program designed for high school students like you, who are eager to explore the complex realms of economics, government, and law. This session is specifically aimed at students interested in understanding a variety of economic theories, the values and practices of government, and legal frameworks from both historical and comparative perspectives. Students will engage in an in-depth study of topics such as public policy, human rights, market regulation, governance structures, international policy, and the dynamics of conflict and cooperation across borders. By exploring these areas, students will gain insights into how economic, legal, and political systems have evolved and how they continue to shape our world, providing a solid foundation for any future study or career in these fields.
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Written by Wallyson S, MehtA+ Alum & Intern