5+ university-hosted pre-college STEM programs for high schoolers near Chicago — AI, research, engineering, and science tracks. Compare admissions, prices, and dates.
Refreshed weekly · Last updated May 30, 2026
High school students strengthen computing skills, build college and career-readiness, and gain exposure to AI and machine learning through dedicated workshops and courses in downtown Chicago.
Age Group
High School
Location
Downtown Chicago, IL
Phone
(312) 355-5025
An 8-week paid research program where high school and undergraduate students work with data science mentors on rigorous, applied, interdisciplinary projects.
Age Group
High School
Location
University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Phone
N/A
High school students explore career paths in molecular engineering, computer science, or physical sciences through academic and practical learning activities.
Age Group
High School
Location
University of Chicago campus, Chicago, IL
Phone
N/A
Intensive academic programs for motivated middle and high school students, offering advanced topics in math, science, and technology with residential and day options.
Age Group
Middle/High School
Location
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
Phone
N/A
High school students explore sports marketing, media, sponsorships, and analytics through real-world case studies, site visits, and industry guest speakers.
Age Group
High School
Location
Multiple Locations
Phone
N/A
Summer camps are great, but the real portfolio comes from competing. See every FIRST Robotics team in IL — plus pathways, deadlines, and pick lists for math, coding, science, and research competitions.
We list 69+ STEM summer camps in Chicago, IL across AI & machine learning, coding, robotics, science, math, space, and cybersecurity. Top picks vary by your child's age and interests — use the category filters above to compare programs by price, duration, and format.
Prices in our Chicago directory range from free community programs to $3,000+ for university-hosted pre-college tracks. Most full-day weekly camps run $400–$900 per week; specialized AI and research programs typically run $1,000–$2,500 for the full program. Click any camp for current pricing.
Camps in our Chicago listings cover elementary (typically ages 6–10), middle school (11–13), high school (14–18), and selective pre-college research programs for rising seniors. Filter by age group to see only programs that match your child.
Yes — many of our listed programs offer fully online or hybrid formats, especially in AI, coding, and research. Online options are open to students nationwide, including Chicago-area kids who can't travel to an in-person camp. Look for the “Virtual Camp” filter or any program tagged Online / Hybrid in the details.
Yes. Several listings are pre-college programs hosted by universities — including residential and commuter options. These are competitive admissions with applications often closing in March/April for summer cohorts. Use the Pre-College filter at the top to see only these programs.
