Research Scholars
Programs
OFFERED IN-PERSON, ONLINE, OR HYBRID FORMAT
Administered by the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, the Research Scholars Program offers high school students exceptional access to advanced educational experiences that draw upon the intellectual resources of a globally recognized research institution. The program equips students with in-demand academic and technical skills, enhancing their competitiveness for college admissions and internship opportunities. Participants engage in authentic research practices, assuming the role of a scholar and contributing to projects with real-world relevance. With subject areas ranging from Bioengineering and Life Sciences to Sports Medicine, students are invited to explore their academic interests and apply today.
Hawaii
This program offers a transformative educational experience on the island of Oahu, where students engage deeply with place-based knowledge and environmental education. This immersive program seeks to bridge traditional Hawaiian knowledge systems with contemporary scientific practices, fostering a holistic understanding of ecological stewardship and cultural heritage.
Bioengineering
The Bioengineering Research Scholars program comprises a progressive series of hands‑on courses offering high school students experiential lab-based learning in areas such as cell culture, bioimaging, 3D printing, and biomedical research. Participants collaborate with faculty mentors in authentic research environments, developing practical skills, conducting experiments, and presenting results in formats akin to undergraduate-level scientific work.
Institute of Engineering in Medicine
Explore the intersection of engineering and medicine through the UC San Diego Institute of Engineering in Medicine Research Scholars program—designed for high school students eager to dive into the future of healthcare innovation. Taught by UC San Diego faculty, courses such as “Fundamentals of Neurosciences: Health and Disease” offer students the opportunity to investigate brain structure, function, and disease while developing foundational knowledge for careers in biomedical research and clinical science.
Life Sciences
Explore the cutting edge of molecular biology and environmental science with the UC San Diego Life Sciences Research Scholars program—designed for high school students passionate about hands-on discovery. Delivered in partnership with the Boz Institute, participants engage in fieldwork, wet-lab experiments, bioinformatics and statistical analysis, culminating in a research project presentation to local scientists and industry leaders.
Marine Science
Immerse yourself in the UC San Diego Marine Science Research Scholars program and embark on a transformative journey into oceanographic discovery. Through a three-tiered curriculum—ranging from foundational marine biology and ecosystem science, to hands-on research in collaboration with Scripps Institution of Oceanography mentors, and culminating in science communication and publication—students gain authentic field experience, critical problem-solving skills, and the tools to become confident ocean stewards.
Sports Medicine
Step into the world of sports medicine with the UC San Diego Sports Medicine Summer Academy—an immersive program for high-achieving rising 11th and 12th grade students. Students will explore musculoskeletal anatomy, injury prevention, and clinical care through expert-led lectures, wearable technology, hands-on research, and real-world case studies.
Business Research
Through a rigorous integration of in-class discussions, real-world venture case studies, and simulations developed by leading universities, this course provides a foundational understanding of business, entrepreneurship, and management—preparing students for advanced study and professional pathways in these fields.