Why choose an online summer program

Who doesn’t love summertime? After all, it means freedom from the traditional classroom, a chance to unwind and recharge after a busy school year, and an opportunity to do something you don’t have time for between September and June. 

Summer really is a magical time filled with endless possibilities for fun, learning, and personal growth. Whether you relax, explore, or learn new skills, the summer offers a unique time to make the most of the season and create lasting memories.

You might also want to enroll in summer programs to try something different, nurture your talents, or see what else is out there. But balancing chill time, vacations, a part-time job, or volunteer work can make finding a program aligned with your schedule hard. Enter online summer programs (and for other summer program ideas, check out our guide, too!). 

Advantages of virtual summer programs

They might offer a different type of hands-on experience than an in-person program, but they certainly have their benefits!

Convenience and flexibility

These programs offer exceptional flexibility for students with diverse schedules and commitments. They are frequently designed to accommodate various time zones, enabling students to attend live sessions from wherever they are — and complete assignments at their own pace. This flexibility empowers you to balance your goals for what you’d like to gain from the program with your other activities and personal obligations.

Self-paced learning

There’s something to be said for working at your own pace, especially since doing so is rarely an option in traditional school. An online summer program may have different tracks and areas of concentration that enable you to really get granular about topics of interest or accelerate your learning.

Cost-effective

Online summer programs often provide a more cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person programs, eliminating travel and accommodation costs. This affordability increases these programs’ accessibility to a broader range of students, allowing them to explore academic and extracurricular interests and develop crucial skills for college, career, and beyond.

Digital literacy

Virtual summer programs harness the power of technology to create engaging, interactive learning experiences. These programs invite you into a fully immersive educational environment via multimedia resources, virtual laboratories, and other digital tools. By participating in an online summer program, you’ll deepen your understanding of the topic and develop (and refine) valuable computer literacy skills essential for success in today’s digital age.

Global connections

Online summer programs can connect you to students worldwide, fostering intercultural understanding and global citizenship. Imagine becoming friends with someone who lives thousands of miles away!

Types of online summer programs

Before 2020, people may have viewed online summer programs as less rigorous than in-person options, but newer technology has led to some pretty amazing options. Plus, some topics are particularly well-suited for a virtual environment. Here is just a small sampling of online summer programs. Many offer college credit, too!

• STEM programs that introduce you to various topics in computer science, engineering, AI, game design, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, statistics, sports analytics, cognitive science, nanotechnology, and more
• Visual and creative arts programs in creative writing, animation, fashion, photography, interior design, and dance
• Academic and pre-college courses in architecture, business, hospitality, history, philosophy, literature, social change, leadership, international relations, sports marketing, sociology, law & ethics, foreign language, and more

The popularity of virtual summer programs for middle and high school students will continue to grow. If you can’t participate in an in-person program, online options are a great alternative. They’ll help you expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and elevate your college applications — from the comfort of your own home, the deck of a cruise ship, the balcony of a mountain retreat, or anywhere in the world.