Immersive, Real-World Research Applications
The Research Scholars programs at UC San Diego provide students with unparalleled educational opportunities that leverage the intellectual capital of an internationally ranked research university. Students assume the role of researcher, becoming fully immersed in projects that have real-world applications.
Dive into unique science research learning experiences that teach highly sought-after skills that can make students more competitive candidates for college admissions and internship opportunities. From Bioengineering and Life Sciences to Marine Science, explore a topic and apply today!
COURSES ARE OFFERED AS IN-PERSON, ONLINE, OR HYBRID FORMAT
Bioengineering
The UC San Diego Department of Bioengineering and UC San Diego Extended Studies are pleased to offer courses to high school students who are excelling in scholarship and would like to explore Bioengineering. The course offerings are based on fun, experiential, remote, at-home, hands-on lab activities.
- BioImaging & 3D Printing (BI3DP) (Online)
Institute of Engineering in Medicine
Developed in collaboration with faculty from the UC San Diego Institute of Engineering in Medicine, these programs give high school students an exciting opportunity to experience real scientific discovery. Students will see how groundbreaking research is turned into innovative technologies and treatments that improve lives. Designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, these hands-on programs help students build skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how science transforms health and well-being.
- Fundamentals of Neurosciences: Health and Disease (Online)
Life Sciences
In partnership with the Boz Institute, explore fundamental biology topics, modern laboratory techniques, and relevant bioinformatics and statistical applications. Learn to synthesize life science fundamentals, review literature, formulate hypotheses and design experiments, collect and process samples, execute experiments, analyze data, and showcase your work through poster presentations attended by local scientists and industry leaders.
- Fundamentals of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics (Live-Online)
Marine Science
Gain foundational knowledge in ocean sciences, specifically marine biology and related disciplines. Explore the diversity of life and how biological, chemical and physical processes drive ecosystem dynamics in a marine environment. Investigate relevant, contemporary environmental issues and how to build a career in marine science.
- Marine Biodiversity: Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation (Live-Online)
Scholarships Available!
Scholarships may be available depending on funding. Application required.
Visit our website for more information on course offerings and to apply.
Winter 2026 Research Scholars Offerings
Bioengineering
BioImaging & 3D Printing (BI3DP) (Online)
- January 10–March 1, 2026
- Tuition: $2,700
Institute of Engineering in Medicine
Fundamentals of Neurosciences: Health and Disease (Online)
- January 17–March 14, 2026
- Tuition: $2,700
Life Sciences
Fundamentals of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics (Live-Online)
- January 5–March 12, 2026
- Tuition: $2,000
Marine Science
Marine Biodiversity: Coral Reef Ecology and Conservation (Live-Online)
- February 10–March 5, 2026
- Tuition: $1,500