15 Summer Programs for Middle Schools Students in NJ (New Jersey)
Middle school is a great time to explore your interests beyond the regular school year, whether that means filmmaking, robotics, biotechnology, or entrepreneurship.
What do summer programs for middle schoolers in NJ involve?
Most programs combine hands-on projects with guidance from university faculty, teaching artists, or industry professionals. You might build a robot, extract DNA in a lab, direct a short film, or develop a business idea, depending on which program matches your interests.
Why pursue a summer program in middle school?
These experiences help you build confidence, try out new subjects without the pressure of grades, and figure out what you might want to pursue more seriously in high school. They also give you a head start on skills like teamwork, presentation, and independent problem-solving.
Below are 15 summer programs for middle school students in New Jersey. For related opportunities, check out our guides on business programs for middle school students and online summer camps for middle school students.
Quick Look
1 free program: NJIT Upward Bound, which also provides stipends and meals for eligible Newark students.
1 entrepreneurship-focused, fully virtual option: the Junior Innovator Program, which pairs you with one-on-one mentorship as you build a real project, a natural stepping stone toward programs like Young Founders Lab once you reach high school.
6 STEM-focused camps: Rowan STEAM Academy, NJIT SECPP, Liberty Science Center Science Camp, STEM+ Explorers, NJIT Saturday Morning STEM, and DNALC Summer Camps.
Highest-cost program: Rowan University's STEAM Academy: Voyagers, at $2,100 for the two-week program.
Most programs run one week to two weeks, making them easy to combine for a fuller summer schedule.
15 Summer Programs for Middle School Students in NJ (New Jersey)
1. Rutgers Filmmaking Summer Camp
Location: Rutgers University, New Jersey
Cost: Not specified
Program Dates: Five-day intensive summer session (specific dates vary annually)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Open to students; no prior filmmaking experience required
Rutgers Filmmaking Summer Camp is a short, intensive program where you are introduced to the full process of film production through a structured, hands-on format. Over five days, you learn the basics of screenwriting, cinematography, directing, and post-production through guided instruction and practical exercises. You move through each stage of filmmaking, starting with developing a script and progressing toward filming and editing a completed short film. You work in small groups to plan scenes, operate basic camera equipment, and understand how visual storytelling is built from concept to final cut. Instruction is supported by Rutgers filmmaking alumni who guide you through both technical and creative aspects of production. The program emphasizes learning by doing, with a focus on applying each concept directly through production work.
2. Junior Innovator Program
Location: 100% virtual, with one-on-one mentorship and interactive events
Cost: Varies by program; need-based financial aid is available
Program Dates: Flexible start dates; vary by cohort
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Open to middle school students
The Junior Innovator Program is a virtual entrepreneurship incubator where you develop an actual project that solves a problem you care about. Over the course of the program, you take an idea from curiosity to creation by applying principles of entrepreneurship, pitching, and business thinking in a structured, hands-on setting. You work through one-on-one mentorship sessions that cover ideation, market thinking, and foundational business concepts, while also participating in fireside chats, remote socials, and group discussions with a global cohort of student founders. You also receive mentorship from entrepreneurs and professionals with backgrounds at organizations such as Google, Microsoft, and McKinsey.
3. Rowan University STEAM Academy: Voyagers
Location: Rowan University, Glassboro, New Jersey
Cost: $2,100
Program Dates: July 7 – July 17
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: Students entering grades 7–9 with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
Rowan University’s STEAM Academy: Voyagers is a two-week summer program where you explore how science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics connect through structured, project-based learning. You work on guided projects led by university faculty, applying STEAM concepts to new challenges. The program is designed to help you test ideas, collaborate with peers, and develop solutions through experimentation and iterative work. You also take part in group activities that focus on building communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in an academic setting. Campus-based experiences and field activities are included to give you exposure to a university-style learning environment. By the end of the program, you present your projects and explain your approach, process, and outcomes.
4. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program (JEP)
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies; full financial aid available
Program Dates: 8-week program; multiple cohorts offered throughout the year
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a selective virtual research program designed to introduce middle school students to structured academic inquiry and independent research. You choose a subject area such as STEM, humanities, or social sciences, and are matched with a PhD-level mentor from a university background. The program begins with guided instruction in foundational concepts within the selected field, followed by the development of a focused research question. You then work through a structured process of data gathering, analysis, and interpretation under mentor guidance. Throughout the program, emphasis is placed on developing academic writing, critical thinking, and research organization skills.
5. Zimmerli Summer Art Camp (Rutgers, New Brunswick)
Location: Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Cost: Not specified
Program Dates: June 30 – August 1 (weekly sessions across the summer)
Application Deadline: Registration closed for 2025; 2026 dates not yet released
Eligibility: Children ages 7–14
Zimmerli Summer Art Camp at Rutgers University is a visual arts program designed for children and early middle school students to explore creative expression through guided studio-based activities. You work with experienced teaching artists across different art forms, including drawing, painting, mixed media, and design-focused projects. Each week introduces new themes and techniques that allow you to experiment with materials while developing foundational artistic skills. The program emphasizes creation, where students learn by producing their own artwork rather than through formal art theory instruction. Activities are structured to encourage experimentation, observation, and personal expression within a supportive environment. You also engage in collaborative projects that introduce them to shared creative processes and group-based artistic work.
6. Camp Middlesex
Location: Middlesex College Main Campus, Edison, New Jersey
Cost: Varies by course
Program Dates: June 23 – August 15 (multiple weekly sessions available)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students ages 5–13; specific age requirements vary by camp
Camp Middlesex is a multi-week summer program that offers rotating weekly camps across STEM, arts, and recreational subjects for younger students. Each session is designed around a specific theme where you participate in structured activities such as basic robotics, introductory game design, and interactive science-based challenges. Depending on the course, you may also engage in scenario-based learning exercises like simplified engineering problems, logic-based games, or role-play activities that simulate decision-making.
7. NJIT Upward Bound
Location: New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey
Cost: Free (participants receive stipends and meals)
Program Dates: Academic year program (September–May, Saturdays) + Summer program (July–August, weekdays)
Application Deadline: Not specified (application cycle varies annually)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9–12 (ages 13–19) from Newark public schools who are first-generation college-bound and/or meet federal low-income guidelines; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
NJIT Upward Bound is a federally funded college-preparatory program designed to support high school students in developing academic readiness for postsecondary education. You take structured courses in subjects such as mathematics, English, physics, chemistry, computer science, and foreign languages, along with academic counseling and college preparation support. During the academic year, classes are held on Saturdays at the NJIT campus, supplemented by tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment activities.
8. William Paterson University Our Grades 6–8 Program
Location: William Paterson University, Wayne, New Jersey
Cost: Approximately $248 per course (financial aid available)
Program Dates: June 26 – August 10 (multiple sessions available)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
The William Paterson University Grades 6–8 Program is a summer enrichment initiative designed to help middle school students explore academic subjects through structured, skill-based courses. You can select from offerings such as forensic science, coding, and treehouse architecture, along with academic skill-building courses in math and language arts. The program is structured with flexible half-day and full-day options, allowing you to choose schedules that fit different summer commitments.
9. 4-H Camp at Rutgers Gardens
Location: Rutgers Gardens, New Brunswick, New Jersey
Cost: Approximately $450 per week (financial aid available)
Program Dates: Weekly sessions throughout July
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until sessions are full
Eligibility: Students ages 6–14
The 4-H Camp at Rutgers Gardens is an outdoor, nature-based summer program that introduces middle school students to environmental science through direct exploration of ecosystems. You spend time studying plants, insects, birds, and pollinators while engaging with the natural environment at Rutgers Gardens and the surrounding areas. The program includes guided hikes through Helyar Woods and structured outdoor learning activities focused on ecology and biodiversity.
10. NJIT Summer Early College Preparatory Programs (SECPP)
Location: New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey
Cost: $1,525 + $70 application fee (limited scholarships available for eligible students)
Program Dates: July 7 – August 7
Application Deadline: May 9
Eligibility: Students in grades 4–9 with a minimum grade average of B
NJIT’s Summer Early College Preparatory Programs (SECPP) are designed to introduce you to STEM learning through structured, college-style coursework combined with activities. You explore subjects such as robotics, biomedical engineering, sustainability, and introductory computer programming through guided, project-based learning. The program includes experiments and simulations where you apply scientific concepts like Newton’s Laws of Motion while also engaging with topics in anatomy, biomechanics, and materials science. You take part in coding tasks and problem-solving exercises that help you strengthen logical reasoning and analytical skills.
11. Liberty Science Center Science Camp
Location: Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, New Jersey
Cost: $1,000/week (members) / $1,050/week (non-members)
Program Dates: July 7 – August 15 (multiple one-week sessions)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students in grades 1–8; sessions are divided based on grade level
Liberty Science Center Science Camp is a week-long STEM program where you explore science through museum-based activities, guided experiments, and interactive challenges. Each session is organized around a specific theme, such as chemistry, engineering, or game design, allowing you to engage with different areas of STEM in a structured format. You may take part in activities like designing simple video games, building 3D models using tools such as Tinkercad, or working through investigative science-based scenarios. The program includes live demonstrations and experiments that help you understand scientific concepts through direct application.
12. STEM+ Explorers Program at Montclair Kimberley Academy
Location: Montclair Kimberley Academy, Montclair, New Jersey
Cost: $425 (half day) / $850 (full day)
Program Dates: July 6 – July 31 (4-week summer program)
Application Deadline: Not specified (registration-based enrollment)
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–9
The STEM+ Explorers Program at Montclair Kimberley Academy is a multidisciplinary summer experience where you explore STEM, arts, and design through structured, project-based learning. You engage in activities across areas such as robotics, engineering, coding, 3D printing, laser cutting, architecture, filmmaking, podcasting, audio engineering, and animation. The program blends technical learning with creative experimentation in a collaborative environment. You work in laboratories, robotics spaces, and digital studios equipped with tools such as MacBooks and specialized software for design and media production. Instruction is delivered through guided lessons followed by team-based problem-solving activities that encourage active application of concepts.
13. NJIT Saturday Morning STEM (SMS) (Newark)
Location: New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Newark, New Jersey
Cost: $399 per student (includes academic materials)
Program Dates: Saturdays, March 28 – May 2 (no class on April 4 for Easter holiday)Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Application Deadline: March 12, 2026
Eligibility: Middle school (Grades 5–8) and high school students, depending on track selection
NJIT’s Saturday Morning STEM (SMS) program is a weekend-based enrichment experience where you explore science, engineering, and technology through structured learning. You are placed into grade-specific tracks such as robotics or chemical and materials science, where you learn core concepts like block-based coding, automation, atomic structure, and material properties through guided activities. In the robotics track, you work with tools such as Sphero robots and Makey Makey kits to understand programming basics like loops, conditionals, and functions through interactive challenges. In the chemical and materials track, you carry out lab-style experiments where you observe reactions, test materials, and connect scientific ideas to applications. The program ends with final presentations where you present your project and explain your process, design choices, and outcomes.
14. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNALC Summer Camps
Location: DNA Learning Center at Passaic County Biotechnology Innovation Center, Wayne, New Jersey
Cost: $600
Program Dates: Multiple one-week camps held during the June 30–July 4 period (varies by specific camp)
Application Deadline: Varies depending on the selected camp session
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 6–12; specific grade eligibility depends on the individual camp topic
The DNALC Summer Camps introduce middle and high school students to biotechnology and molecular biology through guided laboratory activities and experiments. Hosted by the DNA Learning Center, the program focuses on helping you explore scientific concepts through practical applications rather than lecture-based learning alone. During the camps, you may work on activities such as constructing DNA and cell models, extracting DNA from plants or animals, using microscopy tools, and experimenting with genetically engineered bacteria. These projects are designed to familiarize you with laboratory techniques commonly used in genetics and biotechnology research. Through instructor-guided sessions, you also gain exposure to topics like cell biology, molecular genetics, and scientific modeling within a structured lab environment.
15. The Academy at Rutgers for Girls in Engineering and Technology (TARGET)
Location: Rutgers University Busch Campus, Piscataway, New Jersey
Cost: $500 (scholarships available)
Program Dates: One-week sessions in June and July (varies by grade level)
Application Deadline: April 20
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–11; specific sessions are assigned based on grade level
TARGET is a summer engineering program designed for middle and high school students who want to explore different areas of STEM through collaborative learning. You take part in faculty-led workshops, engineering labs, and structured design challenges that introduce core ideas from multiple engineering disciplines. The program centers on the engineering design process, where you brainstorm solutions, build prototypes, and test ideas through iteration. Through these activities, you develop collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities in a structured academic environment. Rutgers engineering faculty and university students guide you throughout the program, providing mentorship and insight into engineering education.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there free summer programs for middle schoolers in New Jersey?
Yes. NJIT Upward Bound is free and includes stipends and meals, though it's designed for first-generation, college-bound students from Newark public schools.
2. Is there a program focused on entrepreneurship rather than a single STEM subject?
The Junior Innovator Program is built around developing a real project that solves a problem you care about, with one-on-one mentorship from professionals at Google, Microsoft, and McKinsey. It's a strong lead-in to programs like Young Founders Lab, which offers a similar hands-on model once you're in high school.
3. Which programs focus on biotechnology or laboratory science specifically?
The DNALC Summer Camps focus specifically on molecular biology and biotechnology, including DNA extraction and microscopy work, while NJIT's SECPP covers biomedical engineering alongside other STEM topics.