As companies across all industries produce more data and move their businesses further into the digital space, the demand for those skilled in various technologies is going to rise dramatically. Some of the most in-demand skills include coding with Python or Java, web development, and graphic design. High school students who learn one of these valuable skills will be well-prepared to enter the workforce and earn high-paying salaries after graduation.
One of the most convenient ways to quickly learn these skills is to enroll in a course over the summer. Summer is a wonderful time to learn a new skill for several reasons. It provides a less stressful environment to take in what can often be complex information. You're more likely to focus without becoming distracted when you only have one class to worry about. These programs can also lead to exciting networking opportunities and meaningful friendships with like-minded peers.
Read on to learn more about different programs designed to teach students critical tech skills over the summer.
Types of Summer Tech Programs for High School Students
Many different programs are available for high school students to learn a new tech skill over the summer. The most significant difference is the online vs. in-person learning options. Many programs offer virtual classes convenient for students who live in more remote areas or have other responsibilities and cannot afford to spend extra time commuting. Many of these programs vary in length, so students with summer jobs and other priorities can take classes for a few hours per week and still learn one of these skills.
Many available programs are suitable for beginners, but some cater to more advanced learners. If you already have some familiarity with a tech skill, it’s crucial to find a course that meets you where you are so you feel challenged rather than feeling bored. A final key difference between all of these courses is where they occur. Some are offered by private companies, and others are available through colleges and universities. These programs might be especially appealing to high school students who want to learn more about life on a college campus.
Java Program #1: NextGen Bootcamp—Java Summer Program
What is Taught in This Program?
NextGen Bootcamp offers a Java Summer Program. This course teaches students basic programming skills before transitioning into more advanced topics like object-oriented programming. Throughout this program, students add projects to a portfolio that they can take with them when they want to apply for college, an internship, or a new job!
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
NextGen’s Java program is geared towards beginner students with no background in coding. The only requirement is that students possess some general knowledge about basic computer skills before enrolling.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
This course is taught remotely. Virtual students will use Zoom to interact with their instructor and classmates.
How Long Does This Program Last?
This program is three weeks long. Classes take place on weekdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm EST.
What is the Recommended Age Range?
This course is ideal for high school and college students. High school students who take this class will get a head start preparing for the Advanced Placement Computer Science class if they hope to take it in high school.
How Much Does This Program Cost?
This summer program costs $1,999 per person; the total amount is due before the class begins. For this amount, students receive supplemental materials that they can refer back to after the course is complete. NextGen also offers its students a free retake for any program within one year to provide additional support with understanding the material. Since this class is offered online, students must have their own PC or Mac computer. Java is a free, open-source language, so the need to install more programs on your computer will be minimal.
This class does not offer any financial aid or payment plans. Suppose you are also interested in learning to code with Python. In that case, you can check out the Computer Science Summer Certificate Program, which combines the Java course with a Python course for a significantly better value.
Java Program #2: TheCoderSchool—Java Camp
What is Taught in This Program?
There is a Java Coding Camp for Kids offered by theCoderSchool. This course teaches advanced programming topics like iteration, variables, and conditionals. Students will also learn concepts that are taught in the Advanced Placement Computer Science curriculum so they can get a head start if they choose to take this class in high school.
What Level of Difficulty is This Program?
This course is designed for advanced learners who already have previous experience programming with Java or have taken a prerequisite computer science course with theCoderSchool.
Where Does This Program Take Place?
TheCoderSchool has locations in the following states: California, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, and Ohio. This class is also available in a live online format for students who live elsewhere.