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K-12 Student Programs

To meet the demands of a growing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce, ORAU provides opportunities for students to gain the motivation, inspiration and skills we hope will lead them to pursue STEM careers.

ORAU has more than 70 years of experience developing and managing STEM education programs that motivate and inspire tomorrow’s scientists and engineers. Many of these programs provide young people with opportunities to meet and interact with working STEM professionals, either in laboratory settings or more informally through our STEM Stories program.

K-12 students interested in learning more about STEM careers can participate in several programs that will give one-of-a-kind experiences and access to professional researchers.

K-12 student program sessions and summer camps are free to attend.

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Mini-AcademyNew

Instruction Format: In Person

The ORISE Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mini-Academy is a two-day program to introduce middle school students to AI and its uses and applications. Students will engage in exciting and challenging activities over the two day period to develop skills and knowledge to help them grow into technology leaders of the future.

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Introduction to Quantum Mini-AcademyNew

Instruction Format: In Person

The ORISE Introduction to Quantum Mini-Academy is a two-day program to introduce high school students to quantum science and its uses and applications. Students will engage in exciting and challenging activities over the two day period to develop skills and knowledge to help them grow into technology leaders of the future.

Participants must be rising 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade students.

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ARC Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge - Bridge ProgramFull

Instruction Format: In Person

The ARC Appalachian STEM Academy - Bridge Program is a two-week, fully funded, hands-on learning experience for those students who previously completed the 2020 or 2021 ARC/ORAU Middle School Summer Science Academy as an 8th grader but are not yet old enough to apply for the Appalachian STEM Academy high school program. 

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ARC Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge - High SchoolFull

Instruction Format: In Person
ARC Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge - High School is a two-week, residential, hands-on institute sponsored by ARC and ORNL. Students participate in research projects with and under the supervision of ORNL scientists. 
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Advanced Robotics AcademyNew

Instruction Format: In Person

The ORISE Advanced Robotics Academy is a week-long day camp for rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students who already have a basic knowledge of building and programming a robot. The week will be filled with exciting and challenging activities! Working in small teams, students will move beyond robotics basics and explore autonomous operation and machine learning. Students will develop skills and mindsets to help them to grow into engineers, computer programmers, and technology leaders of the future.

 

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ARC Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge - Middle SchoolFull

Instruction Format: In Person

ARC Appalachian STEM Academy at Oak Ridge - Middle School is a week-long, residential, hands-on science academy sponsored by ARC and ORAU. Students participate in hands-on math, science and computer technology activities. 

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Tennessee Science Bowl

Instruction Format: Virtual

Students from across the state compete in the annual Tennessee Science Bowl, which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Office and other local businesses, including ORAU. The winning team receives a trip to the National Science Bowl® in Washington, D.C.

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