research topics for high school students

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Journal Buddies Jill | October 4, 2023 May 6, 2023 | Writing

35 Good Research Topics for High School Students

Research Paper Topics for High School — Whether they’re writing a paper for a class or preparing to work on college essays, high school students in all grades will be asked to write a number of research papers before they finally graduate. It’s always good for them to get extra practice—which is why we’ve come up with a wonderful list of good research topics for high school students. (Plus, there’s a bonus list of 13 historical research topics, too!)

Finding a Good Research Topic

For many students, writing a non-literary, off-topic research paper in an English class can be a fun exercise. Though teens may grumble about it when they receive their assignments, many of them will enjoy the process when they get to explore and learn more about a subject that interests them. With that in mind, we recommend letting your students choose from several prompts to find the topics that most appeal to their interests and passions.

These research paper topic ideas range from the political to the cultural and from the current world to the future. Covering everything from cell phone usage to immigration to space exploration, there is plenty for teens to research and explore—and plenty of opportunities for them to become better informed and more skilled in communicating their positions.

Use these high school research paper topics with your high school students to help them learn all about the process of writing an intelligent, coherent, and well-researched paper! Some of these topics may also be appropriate for middle school writers.

Should it be illegal to use a cell phone while driving?
How do food deserts contribute to obesity in America?
What is the DREAM Act—and why does it matter?
Should children receive vaccinations?
What causes people to fall prey to conspiracy theories?
Research the evolution of social media and explore its changing role in people’s lives.
Can people be as productive working from home as they are in the office?
Is there evidence to show that gun control prevents or lowers rates of gun violence?
Write about the history of minimum wage in the US.
What factors contribute to the wage gap between men and women? How does the wage gap change when race is also taken into consideration?
How are racial demographics in America expected to change over the next 30 years—and what does this mean for our country?
How does access to the Internet affect a child’s development?
Do college athletes receive good educations?
What are the arguments for and against campaign finance reform?

Reasearch Ideas for High School Students

Research net neutrality and explain why it should or shouldn’t matter to the average person.
Why is intersectionality considered an essential aspect of modern feminism?
Why do governments around the world tax their citizens so differently—and how do those differences impact people’s daily lives?
Is it in the government’s best interest to provide universal healthcare? Why or why not?
Is widespread cell phone usage harmful in any way to people? Why or why not?
How do maternity leave, paternity leave, and family benefits in the US compare to laws in other countries?
What are the negative impacts of donating old clothes and used goods to impoverished nations?
Why is space exploration so important in today’s world?
What is the cycle of abuse?
Should euthanization be legalized?
Write a research paper exploring the environmental impact of eating meat.
Research the history of cigarette ads and explore how they influenced people from various demographics to take up smoking.
Research and explore racial inequalities in our justice system, choosing one area to focus on.
How much privacy should people be entitled to when it comes to matters of national security?
Do age minimums and drinking laws in the US have any effect on alcoholism rates?
Does abstinence education work?
What are the ethical concerns of people who are for and against animal testing?
Research the problems associated with waste and landfills that are running out of room and propose a potential solution.
Is overpopulation a real concern in today’s world?
What are the arguments for and against redistricting?

Research writing is a vital skill for high schoolers to master. So, if for some reason, the above list of ideas doesn’t thrill and inspire your students, perhaps one of the research paper topics for teenagers listed below will engage their minds.

Bonus List of 14 History Research Paper Topics

More research topic ideas to inspire your teenage writers. This time, the topics have a historical angle to them. Encourage your writers to determine the specifics of their chosen research topic from this list of ideas:

Suffrage Movement
Affirmative Action
Regulations in the workplace over the past 100 years
Salem Witch Trials
Great Depression
The forming of Israel
Stereotypes from the past
Global warming and climate change effects on the planet over the years
The creation of nuclear energy
The history of the United States and North Korea
The history of racism
Socialism throughout the world
Bizarre treatments for mental health disorders of the past
The history of the death penalty

Some students may struggle with finding interesting research topics that appeal to their specific interests – choosing the best research paper topic is not always easy, but it is important. Hopefully, these lists of research topic ideas help your students.

Controversial Topics

Lastly, some consider these topics controversial, yet they may be a great interest to some students. Topics include:

Human health, health issues, access to healthcare, medicine costs (especially in the US)
Birth control
Teen pregnancy
Abortion rights, laws, limitations
Animal rights
Endangered species
Natural resources misuse
Child abuse
Drug abuse/Substance abuse
Journalism and the future of mass media
College tuition costs, student loans, access to higher education…
Gender discrimination

Now, see this…

94 More Essay Writing Resources

50 Great Essay Writing Prompts for High School Students
How To Prepare for College: Writing Prompts for High School (34 Prompts!)
Top 10 Research Topics for Students

Ok, that’s all for now. I hope you enjoy and use these ideas with your students.

Until next time, write on…

If you enjoyed these Good Research Paper Topics for High School Students, please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator

PS – take a look at this helpful resource –> Research paper writing process (8 basic steps)

Research Paper Topic Ideas for High School Students

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129 Most Insightful Research Topics For High School

Discover engaging research topics for high school. Spark curiosity with diverse subjects. Find the perfect topic for your academic exploration!

Feb 13, 2024

students adding topic on wall - Research Topics For High School

High school can be an exciting time for students, as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and academic exploration. One aspect of this journey is the infamous research paper. While it may seem daunting at first, choosing the right research topic can make all the difference. In this blog, we will delve into the realm of Research Topics For High School, providing you with a curated list of engaging and thought-provoking subjects that will surely captivate your interest. From the wonders of astrophysics to the mysteries of ancient civilizations, we will explore a wide range of topics that will not only impress your teachers but also fuel your curiosity. So, let's dive into the world of research and uncover the secrets of Research Paper Structure together!

What makes a great research topic, otio: the ultimate ai research and writing partner for efficient workflows, benefits of engaging in research projects during high school, challenges you may encounter during the research process & how to overcome them, how to effectively manage your time while conducting research, supercharge your researching ability with otio — try otio for free today.

man writing down new Research Topics For High School

A great research essay topic possesses certain characteristics that make it engaging, relevant, and impactful. Here are the key characteristics that make a research essay topic great:

1. Relevance

A great research essay topic is one that is relevant to the subject or field of study. It should address a current issue or explore a significant concept or idea within the chosen discipline.

2. Originality

A great research essay topic should be original and unique. It should offer a fresh perspective or approach to the subject matter, avoiding overused or clichéd themes .

3. Depth and Complexity

A great research essay topic delves into the complexity of a subject, allowing for an in-depth analysis and exploration. It should provide ample opportunities for critical thinking and analysis.

4. Feasibility

A great research essay topic is one that is feasible to research and write about within the given time and resource constraints. It should have accessible sources and available data for investigation.

5. Controversy or Debate

A great research essay topic sparks controversy or debate within the field of study. It addresses a topic that has multiple viewpoints or conflicting perspectives, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of different arguments.

6. Interest and Engagement

A great research essay topic captivates the interest of the reader and the researcher. It should evoke curiosity and enthusiasm, motivating the researcher to explore the topic in depth and engage the reader throughout the essay. By incorporating these characteristics into the selection of a research essay topic, students can ensure that their writing is impactful, meaningful, and contributes to the body of knowledge in their chosen field of study.

Otio: Revolutionizing Research Workflows with AI-Native Workspace and Content Management

Knowledge workers, researchers, and students today suffer from content overload and are left to deal with it using fragmented, complex, and manual tooling. Too many of them settle for stitching together complicated bookmarking, read-it-later, and note-taking apps to get through their workflows. Now that anyone can create content with the click of a button - this problem is only going to get worse. Otio solves this problem by providing one AI-native workspace for researchers. It helps them:

A wide range of data sources, from bookmarks, tweets, and extensive books to YouTube videos.

2. Extract key takeaways

With detailed AI-generated notes and source-grounded Q&A chat.

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you go from a reading list to a first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster. Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (YouTube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI-assisted writing. Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

1. Development of Critical Thinking Skills

Research projects require students to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and draw conclusions based on their findings. This process enhances critical thinking skills, enabling students to become more discerning and analytical in their approach to problem-solving. By learning to ask meaningful questions and think critically, students develop a valuable skill set that can be applied to any academic or professional field.

2. Enhanced Understanding of Subject Matter

Engaging in research projects allows high school students to delve deeper into a particular subject and gain a comprehensive understanding of it. By conducting extensive research, students can explore different perspectives, theories, and methodologies related to their chosen topic. This deep understanding provides a solid foundation for future academic pursuits and helps students develop a broader knowledge base.

3. Acquisition of Research Skills

Research projects provide an opportunity for high school students to acquire essential research skills. These skills include conducting literature reviews, formulating research questions, designing methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings. By engaging in research projects, students become familiar with research processes, methodologies, and ethical considerations, which are valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.

4. Exposure to the Scientific Method

Research projects often follow the scientific method, which involves formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. By engaging in research projects during high school, students become familiar with this structured approach to problem-solving. This exposure to the scientific method cultivates a systematic and evidence-based approach to decision-making, which is applicable to various academic and professional settings.

5. Development of Presentation and Communication Skills

Engaging in research projects often entails presenting findings to peers, teachers, or at academic conferences. This experience provides high school students with an opportunity to develop their presentation and communication skills. By effectively conveying their research findings, students learn to articulate complex ideas, organize information, and engage with their audience. These skills are valuable for future academic presentations, job interviews, and professional collaborations.

6. Exploration of Personal Interests and Passions

Research projects allow high school students to explore their personal interests and passions in depth. By choosing a research topic that aligns with their interests, students can further develop their knowledge and expertise in a specific area. This exploration not only enriches their academic experience but also helps them discover potential career paths and pursue further studies in a field they are passionate about.

7. Preparation for Higher Education

Engaging in research projects during high school provides valuable preparation for higher education. Research experience enhances college applications and demonstrates a student's commitment to academic excellence. The skills acquired through research projects, such as critical thinking, research methodologies, and effective communication, are highly sought after in college and can contribute to success in higher education. Engaging in research projects during high school offers numerous benefits for future academic and professional development. From the development of critical thinking skills to the acquisition of research methodologies and presentation skills, research projects provide a valuable learning experience. By engaging in research, high school students gain a deeper understanding of subjects, explore personal interests, and prepare themselves for future academic pursuits.

student helping friend to find Research Topics For High School

1. Finding a Suitable Research Topic

Choosing a research topic can be a daunting task for high school students. They may struggle to find a topic that aligns with their interests, is relevant to their academic goals, and has enough available resources for in-depth research. To overcome this obstacle, students can start by brainstorming their interests, exploring current events, and consulting with their teachers or mentors for guidance. They can also use online resources like topic generators or databases to discover potential research ideas.

2. Limited Access to Resources

High school students often face limitations in accessing reliable and comprehensive resources for their research. School libraries may have limited collections, and online access to scholarly articles and databases may require subscriptions or fees. To overcome this challenge, students can utilize their school libraries, request interlibrary loans for specific resources, or explore open-access databases and websites. They can also reach out to local universities or community organizations that may offer resources for student research.

3. Developing Effective Research Skills

Many high school students lack the necessary research skills to conduct thorough and efficient investigations. They may struggle with evaluating sources for credibility , organizing information, and synthesizing findings. To address this obstacle, students can participate in research workshops, seek guidance from their teachers or librarians, and practice using research tools and databases. They can also learn about citation formats and ethical considerations to ensure their research is academically honest.

4. Time Management and Procrastination

Time management is a common challenge for high school students, and it can significantly impact the research process. Students may procrastinate, leaving them with limited time to gather information, analyze data, and write their findings. To overcome this obstacle, students should create a research plan with specific deadlines for each phase of the project. Breaking the research process into manageable tasks and utilizing time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique, can help students stay organized and focused.

5. Dealing with Information Overload

In the digital age, high school students can easily become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available for research. They may struggle to filter relevant content, leading to information overload and confusion. To tackle this challenge, students can develop effective search strategies using keywords and advanced search operators. They should also learn to critically evaluate sources, prioritize information based on relevance and reliability, and take concise notes to avoid information overload.

6. Writing and Citations

Writing a research paper or essay can be intimidating, especially for high school students who may have limited experience in academic writing. They may struggle with structuring their work, incorporating citations, and maintaining a coherent argument. To overcome this obstacle, students can utilize writing resources and guides provided by their schools or online platforms. They should also practice paraphrasing and citing sources correctly, ensuring that they adhere to the required citation style (e.g., MLA or APA). High school students may encounter various challenges and obstacles during their research process, ranging from topic selection to time management and information overload. By utilizing available resources, seeking guidance, and developing essential research skills, students can overcome these challenges and enhance the quality of their research projects.

Otio: Revolutionizing Research and Writing with AI-Powered Workspaces

AI research and writing partner: Knowledge workers, researchers, and students today suffer from content overload and are left to deal with it using fragmented, complex, and manual tooling. Too many of them settle for stitching together complicated bookmarking, read-it-later, and note-taking apps to get through their workflows. Now that anyone can create content with the click of a button - this problem is only going to get worse. Otio solves this problem by providing one AI-native workspace for researchers. It helps them:

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you to go from reading list to first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster. Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (YouTube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI-assisted writing. Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

man holding clock for managing time while researching Research Topics For High School

Effective time management is crucial for high school students conducting research. With the demands of classes, extracurricular activities, and social lives, it can be challenging to find the time and focus needed for thorough research. By implementing strategies and tools, students can optimize their time and ensure successful research outcomes.

1. Set Clear Goals and Prioritize Tasks

By setting clear research goals and breaking them down into smaller tasks, high school students can stay organized and focused. Start by outlining the research objectives, identifying the main research questions, and creating a timeline. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and the importance of each component.

2. Create a Schedule

A well-structured schedule is essential for effective time management. Allocate specific time slots for research, ensuring that it is a regular and consistent part of your routine. Consider your personal energy levels and concentration peaks when scheduling your research sessions. Maintaining a balance between research and other responsibilities will help prevent burnout and promote overall well-being.

3. Utilize Technology and Research Tools

Technology can be a powerful ally when it comes to managing time effectively. There are numerous digital tools available that can streamline the research process. For example, using an AI research and writing partner like Otio can help students collect and organize information from various sources, generate AI-generated notes, and facilitate efficient writing. Otio's features, such as chat-based Q&A and AI-assisted writing, can significantly enhance the research workflow.

4. Stay Organized

Maintaining an organized workspace is essential for efficient research. Keep track of your sources, notes, and references using tools like citation management software. Create a system for organizing digital files and documents, ensuring easy access and retrieval. This will save valuable time when it comes to compiling research findings and writing papers.

5. Avoid Procrastination

Procrastination is the arch-nemesis of effective time management. High school students must develop strategies to overcome this tendency and stay on track with their research. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps, use tools like time-tracking apps to monitor progress, and hold yourself accountable by setting deadlines and rewarding progress.

6. Seek Help and Collaboration

Don't be afraid to seek help and collaborate with others during the research process. Discuss your ideas with classmates, teachers, or mentors who can provide guidance and support. Collaboration can help generate fresh insights, provide different perspectives, and lighten the workload. Effective time management is crucial for high school students conducting research. By setting clear goals, creating schedules, utilizing technology and research tools, staying organized, avoiding procrastination, and seeking help when needed, students can optimize their time and achieve successful research outcomes.

Otio: Simplifying Research Workflows with an AI-Powered Workspace

Draft outputs using the sources you’ve collected. Otio helps you go from a reading list to the first draft faster. Along with this, Otio also helps you write research papers/essays faster. Here are our top features that are loved by researchers: AI-generated notes on all bookmarks (Youtube videos, PDFs, articles, etc.), Otio enables you to chat with individual links or entire knowledge bases, just like you chat with ChatGPT, as well as AI-assisted writing. Let Otio be your AI research and writing partner — try Otio for free today!

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151 Good Research Topics For High School Students

In this blog, we have discussed the research topics for high school students. Research papers allow high school students to explore academic subjects in-depth and learn how to find and analyze information.

Selecting a good research topic can be challenging for students, as it needs to be engaging, relevant, and manageable within a school term. Current issues, science and technology, and social topics impacting teens make ideal subjects.

Research also provides excellent opportunities for students to improve skills needed for college, such as critical thinking, sourcing quality information, and writing academic papers. Whether selecting famous historical figures, environmental issues, or teen psychology topics, students should choose research questions that excite them.

The process teaches valuable research skills and lets students explore issues they care about. In this blog, we will discuss engaging research topics for high school students and tips to help them select the best subject for their research papers.

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Importance of Research Topics For High School Students

Table of Contents

Here are some key reasons why research topics are essential for high school students:

Develop Research And Critical Thinking Skills

Doing research allows students to learn how to find reliable information, analyze and evaluate sources, and synthesize information effectively. These skills are invaluable for college and career readiness.

Explore Passions and Interests

Research papers allow students to fully immerse themselves in a topic they care about or are curious to learn more about. This can increase engagement and inspiration to learn.

Learn Time Management and Responsibility

Completing a long-term research project requires planning, organization, and discipline. Students learn to manage their time and take responsibility for their learning.

Build Knowledge

Deep diving into a topic through quality research allows students to build knowledge and become mini-experts. Retaining this knowledge can benefit them in the future.

Practice Academic Writing

Research papers require students to present information in a scholarly, well-structured format. This is an excellent writing experience that prepares students for college-level writing.

Develop Presentation Skills

Many research projects culminate in a presentation of findings. This allows students to practice public speaking and build confidence.

Gain Credibility and Recognition

High-quality research projects allow students to be recognized in their school community and beyond. This can build self-esteem.

In summary, research projects provide immense value for high school students on both academic and personal levels, making them an essential part of a well-rounded education.

Elements of a Strong Research Paper

Here are some key elements that contribute to a strong research paper:

Relevant, focused research question – The research question should be specific, original, and clearly stated early in the paper. It sets the direction for the whole project.
Strong thesis statement – The thesis presents the main argument or position of the paper. It should be concise, arguable, and supported by evidence.
Organized structure – The paper should follow a logical flow, starting with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing evidence, and a conclusion. Effective transitions connect ideas.
Reliable sources – Research studies, expert analysis, and reliable facts support claims. Varied perspectives are included.
Critical analysis – The paper should analyze and interpret research findings rather than just describe them. Connections to key concepts are made.
Clear writing style – Precise language, smooth transitions, topic sentences, and appropriate word choice improve readability. Active voice and varied sentence structure engage readers.
Proper formatting – Following the required style guide for citing sources and formatting elements like page numbers, headings, and title page.
Meticulous editing – Checking for grammar, spelling, punctuation, ambiguity, and formatting errors polishes the paper.
Compliance with guidelines – Adhering to all requirements set by the instructor such as word count, formatting, and submission procedures.

Students can craft excellent research papers with thoughtful research, clear writing, and meticulous editing. The process requires time and diligent work but yields valuable skills.

151 Research Topics For High School Students

Here’s a list of 151+ research topics for high school students to explore across various subjects. Feel free to modify them to suit your interests or combine different ideas:

Science and Technology

The impact of technology on education.
Advancements in renewable energy technologies.
Effects of climate change on biodiversity.
Nanotechnology applications in medicine.
The role of genetics in predicting diseases.
The future of artificial intelligence.
Cybersecurity: Challenges and solutions.
The impact of the social media on the mental health.
Robotics and automation in various industries.
Space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life.
CRISPR gene editing and its ethical implications.
The human microbiome and its influence on health.
Evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Effects of different diets on human health.
The major role of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
Impact of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.
The connection between sleep patterns and academic performance.
Effects of various types of exercise on cardiovascular health.
Genetics of taste preferences.
Environmental conservation and endangered species protection.
Applications of nanomaterials in everyday life.
Green chemistry and sustainable practices.
The chemistry behind food preservation.
Analyzing the chemical composition of household products.
Investigating the pH levels of local water sources.
Chemical reactions in the human body.
The science behind the taste of different foods.
Synthesis and properties of biodegradable plastics.
Chemical analysis of air pollutants in urban areas.
Chemistry of cooking: Effects of different cooking methods on food.
The physics of sports: Analyzing the mechanics of different sports.
Quantum mechanics and its applications.
The concept of time: Physics and philosophy.
The physics of music: How musical instruments produce sound.
Applications of electromagnetic waves in daily life.
The science behind roller coasters.
Investigating the physics of climate change.
The relationship between mass and gravity.
Einstein’s theory of relativity: Understanding its principles.
The physics of renewable energy sources.

Environmental Science

Impacts of deforestation on local ecosystems.
Water pollution in urban areas.
The role of wetlands in ecological conservation.
Sustainable agriculture practices.
Plastic pollution in oceans: Causes and solutions.
The results of air pollution on the respiratory health.
Urban heat islands: Causes and mitigation.
Impact of invasive species on local biodiversity.
Analyzing the environmental footprint of different diets.
The significance of the biodiversity in supporting ecosystem balance.

Social Sciences

The influence of social media on political opinions.
Effects of bullying on mental health.
Gender stereotypes in the media.
The impact of video games on behavior.
Teen mental health: Identifying risk factors.
Cultural diversity in schools and its effects on education.
The role of family dynamics in shaping personality.
Impact of social isolation on well-being.
Analyzing the effectiveness of anti-drug campaigns.
The connection between socioeconomic status & academic achievement.
The effects of music on mood and cognition.
Sleep patterns and their impact on mental health.
The psychology of decision-making.
Factors influencing academic motivation.
Impact of social media on body image.
The role of nature vs. nurture in personality development.
Effects of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction.
The psychology of laughter: Why do we laugh?
The impact of positive affirmations on self-esteem.
Analyzing the placebo effect in medical treatments.
The impact of World War II on international geopolitics.
Civil rights movements and their legacy.
The role of women in historical revolutions.
The effects of colonialism on indigenous cultures.
Historical analysis of pandemics and their aftermath.
The Industrial Revolution and its social consequences.
The history of human rights movements.
The legacy of ancient civilizations on modern society.
Causes and consequences of the Cold War.
Historical development of democracy around the world.

Literature and Language Arts

Analysis of symbolism in a specific literary work.
The evolution of language and its impact on communication.
The portrayal of mental illness in literature.
The influence of science fiction on technological innovation.
The major role of folklore in shaping cultural identity.
Shakespearean plays: Themes and contemporary relevance.
Gender representation in literature.
The impact of censorship on literary works.
Analyzing the use of metaphors in poetry.
The influence of literature on social change.

Mathematics

The history and applications of fractals.
Cryptography: The mathematics of secure communication.
Mathematical modeling of population growth.
The role of mathematics in computer programming.
Analyzing the geometry of famous landmarks.
The mathematics behind music: Patterns and rhythms.
Game theory and its applications in decision-making.
Fibonacci sequence and its occurrences in nature.
Analyzing the statistics of a specific real-world phenomenon.
The concept of infinity in mathematics.
The impact of globalization on local economies.
Income inequality and its consequences.
The economics of climate change mitigation.
The role of small businesses in economic development.
The effects of automation on employment.
Consumer behavior and the psychology of spending.
Economic analysis of a specific industry.
The relationship between education and economic success.
The impact of government policies on economic growth.
Analyzing economic systems: Capitalism, socialism, and communism.

Political Science

The role of political parties in shaping procedures.
The impact of lobbying on political decision-making.
The history and consequences of political revolutions.
Electoral systems: A comparative analysis.
The influence of media on political opinions.
Human rights and their enforcement on the global stage.
The role of diplomacy in international relations.
Political corruption and its impact on society.
The concept of political ideology: Origins and evolution.
The role of grassroots movements in political change.

Health and Nutrition

The impact of fast food on health.
The benefits of a plant-based diet.
Exercise and its effects on mental health.
The role of core microbiota in digestion and immunity.
The psychology of eating disorders.
The relationship between stress and physical health.
Analysis of different diet trends.
The impact of sleep on overall well-being.
Effects of advertising on food choices and nutrition.
Public health initiatives: Successes and challenges.
The effectiveness of online learning platforms.
The impact of standardized testing on education.
The role of teachers in student motivation.
Inclusive education and its benefits.
School uniforms: Pros and cons.
The effect of parent’s involvement on academic success.
The importance of arts education in schools.
Analyzing the benefits of extracurricular activities.
The role of technology in modern classrooms.
Homeschooling: Factors influencing its success.

Art and Music

The evolution of hip-hop music and its cultural impact.
The role of art treatment in mental health treatment.
Cultural influences on visual arts.
Exploring the use of color in famous paintings.
The impact of technology on music production.
The intersection of art and technology in contemporary society.
Cultural appropriation in the arts.
The influence of political events on artistic expression.
The history and significance of a specific art movement.
Analyzing the symbolism in a particular piece of artwork.
The relationship between music and memory.

How to Pick the Right Research Topic

Here are some tips for picking the right research topic as a high school student:

Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Researching and writing about something intriguing will make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Make sure the topic is narrow and focused enough to be manageable. Don’t pick subjects that are too broad or vague.
Consider your research resources – access to primary sources, scholarly articles, experts to interview, etc. Pick a feasible topic.
Select a topic that is original and where you can offer a new perspective or angle. Avoid overdone topics.
Ensure the topic is relevant to your class objectives or allows you to demonstrate core skills. Consult your teacher.
Pick a topic that challenges you intellectually but is still within your capability. Balance ambition with practicality.
Look for available research topics that provide enough evidence and detail to support your thesis.
Consider topics that connect to your personal experiences, background, or community. These can offer passion.
If allowed, pick something enjoyable like music, sports, technology, or pop culture. Interest keeps you motivated.
Bounce ideas on your teacher or librarian for feedback. They can help assess research viability.

With the right topic, you’re off to an excellent start on your research paper! Allow time to refine your direction as the work progresses.

Final Remarks

In conclusion, selecting the right research topic is crucial for high school students. It engages them in academic exploration and cultivates essential skills for their future. Research enhances critical thinking, source evaluation, and practical information synthesis – all valuable for college readiness.

Exploring personal interests boosts engagement and inspiration while instilling time management and responsibility. A solid research paper requires a focused question, a robust thesis, an organized structure, and critical analysis. Students also learn the art of clear writing, proper formatting, and meticulous editing.

The journey offers a chance to become mini-experts, practice academic writing, develop presentation skills, and gain recognition. The significance of research topics extends beyond the classroom, contributing to a well-rounded education and preparing students for future challenges.

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120 Research Paper Topics for High School

How to Choose a Topic for High School Research Paper:

High school psychology research paper topics:.

The impact of social media on adolescent mental health
The effects of bullying on the psychological well-being of high school students
The relationship between academic stress and anxiety in high school students
The influence of parental involvement on the academic achievement of high school students
The role of self-esteem in teenage substance abuse
The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance in adolescents
The impact of peer pressure on decision-making in high school students
The relationship between body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders among teenagers
The effects of video games on aggression levels in adolescents
The role of mindfulness in reducing stress and improving mental health in high school students
The influence of family dynamics on the development of personality traits in teenagers
The effects of music on mood regulation in adolescents
The relationship between teenage pregnancy and psychological outcomes
The impact of gender stereotypes on academic and career choices in high school students
The role of cultural factors in shaping adolescent identity formation

High School Sociology Research Paper Topics:

The impact of social media on teenage self-esteem
The role of gender stereotypes in high school sports
The effects of bullying on academic performance among high school students
The influence of family dynamics on teenage substance abuse
The relationship between socioeconomic status and educational achievement
The impact of peer pressure on teenage decision-making
The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and acceptance in high schools
The effects of single-parent households on adolescent development
The influence of school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance
The relationship between parental involvement and student success in high school
The impact of standardized testing on educational inequality
The role of race and ethnicity in educational opportunities and outcomes
The effects of social class on access to higher education
The influence of media on body image and eating disorders among high school students
The relationship between school climate and student mental health

High School Education Research Paper Topics:

The impact of standardized testing on student performance
The effectiveness of inclusive education for students with disabilities
The role of technology in enhancing learning outcomes in high school classrooms
The influence of parental involvement on academic achievement in high school
The effects of school bullying on students’ mental health and academic performance
The benefits and challenges of implementing project-based learning in high schools
The impact of socioeconomic status on educational opportunities and outcomes in high school
The role of school counselors in supporting students’ college and career readiness
The effectiveness of different teaching methods in high school science education
The relationship between physical activity and academic performance in high school students
The impact of social media on students’ academic engagement and achievement
The effectiveness of sex education programs in reducing teenage pregnancy rates in high schools
The influence of teacher-student relationships on students’ motivation and academic success
The role of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in high school students
The effects of early school start times on students’ sleep patterns and academic performance

High School History Research Paper Topics:

The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society and the economy
The causes and consequences of World War I
The role of women in the American Civil Rights Movement
The rise and fall of the Roman Empire
The effects of the Great Depression on American society
The origins and consequences of the Cold War
The impact of the French Revolution on European politics and society
The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II
The causes and consequences of the American Revolution
The influence of ancient Greek philosophy on modern Western thought
The impact of the Civil Rights Movement on racial equality in the United States
The causes and consequences of the Holocaust
The role of religion in the colonization of the Americas
The effects of the Vietnam War on American society and politics
The rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa

High School Chemistry Research Paper Topics:

The effects of different catalysts on the rate of a chemical reaction
Investigating the properties and applications of graphene in nanotechnology
Analyzing the impact of pH on enzyme activity
Exploring the synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers
Investigating the role of antioxidants in preventing oxidative stress
Analyzing the effects of different concentrations of acids on metal corrosion
Investigating the principles and applications of chromatography in chemical analysis
Exploring the synthesis and properties of superconducting materials
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of photosynthesis
Investigating the principles and applications of electrochemistry in energy storage
Exploring the synthesis and properties of carbon nanotubes
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a chemical equilibrium
Investigating the principles and applications of spectroscopy in chemical analysis
Exploring the synthesis and properties of biocompatible materials for medical applications
Analyzing the effects of different factors on the rate of a redox reaction

High School Medical Research Paper Topics:

The impact of social media on mental health among high school students
The effectiveness of school-based interventions in preventing teenage pregnancy
The relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance in high school students
The prevalence and consequences of substance abuse among teenagers
The role of physical activity in reducing stress and anxiety among high school students
The impact of bullying on mental health and well-being in adolescents
The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing symptoms of depression among high school students
The relationship between nutrition and academic achievement in high school students
The prevalence and consequences of eating disorders among teenagers
The impact of technology use on sleep quality and quantity in high school students
The effectiveness of school-based sexual education programs in preventing sexually transmitted infections
The relationship between screen time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in adolescents
The prevalence and consequences of self-harm behaviors among high school students
The impact of peer pressure on substance abuse and risky behaviors in teenagers
The effectiveness of school-based mental health programs in promoting emotional well-being among high school students

High School Environmental Research Paper Topics:

The impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
The effectiveness of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions
The role of deforestation in climate change
The effects of air pollution on human health
The importance of biodiversity conservation in maintaining ecosystem stability
The relationship between water scarcity and agricultural practices
The impact of climate change on wildlife habitats
The role of sustainable agriculture in food security
The effects of urbanization on local ecosystems
The significance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution
The relationship between pesticide use and declining bee populations
The impact of industrial pollution on freshwater ecosystems
The effectiveness of environmental policies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions
The role of environmental education in promoting sustainable practices
The effects of ocean acidification on coral reefs and marine life

High School Economic Research Paper Topics:

The impact of minimum wage on employment rates
The relationship between economic growth and income inequality
The effects of globalization on local economies
The role of government intervention in market failures
The economic consequences of climate change
The influence of consumer behavior on market demand
The economic implications of immigration policies
The relationship between education and economic development
The effects of automation on employment opportunities
The role of entrepreneurship in economic growth
The impact of trade policies on domestic industries
The economic consequences of healthcare reform
The relationship between inflation and unemployment
The effects of fiscal and monetary policies on economic stability
The role of technology in shaping future economic trends

Writing a Research Paper
Research Paper Title
Research Paper Sources
Research Paper Problem Statement
Research Paper Thesis Statement
Hypothesis for a Research Paper
Research Question
Research Paper Outline
Research Paper Summary
Research Paper Prospectus
Research Paper Proposal
Research Paper Format
Research Paper Styles
AMA Style Research Paper
MLA Style Research Paper
Chicago Style Research Paper
APA Style Research Paper
Research Paper Structure
Research Paper Cover Page
Research Paper Abstract
Research Paper Introduction
Research Paper Body Paragraph
Research Paper Literature Review
Research Paper Background
Research Paper Methods Section
Research Paper Results Section
Research Paper Discussion Section
Research Paper Conclusion
Research Paper Appendix
Research Paper Bibliography
APA Reference Page
Annotated Bibliography
Bibliography vs Works Cited vs References Page
Research Paper Types
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Social Sciences

Good Research Topics for High School Students

Author: Jule Romans

Finding a good research topic can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be.

Good Research Topics for High School

The best high school research paper topics are narrow enough to fit within the limitations of the assignment but broad enough that adequate information will be available. The topics that I have compiled for this list have both of these qualities.

Another advantage of the topics on this list is that they break down easily into three main sections, making writing much simpler to accomplish. In these topics, much of the hard work is already done. The topics are manageable, focused, and easy to research. They are also easy to adapt because they are structured in such a way as to allow you to substitute different keywords to create new variations.

This list also offers suggestions for varying topics so you will never run out of inspiration. Use this list anytime you need to write a paper, and you will soon find that your writing is better than ever.

A good research topic will help you write your paper by providing a guideline not only for your research but for the overall structure of your paper. That is why finding a good topic is so important.

A good research topic forms the basis of your research, but it also suggests a good structure that develops well into a thesis sentence, which then keeps your entire paper on track.

Let me explain.

How to Find a Good Research Topic

Here is an example of a research topic that seems okay on the surface: gender issues in sports. It's a little broad, but it has potential. The problem with this topic is that it does not really guide you in your thinking and writing. It leaves too much room for you to get lost, and doesn't help when it comes to writing a thesis sentence or structuring your paper. So, while this is interesting, and it is the type of topic you will find on many lists, it's really not a great starting point.

Here's an example of a research topic that does make your writing easier: negative effects of gender stereotyping in college tennis. This topic guides your thinking by keeping the focus on the direct effects of a specific kind of gender issue within a much narrower area of the sporting field. Even better, the topic can actually help you write your thesis sentence.

A Good Topic Makes Writing Easy

With this topic, it is easy to develop a thesis sentence as you conduct your research. For example, you might discover three main negative effects, or three outstanding examples of stereotypes that influenced college tennis. It would then be very easy to write a thesis sentence.

Your thesis sentence might look like this:

The negative effects of gender stereotyping in college tennis exclude good players from competitive matches and limit the success of both athletes and teams

With this thesis sentence, your paper would have three main sections

How gender stereotypes have excluded players from competitive matches
How those exclusions limited the athletes' success
How those exclusions limited the teams' success

There could be other ideas that might develop in your research that could led to different thesis sentences and a different set of three main points, but the process would be the same.

It all starts with a good clear topic that provides a guide to help you stay focused and organized when it is time to write.

Wellington House: Britain's WW1 Propaganda Bureau

This list of topics will make your writing easier.

The topics on this list will do just that. They will help you target a specific area and help you stay on track. The best thing is, you can use the structure of these topics and make variations by simply changing keywords.

For example, the topic above could be altered in a couple of ways, just by changing some keywords.

Positive effects of breaking gender stereotypes in professional football
Famous historical examples of gender stereotypes in professional baseball

Finding a good research topic for a high school paper is very important, but it does not have to be difficult. Use the topics below to get started, or change the keywords to make your own topic. If it works well for you, be sure to share your knowledge.

5 Good Research Topics That Can Be Adapted Easily

Three advantages of E-Commerce over traditional business models
Top social issues affecting college students in the 21 st century
Educational reforms introduced in 2000-2010 and their effects on classroom life
How, where, and when the “Internet of Things” was created
The effect of addiction to social media on young adults

How to Adapt a Research Topic

Take note of the many ways the above topics can be adjusted. “Top social issues affecting college students in the 21 st century” could be altered to become:

Top social trends for high school students in the 1950s
Top social issues affecting children in the 1930s
Major historical events that changed life for adults in the 20 th century

You can create a new topic simply by changing the time frame and keyword focus. Keep this in mind as you consider the rest of this list.

10 More Good Research Topics to Adapt and Use

The origin and purpose of standardized tests in elementary school
Animal welfare within the scientific research industry
The use of rabbits in cosmetic research
Description and definition of the pro-life political movement in European countries
History and development of the prochoice movement in the US.
Perceptions of weakness in nonbinary gender behaviors
Generational differences within the Amish communities of the Midwest USA
Traffic cameras and the right to individual privacy
The effect of social media platforms on the social behavior of students
Artificial intelligence in video games

Keep in mind, again, that many of these topics can be adapted. “Artificial intelligence in video games” has multiple variations:

The use of artificial intelligence in the automobile industry
Artificial intelligence in shipping
Artificial intelligence in the manufacturing industry
Negative effects of artificial intelligence in scientific research
How artificial intelligence creates advancements in medicine

Each of these variations and examples will break down easily into three main points and help provide guidance as you continue your research.

45 Good Research Topics for High School Students

Here are 45 topics that can be used as they are, or adapted easily by changing one of the keywords.

Profits of the Montessori School Model
Commercial communication strategies and their implications in social media
Causes and effects of childhood hunger
HIV versus AIDS: definitions and explanations
Biography and influential acts of President Clinton
Child welfare in first-world countries
Religious beliefs of Ancient Egypt that endure today
What Israel and Palestine have in common
Costs and rewards of school uniform in urban settings
Penalties for abuse of performance enhancing drugs in hockey
The social context of MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech
Definition of the War on Terror- when it started and why
How climate change affects endangered animals in high-altitude forest
Incidence of depression in athletes in college versus professional football
Certification of service and emotional support animals
Hybrid learning models and their effectiveness for middle school students
The influence of personal appearance on career advancement and income opportunity
Use of appearance to manipulate audiences in advertising
The use of companion animals in trauma haling for children
Socialism in European history
Legal stimulant abuse in ice sports
Definitions and uses of eco-friendly packaging
Landfills in the 1970s
Alcohol abuse by teens in the 1950s versus the 1990s
International banking regulations that transformed the business environment in the 21 st century
Five modern professions that are dependent on the existence of the Internet
The evolution of Japanese family system 1900-2000
The industrial advancements of the Roman Empire
Entrepreneurism in the 20 th century
The history of popular sports on television
Leisure pursuits in the Renaissance
Alternative medicine’s influence on the healthcare industry
Changing roles of nonbinary and gender definitions
Microplastic pollution in terrestrial environments
Three important historical figures in ecological advancements
The economical impacts of sporting events
Child labor practices the fashion industry
Cyber-bullying prevention on social media platforms
Legalization of illicit activities and the effect on societal norms
Competition in academic environment and its effect on student learning
Anxiety and brain functions
Consumer protections in the organic food industry
Cosmetic surgery after-effects: physical, mental, and emotional
Preservation of tribal cultures in modern society
Impacts of intervention in teen drug abuse

Further Resources

How to Write a Good Thesis Statement: 7 Steps You Need to Know | Owlcation Once you learn how to write a good thesis statement, it becomes much easier to tackle research papers, essays, and other types of writing. Seven steps may sound like a lot of work, but once you master them, all your writing becomes easier.
How to Write a Paper Without Making Common Mistakes | Owlcation Want to improve your grammar? Follow my rules for eliminating errors that lower your grade.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

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100+ High School Research Paper Topics [Updated]

Hey there, high school students! Have you ever felt a bit overwhelmed when your teacher mentioned a research paper? No worries – it’s totally normal. In fact, tackling a research paper is like embarking on an exciting journey where you get to explore topics you’re interested in, do your own research, and become a critical thinking pro! This blog post is like your trusty map for this adventure. It’s here to help you create top-notch high school research paper topics without the stress.

What is The Significance of Research?

Table of Contents

Before delving into the intricacies of crafting a research paper, it’s crucial to understand the significance of this academic exercise. Research papers serve as a platform for students to explore a chosen topic in depth, analyze existing literature, and contribute to the broader conversation within a particular field.

The process of conducting research enhances critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills—essential attributes for success in higher education and beyond.

How to Write a Research Paper?

Writing a research paper can seem like a daunting task, but with a structured approach, it becomes much more manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Choose a Topic
Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your assignment.
Make sure it’s not too broad or too narrow; find a balance.
Conduct Preliminary Research
Gather some initial information to ensure there’s enough material available.
Note down key points and potential sources.
Develop a Thesis Statement
Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main purpose or argument of your paper.
Create an Outline
Form an outline that is structured based on your research and ideas.
Assign headings to the sections of your work, such as introduction, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion.
Write the Introduction
Provide background information on your topic.
State the purpose of your research and present your thesis statement.
Review the Literature
Summarize existing research related to your topic.
Identify gaps or controversies in the literature.
Detail the Methodology
Explain your research design (e.g., experiment, survey, case study).
Describe the data collection process and justify your chosen method.
Present the Results
Showcase your findings using tables, graphs, or charts.
Analyze the results and connect them to your thesis statement.
Discuss Your Findings
Compare your results to existing research.
Explore the broader implications and practical applications.
Encourage critical thinking and discussion.
Write the Conclusion
Summarize the key findings.
Restate your thesis and highlight its importance.
Suggest directions for future research.
Cite Your Sources
Compile a list of all sources cited in your paper.
Use a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) as per your assignment guidelines.
Revise and Edit
Review your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
Make sure your arguments flow logically, and check for any spelling or punctuation errors.
Seek Feedback
Ask a friend, family member, or teacher to review your paper.
Consider their feedback and make necessary revisions.
Finalize Your Paper
Double-check formatting and ensure your paper adheres to any specific requirements.
Submit your well-crafted research paper on time!

100+ High School Research Paper Topics

Climate Change: Impact and Mitigation Strategies
The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
Cybersecurity: Protecting Against Online Threats
The History and Impact of Vaccines
Gender Inequality in the Workplace
Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?
Environmental Pollution: Causes and Solutions
The Influence of Pop Culture on Society
The Importance of Financial Literacy for High School Students
The Rise of E-commerce and Its Effects on Traditional Retail
Bullying in Schools: Causes and Prevention
The Role of Women in History
Genetic Engineering: Ethical Considerations
The Impact of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior
Youth Activism: Examining Movements and Causes
The Relationship Between Diet and Academic Performance
The History and Impact of Space Exploration
Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
The Future of Renewable Energy
The Evolution of Language: From Ancient to Modern
The Influence of Art and Music on Society
Cultural Appropriation: Understanding the Debate
The Rise of Online Education: Pros and Cons
Human Trafficking: A Global Issue
The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Academic Performance
The Impact of Social Class on Educational Opportunities
The History of Civil Rights Movements
Technology Addiction: Causes and Solutions
The Role of Government in Public Health
Animal Testing: Ethical Dilemmas
The Influence of Literature on Social Change
Gun Control: Balancing Rights and Safety
The Importance of Diversity in Education
The Rise of Single-Parent Families: Causes and Effects
The Role of Mass Media in Shaping Public Opinion
The Future of Space Travel and Colonization
The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
Teenage Pregnancy: Causes and Prevention
The History and Impact of Rock and Roll Music
The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Modification
The Effectiveness of Anti-Smoking Campaigns
The Impact of Social and Economic Inequality
Human Rights Violations: A Global Perspective
The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Norms
The History and Impact of Hip-Hop Culture
Online Privacy: Balancing Security and Freedom
The Effects of Fast Food on Health
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
Climate Change Denial: Causes and Consequences
The Influence of Ancient Philosophers on Modern Thought
Internet Censorship: Balancing Free Speech and Security
The Effects of Parental Involvement on Academic Achievement
The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Consumer Behavior
Renewable Energy: Exploring Alternatives
The History and Impact of Feminism
Technology and Education: Enhancing or Hindering Learning?
The Role of Social Institutions in Shaping Behavior
The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples
The Evolution of Human Rights
The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Choices
The Importance of STEM Education
The Effects of Peer Pressure on Teenagers
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Healthcare
The Role of Religion in Shaping Political Beliefs
Cyberbullying: Causes and Solutions
The Influence of Literature on Cultural Identity
The Impact of Social Media on Political Activism
The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education
The Effects of Air Pollution on Health
The History and Impact of LGBTQ+ Rights Movements
The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
The Influence of Technology on Human Relationships
The Role of Education in Combating Racism
The History and Impact of the Internet
The Effects of Childhood Obesity on Long-Term Health
The Role of NGOs in Addressing Global Issues
The Impact of Immigration on Society

Tips For Successful High School Research Paper

Choose a topic you’re passionate about and align with the assignment.
Start your research early to allow sufficient time for thorough investigation.
Craft a clear thesis statement that encapsulates your main argument.
Create a well-organized outline to structure your paper effectively.
Use reliable and diverse sources for a comprehensive literature review.
Clearly explain your research methodology, showcasing its relevance.
Present your findings using visual aids like graphs or charts.
Engage in critical discussion in the results and discussion sections.
Conclude by summarizing key findings and suggesting future research.
Follow the prescribed citation style diligently for accurate referencing.
Revise and edit your paper for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
Seek feedback from peers or teachers to enhance your paper further.
Pay attention to formatting details to meet assignment requirements.
Proofread carefully before submission to catch any last-minute errors.

Crafting a high school research paper is an intellectual journey that allows students to explore their passions, hone critical skills, and contribute to the academic discourse.

By following the outlined structure, students can navigate the process with confidence, producing a well-organized and impactful research paper that not only fulfills academic requirements but also serves as a testament to their intellectual curiosity and prowess. I hope this topic on high school research paper topics will help you out with a number of suggestions.

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Research Paper Topics for High School Students

Table of contents

1.1 Consider the Scope and Time Commitment
1.2 Align the Topic with Your Interests
1.3 Use Resources and Guides
2.1 Education Research Topics
2.2 Research Topics about World History
2.3 Healthcare Research Topics
2.4 Finance Research Topics
2.5 Mental Health Topics
2.6 Science Research Topics
2.7 Music research topics
2.8 Environmental
2.9 Entrepreneurship
3 Conclusion

Research papers are common assignments in high school systems worldwide. They serve as a method for students to convey what they have learned from in-depth analysis on a specific subject. But why are they so prevalent in high schools?

The reason is that writing a well-structured and organized research paper teaches students essential academic skills such as making critical connections, expressing understanding, summarizing complex data, and effectively communicating their findings.

The process begins with selecting from various potential research paper topics. Students must identify a topic that not only interests them but also has sufficient scope to explore in depth. Selecting a good research paper topic is key to connecting with your audience — usually, your teachers and classmates. However, choosing the best topic can be tough. This is often because there are so many options available or it’s unclear what makes a topic both doable and interesting.

To help students with this important first step in the research paper process, we’ve created this guide. It provides strategies for picking the right topics and features a diverse list of more than 50 research ideas. These suggestions aim to improve academic performance by covering a variety of subjects, giving students a strong start for their research projects.

How to Choose High School Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research paper topic is key, especially with so many suitable options for high school. The process might seem overwhelming, but learning how to narrow down your options can make it easier to handle.

Consider the Scope and Time Commitment

The first thing to consider is the amount of time you have to complete your paper. Topics that are too broad can be exhausting and may make it difficult to finish the paper on time. It’s best to choose topics that are not too broad yet detailed enough to explore within your deadline. Well-defined topics help you stay focused and organized, making your research and writing processes more efficient.

Align the Topic with Your Interests

Motivation plays a key role in the success of your research. Select a research paper topic that aligns with your personal interests and that you find interesting. This will keep you engaged and energized throughout the writing process.

If you’re struggling or the deadline is near and your paper isn’t ready, remember there are resources to help, like buying a research paper to meet your academic needs. But ideally, with the right topic and careful planning, you should be able to finish your assignment on your own.

Use Resources and Guides

To aid in your topic selection, refer to guides and lists that offer a variety of research ideas. These resources aim to inspire and give you a good start for your research paper. They cover a wide range of topics and are designed to meet various academic needs. By picking a topic from these lists, you can boost your performance and kickstart your research project smoothly, leading to a good research paper.

Most Interesting & Easy Research Topics for High School students

We’ve sorted the all research paper ideas into categories to make your academic exploration easier. Your personal interest is crucial when choosing a topic, so we suggest exploring the category that interests you the most. If you’re short on time, remember that here at PapersOWL, we are ready to provide a custom research paper tailored to your needs.

Education Research Topics

If you are interested in education, you should consider choosing an education research topic for high school students. Below you can find ten topics you can use as inspiration.

Should High Schools Impose Mandatory Vaccination on Students?
The Benefits of Charter Schools for the Public Education System
Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: Which One Better Sets Students for Success?
Should Public Education Continue to Promote Diversity? Why?
The Most Beneficial Funding Programs for Students
The Effects of the Rising Price of College Tuitions on High School Students
Discuss the Most Noteworthy Advantages and Disadvantages of Standardized Testing
What Are the Alternatives to Standardized Testing?
Does a Gap Year Between High School and College Set Students for Success?
Identify and Discuss the Major Benefits of Group Projects for High Schoolers
The Role of Technology in Modern Education
The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Systems Worldwide
Addressing the Achievement Gap in Education
The Impact of AI on Personalized Learning
Online Learning: Pros and Cons in Modern Education
The Role of E-Learning Platforms in Modern Education
Strategies to Integrate AI into Classroom
The Ethical Implications of Using AI in Student Surveillance

Research Topics about World History

The Origin Of The Israel-Palestine Conflict And Possible Resolutions
The History Of The USA Occupation Of Iraq
Choose A Famous Assassinated World Leader And Discuss What Led To The Assassination
Discuss A Historical Invention And How It Changed The Lives Of People Worldwide
Has The World’s Leading Countries’ Response To Climate Change Improved Or Declined Over The Last Decade?
How The President Of Belarus Manages To Stay In Power For Over 25 Years
Which Event In World History Had The Most Impact On Your Country?
The Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Society
The Role of the Silk Road in Connecting Cultures
The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on World History
Colonialism and Its Long-Term Effects on Colonized Nations
The Cold War: Causes, Major Events, and Lasting Impacts
The Role of Women in Shaping World History
The Role of Women in World War I and II
Decolonization Movements Post-World War II
The Effect of Technological Advancements on Warfare Throughout History
Three Kingdoms Period in Chinese History
Albigensian Crusade and Its Impact on Medieval Europe
Italian Front in World War I
History and Influence of the Mongolian Empire
Greco-Bactrian and Indo-Greek Kingdoms
Great Game: Anglo-Russian Rivalry in Central Asia
Cultural and Historical Significance of the Abbasid Caliphate

Healthcare Research Topics

The Benefits and Risks of Telemedicine
The Impact of COVID-19 on Global Healthcare Systems
Mental Health Awareness in High Schools
The Role of Vaccination in Public Health
Obesity and Its Impact on Health in Adolescents
The Future of Personalized Medicine
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering in Healthcare
How AI is Revolutionizing Healthcare Diagnostics
Access to Healthcare in Rural vs. Urban Areas
The Importance of Preventive Healthcare
Healthcare Disparities Among Different Socioeconomic Groups
The Effects of Climate Change on Public Health
The Role of Technology in Managing Chronic Diseases
Nutrition and Its Impact on Adolescent Health
The Influence of Pharmaceutical Companies on Healthcare Policies
The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare Systems
Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Causes and Solutions
The Role of Mental Health Services in Schools
The Impact of Social Media on Teen Health Behaviors
The Advancements in Cancer Treatments

Finance Research Topics

How Cryptocurrency is Changing the Financial Landscape
Impact of Globalization on Financial Markets
Ethical Investing: Benefits and Challenges
Microfinance and Its Role in Economies Development
Influence of Interest Rates on Economic Growth
The Financial Implications of Student Loan Debt
Sustainable Finance and Its Growing Importance
The Role of Central Banks in Stabilizing Economies
How AI is Transforming Financial Services
Online Banking: Security and Convenience
The Effects of Economic Recessions on Small Businesses
The Evolution of Stock Markets Over the Last Century
The Financial Impact of Natural Disasters
Personal Finance Education: Should It Be Mandatory in Schools?
The Future of Digital Payments
Challenges of Implementing Universal Basic Income
Impact of Tax Policies on Economic Inequality
Role of Hedge Funds in Financial Markets
The Rise of Robo-Advisors in Personal Finance Management

Mental Health Topics

Here are some relevant and significant mental health research topics for high school research papers. These topics are here to inspire and guide you in your research:

Discuss The Main Ways Stress Affects The Body
Can Daily Exercises Benefit Mental Health? How?
Should More Counselors Work In High Schools? Why?
Discuss The Major Factors That Contribute To Poor Mental And Physical Well-Being
In What Ways Has The Worldwide Pandemic Affected People’s Mental Health?
Explore The Relationship Between Social Media And Mental Health Disorders
How The Public School System Cares For The Mental Health Of Students
What Is The Most Effective Psychotherapy For High Schoolers?
Impact of Bullying on Mental Health
Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
Cultural Differences in Mental Health Perceptions and Treatment
Mindfulness Practices Effectiveness in Schools
Family Dynamics Influence on Adolescent Mental Health

Science Research Topics

Science is one of those fields where there is always something new you can research. If you need a science research topic for high school students, feel free to use any of the following.

How Can Civilization Save Coral Reefs?
What Are Black Holes, And What Is Their Role?
Explain Sugar Chemistry That Enables Us To Make Candies
What Are The Biggest Successes Of The Epa In The Last Decade?
Is There A Way To Reverse Climate Change? How?
What Solutions Does Science Offer To Resolve The Drinking Water Crisis In The Future?
Ways to Save Coral Reefs
Black Holes and Their Role
Sugar Chemistry in Candy Making
Biggest Successes of the EPA in the Last Decade
Reversing Climate Change
Scientific Solutions for the Drinking Water Crisis
The Role of CRISPR in Genetic Engineering
Impacts of Space Exploration on Earth Science
Developments in Renewable Energy Technologies
The Effects of Microplastics on Marine Life
Nanotechnology in Medicine
Quantum Computing and Its Potential Uses
Studying the Human Genome Project
Advancements in Vaccine Development

Music research topics

Many teenagers find inspiration in music, so why not choose some music high school research paper topics.

In What Way Music Education Benefits High School Students?
How Famous Musicians Impact Pop Music
Classification Of Music Instruments: Discuss The Sachs-Hornbostel System
Did Sound Effect Technology Change The Music Industry? How?
How Did Online Streaming Platforms Help Music Evolve?
How Does Music Software Emulate Sounds Of Different Instruments?

Environmental

Our environment has been a hot topic for quite some time now. There is a lot of research to back up your claims and make logical assumptions. Here are some environmental high school research topics you can choose from.

What Is The Impact Of Offshore Drilling On The Environment?
Do We Need Climate Change Legislation? Why?
Are Ecotourism And Tropical Fishing Viable Ways To Save And Recuperate Endangered Areas And Animals?
The Impact Of Disposable Products On The Environment
Discuss The Benefits Of Green Buildings To Our Environment
Find And Discuss A Large-Scale Recent Project That Helped Restore Balance In An Area

Entrepreneurship

Many students struggle with having to find good entrepreneurship research paper ideas for high school. This is why we’ve developed a list of topics to inspire your research.

What Is Entrepreneurship?
Are People Born With An Entrepreneurial Spirit, Or Can You Learn It?
Discuss The Major Entrepreneurship Theories
Does Entrepreneurship Affect The Growth Of The Economy?
Which Character Traits Are Commonly Found In Successful Entrepreneurs?
The Pros And Cons Of Having A Traditional Job And Being An Entrepreneur
Discuss Entrepreneurship As One Of The Solutions To Unemployment
What Is Crowdfunding, And How It’s Related To Entrepreneurship
The Most Common Challenges Entrepreneurs Face
How Social Media Made A Lot Of Successful Entrepreneurs

Hopefully, you’ll find these high school research paper topics inspirational. The categories are there to help you choose easily. Here at PapersOwl, we know how hard it is to complete all assignments in time and ace all your grades. If you are struggling with writing, feel free to contact us about our writing services, and we’ll help you come on top of your research paper assignment no matter how complex it is.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
Should graduate students be able to form unions?

What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
How does stress affect the body?
Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler's rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
How are black holes created?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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65 Argumentative Research Topics For High School Students [PDF Included]

In today’s world, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it’s becoming increasingly important to teach students how to think critically, evaluate sources, and develop persuasive arguments. And one of the best ways to do this is through argumentative research topics.

In high school, students are often encouraged to learn and analyze factual information. However, much like other English and biology research topics , argumentative research topics offer a different kind of challenge. Instead of simply presenting facts, these topics require students to delve into complex issues, think critically, and present their opinions in a clear and convincing manner.

In this article, we will provide a list of compelling argumentative research topics for high school students. From education and politics to social issues and environmental concerns, these topics will challenge students to think deeply, evaluate sources critically, and develop and challenge their skills!

Argumentative research topics: Persuading the student to think and reason harder

Argumentative research topics are a fascinating and exciting way for students to engage in critical thinking and persuasive writing. This type of research topic encourages students to take a stance on a controversial issue and defend it using well-reasoned arguments and evidence. By doing so, students are not only honing their analytical skills and persuasive writing skills, but they are also developing a deeper understanding of their own beliefs and assumptions.

Unlike other research topics that may simply require students to regurgitate facts or summarize existing research, argumentative topics require students to develop and defend their own ideas.

Through argumentative research, students are encouraged to question their own biases and consider alternative perspectives. This type of critical thinking is a vital skill that is essential for success in any academic or professional context. Being able to analyze and evaluate information from different perspectives is an invaluable tool that will serve students well in their future careers.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics, are like writing prompts , which are meant to encourage students to engage in civil discourse and debate. These topics often involve controversial issues that can elicit strong emotions and passionate opinions from individuals with differing viewpoints.

By engaging in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, students can learn how to engage with people who have different beliefs and opinions

Argumentative Research Topics

The boundaries of free speech: where should the line be drawn?
Internet privacy: Should websites and apps be restricted in collecting and utilizing user data?
Has the internet been a force for progress or a hindrance?
The role of public surveillance in modern society: is it necessary or invasive?
Climate change and global warming: Are human activities solely responsible?
Mandating physical education in schools to combat childhood obesity: Is it effective?
The ethics of mandatory vaccination for high school students for public health reasons
The ethics of wearing fur and leather: Is it always unethical?
Keeping exotic pets: is it acceptable or inhumane?
The impact of social media on mental health: Is it more positive or negative?
Wildlife preserves: Are they suitable habitats for all species that reside there?
Animal fashion: Should it be prohibited?
Mental health services in schools: Should they be free or reduced-cost for students?
Quality of high school education: Should teachers undergo regular assessments to ensure it?
Healthy eating habits in schools: Should schools offer healthier food options in their cafeteria or allow students to bring food from home?
Social media addiction: Is it a significant health concern for kids?
Technology use and mental health problems: Is there a connection among high school students?
Junk food in schools: Should schools ban it from vending machines and school stores to promote healthy eating habits?
Dress codes in schools: Are they necessary or outdated
Regulating social media: Should the government regulate it to prevent cyberbullying?
Politicians and standardized testing: Should politicians be subject to standardized testing?
Art vs Science: Are they equally challenging fields?
School uniform and discrimination: Does it really reduce discrimination in schools?
Teachers and poor academic performance: Are teachers the cause of poor academic performance?
Physical discipline: Should teachers and parents be allowed to physically discipline their children?
Telling white lies: Is it acceptable to tell a white lie to spare someone’s feelings?
Sports in college: Should colleges promote sports as a career path?
Gender and education: How does gender affect education?
Refusing medical treatment: Is it acceptable to refuse medical treatment based on personal beliefs?
Children’s rights and medical treatment: Do doctors violate children’s rights if they do not provide treatment when the parents refuse to treat the child?
Parental influence on gender stereotypes: Do parents encourage gender stereotypes?
Dating in schools: Should dating be permitted in schools with supervision?
Human nature: Are people inherently good or evil by nature?
Immigration and national economy: Can immigration benefit the national economy?
Keeping animals in zoos: Is it appropriate?
Cell phone use in schools: Should cell phone use be permitted in schools?
Veganism: Should humans only consume vegan food?
Animal testing: Should it be outlawed?
Waste segregation: Should the government mandate waste segregation at home?
Technology integration in schools: Is it beneficial for traditional learning?
Homeschooling vs traditional schooling: Is homeschooling as effective as traditional schooling?
Prohibition of smoking and drinking: Should it be permanently prohibited?
Banning violent and aggressive video games: Should they be banned?
Harmful effects of beauty standards on society: Are beauty standards harmful to society?
The impact of advertising on consumer behavior
The ethical considerations of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society
The impact of globalization on cultural diversity
The effectiveness of alternative medicine in treating various illnesses
The benefits and drawbacks of online learning compared to traditional classroom education
The role of mass media in shaping public opinion and political discourse
The impact of artificial intelligence on job automation and employment rates
The impact of fast fashion on the environment and human rights
The ethical considerations of using animals for entertainment purposes
Parents are solely responsible for their child’s behavior.
Is space exploration worth it or not?
stricter regulations on the use of plastic and single-use products to reduce waste
Is capitalism the best economic system
Should there be limits on the amount of wealth individuals can accumulate?
Is it ethical to use animals for food production?
Is the concept of national borders outdated in the modern era?
Should the use of nuclear power be expanded or phased out?
Self-driving cars: Convenience or threat?
The implications of allowing influencers to advertise dietary supplements and weight loss products.
Faults in the education system: need change or modification?
Are the intentions of “big pharma” genuinely aligned with the well-being of the public?

Argumentative research topics are an important tool for promoting critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills and preparing high school students for active engagement in society. These topics challenge students to think deeply and develop persuasive arguments by engaging with complex issues and evaluating sources. Through this process, students can become informed, engaged, and empathetic citizens who are equipped to participate actively in a democratic society.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics teach students how to engage in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, and how to communicate effectively with people who have different beliefs and opinions. By fostering civil discourse, argumentative research topics can help bridge social, cultural, and political divides, and promote a more united and equitable society.

Overall, argumentative research topics are a crucial component of high school education, as they provide students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in college, career, and life.

Having a 10+ years of experience in teaching little budding learners, I am now working as a soft skills and IELTS trainers. Having spent my share of time with high schoolers, I understand their fears about the future. At the same time, my experience has helped me foster plenty of strategies that can make their 4 years of high school blissful. Furthermore, I have worked intensely on helping these young adults bloom into successful adults by training them for their dream colleges. Through my blogs, I intend to help parents, educators and students in making these years joyful and prosperous.

Unleashing Creativity in Research: How High Schoolers Can Find Unique and Engaging Research Topics

In a competitive college admissions landscape, research accomplishments can help make you stand out, both academically and in terms of extracurriculars. But to achieve these goals, you need to start with a unique and engaging research topic. In this blog post we explain the importance of high school research projects for college admissions, share expert tips for finding your own compelling research topics, and offer you lots of examples of great research topics in different subject areas.

The Importance of Research for High Schoolers

Academic knowledge is driven by inquiry, and virtually all inquiry prompts us to engage in research that advances learning or solves problems. Not only will you need research skills to excel in college, but engaging in high-quality research projects while you’re still in high school can do a lot more than just get you a better grade.

For example, engaging in original research that aligns with your personal passions is a great way to spotlight you curiosity and motivation. And, if you tailor your research project to dovetail with other scholars’ interests, or with a compelling practical application or area of public interest, you’re already spotlighting for admissions officers your ability to apply learning to real life problem solving and public service.

Finally, because a sophisticated research project hones core academic skills, boosts subject-matter learning dramatically, and showcases your academic drive and motivation, an extracurricular research project can go a long way in elevating your college admissions profile!

Great Research Starts with a Great Research Topic

To get the most of a research project, it’s crucial to start with a unique and compelling research topic.

With a research topic that’s relevant and engaging, you’ll get more for the time and effort you’ll be investing in your research project.

Here’s just some of the benefits you can get from a well-designed research project with an interesting and relevant research topic:

learn new information that’s not covered in your regular classes
discover cutting-edge ideas, interests, and unanswered questions in your field of interest
move from passive learning to actively exploring hypotheses and contributing to academic conversations to science, to public policy, or to problem solving
make important strides as a student, by consolidating your learning and contributing new insights to your field of interest

With research projects offering so many benefits for high school students, it’s crucial to remember that all winning research starts with a winning research topic!

So let’s get started!

How to Develop a Great Research Topic

Researching something you’re passionate about that’s original, relevant, and compelling is key to turning your research effort into something that really helps you grow and stand out academically.

But, if you aren’t going to settle for an overly cliche or general research topic, how do you find one that’s truly engaging and also right for your interests?

Using a thorough and tested multi-step process is probably the best way to chart your own path to a unique and engaging research topic.

Brainstorming: Good old-fashioned brainstorming is almost certain to help you tap into your own passions and jumpstart the work of developing a great topic. You’re likely to surprise yourself with your own creativity. Be sure to write your ideas down; then finish this step by creating a “short list” of the topic ideas you believe to be most promising.
Exploratory Research: Sometimes you just need to know a bit more about an area of research in order to come up with the best research topics. Exploratory research is often easy to do online, and is a great way to get insights into the subject matter terrain you’re considering in order to:
find additional topic ideas
deepen or narrow a topic idea
decide if a topic is worth pursuing further

TIP: If you’re exploring topics for a PERSONAL ESSAY for college applications, be sure to check out Crimson Education’s Free Topic & Idea Generator .

Or, do you want to learn more about research-focused extracurriculars for high schoolers , with added guidance and learning in the form research mentorships, internship placements, proposal writing competitions, or summer research intensives? If so, reach out to a Crimson Education Advisor for more information.

Defining and Refining Your Research Topic or Question: A research paper or project typically involves more than just a short essay: you’ll have to craft a driving question or hypothesis and synthesize information from a variety of sources:
Is your topic broad enough to invite meaningful inquiry?
Is it complex enough to incorporate and evaluate competing perspectives?
Is there a way to use specific experiments, examples, or case study approaches in order to keep the project focused?
Outside Guidance and Advice: Getting guidance and input from teachers or professors, other mentors, or industry professionals can be immensely valuable for uncovering new topics or for refining your existing topic ideas!

TIP: Many professionals find it gratifying to talk about their work with an interested young scholar, so don’t be afraid to ask someone in the field for input — it’s a great way to get an expert perspective can really transform a good research topic into a great one.

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Examples of Research Topics Across Disciplines

We’ve covered a lot of ground already, but maybe you’re still wondering, okay, what does a good research topic look like?

As you review the examples below, you can evaluate them on your own by asking yourself:

Is the topic open-ended enough? Can the topic be explored with evidence, critical thinking, a case study approach, or some form of scientific method?
Is the topic relevant and interesting? Does the topic advance scholarly or academic conversations? Or contribute to an area of public interest or social debate? Or have some kind of scientific value?

Topics in Schools & Education

Should high schools re-invest in vocational education or focus exclusively on a college prep curriculum?
Should ethnic studies courses and curricula in public schools be required, optional, or eliminated ?
How can we predict the impacts tools like Chat-GPT will have on student learning?
Should countries have national curriculum standards, or should local communities and school boards decide what is taught in schools?
Have charter schools helped the US improve the public education system?
What countries appear to have the best education systems and what features do they have in common, if any?

Topics in History

What do important examples in history teach us about the causes of civil war and how to prevent civil war?
Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt are among the highest ranking US presidents, based on scholarly estimations and public opinions. What do their presidencies teach us about the qualities of great political leadership?
What constitutes the US’s greatest military or national defense failure? What lessons can policymakers draw from it?
Does the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict offer any insights into how to end it today?
What can we learn about democracy today based on the successes and failures of ancient experiments in democracy?
If used as primary source evidence by historians, how can art illuminate social history or social progress?

Topics in Government

Should we protect or abolish the Electoral College in the US?
Using Canada as a model, what are the pros and cons of a nationalized healthcare system?
Is affirmative action good public policy?
Should we reform the US Supreme Court? Why or why not?
Using carbon cap & trade policy, or a similar economic policy as an example, how effective are economic incentives for solving big social problems?
Should there be a global revenue tax on large global technology companies?
Should industrial countries do more to help developing countries cope with the effects of climate change?

Topics in Literature

How does literature give a voice to the voiceless?
Why are some books banned or censored?
Is literature educational or just entertainment?
Do graphic novels count as literature?
What characterizes the works of authors who have won Nobel Prizes for literature?
Can literature — in the form of novels, short stories, essays, or plays — change the course of history?

Topics in Society, Health, & Human Psychology

What are the best ways to reduce and prevent bullying?
Should we criminalize hate speech?
Since loneliness has been shown to decrease life expectancy, are there any promising ways to combat it?
What can schools do to help reduce mental health suffering in teens and young adults?
Do we truly live in an “age of anxiety”? What do the indicators tell us about the scope of the problem and possible remedies?

Topics in Sports

Should college athletes get paid?
What are the benefits and downsides of participating in athletics in high school?
What sports should be eliminated from the Olympics and which ones added? Why?
How can we use sports to increase international goodwill and cooperation?

Topics in Technology and Social Media

Should there be more age restrictions on social media access?
How can society address hate speech and/or disinformation in social media?
Should employers encourage or discourage more remote work arrangements?

Interdisciplinary Examples

Another great way to pick a research topic is to explore interdisciplinary areas of research . In fact, many engaging research topics are going to naturally encompass different disciplines.

Here are some examples of topics that bridge two or more disciplines:

What concept(s) from the field of economics might help us find ways to improve education?
How can we use marketing principles to develop better public awareness campaigns for reducing teen vaping?
Does participating in team sports help improve mental health?
How can we apply insights from either microeconomics or from organizational psychology to improve health and fitness?
How can concepts from the study of linguistics help us understand political messaging and address political polarization?
What are additional ways we can leverage economic incentives to combat global warming?
Does mainstream advertising have an impact on social prejudices and stereotypes?

The Social Impact Factor

You should always consider if there are ways to shape your research topic to make your research project more relevant and consequential.

As an illustration, look at the two pairs of research topics below.

Compare the topics in each pair. Does A) or B) have more relevance or urgency in your opinion? Why?

A) What are the personal benefits of participating in team sports?

B) How can we use access to team sports programs in high schools to address today’s teen mental health crisis?

A) How can we use insights from linguistics to promote nonviolence and conflict resolution?

B) How can we use insights from linguistics to reduce extreme political polarization?

If your research topic address a clear “need,” “challenge” or “problem,” your audience is likely to find the topic more engaging and relevant.

What to Do When You’re Not Sure You Have a Good Research Topic?

If you’re not sure if you have a good topic, use the simple rubric below and see how your topic stacks up.

Compelling interest and social relevance. Does your research topic set you up to shed light on an important academic or scientific question? Does it illuminate a controversial and consequential social issue? Will it help solve a consequential problem? If so, you have a topic that will help you stay motivated and be more engaging for your audience.

Personally fulfilling. Whatever research topic you choose, it needs to be a research topic that relates to your own learning interests and passions, otherwise it’s hard to imagine that you’ll get the results you hoped for.

Important academic considerations. A good essay topic will offer valuable benefits for your academic growth and college journey: enhancing and accelerating your learning in one or more disciplines you enjoy studying and boosting your overall academic profile.

Research Resources

Once you’ve selected a research topic, you’ll obviously need to gather information from various sources and synthesize it into a coherent set of claims, findings, or arguments.

Here's a list of basic research tools and resources that you might find useful:

Libraries and Librarians

Libraries, especially academic libraries, are the researcher’s paradise.

If there’s a drawback to libraries, it’s not a lack of resources, but the challenge of finding your way to what’s most useful and relevant!

Fortunately, most libraries come with librarians who are trained to help researchers find the right resources, so don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Popular Kinds of Library Research Resources

Books: Useful for in-depth information, background information, historical context.

TIP: Don’t worry about how “long” a book is — use the table of contents and indexes to navigate to the information you need.

Academic Journals: Get scholarly articles useful for gathering more specialized and more up-to-date information about your topic.

Magazines and Newspapers: Good resources for getting interesting quotes from experts in a current events context or for exploring diverse public perspectives and viewpoints.

Online Platforms and Databases: Although some of these, such as Google Scholar are free and easy to access from any computer and internet browser, it’s often easier to get free access to many others with the help of a school or public library acting as an intermediary. Also, there are so many digital resources and databases, that we recommend getting assistance in this area from a trained librarian.

Reference Librarians: Last but not at all least, take advantage of librarians! They are not a direct research source of course, but may help you navigate quickly to the most useful research resources for your particular topic.

TIP: In many larger libraries, the librarians specially trained to help patrons with research are commonly referred to as reference librarians.

Internet Search Engines

Most young scholars today are already well acquainted with internet searches and search engines, with Google and Bing among the most popular.

Here’s a few tips for upping your internet search prowess:

Refine your search parameters with more sophisticated search terms and search engine settings
Know how to identify trustworthy and reliable internet sources

Educational Websites

There are a number of .edu websites operated by reputable sources that provide access to a range of educational content for students at different grade levels. Here are just a few examples:

Khan Academy: Comprehensive overviews and instructional videos on a variety of subjects
BBC Bitesize: Provides study guides for different topics (especially for UK curriculum)
National Geographic Education: Great for geography, history, and science topics
The Learning Network: (NY Times): Educational perspectives on a wide range of current events topics
The PBS Newshour Classroom: A respected educational website covering a range of topics

Government and Organization Websites

There are also lots of government ( .gov ) websites offering useful information for researchers. An upside of .gov websites is they are among the most objective and reliable sources of information, appropriate for academic research. Examples in the US include:

The White House
The Department of State
Science.gov
Department of Justice
Department of Agriculture
Department of Education

Websites operated by large, well-established, and highly reputable organizations are also typically good sources of information for researchers.

Examples could be highly reputable news organizations , such as US News and World Report , The BBC , Time Magazine , or The New York Times . Most of these news outlets also have searchable online resources.

Alternately, large international organizations , such as the United Nations or the World Health Organization, or the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation can also be reliable sources of information.

Documentaries and Educational Videos

Easy to overlook as research resources are any number of educational videos, podcasts, and documentary films.

YouTube educational channels such as CrashCourse and TED-Ed are two examples.

Likewise, ordinary streaming services may also list informative, high-quality documentaries.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we've explored a wide array of strategies and considerations for choosing a compelling research topic. From brainstorming and exploratory research to defining and refining your topic with guidance from mentors and professionals, the journey to selecting the right topic is as important as the research itself!

The Power of a Good Topic: Remember, an intriguing and relevant topic will not only captivate your audience but keep you motivated to the finish line.

Aligning with Your Interests: Does your topic resonate with your personal learning interests and goals? This alignment is crucial for achieving fulfilling and meaningful outcomes.

Practical Considerations: Consider how your chosen topic can enhance your understanding and passion in your field of study, especially in the context of your future academic and career goals.

Finally, don't underestimate the value of the resources and tools available for research exploration.

From online search to electronic databases and journals, to librarians themselves, these tools are pivotal in helping you refine your research interests and embark on a successful research project.

Interested in exploring more options for pre-college research experiences? Want information about more advanced research mentorships, competitions, internships, or initiatives? Connecting with a Crimson Education Advisor is the best way to find opportunities like these, both online and around the world, based on your individual interests and preferences.

These opportunities can take you well beyond ordinary classroom research assignments, connecting you with like-minded peers for group projects, with schools hosting summer research intensives or fun and prestigious research competitions, or with university mentors…

We’ve helped thousands of students just like you elevate their extracurriculars with opportunities like these! Contact a friendly Crimson Education Advisor today and find out what you can do…

Finally, stay tuned for future blogs that explore extracurriculars, interesting future careers, diverse majors, and insights for boosting your university admissions strategy!

What Makes Crimson Different

Key Resources & Further Reading

Join our free webinars on US university applications
Free eBooks and guides to help with the college application process

About the Author

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus is a former educator with a passion for languages, literature, and lifelong learning. After obtaining a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz and exploring university life in Paris, Keith earned his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and then worked for 16 years in K12 education before setting up shop as a freelance writer.

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250 Plus Interesting High School Research Topics to Rock your Paper

Everyone including our expert paper writers understand what you’re going through!

Writing a research paper is hard but selecting an appropriate topic that interests all of your readers is even harder. Here’s the solution that will save you from hours of combing through data.

In this post, we have assembled lists of over 250 plus high school research paper topics that will get your creative juices flowing with additional work.

So, stick around till the end to find your favorite topic that WILL help you secure that top grade.

Table of Contents

Impressive High School Research Paper Topics from 8 Different Fields

Let us spill the real tea! Composing a research paper without the right topic is a recipe for disaster. But how do we know if the topic we have chosen is right?

Simple, before picking a topic, look for the following characteristics;

your topic must compliment your and your reader’s interest.
The chosen topic must be easily understood by the readers
It must have enough existing data on it, so there are no issues while citing a paper
The topic must check all your academic requirements.
An ideal research paper should have a practically applicable topic
Lastly, the right topic aligns with your specified deadline.

With these measures, you can easily pick the right topic for yourself. Speaking of which, we’ve got tons of cool stuff for you to check out, so let’s jump right in!

Research Paper Topics related to Mental Health (Health research paper topics)

If you want to work on a high school research paper about mental health, these topics could be a great place to start.

Is mental health a hindrance for some people to interact with technology?
Measures that assure the safety of mental health problems.
Virtual therapies vs Physical therapies.
The effect of obesity on mental health.
The symptoms of mental illness in family members.
Main causes of anorexia.
Ways to deal with post-traumatic stress.
The truth behind the statement’ mental illness is more prevalent in men than women.’
Can we regard ADHD as a mental illness?
Is OCD a mental illness?
Drug abuse and its side effects on mental health.
Different tested ways of proving ADHD.
The most effective ways of overcoming low self-esteem.
How does marijuana affect the mental health of an addict?
Reasons why depression pills must be regulated.
Understanding post-traumatic stress disorder.
How does poverty affect mental health?
Ways to improve brain health.
Side effects of antidepressants.
Indicators of mental illness.
Mental illness of soldiers returning from War.
How is mental illness portrayed in the media?
Understanding the difference between sadness and depression.
Mental illness in the age of toxic internet culture.
How are violence and mental illness connected?
Why do people with mental illness find it hard to socialize?
The challenges of a psychiatric nursing career.
Effectiveness of antidepressants to cope with depression.
How can classical music help in treating mental illness?

High School Research Paper Topics Related to Science (argumentative research paper topics)

If you’re a high school student looking for a science research topic, you’re in luck! There’s always something new to explore in the beautiful world of science. Check out any of the following ideas for a good research paper topic.

Reasons why COVID-19 is deadlier than Influenza.
How are meteorites affecting the universe?
The misconceptions regarding Pluto.
Understanding the supernova.
Is it true that Mars has water?
What do we need to know about the Big Bang Theory?
Different viruses in the modern world.
Understanding the DNA and its functionalities.
The impact of acid rains on earth.
Oil spills and their effect on the ecology.
What should we know about global warming?
Understanding the extinction of coral reefs.
Digging deep to understand green cities.
What Does the Future of 3D Printing Look like?
Are fertilizers harmful to human health?
Understanding the contamination of soils.
How do the shortages of water look in the modern world?
The effective ways of keeping ice from defrosting.
Music and its effects on your assimilation ability.
Do soil worms impact the plant’s growth?
How can food affect the heart?
Important innovations in medicinal chemistry.
How to restrict the use of antibiotics in agriculture?
Why is it challenging to eliminate malaria?
Ideal weight for living a long life.
How severe is a migraine for human health?
Understanding the different types of headaches.
Analyzing the learning ability of mice.
What type of food does a dog prefer the most?
Understanding dark matter and black holes.
What will a commercial space flight look like?
Reasons why water boils faster when we pour salt into it?
Is it possible for humans to live in space?
The use of nanotechnology in medicine.
The role of nanofibers in repairing brain injuries.
Has there ever been life on Mars?

High School Research Topics Related to Education

If you’re into education, consider developing an interesting research topic for high school students. Speaking of which, some persuasive research paper topics could work as a starting point.

Understanding why students should receive advanced mental help in colleges?
Higher education in Europe vs Higher education in the US.
What essential role does collaboration play in higher education?
Ethnic minorities in American Universities.
Things to know about the Liberal Arts Education 2021.
What role does a video game play in developing a child’s memory?
Improving cognitive qualities via playing.
Individual studying vs group studying.
The significance of school mindfulness lessons.
E-books vs printed books.
Computer literacy and its challenges.
Why do students perceive writing research papers as a daunting task?
School bullying and its dark side.
Reasons why special education teachers must be entitled to receive higher pay?
Private school vs Homeschooling.
Understanding the concept of third-world countries
Does homework lift students’ learning?
Is paper writing help actually helpful for the students?
How are teachers voluntary parent figures for students?
Ways to avoid the use of an illicit substance in school.
The significance of older students interacting with younger children.
Ways to prevent school violence.
Analyzing the causes of boredom in the classroom.
The challenges of social distancing during a pandemic.
How is technology impacting early childhood literacy?
How effective are educational games in enhancing learning?
The effect of psychological development on students’ learning.
Using psychological techniques for improving language skills.
The importance of socialization among children.
Reasons students feel anxious and stressed.
The process of conflict resolution on college campuses.
The impact of globalization on higher education.
Academic difficulties that online students face.
The pros and cons of an online learning environment.

High School Research Paper Topics Related to World History

History can be fascinating, and there are many excellent topics to pick from. If you’re into history and want to learn more, check out these excellent world history research topics for high school!

The miserable life of peasants in Medieval Times.
Understanding social stratification.
A comparative analysis of World War I and World War II
Recent historical developments in China.
Shedding lights on Jamaican history.
What do we need to know about South African apartheid?
Significant events of the Ottoman Empire.
The Pearl Harbor Fiasco.
Analyzing the history of the Mughal Empire.
Reviewing the American Civil War.
What do we need to know about French Revolution
The intellectual level of people living in the Middle Ages.
The concept of religion in Ancient Greece.
Factors that led to the American Revolution.
Political causes of the French Revolution.
The causes and consequences of the Mexican War.
Analyzing the Watergate scandal.
The Indo-China War 1967.
The most prolonged War ever fought by America
Reasons behind the fall of the US military operation in Vietnam.
The Lawrence of Arabia.
Picturing Nazi Germany.
Main Reasons that led to World War II.

High School Research Paper Topics Related to Entrepreneurship

Many high schoolers need help thinking of ideas for an entrepreneurship research paper. To help them, we put together this list of potential topics.

The effects of entrepreneurism on economic growth.
How effective is cloud technology for entrepreneurship?
Personality traits of a successful entrepreneur.
What are the significant drivers of entrepreneurial growth?
Strategies of investors for procuring top entrepreneurs.
The advantages of becoming an entrepreneur.
Understanding the functioning of crowdsourcing.
How are taxes impacting the decisions of entrepreneurs?
Alternative marketing tactics for small-scale food entrepreneurs.
Understanding entrepreneurship as a long-term solution to unemployment.
How must the government support students pursuing entrepreneurship?
The effect of fiscal policies on entrepreneurship.
Skills and qualities of a brilliant entrepreneur.
Problems that entrepreneurs are facing globally.
Entrepreneurism vs Regular job.
Important personality traits to become a good entrepreneur.
Why should you become an entrepreneur?
Different ways of mitigating common risks in entrepreneurship.
Reasons adults are pursuing entrepreneurialism with passion.
How are technological advancements impacting entrepreneurship?
Common challenges a new entrepreneur faces.

High School Research Paper Topics Related to Music (interesting research topics)

Lots of teens get motivated by music, so why not pick out some music-related topics for that high school research paper? Here you go with the list.

The effect of music on the human brain.
The evolution of rap music.
Reasons why jazz feels so great.
Arabic music and its history.
The effect of Chinese music on nearby countries??
The effect of music on your productivity.
The role of music in eradicating stress.
What do we need to know about ancient ballads?
Does music help in relieving stress?
Music in ancient Egypt.
How women are impacting classical music.
The use of music for educational purposes.
How music helps you to concentrate better?
How can music help you learn foreign languages?
Analyzing the music for studying.

High School Research Paper Topics related to Finance (Business research paper topics)

Figuring out the best finance topics can be challenging, so we did some digging and assembled a great selection of economic research paper topics for you. Here you go with another list of research paper ideas.

How are corporate bonds a source of financing?
Understanding venture capital financing.
Analyzing systematic corporate risk.
How to plan the capital structure of a corporation?
Methods for developing the corporate investment policy.
Analyzing the effectiveness of mergers and acquisitions.
Motives behind corporate mergers.
How is bankruptcy a way of restructuring a corporation?
Understanding the concept of Financial Management.
How is financial literacy affecting the global economy?
How can e-money influence the world finance market?
The global financial crisis
The development of the securities market in the 21st century.
How can we prevent the emergence of financial shocks?
The derivatives of financial engineering.
Characteristics of financial control.
How is finance playing a role in social reproduction?
Understanding the concept of bank loans.
Ways to evaluate the effectiveness of financial management.
Exchange rate fluctuations and their impact on foreign economic activity.
The essence of leasing – what do we need to know?
Ways to develop a sound financial plan for the organization.
Different methods of calculating interest.
Significance of monetary policy.
How are funds playing a role in solving social problems?
Understanding risk management in the financial sector.

High School Research Paper Topics Related to Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) is a part of everyday life, so staying up-to-date on the latest and greatest is important. Check out these great ideas from our writers!

The ability of artificial intelligence to deal with tedious tasks.
The recent development of computational and synthetic biology.
Understanding computer architecture in colleges.
Evolution of computer graphics and animations.
Emerging fields of study in computer data science.
Managing data in the age of 5G technology.
The role of molecular information systems in biotechnology.
Information technology and its contribution to natural language processing.
Latest developments in programming languages.
Ways to deal with rising privacy concerns as technology advances.
Theory of computation to information technology.
How are wireless and sensor systems making the world a safe place?
The importance of amorphous computing in the 21st century.
The impact of biomedical mining on the health sector.
Role of swarm intelligence in brainstorming.
How are companies making use of Big Data?
The advantages and disadvantages of IOT (Internet of Things).
The challenges of software-defined networking.
How is augmented reality playing a crucial role in the healthcare system?
How are new apps making a man’s life easier?
How can informational technology detect and wipe the fake news?
Long-term benefits of a technologically oriented world.
How is technology making student-centered learning possible?
How is technology preventing the spread of the pandemic?
Discussing if social media is making the world a dividend universe/
The impact of technological globalization.

We are certain that these list of topics must have helped you pick a good research paper topic. Also, we’ve been offering essay and research paper writing services for quite a while now to students worldwide. Therefore, if you’re struggling to write your research paper, feel free to avail our college paper writing service at a cut price for academic growth.

Why is high school research so important?

What are the most interesting high school research paper topics.

These are the three most exciting research paper topics for high schoolers:

What has been the impact of a particular musician on pop music?
What changes have we seen in pop music over the past ten years?
How have women been portrayed in music in the media lately?

What are the five excellent research questions?

For good research, ask yourself:

What do I need to know?
Where can I get the information?
Which sources are reliable?
How can I incorporate fresh material into my writing?
How do I make sure I'm using info ethically?

What is the thesis of a research paper?

How to write a good research paper.

For writing a good research paper:

Take your outline and prospectus as a starting point, but don't be afraid to go off track if it improves your essay.
Focus on the points you want to make, and don't let your sources dictate the direction of your paper.
Pull in your sources to make your argument stronger.

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110+ Best Scientific Research Topics for High School Students: Igniting Curiosity

Post author By admin
September 25, 2023

Explore a wide range of scientific research topics for high school students. Expand your knowledge and enhance your academic journey.

Imagine, You, a high school student, donning a lab coat or wielding a microscope, uncovering the mysteries of the universe one experiment at a time. Exciting, right?

But here is the catch, choosing the right research topic is quite important for the high school students. Beacause it can help them to standout in the class.

In this blog post you are going to find out some of the best scientific research topics that offers lots of opportunities to learn and explore the scientific world. So get ready to explore them right now.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Have a close look at the importance of choosing the right topic:-

Stay Curious and Excited

Your research topic should be like that thrilling book you can’t put down – it keeps you curious and eager to dive in.

Practicality is Key

Think of it as fitting the right shoes for a hike; your topic needs to match the resources, time, and skills you have.

Be a Real-world Problem Solver

A good topic isn’t just for your benefit; it can help tackle real-world issues, like a superhero swooping in to save the day.

Stay on Course

Your topic is like the North Star; it guides your research journey, making sure you don’t get lost in the vast sea of knowledge.

Let Passion Drive You

Your topic should be something that keeps you awake at night with excitement – it’s your research’s secret sauce.

Open Doors to Opportunities

Choose wisely, and your topic could be the key to unlocking academic and career doors you never knew existed.

Add to the Collective Wisdom

Your research can be a puzzle piece in the grand mosaic of human knowledge – it’s your chance to contribute.

Grow Personally and Intellectually

Research isn’t just about facts; it’s a personal journey of growth, challenging you to think, learn, and communicate.

Embrace Innovation

A unique topic can be your ticket to thinking outside the box and coming up with groundbreaking ideas.

Claim Your Spotlight

If you’re passionate and your topic is right, you might just find yourself in the spotlight, with peers and mentors applauding your work.

Achieve Personal Fulfillment

Successfully researching a topic you love can bring a deep sense of accomplishment and joy.

Tips for Selecting a Research Topic

Choosing a research topic is like picking a movie to watch on a Friday night – it should be exciting and capture your interest. To help you find that perfect topic, here are some tips that feel like advice from a friend:

Follow Your Passion

Start with what makes your heart race with curiosity. Think about the subjects or issues that genuinely excite you – that’s where your research journey should begin.

Consider Your Resources

Imagine you’re a chef choosing ingredients for a new recipe. Your topic should align with the “ingredients” you have, whether it’s access to a lab, experts, or specific research tools.

Look for Real-world Relevance

Think of your research as a chance to change the world, even in a small way. Find topics that connect to real-world problems or gaps in knowledge – that’s where the magic happens.

Explore Unanswered Questions

Think of research as detective work. Scan the existing knowledge in your field and look for unsolved mysteries or gaps. Your research could be the missing puzzle piece.

Brainstorm and Mind-map

Get a notepad and brainstorm your interests. Make a mind map with your passions in the center, and let it grow like a tree with branches of related topics. It’s like planting the seeds of your research.

Discuss with Mentors

Imagine your mentors as treasure maps to research gold. Seek their wisdom and guidance; they might lead you to hidden gems of topics.

Consider Multidisciplinary Topics

Sometimes, the most exciting adventures happen when you cross borders. Explore topics that blend different fields – it’s like mixing your favorite flavors for a new dish.

Narrow it Down

Think of your topics as outfits for a special occasion. Try them on for size and consider factors like feasibility, relevance, and your personal interest to see which one fits the best.

Stay Open to Change

Think of your research journey as a winding road; sometimes, you might take a different turn. Be open to evolving interests as you dive deeper into your topic.

Read Widely

Dive into the world of research literature like you’re exploring a library full of secrets. The more you read, the clearer your path becomes.

Seek Feedback

Imagine your friends as your personal focus group. Share your ideas with them and see which ones light up their eyes. Their feedback can be invaluable.

Trust Your Instincts

Picture your topic choice as a conversation with your gut feeling. If it excites you and feels like the right choice, it probably is. Your enthusiasm will be your guiding star.

So, as you embark on your research journey, think of these tips as your trusty companions, guiding you towards that perfect topic – the one that makes your research adventure a truly thrilling experience.

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

Have a close look at scientific research topics for high school students:-

Investigating the Effect of Various Fertilizers on Plant Growth
Analyzing the Impact of Different Light Sources on Photosynthesis in Aquatic Plants
Studying the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
Exploring the Microbial Diversity in Soil Samples from Different Ecosystems
Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Lifespan of Fruit Flies
Analyzing the Antibacterial Properties of Natural Substances like Honey or Garlic
Studying the Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Life in Local Rivers
Investigating the Genetics of Taste Perception Among Family Members
Analyzing the Growth Patterns of Mold on Different Types of Food
Exploring the Impact of Music on the Heart Rate of Animals (e.g., Dogs, Cats, Fish).
Testing the pH Levels of Different Brands of Bottled Water
Investigating the Chemical Reactions Involved in Food Preservation Methods (e.g., Canning, Freezing, Drying)
Analyzing the Effects of Different Types of Salt on Ice Melting
Studying the Chemical Composition of Various Brands of Household Cleaners
Investigating the Electrolyte Levels in Common Sports Drinks
Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind the Colors in Fireworks
Testing the Efficiency of Homemade vs. Commercial Cleaning Products
Investigating the Effects of Household Ingredients on Rust Formation
Analyzing the Chemical Changes in Food During Cooking
Studying the Oxidation Rate of Different Types of Cooking Oils.
Experimenting with Different Materials to Create Solar Cells
Investigating the Factors Affecting the Swing of a Pendulum
Analyzing the Relationship Between Surface Area and Air Resistance
Studying the Properties of Lenses and Their Applications in Optics
Investigating the Physics of Simple Machines (e.g., Levers, Pulleys)
Exploring the Relationship Between Magnetic Fields and Electricity Generation
Testing the Effect of Different Materials on Sound Insulation
Investigating the Behavior of Different Materials Under Pressure
Analyzing the Impact of Projectile Mass on Distance Traveled
Studying the Properties of Elastic Materials (e.g., Rubber Bands, Springs).

Environmental Science

Measuring Air Quality in Various Locations within Your Community
Investigating the Effects of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Types of Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Desert)
Studying the Impact of Land Use on Water Quality in Local Rivers
Investigating the Efficiency of Different Water Filtration Methods
Exploring the Effects of Climate Change on Local Plant Phenology (e.g., Flowering, Leafing)
Testing the Biodegradability of Common Plastics in Different Environments
Investigating the Impact of Noise Pollution on Wildlife Behavior
Analyzing the Biodiversity of Microorganisms in Freshwater Ecosystems
Studying the Effects of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Animal Behavior.
Observing and Tracking the Movements of a Specific Celestial Body (e.g., Mars, Jupiter)
Investigating the Effects of Light Pollution on Night Sky Visibility
Analyzing Data from a Solar Observation and Creating Sunspot Predictions
Studying the Impact of Solar Flares on Earth’s Magnetosphere
Investigating the Relationship Between Planetary Orbits and Climate Change on Earth
Exploring the Search for Exoplanets Using Transit Photometry
Testing the Effects of Different Filters on Astronomical Telescopes
Investigating the Rotation Periods of Asteroids Through Observational Data
Analyzing Stellar Spectra and Classifying Stars Based on Their Characteristics
Studying the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters.
Investigating the Impact of Social Media Use on Teenagers’ Sleep Patterns
Studying the Effects of Different Learning Styles on Academic Performance
Analyzing the Relationship Between Screen Time and Attention Span in Children
Investigating the Role of Stress in Memory Formation and Recall
Exploring the Impact of Color on Emotional Responses in Art and Design
Testing the Effect of Mindfulness Meditation on Stress Reduction
Investigating the Connection Between Music Preferences and Personality Traits
Analyzing the Influence of Parental Involvement on Children’s Self-esteem
Studying the Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Function in the Elderly
Investigating the Psychological Factors Behind Decision-Making in Risky Situations.

How to Develop a Research Question

Think of developing a research question like embarking on a treasure hunt. Your question is the map that will guide you to the hidden gems of knowledge.

Here’s your compass for crafting a research question that’s not just sharp but exciting:

Start with What Fires You Up

Begin with a topic that genuinely piques your curiosity. Think of it as choosing the theme for your grand adventure.

For example, if you’re into climate change, begin with questions like, “What’s up with climate change’s impact?” or “How does it shake up our ecosystems?”

Dive into the Research Ocean

Before you set your question in stone, go snorkeling in the sea of existing research. Explore journals, books, and online sources that relate to your topic. This is like checking out the maps to see where others have explored.

X Marks the Spot

Keep an eye out for uncharted territory. As you read, you’ll notice gaps in the knowledge or conflicting information. These are the hidden treasures you want to uncover with your research.

Precision is Key

Now, it’s time to put on your archaeologist’s hat. Narrow your question down to a specific focus. Instead of asking, “How does climate change affect ecosystems?” try, “What happens to the daily behavior of local bird species when temperatures rise in a specific forest ecosystem?”

Make Sure It’s Investigable

You’ll need to be Sherlock Holmes here. Ensure your question is something you can investigate – gather evidence, conduct experiments, or analyze data to answer it. If it’s too vague, it’s like hunting a ghost.

Speak Plainly

Your research question shouldn’t sound like it’s written in a secret code. Keep it clear and straightforward, like a friendly guide leading a group of explorers.

Use PICO(T) if You’re a Health Detective

If your research deals with health or clinical sciences, think of yourself as a detective and use the PICO(T) framework to frame your question:

P: Who’s the main character? (The population)

I: What’s the intervention or exposure? (The twist in the story)

C: Is there a comparison to make? (The alternative path)

O: What’s the outcome you’re hunting for? (The treasure)

T: When’s this adventure happening? (The time frame)

Test Your Question

Before you set sail on your research journey, gather your crew (mentors or friends) and test your question. Make sure it’s easy to understand and seems doable. It’s like doing a trial run before the real adventure.

Be Open to Plot Twists

Remember, just like in a thrilling story, your research question might evolve as you dig deeper. Don’t be afraid to adjust it if you stumble upon new clues during your research expedition .

So, crafting your research question is like drawing the map to your very own research treasure. Make it intriguing, precise, and let it lead you to discoveries that will make your scientific journey an epic adventure.

The Research Process

Have a close look a the research process:-

Craft Your Research Question

Think of this as marking your destination on the map. Your research question should be clear and captivating, like the quest that beckons you into the wilderness. It sets the stage for your entire adventure.

Dive into the Existing Knowledge Ocean

Before you embark on your journey, gather your maps and lore. Delve into the existing body of research, like reading ancient scrolls and deciphering hidden codes. This not only helps you understand what others have discovered but also reveals the uncharted territories.

Plan Your Expedition

Just like an intrepid traveler, chart your course. Decide how you’ll collect your precious artifacts (data) – will it be through experiments, surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing records? Create a roadmap (research plan) with milestones to guide you.

Embark on Your Quest

Now, it’s time to set sail on your research ship. Venture into the field, collect your data, or delve into archives like an archaeologist hunting for relics. Take careful notes, as these are the pieces of the puzzle.

Uncover the Hidden Truths

Back at your research camp, it’s time to scrutinize your treasures. Use your magnifying glass (data analysis tools) to unearth patterns, connections, and revelations hidden within your findings.

Decipher the Clues

As you uncover the secrets, don your detective’s hat. What do these findings reveal about your original quest? Are there unexpected twists in the plot?

Claim Your Discovery

With your investigations complete, you reach the heart of the treasure vault. Draw your conclusions. Do they confirm or challenge your initial theories? This is the moment you unveil your findings.

Share Your Tale

Every great explorer returns home with stories of their adventures. In the world of research, this means sharing your discoveries. Write your research paper, like a memoir of your quest, detailing your methods, findings, and conclusions.

Reflect and Refine

Just as explorers grow wiser with each journey, reflect on your research odyssey. What worked splendidly, and where could you enhance your methods? Use these insights to prepare for your next voyage.

Keep the Flame Alive

Remember, your quest for knowledge is an endless adventure. Your discoveries may lead to more questions, uncharted territories, and grander adventures. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, and continue your quest.

Honor the Code

Throughout your journey, uphold the ethical code of the scholar. Respect the rights and dignity of all who share your path. Be scrupulous in citing your sources and maintain the highest standards of integrity.

Seek Companions and Allies

In this grand adventure, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance and camaraderie of fellow explorers. Collaboration can turn a solo quest into an epic expedition.

What are some good research topics for high school students?

Have a close look at some of good research topics for high school students:-

The Impact of Climate Change on Local Ecosystems
Investigating the Genetics of Inherited Diseases
Understanding the Effects of Different Diets on Gut Microbiota
Exploring the Impact of Pollution on Local Water Bodies and Aquatic Life
Analyzing the Behavior of Ants in Response to Environmental Changes
Studying the Chemical Composition of Common Household Products
Investigating the Effects of Various Types of Cooking Oils on Food Quality
Analyzing the Efficiency of Natural vs. Synthetic Water Purification Methods
Exploring the Chemical Reactions Behind Food Preservation Techniques
Investigating the Properties of Different Types of Plastics and Their Environmental Impact
Examining the Relationship Between Mass and Acceleration
Investigating the Behavior of Light Waves in Different Mediums
Studying the Factors Affecting the Motion of Pendulums
Analyzing the Impact of Different Materials on Heat Conductivity
Exploring the Physics of Renewable Energy Sources
Assessing Air Quality in Various Locations within the Community
Investigating the Impact of Urbanization on Local Bird Populations
Analyzing Soil Composition in Different Ecosystems (e.g., Forest, Wetland)
Exploring Sustainable Agriculture Practices to Reduce Soil Erosion
Studying the Effects of Climate Change on Local Wildlife Migration Patterns
Observing and Tracking the Movements of Celestial Bodies (e.g., Planets, Stars)
Analyzing the Formation and Properties of Galactic Superclusters
Investigating the Influence of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
Studying the Effects of Music on Cognitive Performance
Analyzing the Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance
Exploring the Impact of Bullying on Adolescent Mental Health
Investigating the Cognitive Development of Children in Different Environments

Feel free to choose any of these topics based on your interests and available resources for your research project.

What is a good 9th grade research topic?

Have a close look at good 9th grade research topic:-


How Does Music Affect Our Concentration?	Investigate how different types of music influence our ability to focus and concentrate.
The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health	Explore how excessive use of social media platforms affects the mental well-being of teenagers.
Investigating the Effects of Climate Change on Local Ecosystems	Study the consequences of climate change on local plants, animals, and ecosystems in your region.
The Chemistry of Baking Soda and Vinegar Reactions	Discover the chemical reactions that occur when baking soda and vinegar are mixed together.
How Do Different Types of Exercise Affect Heart Rate?	Investigate how various forms of physical activity, such as jogging, cycling, or jumping rope, impact heart rate.
The Influence of Family Dynamics on Academic Performance	Explore how family structure and dynamics can affect a student’s academic success and well-being.
The Effects of Bullying on School Attendance and Performance	Analyze the impact of bullying on students’ attendance, academic performance, and overall psychological well-being.
The Role of Nutrition in Adolescents’ Physical and Mental Health	Investigate how a balanced diet and nutritional choices influence the physical and mental health of teenagers.
Does Screen Time Before Bed Affect Sleep Quality?	Research the effects of using smartphones and other screens before bedtime on sleep quality and duration in adolescents.
The Psychology of Peer Pressure in Adolescent Decision-Making	Study how peer pressure influences teenagers’ decision-making processes and behavior.

These research topics are suitable for 9th-grade students, covering a range of subjects and providing opportunities for critical thinking and investigation.

Students can choose a topic that aligns with their interests and resources for their research project.

When you’re choosing your topic, you have to be more specific with it. Because it is not just a part of an assignment but also playing a leading role in order to learn new things and clear the concepts.

All those skills you’re building along the way – like thinking critically, solving everyday problems, and explaining your discoveries – they’re like secret superpowers you’ll use in school and life.

So, whether you’re peering through microscopes, mixing up potions, or stargazing, savor every moment. Your curiosity is your trusty sidekick, and knowledge is the treasure you’re after. So, enjoy every bit of your research journey, and may it lead you to amazing discoveries!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of scientific research for high school students.

Engaging in scientific research in high school enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for science. It also prepares students for future academic and career opportunities.

How do I narrow down my research topic?

To narrow down your research topic, start with a broad area of interest, conduct a literature review, and formulate a specific research question based on existing gaps in knowledge.

Can I collaborate with professionals or university researchers?

Collaborating with professionals or university researchers can be a valuable experience. Reach out to local institutions or researchers who may be willing to mentor or collaborate with you.

What are the best sources for scientific literature?

Utilize reputable sources such as academic journals, library databases, and educational websites. Your school or local library can provide access to many of these resources.

How can I make my research stand out?

To make your research stand out, choose a unique and relevant topic, conduct thorough and well-designed experiments or studies, and effectively communicate your findings through presentations and reports.

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The Complete Guide to Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Indigo Research Team

If you want to get into top universities, an independent research project will give your application the competitive edge it needs.

Writing and publishing independent research during high school lets you demonstrate to top colleges and universities that you can deeply inquire into a topic, think critically, and produce original analysis. In fact, MIT features "Research" and "Maker" portfolio sections in its application, highlighting the value it places on self-driven projects.

Moreover, successfully executing high-quality research shows potential employers that you can rise to challenges, manage your time, contribute new ideas, and work independently.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to take on independent study ideas and succeed. You’ll learn how to develop a compelling topic, conduct rigorous research, and ultimately publish your findings.

What is an Independent Research Project?

An independent research project is a self-directed investigation into an academic question or topic that interests you. Unlike projects assigned by teachers in class, independent research will allow you to explore your curiosity and passions.

These types of projects can vary widely between academic disciplines and scientific fields, but what connects them is a step-by-step approach to answering a research question. Specifically, you will have to collect and analyze data and draw conclusions from your analysis.

For a high school student, carrying out quality research may still require some mentorship from a teacher or other qualified scholar. But the project research ideas should come from you, the student. The end goal is producing original research and analysis around a topic you care about.

Some key features that define an independent study project include:

● Formulating your own research question

● Designing the methodology

● Conducting a literature review of existing research

● Gathering and analyzing data, and

● Communicating your findings.

The topic and scope may be smaller than a professional college academic project, but the process and skills learned have similar benefits.

Why Should High School Students Do Independent Research?

High school students who engage in independent study projects gain valuable skills and experiences that benefit and serve them well in their college and career pursuits. Here's a breakdown of what you will typically acquire:

Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Research and critical thinking are among the top 10 soft skills in demand in 2024 . They help you solve new challenges quickly and come up with alternative solutions

An independent project will give you firsthand experience with essential research skills like forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. These skills will serve you well in college and when employed in any industry.

Stand Out for College Applications

With many applicants having similar GPAs and test scores, an Independent research study offer a chance to stand out from the crowd. Completing a research study in high school signals colleges that you are self-motivated and capable of high-level work. Showcasing your research process, findings, and contributions in your application essays or interviews can boost your application's strengths in top-level colleges and universities.

Earn Scholarship Opportunities

Completing an independent research project makes you a more preferred candidate for merit-based scholarships, especially in STEM fields. Many scholarships reward students who show initiative by pursuing projects outside of class requirements. Your research project ideas will demonstrate your skills and motivation to impress scholarship committees. For example, the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology rewards students with original independent research projects in STEM fields. Others include the Garcia Summer Program and the BioGENEius challenge for life sciences.

Gain Subject Area Knowledge

Independent projects allow you to immerse yourself in a topic you genuinely care about beyond what is covered in the classroom. It's a chance to become an expert in something you're passionate about . You will build deep knowledge in the topic area you choose to research, which can complement what you're learning in related classes. This expertise can even help inform your career interests and goals.

Develop Time Management Skills

Time Management is the skill that lets you effectively plan and prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination. With no teacher guiding you step-by-step, independent study projects require strong time management, self-discipline, and personal responsibility – skills critical in college and adulthood.

Types of Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Understanding the different types and categories can spark inspiration if you need help finding an idea for an independent study. Topics for independent research generally fall into a few main buckets:

Science Experiments

For students interested in STEM fields, designing and carrying out science experiments is a great option. Test a hypothesis, collect data, and draw conclusions. Experiments in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and psychology are common choices. Science experiment is best for self-motivated students with access to lab equipment.

Social Science Surveys and Studies

Use research methods from sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, and psychology to craft a survey study or field observation around a high school research project idea that interests you. Collect data from peers, your community, and online sources, and compile findings. Strong fit for students interested in social studies.

Literary Analysis Paper

This research category involves analyzing existing research papers, books, and articles on a specific topic. Imagine exploring the history of robots, examining the impact of social media on mental health, or comparing different interpretations of a classic novel. If you are an English enthusiast, this is an easy chance to showcase your analytical writing skills.

Programming or Engineering Project

For aspiring programmers or engineers, you can take on practical student projects that develop software programs, apps, websites, robots, electronic gadgets, or other hands-on engineering projects. This type of project will easily highlight your technical skills and interest in computer science or engineering fields in your college applications

Historical Research

History research projects will allow you to travel back and uncover the past to inform the future. This research involves analyzing historical documents, artifacts, and records to shed light on a specific event or period. For example, you can conduct independent research on the impact of a local historical figure or the evolution of fashion throughout the decades. Check to explore even more history project ideas for high school students .

Artistic and Creative Works

If you are artistic and love creating art, you can explore ideas for independent study to produce an original film, musical composition, sculpture, painting series, fashion line, or other creative work. Alongside the tangible output, document your creative process and inspirations.

Bonus Tip: Feel free to mix different ideas for your project. For example, you could conduct a literature review on a specific historical event and follow it up with field research that interviewed people who experienced the event firsthand.

How To Conduct an Independent Research Project

Now that you have ideas for project topics that match your interests and strengths, here are the critical steps you must follow to move from mere concept to completed study.

1. Get Expert Guidance and Mentorship

As a high school student just starting out in research, it is advised to collaborate with more experienced mentors who will help you learn the ropes of research projects easily. Mentors are usually professors, post-doctoral researchers, or graduate students with significant experience in conducting independent project research and can guide you through the process.

Specifically, your mentor will advise you on formulating research questions, designing methodologies, analyzing data, and communicating findings effectively. To quickly find mentors in your research project area of interest, enroll in an online academic research mentorship program that targets high school students. You’d be exposed to one-on-one sessions with professors and graduate students that will help you develop your research and publish your findings.

The right mentor can also help transform your independent project ideas into a study suitable for publication in relevant research journals. With their experience, mentors will guide you to follow the proper research methods and best practices. This ensures your work meets the standards required, avoiding rejection from journals.

2. Develop a Compelling Research Question

Once you are familiar with the type of independent research best suited to your strengths and interests, as explained in the previous section, the next step is to develop a question you want to answer in that field. This is called a research question and will serve as the foundation for your entire project.

The research question will drive your entire project, so it needs to be complex enough to merit investigation but clear enough to study. Here are some ts for crafting your research question:

● Align your research question(s) with topics you are passionate about and have some background knowledge. You will spend a significant amount of time on this question.

● Consult with your mentor teacher or professor to get feedback and guidance on developing a feasible, meaningful question

● Avoid overly broad questions better suited for doctoral dissertations. Narrow your focus to something manageable, but that still intrigues you.

● Pose your research question as an actual question, like "How does social media usage affect teen mental health?" The question should lay out the key variables you'll be investigating.

● Ensure your question and desired approach are ethically sound. You may need permission to study human subjects.

● Conduct preliminary research to ensure your question hasn't already been answered. You want to contribute something new to your field.

With a compelling research question as your compass, you're ready to start your independent study project. Remember to stay flexible; you may need to refine the question further as your research develops.

3. Set a Timeline and Write a Proposal

After defining your research question, the next step is to map out a timeline for completing your research project. This will keep you organized and help you develop strong time management skills.

Start by creating a schedule that outlines all major milestones from start to finish. In your schedule, allow plenty of time for research, experimentation, data analysis, and compiling your report. Always remember to build in some cushion for unexpected delays.

Moreover, you can use tools like Gantt charts to design a timeline for an independent research project . Gantt charts help you visualize your research project timeline at a glance. See the video below for a tutorial on designing a Gantt chart to plan your project schedule:

[YouTube Video on How to Make a Gantt Chart: https://youtu.be/un8j6QqpYa0?si=C2_I0C_ZBXS73kZy ]

Research Proposal

To have a clear direction of the step-by-step process for your independent study, write a 1-2 page research proposal to outline your question, goals, methodology, timeline, resources, and desired outcomes. Get feedback from your mentor to improve the proposal before starting your research.

Sticking to your timeline requires self-discipline. But strive to meet your goals and deadlines; it will build invaluable real-world skills in time and project management. With a plan in place, it's time to move forward with your research.

4. Do Your Research

This is the active phase where a student is conducting a research project. The specific method you will follow varies enormously based on your project type and field. You should have your methodology outlined in your approved research proposal already. However, most independent research has a similar basic process:

Review existing studies : Perform a literature review to understand current knowledge on your topic and inform your own hypothesis/framework. Read relevant studies, articles, and papers.
Create methodology materials : Design your independent research methodology for gathering data. This may involve experiments, surveys, interviews, field observations, or analysis of existing artifacts like texts or datasets.
Permissions and Equipment : Secure any necessary equipment and permissions. For example, if doing interviews, you'll need a recording device and consent from participants.
Collect your data : For science projects, perform experiments and record results. For surveys, recruit respondents and compile responses. Gather enough data to draw valid conclusions.
Analyze the data using appropriate techniques : Quantitative data may involve statistical analysis, while qualitative data requires coding for themes. Consult your mentor for direction.
Interpret the findings : Take care not to overstate conclusions. Look for patterns and relationships that shed light on your research question. Always maintain rigorous objectivity.

While a student's project methodology and its execution are unique, ensure you follow the standard practices in your field of interest to ensure high-quality acceptable results. You can always refer to the plan in your research proposal as you diligently carry out the steps required to execute your study. Ensure you have detailed records that document all your processes.

5. Write Your Final Paper and Presentation

Once you've completed your research, it's time to summarize and share your findings with the world by writing the final paper and designing its presentation. This involves synthesizing your work into clear, compelling reporting.

Drafting the paper will likely involve extensive writing and editing. Be prepared to go through multiple revisions to get the paper polished. Follow the standard format used in academic papers in your field; your mentor can provide you with examples of independent study related to yours. The final product should include:

Abstract : A short summary of your project and conclusions.
Introduction : Background on your topic, goals, and research questions.
Literature Review : Summary of relevant existing research in your field.
Methods : Detailed explanation of the methodology and process of your study.
Results : Presentation of the data and main findings from your research. Using visual representations like charts was helpful.
Discussion : Objective interpretation and analysis of the results and their significance.
Conclusion : Summary of your research contributions, limitations, and suggestions for future work.
References/Bibliography : Full citations for all sources referenced.

Adhere to clear academic writing principles to keep your writing objective and straightforward. Generally, stick to a 10-15 page length limit appropriate for student work. However, you may need to write more depending on your project type.

6. Research Presentation

After writing your research project report, you should prepare a presentation to share your research orally. Moreover, a research presentation is a tangible opportunity to practice public speaking and visual communication skills. Your presentation will include slides, handouts, demonstrations, or other aids to engage your audience and highlight key points in your independent study project.

Once you have written your final paper, you will likely want to publish it in relevant journals and publications. For detailed tips see our guide on how to publish your student research paper . Some options you have to formally publish your high school-level independent research include:

Submitting your paper to academic journals and competitions
Presenting at symposiums and science fairs
Sharing on online research databases
Adding your work to college applications

Publishing your independent project allows you to share your findings with broader scholarly and student audiences. It also helps amplify the impact of all your hard work.

Independent Research Project Examples

To spark creative ideas for independent research projects, it can be helpful to read through and examine examples of successful projects completed by other high school students in recent years. Here are some inspiring examples:

● Using machine learning to diagnose cancer based on blood markers (bioinformatics)

● Applying feature engineering and natural language processing to analyze Twitter data (data science)

● Investigating connections between stress levels and HIV/AIDS progression (health science)

● The Relationship between Color and Human Experience

These published i ndependent research project examples demonstrate the impressive research high schoolers take on using the Indigo research service with mentors from different fields. Let these case studies motivate your creative investigation and analysis of the best ideas for your project.

Need Mentorship for Your Independent Research Project?

As outlined in this guide, conducting a rigorous independent research study can be challenging without proper guidance from experts, especially for high school students. This is why partnering with an experienced research mentor is so crucial if your goal is to produce publishable research work.

With Indigo's structured research programs and ongoing expert feedback, you can elevate your high school independent study to a professional level. To get matched with the perfect research mentor aligned with your academic interests and passions, apply to Indigo Research now.

Indigo Research connects high school students with PhD-level researchers and professors who provide one-on-one mentorship through the entire research process - from refining your initial topic idea all the way through analyzing data, writing up results, and finalizing your findings.

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

62 Best Research Opportunities for High School Students

June 2, 2024

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research opportunities for high school students a valuable and rare commodity. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought-after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

What type of research opportunities can a high school student have, anyway?

Research opportunities for high school students can range from introductory to highly advanced. Some programs focus on teaching students the fundamental skills required for research while others place students with a real working research group and allow them to contribute to legitimate experiments and papers. Your level of involvement will depend on the university or organization’s policies, your mentor, your lab team, and the type of research being conducted.

What types of research experiences look best on college applications?

Authentic, laboratory-based research experiences that you get paid for are the hardest types of positions to nail down, primarily because very few of these spots are available. Moreover, such research groups are conducting serious work—consequently, they’re looking for serious, high-achieving students who will positively enhance their dynamic. Additionally, these positions typically require a longer time commitment, with students working full-time (or close to full-time) hours for several months or even years. As such, accepting one of these positions may limit the other types of summer opportunities that you can participate in. Finally, due to safety concerns and restrictions, you will likely need to be at least 16 years old to participate in many types of lab-based research.

On the flip side are research opportunities that you pay to be involved in, with some being more selective than others. Many families wonder if these programs offer legitimate research experience or are simply another way to capitalize off of the college admissions craze, and the answer is that you have to do your homework.

Although some research opportunities offer little in the way of experience, others are truly authentic opportunities to work with a mentor and delve into an area of interest for academic enrichment—no different than any other cost-based summer program. In these cases, the fact that a student prioritized their intellectual curiosity and spent several months seriously pursuing a topic of interest will be an excellent addition to their application. We’ve gone ahead and done the hard work for you—any one of the opportunities listed below is legitimate and worthy of investing your time and resources into.

How do I decide what types of research opportunities to apply for?

If conducting research is important to you, we recommend applying to a mix of highly selective and lesser selective programs to maximize your chances of being accepted to at least one. Beyond selectivity, it’s important to consider additional several factors:

Time commitment —Some programs may require a multi-week, full-time commitment over the summer. Others may require nights and weekends during the school year.
Time frame —Some programs are only available in the summer while others run year-round (sometimes for multiple years).
Cost/stipend —Do you have to pay for the program, or does the program pay you? Research whether the program will be a good fit for your financial situation, including how much it costs and if you’ll receive compensation for your work, either via academic credit or a paycheck. Note that many residential programs are cost-based while commuter programs that only accept local students are more likely to be fully funded and/or offer a stipend.
Location —Evaluate whether you’d like to attend a local program, are willing to travel to a residential program, or would prefer a virtual option.
Level of mentor interaction —During some programs, you’ll be closely supported by PhD faculty members, while others may be run by graduate or postdoc students and require students to be more independent.
Opportunity to publish or enter research competitions —If publishing research or submitting your project/paper to a research competition is important to you, you’ll want to look into whether the program prepares you for that venture.

Our list includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as year-long internships and apprenticeships. We’ve divided the list into three sections: Virtual, Residential/Multi-Location, and Location-Specific.

For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, the time frame and length of the program, any associated costs or stipends, and the eligibility criteria for participation.

Virtual Research Opportunities for High School Students

Virtual research opportunities for high school students offer ultimate flexibility, in regard to time commitment as well as subject matter.

1) Polygence

Location : Virtual
Timeframe : Academic year and/or summer
Length: 2-6 months
Cost : $495-$3,695
Eligibility: No age restrictions

For high school students who want to showcase authentic passion on their college applications, Polygence offers the most personalized and flexible online research program that helps students turn their interests into unique research projects. Accordingly, they pair intellectually curious students with PhD-level mentors to design experiments, build robots, create podcasts, write original screenplays, and publish in peer-reviewed journals in all fields from the humanities to STEM. All 1:1 programs include ten meetings with a mentor in your chosen field as well as a self-selected project topic and outcome, which could include a research paper, a prototype, or a creative piece of work.

A multitude of personalized options are available, including additional brainstorming sessions, time with a specialist who will guide the student through the publishing or research competition process, and academic credit through UCI x GATI. Moreover, Polygence’s Pods program allows students to work with like-minded peers in a group setting.

Sound like a good fit? College Transitions readers can save $50 on their Polygence package.

Research areas available include:

Computer science, engineering, AI, & game design
Biology, biotech, chemistry, neuroscience, and physics
Medicine, surgery, dentistry, and public health
Business, finance, and economics
Math, statistics, sports analytics, and quantitative analysis
Psychology, psychiatry, cognitive science, and social sciences
Creative writing, history, philosophy, and literature
Animation, the arts, fashion, photography, and dance

Residential/Multi-Location Research Programs

In the following section, we’ve outlined programs that are residential or offer opportunities in multiple locations, making them more accessible to a wider array of students.

Programs are organized alphabetically by discipline.

Biology Research Opportunities for High School Students

2) university of chicago research in the biological sciences (ribs).

Location : Chicago, IL
Timeframe : Summer
Length: 4 weeks
Cost : $14,000
Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors

In UChicago’s highly selective RIBS program, students practice a range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological research techniques. The goal? To prepare them to work in a research laboratory. Accordingly, for the first two weeks, students undergo basic training in lab skills and techniques. Then, they spend the final two weeks of the course immersed in an independent research project. At the end of the course, they present the project during a research forum. Moreover, students can expect weekly writing assignments and seminars. To be competitive, students should have a demonstrated interest in science as well as top grades in those classes.

Biomedical Research Programs for High School Students

3) rosetta institute of biomedical research molecular medicine workshops.

Location : Berkeley; San Diego; Columbia; London; virtual
Length: 2 weeks
Cost : $3,580-$4,180 (residential); $2,280-$2,480 (commuter); $430-1,050 (online)
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18

Curious about biomedical research but not ready to pursue a full-blown lab internship? Rosetta Institute offers a number of residential and online two-week programs that introduce high schoolers to topics in medicine, drug development, pharmacy, and nursing. For example, current workshops include Medicinal Chemistry, Neurological Bioinformatics, and Molecular Biology of Cancer. All students are taught by PhD-level instructors and complete an original research project.

Chemistry Research Opportunities for High School Students

4) american chemical society — project seed.

Location : Multiple
Length: 8-10 weeks
Cost : Free, and students receive a $4,000 stipend
Eligibility: All high school students whose families meet annual income requirements, but preferably current sophomores, juniors, or seniors

Having been operational for more than fifty years, Project SEED (Summer Experiences for the Economically Disadvantaged) runs programs at over 350 institutions and has served over 12,000 students. The goal of the program is to empower a diverse cohort of high school students to conduct hands-on research experience in the chemical sciences. Accordingly, all students work full-time on meaningful independent or small group projects, are closely guided by a mentor, and either write a report or do a poster presentation at the end of their fellowship.

Genetics Research Opportunities for High School Students

5) jackson lab summer student program.

Location : Bar Harbor, ME or Farmington, CT
Length: 10 weeks
Cost : Free, and students receive a $6,500 stipend plus funded room, board, and travel
Eligibility: High school seniors can apply to the Bar Harbor program, while eligible undergrads can apply to either program.

Hoping to design and execute an original independent research project? You’ll be able to do just that through Jackson Lab’s Summer Student Program, which immerses students in one of seven areas: bioinformatics and computational biology, cancer, developmental biology and aging, genomics, immunology and infectious disease, metabolic diseases, and neurobiology and sensory deficits. Moreover, students are closely guided by a mentor and present their research at the end of the summer. Finally, the application process is intense and competitive, requiring two letters of recommendation, a transcript, a resume, evidence of a strong interest in genetics and genomics, and four essay responses.

Pre-Health Research Opportunities for High School Students

6) national institutes of health high school summer internship program.

Location : Research groups are available at many of NIH’s 27 institutes and centers , including the main campus in Bethesda, MD
Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend
Eligibility: High school seniors age 17+

Through their HS-SIP Program, the National Institutes of Health places high school students in full-time research positions within their many active research groups. Subject areas include biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences, and are geared toward students who are interested in pursuing research and healthcare. Moreover, students can take part in Summer Poster Day, where they present their research to the NIH community. They also have access to professional development programs and educational/career advising.

Note that this research opportunity for high school students is extremely competitive; approximately 7% of applicants are ultimately accepted. Finally, if you are under the age of 18 when you participate in the program, you will need to live within 40 miles of the campus that you’d like to intern at.

STEM/Humanities Research Opportunities for High School Students

7) army educational outreach program—high school internships.

Location : Various
Timeframe : All Year
Length: 3 months
Cost : Free, and all interns receive a stipend
Eligibility: All current high school students. Some sites may have additional eligibility requirements.

With programs currently available in twenty states, the Army Educational Outreach Program places high school students in university research labs or at a US Army Research Laboratory/Center. Each site has its own technical focus, from biology and materials science to cybersecurity and AI. Regardless of specialty, all interns receive formal mentorship from a professional scientist or engineer, have access to high-tech equipment, and work on relevant research that addresses a current major challenge.

8) Boston University RISE

Location : Boston, MA
Length: 6 weeks
Cost : $5,350 plus room & board
Eligibility: Current high school juniors

A residential program located on the Boston University campus, RISE offers high school students the opportunity to conduct laboratory research in one of two tracks: Internship or Practicum. Students in the Internship track work full-time on a research project that aligns with their interests, and are mentored by a faculty member, postdoc fellow, or grad student. 15 subject areas are available, including astronomy, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, and nutrition. Alternatively, Practicum students work in small groups on structured research related to systems neuroscience and neurobiology.

Research Opportunities for High School Students—Continued

9) michigan state high school honors science, math and engineering program.

Location : East Lansing, MI
Length: 7 weeks
Cost : $4,000

HSHSP is a highly selective, residential program where students can pursue research opportunities in science, engineering, and mathematics. After learning more about the research process, students deeply explore a problem of interest while engaging in an authentic (not “fail-proof”) research experience. Along the way, they’ll work with professionals and peers in their field of interest. Finally, many students have gone on to publish their work or be recognized at prestigious research competitions.

10) MIT Research Science Institute

Location : Cambridge, MA
Cost : Free
Eligibility: High school juniors

With a combined focus on academic coursework and hands-on research, RSI students first take one week of STEM coursework with MIT professors. Here, they’ll learn about current research topics in biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, physics, and the humanities. Then, for the remaining five weeks, students “experience the entire research cycle start to finish.” During this time, they participate in an intensive, mentored individual project experience that culminates in a written and oral presentation.

The program looks for students who are exceptionally academically talented. As such, the application process is quite intensive. PSAT Math scores must be over 740 and ACT Math scores must be over 33. In addition, students must write several essays, acquire teacher recommendations, and provide transcripts. Ultimately, only 100 students are accepted.

11) NASA Internship Programs

Location : Various; there are 15 centers and facilities in the US. Remote opportunities may also be available.
Timeframe : Available during the fall, spring, and summer
Length: 10-16 weeks, depending on session
Cost : Free; the majority of interns receive a stipend, but some are unpaid
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+

NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers a number of internship opportunities for high school students. Available projects change each year and are location-specific, and not every NASA center will offer internship opportunities every session. That said, current projects span a range of subject areas, including Climate Change in the Hudson Estuary and Characterizing the Urban Land Surface Temperature. During the research internship, students will be closely mentored by a research scientist, engineer, or other professional. Note that you will need to make your own housing arrangements if you are not a local student.

Are you an undergraduate student? Check out NASA Pathways , which can provide a direct transition into full-time employment at NASA.

12) Smith College Summer Science and Engineering Program

Location : Northampton, MA
Length: 2-4 weeks
Cost : $4,745 (2 weeks); $8,082 (4 weeks)
Eligibility: Female high school students in grades 9-12; some programs have specific prerequisites

Fun fact: Smith was the first women’s college to create a program in engineering science. As such, their summer programs are an excellent place for young women to participate in hands-on, introductory research experiences. Two-week sessions are offered, and students can take one or both. Each session offers six distinct course choices. For example, the first session offers Chemistry of Herbal Medicine, Designing Intelligent Robots, and Novel Bacteriophage Discovery. Second session courses include Where the Body Meets the Mind, Supercontinents, Rocks, and Fossils, and the Art and Science of Microcontrollers. Students spend five days a week in class, attending lectures and conducting experiments & fieldwork. Additionally, the program is team-based, allowing students to learn from each other’s ideas and perspectives.

13) Stony Brook University Garcia Center Research Experience for High School Students

Location : Stony Brook, NY
Timeframe : Summer (with possible academic year continuation)
Cost : $4,000 plus room & board

At the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces, high school students can design an original research project in polymer science and technology during an intensive seven-week summer program. Uniquely, the research can then be continued during the academic year under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students should be highly motivated and high-achieving, with at least three upper-level science courses under their belt. Finally, past participants have regularly published their research and won recognition in national competitions.

14) Stony Brook University Simons Summer Research Program

Cost : Students need to cover transportation costs (if commuting) or room/board (if residential). Room/board is $2,781. Stipends are also awarded at the end of the program.

After being matched with a mentor and research team, students are fully immersed in the research process. Placement availability varies from year to year, but typically about thirty projects are available across over a dozen disciplines. These include biochemistry, computer science, geosciences, and pharmacological sciences, among others. Moreover, some have prerequisites, such as specific AP courses or previous programming experience.

All students participate in weekly faculty research talks, workshops, events, and a culminating poster symposium.

15) Summer Science Program

Location : Astrophysics: UNC Chapel Hill, University of Colorado, Georgia College & State University, New Mexico State University; Biochemistry: Purdue, Indiana University; Genomics: Georgetown, Purdue, New Mexico State; Synthetic Chemistry : Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Cost : $8,800 max; all program fees are scaled according to what each family can afford
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and exceptional sophomores

The Summer Science Program offers four different immersive research programs that take place on different college campuses around the country. These include programs in astrophysics, biochemistry, genomics, and synthetic chemistry. Each program has its own research focus. For example, astrophysics students will dive into Asteroid Orbit Determination while genomics students explore Antibiotic Resistance and Directed Evolution.

Students spend six days a week in class deeply investigating their research topics and learning more about general experimental science. They also take part in guest lectures and other special programming.

16) Texas Tech University Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Location : Lubbock, TX
Cost : Free; all students receive a $750 stipend upon completion of their projects
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 17+ by the start of the program

The Clark Scholars Program is one of the only programs on this list with research disciplines in the sciences as well as the humanities. For example, current research areas include everything from nutritional sciences and mechanical engineering to history. Over the course of seven weeks, students work closely with a faculty member to complete a research paper in their discipline. They also participate in weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips.

17) University of California Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program

Location : Santa Barbara, CA
Cost : $11,874 (residential); $4,975 (commuter)
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors

During this intensive program, students work 35-50 hours per week on an interdisciplinary research project of their choice. Nearly thirty research areas are available in both the STEM disciplines and humanities; current topics include biochemistry, computer science, history, music, and anthropology, among others. Over the course of the program, they also take two courses: Introduction to Research and Presentation Techniques. Finally, students occasionally continue their research remotely during the academic year, depending on their mentor’s availability.

18) University of California Santa Barbara Summer Research Academies

Cost : $8,224 (residential); $2,575 (commuter)
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors

Running for four weeks, the UCSB Summer Research Academies allow students to earn up to four credits. While taking a university-level course that teaches fundamental research concepts, students spend the first two weeks of the program developing a research question & framework via hands-on labs. They’ll then spend the final two weeks of the course analyzing their results and building presentations. Overall, they’ll spend about 25-40 hours per week working. Finally, twelve different tracks are available; each involves multiple disciplines. For example, “Bionic Creatures” combines mechanical engineering, materials science, soft robotics, biomanufacturing, and collective motion.

19) University of California Santa Cruz Science Internship Program (SIP)

Location : Santa Cruz, CA
Length: 9 weeks (two weeks virtual, seven weeks in-person)
Cost : $4,750 plus room & board
Eligibility: High school students aged 14+, although some research groups require students to be 16+

UCSC’s SIP Program offers a wide range of research focus areas, including science and engineering as well as social science, humanities, and art. For example, over 100 projects are currently offered that include everything from “Eating Insects in Silicon Valley: Cultural Gaps Between Food-Tech and Tradition” and “Future Projected Changes in the Distribution and Variability of Ocean Chlorophyll in Climate Simulations.” Before you dive in, you’ll spend two weeks doing online research prep (this part is conducted remotely) followed by seven weeks of in-person, mentored research. Students get to engage in authentic, open-ended projects that fully immerse them in the academic research experience. Moreover, they’ll present their findings at a symposium at the end of the program.

20) University of California Davis Young Scholars Program

Location : Davis, CA
Cost : $6,750
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors who will be 16+ by the start of the program

Interested in biological, agricultural, environmental, or natural sciences? If so, UC Davis is a stellar place to explore those interests through research. All students have the opportunity to work on independent, original projects while receiving one-on-one faculty mentorship. Moreover, they each produce a journal-quality paper and symposium presentation. In addition to research, students also participate in a lecture series presented by UC Davis faculty; past topics have included forensic entomology and nutrition, among others. Finally, field trips to educational facilities like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory round out the experience.

21) University of Florida Student Science Training Program

Location : Gainesville, FL
Cost : $5,200
Eligibility: Rising seniors aged 16+

Thinking about a career in science, medicine, math, computer science, or engineering? UF’s Student Science Training Program could be the right fit. For thirty hours per week, you’ll work with a faculty mentor and lab team on university-level, ongoing research. Moreover, you’ll participate in a science lecture series as well as a UF Honors Program seminar class. Over the course of the program, you will write a research paper, present a poster, and give two oral presentations. Finally, social programming is included.

22) University of Iowa Secondary Student Training Program

Location : Iowa City, IA
Cost : $7,500

During this intensive and competitive program, students conduct research within small groups that are supported by a University of Iowa faculty member. There are twenty current active research areas, including chemistry, geography, neurology, orthopedics & rehabilitation, and religious studies. You’ll be working on your project approximately seven hours per day, attending classes in the evenings, and participating in structured activities on the weekend. Moreover, all groups will create and present a poster at the culmination of the program.

23) University of Massachusetts Amherst Summer Programs

Location : Amherst, MA
Cost : $3,636 (residential); $2,167 (commuter)
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

UMass Amherst offers two introductory, research-focused opportunities for high school students. These are Antibiotic Resistance: A Global Health Crisis, which allows students to join the Department of Microbiology in researching new antibiotics, and Energy Without Borders, which delves into climate change, infrastructure, and green energy. In both courses, you’ll learn research methods, complete multiple lab experiences, and present a research poster. Finally, students can earn two college credits upon successful completion of the program.

Location-Specific Research Opportunities for High School Students

The following programs are not residential and only offered in a specific location. Many also only accept local students, although some do allow out-of-state students to apply. If that’s the case, you will need to secure your own living accommodations and transportation. Moreover, if you are under the age of 18, you will need to be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Programs are organized alphabetically by state.

24) California Academy of the Sciences—Careers in Science Intern

Location : San Francisco, CA
Focus: STEM
Length: Multi-year (2-3 years)
Eligibility: 9 th or 10 th grade student enrolled in an SFUSD school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

25) Cedars Sinai INSPIRE High School

Location : Los Angeles, CA
Focus: Pre-Health
Cost : Free; all students are paid
Eligibility: High school students age 16+

26) City of Hope Summer Student Academy

Location : Duarte, CA
Focus: Biomedicine
Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,000

27) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

Location : Livermore, CA
Focus : STEM
Timeframe : Academic year and summer internships available
Length: Academic year or 10-12 weeks (summer)
Cost : Free; all positions are paid

28) Scripps Student Research Internship Program

Location : La Jolla, CA
Focus : Translational science/genomics
Cost : Free; stipends are typically offered

29) UCSF SEP High School Intern Program

Focus : Biomedical research
Length: 8 weeks
Eligibility: High school juniors enrolled in an SFUSD high school, SF charter school, or College Track San Francisco

30) UCSF Summer Student Research Program

Location : Oakland, CA
Length: 9 weeks
Cost : Free; all students are given a stipend between $3,000-$4,300
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors, aged 16+

Connecticut

31) jackson lab academic year fellowships.

Location : Farmington, CT*
Focus: Genetics
Timeframe : Academic year
Length: 1 school year
Cost : Free; students must be able to receive academic credit for their work
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ within commuting distance of the lab

*Some fully remote opportunities are available

32) Yale School of Medicine Discovery to Cure High School Internship

Location : New Haven, CT

33) Yale University Social Robotics Lab High School Internship

Focus: Robotics and human social behavior
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors aged 16+

34) Argonne National Laboratory — Exemplary Student Research Program

Location : Lemont, IL
Focus: Engineering
Eligibility: Application must be completed by participating teacher

35) Chicago EYES on Cancer

Focus : Biomedicine
Timeframe : All year, with two 8-week summer research experiences
Length: 2 years
Cost : Free; all students receive $3,100 stipend
Eligibility: High school sophomore, junior, or senior aged 16+

36) University of Kansas Biotech Research Apprentice Program

Location : Overland Park, KS
Focus : Biotech
Length: Semester

37) Jackson Lab Academic Year Fellowships

Location : Bar Harbor, ME*

38) National Cancer Institute Werner H. Kirsten Student Internship Program

Location : Frederick, MD
Timeframe : Academic year & summer
Length: 1 year
Cost : Free; academic credit available during school year, stipend provided in summer
Eligibility: High school junior age 17+ who attends an eligible school located within a 30-mile radius of campus

39) University of Minnesota Lillehei Heart Institute Summer Research Scholars Program

Location : Minneapolis, MN
Focus: Cardiovascular medicine
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ as well as undergraduate students

40) Coriell Institute for Medical Research

Location : Camden, NJ
Eligibility: High school student aged 17+

41) Princeton Laboratory Learning Program

Location : Princeton, NJ
Focus : Natural Sciences or Engineering
Length: 5-6 weeks

42) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory High School Internship

Location : Princeton, NJ*
Focus : Physics
Eligibility: High school seniors (program takes place summer after graduation)

*Remote projects may be available.

43) Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science Summer Research Program (RITMS)

Location : Rutgers, NJ
Focus : Translational medicine/science

44) Rutgers Waksman Institute Summer Experience Program

Location : Piscataway, NJ*
Focus : Molecular biology/bioinformatics
Cost : $2,000
Eligibility: High school students who have completed a high school-level biology course

*Online version of the program is also available

45) Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program

Location : Los Alamos, NM
Length: 11 weeks
Eligibility: New Mexico high school seniors aged 16+

46) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

Location : Albuquerque, NM

47) Baruch College STEM Research Academy

Location : New York, NY
Timeframe : Spring/summer
Cost : Free, but all students receive a stipend of $1,575
Eligibility: Must be a NYC public high school sophomore junior to apply

48) Burke Neurological Institute NeuroAcademy

Location : White Plains, NY
Focus: Neuroscience
Eligibility: Completion of NYS Regents Living Environment or equivalent Biology class; cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher

49) City Tech College STEM Research Academy

Length: Two semesters (January-August)
Eligibility: NYC public school sophomore or junior

50) Columbia Zuckerman Institute—BRAINYAC Program

Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from select partner programs/schools in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx

51) HOPP Summer Student Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Focus: Biomedical or computational research
Eligibility: High school students aged 14+

52) University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics Summer High School Research Program

Location : Rochester, NY
Focus: Laser energetics
Eligibility: Rochester-area high school students who have completed their junior year

53) Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute

Location : Cleveland, OH
Timeframe : Varies; depends on lab
Length: Varies; depends on lab

54) OHSU School of Medicine Partnership for Scientific Inquiry (PSI)

Location : Portland, OR
Focus: Biomedical research
Timeframe : Academic semester + summer
Length: 16+ weeks
Eligibility: Oregon-based high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 16+

Pennsylvania

55) fox chase cancer center high school research programs.

Location : Philadelphia, PA
Timeframe : During school year
Length: 2-3 months; depends on program
Eligibility: Philadelphia-area high school students; students must be 16+ for some programs

56) Penn State College of Medicine Research Internships

Location : Hershey, PA
Length: Varies; could be weeks to months depending on lab
Cost : Paid and unpaid internships available

57) University of Pennsylvania GRASP Lab High School Internships

Focus: Robotics
Cost : Free; stipend typically available
Eligibility: Rising high school senior

58) George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Internship Program (ASSIP)

Location : Fairfax, VA*
Eligibility: High school students aged 15+ or 16+, depending on program

*Some fully remote and hybrid opportunities are available, depending on the lab.

59) Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program

Location : Newport News, VA
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ who live within 60 miles of the lab

60) Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Summer Research Program

Location : Roanoke, VA
Focus: Health behaviors research
Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,800
Eligibility: Rising high school junior or senior in the Roanoke Valley

61) Pacific Northwest National Laboratory High School Research Programs

Location : Richland, WA
Timeframe : Summer & academic year programs available
Length: Academic year or 10 weeks (summer)
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+; some labs may require students to be 18+

62) Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Training Program

Location : Seattle, WA
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors within commuting distance of downtown Seattle

Final Thoughts—Research Opportunities for High School Students

If gaining research experience is important to you, it’s in your best interest to explore a number of different programs, evaluating whether their structure, length, cost, and outcomes are in line with your goals. Finding the right opportunity may take some time, but it will be well worth the effort required.

Research Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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Research Topics & Ideas: Education

170+ Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

If you’re just starting out exploring education-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of research topics and ideas , including examples from actual dissertations and theses..

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Education Research Topics

How to find a research topic (video)
List of 50+ education-related research topics/ideas
List of 120+ level-specific research topics
Examples of actual dissertation topics in education
Tips to fast-track your topic ideation (video)
Free Webinar : Topic Ideation 101
Where to get extra help

Education-Related Research Topics & Ideas

Below you’ll find a list of education-related research topics and idea kickstarters. These are fairly broad and flexible to various contexts, so keep in mind that you will need to refine them a little. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

The impact of school funding on student achievement
The effects of social and emotional learning on student well-being
The effects of parental involvement on student behaviour
The impact of teacher training on student learning
The impact of classroom design on student learning
The impact of poverty on education
The use of student data to inform instruction
The role of parental involvement in education
The effects of mindfulness practices in the classroom
The use of technology in the classroom
The role of critical thinking in education
The use of formative and summative assessments in the classroom
The use of differentiated instruction in the classroom
The use of gamification in education
The effects of teacher burnout on student learning
The impact of school leadership on student achievement
The effects of teacher diversity on student outcomes
The role of teacher collaboration in improving student outcomes
The implementation of blended and online learning
The effects of teacher accountability on student achievement
The effects of standardized testing on student learning
The effects of classroom management on student behaviour
The effects of school culture on student achievement
The use of student-centred learning in the classroom
The impact of teacher-student relationships on student outcomes
The achievement gap in minority and low-income students
The use of culturally responsive teaching in the classroom
The impact of teacher professional development on student learning
The use of project-based learning in the classroom
The effects of teacher expectations on student achievement
The use of adaptive learning technology in the classroom
The impact of teacher turnover on student learning
The effects of teacher recruitment and retention on student learning
The impact of early childhood education on later academic success
The impact of parental involvement on student engagement
The use of positive reinforcement in education
The impact of school climate on student engagement
The role of STEM education in preparing students for the workforce
The effects of school choice on student achievement
The use of technology in the form of online tutoring

Level-Specific Research Topics

Looking for research topics for a specific level of education? We’ve got you covered. Below you can find research topic ideas for primary, secondary and tertiary-level education contexts. Click the relevant level to view the respective list.

Research Topics: Pick An Education Level

Primary education.

Investigating the effects of peer tutoring on academic achievement in primary school
Exploring the benefits of mindfulness practices in primary school classrooms
Examining the effects of different teaching strategies on primary school students’ problem-solving skills
The use of storytelling as a teaching strategy in primary school literacy instruction
The role of cultural diversity in promoting tolerance and understanding in primary schools
The impact of character education programs on moral development in primary school students
Investigating the use of technology in enhancing primary school mathematics education
The impact of inclusive curriculum on promoting equity and diversity in primary schools
The impact of outdoor education programs on environmental awareness in primary school students
The influence of school climate on student motivation and engagement in primary schools
Investigating the effects of early literacy interventions on reading comprehension in primary school students
The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student achievement in primary schools
Exploring the benefits of inclusive education for students with special needs in primary schools
Investigating the effects of teacher-student feedback on academic motivation in primary schools
The role of technology in developing digital literacy skills in primary school students
Effective strategies for fostering a growth mindset in primary school students
Investigating the role of parental support in reducing academic stress in primary school children
The role of arts education in fostering creativity and self-expression in primary school students
Examining the effects of early childhood education programs on primary school readiness
Examining the effects of homework on primary school students’ academic performance
The role of formative assessment in improving learning outcomes in primary school classrooms
The impact of teacher-student relationships on academic outcomes in primary school
Investigating the effects of classroom environment on student behavior and learning outcomes in primary schools
Investigating the role of creativity and imagination in primary school curriculum
The impact of nutrition and healthy eating programs on academic performance in primary schools
The impact of social-emotional learning programs on primary school students’ well-being and academic performance
The role of parental involvement in academic achievement of primary school children
Examining the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior in primary school
The role of school leadership in creating a positive school climate Exploring the benefits of bilingual education in primary schools
The effectiveness of project-based learning in developing critical thinking skills in primary school students
The role of inquiry-based learning in fostering curiosity and critical thinking in primary school students
The effects of class size on student engagement and achievement in primary schools
Investigating the effects of recess and physical activity breaks on attention and learning in primary school
Exploring the benefits of outdoor play in developing gross motor skills in primary school children
The effects of educational field trips on knowledge retention in primary school students
Examining the effects of inclusive classroom practices on students’ attitudes towards diversity in primary schools
The impact of parental involvement in homework on primary school students’ academic achievement
Investigating the effectiveness of different assessment methods in primary school classrooms
The influence of physical activity and exercise on cognitive development in primary school children
Exploring the benefits of cooperative learning in promoting social skills in primary school students

Secondary Education

Investigating the effects of school discipline policies on student behavior and academic success in secondary education
The role of social media in enhancing communication and collaboration among secondary school students
The impact of school leadership on teacher effectiveness and student outcomes in secondary schools
Investigating the effects of technology integration on teaching and learning in secondary education
Exploring the benefits of interdisciplinary instruction in promoting critical thinking skills in secondary schools
The impact of arts education on creativity and self-expression in secondary school students
The effectiveness of flipped classrooms in promoting student learning in secondary education
The role of career guidance programs in preparing secondary school students for future employment
Investigating the effects of student-centered learning approaches on student autonomy and academic success in secondary schools
The impact of socio-economic factors on educational attainment in secondary education
Investigating the impact of project-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement in secondary schools
Investigating the effects of multicultural education on cultural understanding and tolerance in secondary schools
The influence of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning in secondary education
Investigating the effects of classroom management strategies on student behavior and academic engagement in secondary education
The influence of teacher professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in secondary schools
The role of extracurricular activities in promoting holistic development and well-roundedness in secondary school students
Investigating the effects of blended learning models on student engagement and achievement in secondary education
The role of physical education in promoting physical health and well-being among secondary school students
Investigating the effects of gender on academic achievement and career aspirations in secondary education
Exploring the benefits of multicultural literature in promoting cultural awareness and empathy among secondary school students
The impact of school counseling services on student mental health and well-being in secondary schools
Exploring the benefits of vocational education and training in preparing secondary school students for the workforce
The role of digital literacy in preparing secondary school students for the digital age
The influence of parental involvement on academic success and well-being of secondary school students
The impact of social-emotional learning programs on secondary school students’ well-being and academic success
The role of character education in fostering ethical and responsible behavior in secondary school students
Examining the effects of digital citizenship education on responsible and ethical technology use among secondary school students
The impact of parental involvement in school decision-making processes on student outcomes in secondary schools
The role of educational technology in promoting personalized learning experiences in secondary schools
The impact of inclusive education on the social and academic outcomes of students with disabilities in secondary schools
The influence of parental support on academic motivation and achievement in secondary education
The role of school climate in promoting positive behavior and well-being among secondary school students
Examining the effects of peer mentoring programs on academic achievement and social-emotional development in secondary schools
Examining the effects of teacher-student relationships on student motivation and achievement in secondary schools
Exploring the benefits of service-learning programs in promoting civic engagement among secondary school students
The impact of educational policies on educational equity and access in secondary education
Examining the effects of homework on academic achievement and student well-being in secondary education
Investigating the effects of different assessment methods on student performance in secondary schools
Examining the effects of single-sex education on academic performance and gender stereotypes in secondary schools
The role of mentoring programs in supporting the transition from secondary to post-secondary education

Tertiary Education

The role of student support services in promoting academic success and well-being in higher education
The impact of internationalization initiatives on students’ intercultural competence and global perspectives in tertiary education
Investigating the effects of active learning classrooms and learning spaces on student engagement and learning outcomes in tertiary education
Exploring the benefits of service-learning experiences in fostering civic engagement and social responsibility in higher education
The influence of learning communities and collaborative learning environments on student academic and social integration in higher education
Exploring the benefits of undergraduate research experiences in fostering critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills
Investigating the effects of academic advising and mentoring on student retention and degree completion in higher education
The role of student engagement and involvement in co-curricular activities on holistic student development in higher education
The impact of multicultural education on fostering cultural competence and diversity appreciation in higher education
The role of internships and work-integrated learning experiences in enhancing students’ employability and career outcomes
Examining the effects of assessment and feedback practices on student learning and academic achievement in tertiary education
The influence of faculty professional development on instructional practices and student outcomes in tertiary education
The influence of faculty-student relationships on student success and well-being in tertiary education
The impact of college transition programs on students’ academic and social adjustment to higher education
The impact of online learning platforms on student learning outcomes in higher education
The impact of financial aid and scholarships on access and persistence in higher education
The influence of student leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities on personal development and campus engagement
Exploring the benefits of competency-based education in developing job-specific skills in tertiary students
Examining the effects of flipped classroom models on student learning and retention in higher education
Exploring the benefits of online collaboration and virtual team projects in developing teamwork skills in tertiary students
Investigating the effects of diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus climate and student experiences in tertiary education
The influence of study abroad programs on intercultural competence and global perspectives of college students
Investigating the effects of peer mentoring and tutoring programs on student retention and academic performance in tertiary education
Investigating the effectiveness of active learning strategies in promoting student engagement and achievement in tertiary education
Investigating the effects of blended learning models and hybrid courses on student learning and satisfaction in higher education
The role of digital literacy and information literacy skills in supporting student success in the digital age
Investigating the effects of experiential learning opportunities on career readiness and employability of college students
The impact of e-portfolios on student reflection, self-assessment, and showcasing of learning in higher education
The role of technology in enhancing collaborative learning experiences in tertiary classrooms
The impact of research opportunities on undergraduate student engagement and pursuit of advanced degrees
Examining the effects of competency-based assessment on measuring student learning and achievement in tertiary education
Examining the effects of interdisciplinary programs and courses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills in college students
The role of inclusive education and accessibility in promoting equitable learning experiences for diverse student populations
The role of career counseling and guidance in supporting students’ career decision-making in tertiary education
The influence of faculty diversity and representation on student success and inclusive learning environments in higher education

Education-Related Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic in education, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses in the education space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of education-related research projects to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

From Rural to Urban: Education Conditions of Migrant Children in China (Wang, 2019)
Energy Renovation While Learning English: A Guidebook for Elementary ESL Teachers (Yang, 2019)
A Reanalyses of Intercorrelational Matrices of Visual and Verbal Learners’ Abilities, Cognitive Styles, and Learning Preferences (Fox, 2020)
A study of the elementary math program utilized by a mid-Missouri school district (Barabas, 2020)
Instructor formative assessment practices in virtual learning environments : a posthumanist sociomaterial perspective (Burcks, 2019)
Higher education students services: a qualitative study of two mid-size universities’ direct exchange programs (Kinde, 2020)
Exploring editorial leadership : a qualitative study of scholastic journalism advisers teaching leadership in Missouri secondary schools (Lewis, 2020)
Selling the virtual university: a multimodal discourse analysis of marketing for online learning (Ludwig, 2020)
Advocacy and accountability in school counselling: assessing the use of data as related to professional self-efficacy (Matthews, 2020)
The use of an application screening assessment as a predictor of teaching retention at a midwestern, K-12, public school district (Scarbrough, 2020)
Core values driving sustained elite performance cultures (Beiner, 2020)
Educative features of upper elementary Eureka math curriculum (Dwiggins, 2020)
How female principals nurture adult learning opportunities in successful high schools with challenging student demographics (Woodward, 2020)
The disproportionality of Black Males in Special Education: A Case Study Analysis of Educator Perceptions in a Southeastern Urban High School (McCrae, 2021)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest. In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic within education, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

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66 Comments

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Special education

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Research title related to school of students

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Research title related to students

My field is research measurement and evaluation. Need dissertation topics in the field

Assalam o Alaikum I’m a student Bs educational Resarch and evaluation I’m confused to choose My thesis title please help me in choose the thesis title

Good idea I’m going to teach my colleagues

You can find our list of nursing-related research topic ideas here: https://gradcoach.com/research-topics-nursing/

Write on action research topic, using guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

Thanks a lot

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Thank you for the information.. I would like to request a topic based on school major in social studies

parental involvement and students academic performance

Science education topics?

plz tell me if you got some good topics, im here for finding research topic for masters degree

How about School management and supervision pls.?

Hi i am an Deputy Principal in a primary school. My wish is to srudy foe Master’s degree in Education.Please advice me on which topic can be relevant for me. Thanks.

Every topic proposed above on primary education is a starting point for me. I appreciate immensely the team that has sat down to make a detail of these selected topics just for beginners like us. Be blessed.

Kindly help me with the research questions on the topic” Effects of workplace conflict on the employees’ job performance”. The effects can be applicable in every institution,enterprise or organisation.

Greetings, I am a student majoring in Sociology and minoring in Public Administration. I’m considering any recommended research topic in the field of Sociology.

I’m a student pursuing Mphil in Basic education and I’m considering any recommended research proposal topic in my field of study

Research Defense for students in senior high

Kindly help me with a research topic in educational psychology. Ph.D level. Thank you.

Project-based learning is a teaching/learning type,if well applied in a classroom setting will yield serious positive impact. What can a teacher do to implement this in a disadvantaged zone like “North West Region of Cameroon ( hinterland) where war has brought about prolonged and untold sufferings on the indegins?

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration

I wish to get help on topics of research on educational administration PhD level

I am also looking for such type of title

I am a student of undergraduate, doing research on how to use guidance and counseling to address unwanted teenage pregnancy in school

the topics are very good regarding research & education .

Can i request your suggestion topic for my Thesis about Teachers as an OFW. thanx you

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education,PhD level

Would like to request for suggestions on a topic in Economics of education

Hi 👋 I request that you help me with a written research proposal about education the format

Am offering degree in education senior high School Accounting. I want a topic for my project work

l would like to request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

request suggestions on a topic in managing teaching and learning, PhD level (educational leadership and management)

I would to inquire on research topics on Educational psychology, Masters degree

I am PhD student, I am searching my Research topic, It should be innovative,my area of interest is online education,use of technology in education

request suggestion on topic in masters in medical education .

Look at British Library as they keep a copy of all PhDs in the UK Core.ac.uk to access Open University and 6 other university e-archives, pdf downloads mostly available, all free.

May I also ask for a topic based on mathematics education for college teaching, please?

Please I am a masters student of the department of Teacher Education, Faculty of Education Please I am in need of proposed project topics to help with my final year thesis

Am a PhD student in Educational Foundations would like a sociological topic. Thank

please i need a proposed thesis project regardging computer science

Greetings and Regards I am a doctoral student in the field of philosophy of education. I am looking for a new topic for my thesis. Because of my work in the elementary school, I am looking for a topic that is from the field of elementary education and is related to the philosophy of education.

Masters student in the field of curriculum, any ideas of a research topic on low achiever students

In the field of curriculum any ideas of a research topic on deconalization in contextualization of digital teaching and learning through in higher education

Amazing guidelines

I am a graduate with two masters. 1) Master of arts in religious studies and 2) Master in education in foundations of education. I intend to do a Ph.D. on my second master’s, however, I need to bring both masters together through my Ph.D. research. can I do something like, ” The contribution of Philosophy of education for a quality religion education in Kenya”? kindly, assist and be free to suggest a similar topic that will bring together the two masters. thanks in advance

Hi, I am an Early childhood trainer as well as a researcher, I need more support on this topic: The impact of early childhood education on later academic success.

I’m a student in upper level secondary school and I need your support in this research topics: “Impact of incorporating project -based learning in teaching English language skills in secondary schools”.

Although research activities and topics should stem from reflection on one’s practice, I found this site valuable as it effectively addressed many issues we have been experiencing as practitioners.

Your style is unique in comparison to other folks I’ve read stuff from. Thanks for posting when you have the opportunity, Guess I will just book mark this site.

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31 Research Opportunities + Internships for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students
How to Find Research Opportunities in High School
How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances?

Research drives innovation across every field of study, from natural sciences to health to history. Pursuing curiosity can impact industries, drive policy, and help us to better understand the world around us. Without curiosity and research, our society would surely stagnate.

Contrary to popular belief, however, you don’t have to be a seasoned professional to conduct meaningful research. There are plenty of opportunities for high school students to get a head start on their future careers and contribute to substantial change. Keep reading to learn about 30 great opportunities for students looking for early chances to conduct research!

Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students

1. memorial sloan kettering human oncology and pathogenesis program.

Application Deadline: February 9

Location: New York, NY

Duration: Eight weeks (June 27 – August 22)

Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is one of the most well-known cancer centers in the world. The Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) at MSK hosts a Summer Student Program for students to conduct independent research projects while participating in extracurricular activities, training, and other opportunities.

During the eight-week program, participants work with a mentor who will act as a supervisor to help them develop their research skills. Additionally, students have the opportunity to complete an independent research project that aligns with their mentor’s work. All participants will present their projects at a poster session at the end of the summer.

To participate, you must have completed at least 9th grade by June 2024, be at least 14 years old by June 27, have a 3.5 GPA in science subjects, and submit two letters of recommendation. This is a paid opportunity—participants will receive a stipend.

2. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program

Application Deadline: January 5

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 8)

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program allows high school students to conduct real, innovative research over seven weeks through the renowned Rockefeller University, under the guidance of leading scientists.

SSRP scholars will be able to design and conduct their own research project as part of a themed research track, which is modeled after a Rockefeller research topic and/or technique, with the help of scientist mentors from the Rockefeller community. Most of the research will be conducted in the RockEDU Laboratory—a 3,000-square-foot research space specifically dedicated to developing biomedical research skills.

Students must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program to participate.

3. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varies by cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year

Founded by Harvard & Oxford researchers, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program pairs high-school students with PhD mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have written an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as medicine, computer science, psychology, physics, economics, data science, business, engineering, biology, and international relations.

This program is designed to accommodate your schedule—you can participate in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, and the program is also conducted fully remotely. While you must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate high academic achievement (most students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3), no previous knowledge of your field of interest is required. The cost of the program ranges from $2,800 to $8,900, but financial aid is available.

Note that this is a selective program. Last year, over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the program. You can find more details about the application here .

4. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Application Deadline: December 13

Location: Cambridge, MA

Duration: Five weeks (June 23 – August 3)

The prestigious RSI, which takes place at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) annually, brings together 100 of the world’s top high school students. The free program blends on-campus coursework with off-campus science and technology research.

Participants complete individual research projects while receiving mentorship from experienced scientists and researchers, and present their findings through oral and written reports in a conference-style setting at the end of the program.

5. NYU Tandon – Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

Application Deadline: March 6

Duration: 10 weeks (June 3 – August 9)

Open to New York City high school students who will complete 10th or 11th grade in June 2024, the ARISE program provides access to college-level workshops and lab research across fields like bio, molecular, and chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, and AI.

Over the course of 10 weeks—four virtual and six in person—participants will receive guidance from graduate or postdoctoral students at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering.

6. Simons Summer Research Program

Application Deadline: February 7

Location: Stony Brook, NY

Duration: Five weeks (July 1 – August 9)

During Stony Brook ’s Simons Summer Research Program, high school students conduct hands-on research in areas like science, math, and engineering while working with faculty mentors. Simons Fellows have the opportunity to join real research teams and learn about laboratory equipment and techniques. They also attend weekly faculty research talks and participate in special workshops, tours, and events.

At the closing poster symposium, students will receive a stipend for their participation. To apply, you must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and currently be in your junior year.

7. SPARK Summer Mentorship Program

Application Deadline: N/A

Location: Greater Seattle area

Duration: 8-10 weeks

SPARK is a summer mentorship program that pairs high-achieving and highly motivated high schoolers with industry experts, university professors, and mentors to conduct research on customers and financial markets. The program is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

8. MDI Biological Laboratory – Biomedical Bootcamp 2024

Application Deadline: March 18

Location: Bar Harbor, ME

Duration: One week (July 15 – 19)

In this bootcamp, students will receive a hands-on introduction to biomedical research at MDI Biological Laboratory. Participants will learn essential scientific skills such as experimental design and hypothesis testing, cutting-edge laboratory techniques, data analysis, bioinformatics, and scientific communication.

During the program, scientists and bioentrepreneurs at the lab will help participants explore scientific ethics at large, as well as career paths in biomedicine, research, and entrepreneurship in Maine and beyond.

Participants must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and must be entering their junior or senior year in September 2024, or graduating in June 2024.

9. Boston University – Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship

Application Deadline: February 14

Location: Boston, MA

Duration: Six weeks (June 30 – August 9)

RISE is a six-week program for rising seniors with an interest in pursuing a major and/or career in STEM. There are a multitude of tracks available, in areas such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, and neuroscience. In each track, students conduct research under the mentorship of Boston University faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students. They will also attend weekly workshops with their peers.

10. The Wistar Institute – High School Program in Biomedical Research

Application Deadline: March 31

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Duration: Four weeks (July 15 – August 8)

A leading biomedical research organization, The Wistar Institute is an ideal setting for students to learn research skills. Participants will complete their own research project while being trained in a principal investigator’s laboratory. They’ll also attend seminars, receive mentorship, and deliver a final presentation about their work.

Students are expected to participate Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Absences of more than two consecutive days cannot be accommodated. Students will receive a stipend of $1,000 upon completion of the program, to compensate for commuting costs or other personal expenses accrued during the program.

11. California Academy of Sciences – Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Location: San Francisco, CA

Duration: Multi-year, year-round participation (after school and on weekends)

This long term program gives San Francisco students from communities that are underrepresented in STEM the opportunity to learn about the world of science and sustainability. Students receive mentorship, develop career skills, and more—all while getting paid for their work. Students also attend workshops and conferences throughout the course of the program.

12. NASA OSTEM Internship

Application Deadline: February 2

Location: Varies

Duration: Varies

NASA offers a variety of internships for high school students across its numerous campuses. Interns gain real-world work experience by working side by side with research scientists and engineers, which will strengthen their resume and help prepare them for their eventual careers. All participants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school full time.

13. New-York Historical Society Student Historian Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 7

Duration: July 9 – August 15

Not all research is conducted in STEM subjects! Developed for students interested in history, the New-York Historical Society’s Student Historian Program gives participants the opportunity to conduct research on a history topic—2024’s theme is Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America . During the program, participants will work with historian mentors, visit history archives around New York City, lead gallery tours, and develop their historical thinking, communication, and digital media skills.

Applicants must be entering grades 10, 11, or 12, and live in the New York City metro area. This opportunity is unpaid for most participants, but some interns with demonstrated financial need can potentially receive a stipend.

14. Adler Planetarium Summer High School Internship

Application Deadline: March 1

Location: Chicago, IL

Duration: Six weeks (July 8 – August 14)

During this summer internship program, students will learn about the Adler Planetarium and the career opportunities within it and planetariums and museums in general, in areas ranging from Visitor Experience and Learning to Research. Students will also get the chance to see how research gets translated into a museum experience.

15. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University (BRAINYAC)

Application Deadline: TBA for 2025 program

Duration: Eight weeks

BRAINYAC participants receive the rare opportunity to work on research in a lab at Columbia University , one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, as high school students, which results in a stronger, more comprehensive understanding of how scientific discovery happens. They connect with real scientists, acquire essential research and laboratory skills, and learn about advances in neuroscience research.

In order to apply, you must be in 10th or 11th grade and must be nominated by one of the program’s partners—S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, or BioBus.

16. Brookfield Zoo King Conservation Science Scholars Program

Application Deadline: Rolling admission

Location: Brookfield, IL

Duration: N/A

Interactive workshops, fun activities, research, and community-based projects are at the core of this exciting internship. It’s an excellent opportunity for students who love animals and also want to gain research skills in the domains of zoology, environmental science, and conservation.

As a King Scholar, you’ll learn about different topics through Foundation Courses, such as Diversity Awareness and Introduction to Conservation, all while networking with others and preparing for college and an eventual career in a related field. After one year of participation, you’ll be invited to apply for scholarships and paid positions at the zoo.

17. The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) at the American Museum of Natural History

Application Deadline: March 8

Duration: One year (August to June)

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in New York City. Its Science Research Mentoring Program is an amazing opportunity for NYC high school students to conduct a yearlong research project with Museum scientists.

Students in SRMP get paid to learn how scientific research is conducted. Depending on their topic of study, students can learn a variety of different research skills, like working with DNA in the lab, analyzing data from space-based telescopes, reading scientific articles, and learning to code and analyze data in Python, R, and other programming languages.

18. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Application Deadline: February 15

Location: Lubbock, TX

Duration: Seven weeks (June 16 – August 1)

Through the Anson L. Clark Scholar Program, an intensive seven-week summer research program for twelve highly qualified high school juniors and seniors, students will gain hands-on experience with practical research alongside experienced and knowledgeable faculty at Texas Tech University .

Students can choose to participate in research in one field from a broad variety of options, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering, history, and more!

To apply, students must complete an online application that includes short essays, high school transcripts, test scores (at least a PSAT if no others are available), three recommendations (at least two from teachers), and a list of the student’s top five activities.

19. UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program

Application Deadline: January 16

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 2)

The Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program is an immersive eight-week paid summer research program at the University of Chicago . During the program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with a data science mentor, whose expertise could be in computer science, data science, social science, climate and energy policy, public policy, materials science, biomedical research, or another related field.

Participants will hone their research methodology, research practice, and teamwork skills. No prior research experience is required to apply. All participants will receive access to applied data science research, which they will use to craft a research project. The project findings will be presented in a video that will be shown at an end-of-summer symposium.

20. UT Austin College of Natural Sciences High School Research Academy

Application Deadline: March 24

Location: Austin, TX

Duration: Five weeks (June 10 – July 17)

Through UT Austin ’s HSRA, high school students participate in interdisciplinary research projects being conducted by active College of Natural Sciences laboratories in fields such as biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more.

There is a scholarship fund for underserved groups, so some stipends and free tuition scholarships may be available to students with demonstrated financial need.

21. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience – Summer Research Internship

Location: Jupiter, FL

Duration: Six weeks (June 17 – July 26)

The MPFI Summer Research Internship offers rising juniors and seniors an immersive laboratory experience where they can learn from seasoned researchers. The program is designed specifically for students with an interest in brain structure, function and development, and the advanced imaging techniques and technologies used in neuroscience.

Program participants will participate in research projects alongside MPFI scientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer. Research tracks include neuroscience, scientific computer programming, and mechanical engineering as it relates to neuroscience.

Applicants must be entering their junior or senior years in a Palm Beach or Martin County high school, be residents of one of those two counties, and be at least 16 by the beginning of the internship. Interns will be paid at a rate of $12.50 per hour.

22. Lincoln Park Zoo Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Application Deadline: March 11

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 9)

During this paid seven-week program, high school students learn how to educate others about animal and conservation sciences while crafting digital messages to engage audiences. The program culminates in a final project. Throughout the internship, students meet with researchers and the Animal Care staff to explore careers in the animal science and conservation fields.

Applicants must be Chicago residents between the ages of 15-18, and must be entering grades 10-12 or their freshman year of college by the start of the internship.

23. The Scripps Research High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 19

Location: La Jolla, CA

Duration: Seven weeks

The Scripps Research Institute’s La Jolla, California headquarters is proud to offer a seven-week hands-on research experience for San Diego County high schoolers. The program is specially designed to expose students to careers in the biological and chemical sciences, to provide hands-on laboratory experience, and to motivate and prepare students for continuing education in STEM.

Because Scripps is committed to increasing the number of students from underrepresented communities in STEM college programs, a special emphasis is placed on identifying and recruiting students who are from groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences. All students will receive a $4,760 stipend.

24. QuarkNet Summer Research Program

Application Deadline: January 31

Location: DuPage County, IL

Duration: Seven weeks (June 17 – August 2)

High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong interest in STEM have a unique opportunity to work with scientists on research projects during this paid seven-week program at the prestigious Fermilab, located just outside of Chicago near Batavia, IL.

Interns are encouraged to indicate areas in which they have a particular interest, although research projects vary yearly based on the work ongoing at the lab. Broadly speaking, Fermilab’s focus is on particle physics.

Required application materials include a questionnaire, a letter of recommendation, and an essay. To apply, students must have U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status and must provide evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Participants will be paid at a rate of $17.20 per hour.

25. RISE Environmentor Internship

Location: Far Rockaway, NY

Duration: Six weeks (July 1 – August 15)

The Environmentor Internship offers a great opportunity for 9th through 11th graders who live or attend school near the Rockaway Peninsula to gain firsthand research experience. Participants are mentored by scientists from local universities and research institutions as they work on projects focused on the Rockaway shoreline. Past research topics have included sea turtle strandings, octopus behavior, mussel denitrification, and dolphin fin morphology.

Students will also take part in water safety courses, receive CPR training, and explore on-water activities like kayaking and surfing. Students receive up to a $1,200 stipend, as well as community service hours for their participation in the program.

26. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Application Deadline: February 24

Location: Stanford, CA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 1)

Students in this summer program are given the chance to perform research on a medically oriented project and work side by side with Stanford University students, researchers, and faculty. Students can choose from eight areas of research, including topics like immunology, cancer biology, and bioinformatics, which are all designed to increase their interest in the biological sciences and provide a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted.

The program is open to current high school juniors and seniors. Students will receive a minimum $500 stipend for their participation in the program.

27. Secondary Student Training Program

Application Deadline: February 16

Location: Iowa City, IA

Duration: June 19 – July 26

High schoolers in grades 10 and 11 can take part in an immersive research experience, which will allow them to explore their interests, enhance their academic skills, and build relationships with their peers during this research-focused summer program.

Participants can choose from a multitude of research areas, ranging from biology to industrial and systems engineering to religious studies. The program culminates with students creating and presenting a poster of their findings. All participants will live on the University of Iowa ‘s campus for the duration of the program, and have access to all of the university’s libraries, study areas, and computer facilities.

Although this program is quite expensive, with a fee of $7,500, financial aid is available to cover up to 95% of the cost.

28. Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program

Location: Urbana, IL

Duration: Six weeks (June 20 – August 2)

This program, offered by the prestigious Grainger College of Engineering at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) , allows students to gain hands-on research experience in fields such as cancer immunology, AI, physics, quantum mechanics, and electrical engineering. They will also build valuable general life skills by participating in seminars on topics ranging from the college admission process to how to communicate scientifically.

The program is open to rising 10th through 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

29. Summer Science Program (SSP)

Duration: Varies depending on location and field of focus

Students in the SSP get the chance to work in small teams on a real research project and gain firsthand experience taking and analyzing data. Research opportunities are offered in three fields—astrophysics, biochemistry, and genomics—and are held at a variety of institutions, including University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Georgetown University , Purdue University , and New Mexico State University .

The program is open to high school juniors, although a small number of exceptional sophomores have attended the program. You must be between 15-19 to participate, and have completed prerequisite coursework, which varies by field. Financial aid is available for this program.

30. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: January 29

Location: Bar Harbor, ME, and Farmington, CT

Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 10)

Students immerse themselves in genetics and genomics research while learning about laboratory discovery and scientific communication, as well as building professional skills. Over the course of the 10-week program, students work with a mentor to develop a research project, implement their plan, analyze their data, and report their results.

This prestigious program is competitive. Just 40 students are selected to participate annually. Participants receive a $6,500 stipend and have their room, board, and travel expenses covered.

31. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: March 31

Location: Seattle, WA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 24 – August 16)

This full-time, paid internship opportunity offers students a chance to immerse themselves in activities at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, one of the top cancer research centers in the world. The program begins with two weeks of laboratory training and is followed by six weeks of mentored activities, research seminars, workshops focused on college and careers, and social activities.

The program is open to high schoolers entering their senior year with a strong interest in science and high academic achievement, and is specifically aimed at students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

How to Find Research Opportunities in High School

Define your area of interest .

Before you start looking for opportunities, narrow your area of interest a bit, whether it’s cancer, engineering, computer science, neuroscience, or something else entirely. Also bear in mind that while there may be more STEM opportunities available for high school students, research isn’t limited to these fields—research is also a key component of the social sciences, humanities, and other non-STEM fields.

While you should be somewhat specific about what you’re hoping to research, don’t narrow your scope so much that it’s impossible to find a valuable opportunity, especially since opportunities for high schoolers in general are more limited than they are for students who have completed at least some college.

Talk to People in Your Immediate Circle

Teachers, neighbors, your family, parents of friends, friends of your parents—any of these people could know about a research opportunity for you, or at least know someone else who does. Throughout your life, you will find that networking is often the key to finding career opportunities.

Leveraging your network can help you uncover unique opportunities crowdsourced by the people who know you best—the best opportunities aren’t always hosted by large universities or programs.

Reach Out to Local Institutions and Laboratories

In addition to networking with your immediate circle, reach out to local facilities, such as labs, hospitals, clinics, and universities that conduct research. Even if opportunities aren’t publicized, these institutions and laboratories may be willing to make room for you. Remember: when pitching your idea, don’t make it too niche—this will make it more difficult to find a fit and market your skills to labs.

Cast a Wide Net

Research opportunities are hard to secure, especially when you’re a young student, so you need to be persistent. You may need to write a hundred emails, but if you put in the effort and cast a wide net, you’ll vastly improve your chances of landing a great opportunity.

Try not to be too picky, either. Of course, you shouldn’t just accept any offer , especially if it doesn’t appeal to you. But even if the opportunity doesn’t align perfectly with your skills and interests, it can still be a great chance to gain experience and make you a better candidate for future experiences.

How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances?

How much participating in research enhances your college admissions profile depends on many factors, including the scope of the project, the prestige of the program or institution, your individual role and performance, the institution’s connections to or sponsorships by certain colleges, and even how much weight a college places on extracurricular activities in general.

Generally speaking, there are four tiers of extracurricular activities that colleges think about when reviewing applicants’ activities. Selective, competitive, and prestigious activities are often found in the top tiers, Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 includes things such as being a highly recruited basketball player or an award-winning national science fair competitor.

Tier 2 is similar, but is usually reserved for activities that are less exceptional than those in Tier 1. Tiers 3 and 4 are reserved for more common extracurricular achievements, such as holding school leadership positions or being a member of a debate team.

Research usually falls into Tier 2, and some particularly prestigious opportunities could even be Tier 1. That’s because it’s somewhat unusual for high school students to conduct research in professional and collegiate settings, so it’s more likely to impress colleges than other kinds of extracurricular activities.

Do you want to find out the impact research and other extracurricular activities might have on your chances of admission to top colleges and universities? Try using CollegeVine’s free chancing calculator !

Our tool evaluates your admissions profile, by accounting for factors like your grades,standardized test scores, and extracurriculars (including research!) to show you how you stack up against other applicants and how likely you are to get into hundreds of different colleges and universities. You’ll also receive tips on how to improve your profile and your odds—all for free.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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30 Economics Research Ideas for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Exploring economics research ideas can be a thrilling adventure for high school students. These topics not only spark interest but also deepen understanding of how economies work. It’s also a great way to get a head start on college-level concepts.

Let’s explore different economic aspects, from individual behaviors to global market trends. We’ll help you choose exciting topics, ask the right questions, and connect theories with the real world. Ready to dive into economics? Let’s find research ideas that will expand your knowledge and analytical abilities.

Economic Research Area #1: Technology and Labor Markets

The impact of technology on labor markets is crucial for high school students exploring economics research ideas. Understanding how automation and artificial intelligence reshape jobs prepares students for future challenges.

This knowledge is vital for those planning to major in economics or related fields, offering a foundation to navigate and influence the evolving job market.

programmer working on mobile phone and laptop with binary, javascript computer code, big data on virtual screen

Here are specific topics you can explore:

1. Analyze the effects of automation on employment rates in the retail sector of a local community over the past decade.

This topic is relevant because it shows how technological advancements can shift job availability. Students can compare historical employment data before and after automation’s introduction.

2. Investigate the relationship between the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies and changes in average wages among manufacturing workers in a specific industry.

This research can reveal how AI influences wage patterns. By analyzing wage data pre and post AI adoption, students can uncover the economic impact of technology.

3. Conduct a survey to assess how technological advancements have influenced job preferences among high school students in terms of pursuing careers in traditional versus emerging industries.

This topic helps understand the changing career aspirations due to tech advancements. Surveys can provide insights into students’ perceptions and career plans.

4. Examine the impact of gig economy platforms (e.g., Uber, TaskRabbit) on labor market dynamics and income inequality among young workers in a particular city.

Exploring this area can uncover how gig work affects job stability and income distribution. Analyzing earnings and employment patterns offers a glimpse into the gig economy’s role.

5. Compare the job displacement rates and reemployment prospects of workers in different age groups following the introduction of automated systems in a specific industry.

This research is important to understand how automation impacts workers across age groups differently. By focusing on displacement and reemployment, students can propose solutions to mitigate negative effects.

Economic Research Area #2: Environmental Economics

Environmental economics offers a rich field of research for high school students interested in economics ideas. It blends economic theory with environmental policies to assess their impacts on communities and industries.

For students eyeing a major in environmental science or economics, diving into these topics provides a practical understanding of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.

6. Evaluate the economic benefits and costs of implementing renewable energy initiatives (e.g., solar panel installations) in a local community over a five-year period.

This analysis highlights the financial implications of sustainable energy solutions. Students can assess how these initiatives affect local economies and energy costs.

7. Analyze the economic effects of implementing a carbon tax on businesses in a specific industry and its implications for competitiveness and emissions reduction.

This research can uncover the trade-offs between environmental policies and business performance. By examining financial data, students explore the policy’s effectiveness in reducing carbon emissions.

8. Conduct a cost-benefit analysis of conservation efforts (e.g., reforestation projects) on biodiversity and local tourism revenues in a natural reserve.

This topic investigates the economic value of preserving natural habitats. Students can analyze how conservation impacts tourism and the local economy.

9. Investigate the economic impact of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, droughts) on agricultural production and property values in a particular region.

Understanding these effects is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate economic losses. This research involves analyzing agricultural yields and real estate prices.

10. Assess the economic feasibility of transitioning to sustainable farming practices (e.g., organic farming, agroforestry) for small-scale farmers in a rural community.

This study examines the viability of eco-friendly agriculture. By evaluating costs and benefits, students can propose ways to support sustainable farming.

Economic Research Area #3: Behavioral Economics

Behavioral economics is a fascinating area for high school students keen on economics research ideas. It examines how psychological, cognitive, emotional, cultural, and social factors affect economic decisions.

Delving into this field equips students interested in psychology or economics with insights into human behavior, enhancing their ability to predict and influence decision-making processes.

11. Examine how framing effects influence consumer choices between branded and generic products among high school students at a local supermarket.

This research sheds light on marketing’s power over consumer decisions. Students can conduct surveys or experiments to see how product presentation changes buying habits.

12. Investigate the impact of default options on high school students’ savings behavior in a school-sponsored retirement savings program.

Understanding default effects can reveal much about passive versus active decision-making. By analyzing savings rates before and after program changes, students can assess the influence of defaults.

13. Conduct a field experiment to study the effect of social norms and peer pressure on high school students’ spending habits.

This topic explores the social aspects of economic decisions. Through experiments, students can observe how peer behavior affects individual spending choices.

14. Analyze how present bias affects high school students’ decisions to invest in long-term education versus immediate employment opportunities.

This research is important for understanding short-sightedness in decision-making. By surveying students’ preferences and plans, insights into the impact of present bias on future planning can be gained.

15. Investigate the role of financial literacy education in mitigating irrational investment decisions among high school students.

This study assesses the effectiveness of financial education in improving decision-making. By comparing the investment choices of students with and without financial literacy training, the benefits of education can be evaluated.

Economic Research Area #4: Global Trade and Tariffs

Global trade and tariffs are critical for high school students interested in economics research ideas. This topic allows students to understand the interconnectedness of global markets and the impact of policy decisions on economies.

For those considering a major in international business or economics , exploring these areas can provide a practical grasp of trade dynamics and policy effects on businesses and consumers.

16. Analyze the economic consequences of recent trade tariffs on imported goods (e.g., steel, aluminum) on local manufacturing businesses in a particular city.

This research helps understand tariffs’ impact on production costs and pricing. Students can look into local businesses’ financial reports before and after tariffs were imposed to assess their effects.

17. Investigate the impact of trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, CPTPP) on the export competitiveness of agricultural products from a local farming community.

By examining these agreements, students can evaluate how international policies influence local economies. Analyzing trade data and interviewing local farmers can provide insights into these effects.

18. Conduct a survey to assess consumer preferences for domestically produced goods versus imported alternatives following changes in trade policies.

This topic explores nationalism’s role in consumer behavior. Surveys can help gauge shifts in preferences due to policy changes and their economic implications.

one person holding a pen to point and the other person typing on a wireless keyboard plus an inlay art of line and bar graphs

19. Analyze the effects of trade disputes (e.g., U.S.-China trade tensions) on the profitability and employment levels of multinational corporations headquartered in a particular country.

This research can uncover how geopolitical tensions affect global businesses. Students can study financial statements and employment data of affected corporations to understand these disputes’ impacts.

20. Investigate the economic implications of trade liberalization on the textile industry in a specific developing country.

This study assesses how reducing trade barriers impacts developing economies. By focusing on a specific industry, students can analyze changes in production, employment, and exports resulting from liberalized trade policies.

Economic Research Area #5: Healthcare Economics

Healthcare economics is a vital field for high school students looking for impactful economics research ideas. It examines the efficiency, effectiveness, value, and behavior in the production and consumption of healthcare and health-related services.

Students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare , public policy, or economics can gain valuable insights by exploring how economic principles apply to healthcare systems, influencing policy decisions and individual health outcomes.

21. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of preventive healthcare interventions (e.g., vaccination programs, smoking cessation campaigns) in reducing healthcare expenditures in a local healthcare system.

This topic assesses the financial benefits of preventive measures. By analyzing healthcare cost data before and after interventions, students can determine their economic impact.

22. Analyze the impact of health insurance coverage on healthcare utilization patterns among high school students in a specific school district.

Understanding insurance’s role in healthcare access offers insights into policy effectiveness. Students can survey peers or analyze health service usage data to explore this relationship.

23. Investigate the economic barriers to accessing mental health services among adolescents in a particular community or region.

This research identifies financial obstacles to mental health care. By conducting interviews or surveys, students can highlight affordability and availability issues.

24. Assess the cost-benefit of implementing telemedicine services for a rural community to improve healthcare access.

This study explores telemedicine’s potential to bridge healthcare gaps. By comparing healthcare usage and costs before and after telemedicine implementation, students can evaluate its effectiveness.

25. Analyze the effects of Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act on healthcare outcomes and hospital finances in a specific state.

Examining Medicaid expansion allows students to see policy impacts on a large scale. They can review public health data and hospital financial statements to understand the consequences of this policy change.

Economic Research Area #6: Income Inequality and Poverty

Income inequality and poverty are crucial topics for high school students interested in exploring economics research ideas. These issues affect millions worldwide, influencing overall economic stability and individual well-being.

Students aiming for careers in social sciences, public policy , or economics will find researching this area enriches their understanding of socioeconomic dynamics and potential interventions to mitigate inequality.

26. Investigate the relationship between educational attainment and intergenerational income mobility among families in a local community.

This study can reveal how education impacts economic opportunities across generations. By analyzing local data, students can explore paths to breaking the cycle of poverty.

27. Analyze the impact of affordable housing policies on homelessness rates and income inequality in a specific city or region.

Understanding these policies’ effects can show how housing influences economic disparities. Students can compare homelessness and income data before and after policy implementations.

28. Assess the economic benefits of providing subsidized childcare services for low-income families in a particular neighborhood.

This research examines childcare’s role in enabling employment and reducing poverty. By evaluating employment rates and economic outcomes of families receiving subsidies, students can gauge the program’s effectiveness.

29. Investigate the role of access to financial services (e.g., microloans, financial education programs) in reducing poverty levels among women in a developing country.

This topic focuses on financial inclusion as a tool for economic empowerment. Through case studies or data analysis, students can assess how these services contribute to women’s economic independence.

30. Analyze the effectiveness of targeted cash transfer programs (e.g., Earned Income Tax Credit) in alleviating poverty among single-parent households in a specific area.

This study allows students to evaluate direct financial interventions’ impact on poverty reduction. By reviewing program data and household economic conditions, the effectiveness of cash transfers can be assessed.

What makes a good high school economics research topic?

A good economics research topic for high school students strikes a balance between being challenging and manageable. It should pique your interest while offering scope for inquiry and analysis. Topics that address current economic issues or explore the economic dimensions of societal trends are particularly valuable, as they allow you to engage with relevant and impactful questions.

Choosing a topic that connects to your personal interests or future academic goals can also be incredibly rewarding. Such a topic not only keeps you motivated throughout the research process but also provides a deeper understanding of the subject matter, laying a solid foundation for future studies in economics or related fields.

What research methods can I use for my high school economics research?

Quantitative methods, including surveys and statistical analysis, are highly suitable for high school economics research projects. These methods allow you to collect numerical data on your chosen topic, facilitating objective analysis and the ability to draw evidence-based conclusions. Learning to use statistical software or online tools can enhance your ability to handle and interpret data effectively.

However, qualitative methods should not be overlooked. Interviews, case studies, and content analysis can provide deep insights into economic behaviors and attitudes. These methods enable you to explore the nuances of economic phenomena, enriching your research with perspectives that numbers alone cannot provide.

What resources are available to high school students for economics research?

High school students have access to a variety of resources for economics research. Academic databases such as JSTOR or Google Scholar offer a wealth of scholarly articles, while government websites provide reliable statistics and reports. These sources can be invaluable for gathering accurate and up-to-date information on a wide range of economic topics, from global trade patterns to local economic policies.

Beyond digital resources, your school’s library and teachers are also key assets. Libraries often subscribe to economic journals and have books that are not available online. Teachers can guide you on research methodologies, source credibility, and topic refinement, ensuring your project is both rigorous and informative. Utilizing these resources effectively can elevate the quality of your economics research, making it a meaningful academic endeavor.

How do high school economics research prepare students for college?

High school economics projects are an excellent way for students to develop skills essential for college-level research. Through these projects, you learn how to formulate research questions , conduct systematic analysis, and present findings coherently. These skills are not only crucial for academic success in college but also valuable in any career that involves problem-solving and critical thinking.

Moreover, by engaging in economics research, you gain an understanding of economic concepts and their real-world applications. This experience provides a solid foundation for further studies in economics, finance, or business, making the transition to college coursework smoother and more manageable.

What are the common mistakes in conducting economics research and how can I avoid them?

One common mistake in conducting economics research is choosing a topic that is too broad or too narrow. A topic that is too broad can be overwhelming and difficult to manage within the constraints of a high school project, while a topic that is too narrow might not have enough available information. To avoid this, refine your topic by focusing on specific aspects of a broader issue, ensuring that there is enough research material available to support your investigation.

Another frequent error is failing to properly cite sources, which can lead to accusations of plagiarism . To avoid this, make sure to keep track of all the resources you consult during your research and to follow the appropriate citation guidelines for your project. This not only upholds academic integrity but also strengthens the credibility of your research.

Engaging in economics research as a high school student lays the groundwork for academic and professional success. It sharpens your analytical skills, deepens your understanding of economic principles, and prepares you for the rigors of college-level study.

Remember, the journey through economics research is not just about the findings you present. It’s about fostering a curious mind and a critical eye towards the economic issues that shape our world. Let this exploration be the start of a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and impact.

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Program Innovations: Promoting Success in Student Research

To enhance the student experience and increase access to experiential learning, colleges and universities have gotten creative with undergraduate research experiences.

By Ashley Mowreader

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A group of students and a professor meet in a research laboratory. All are wearing lab coats.

Undergraduate research can provide students with hands-on experience in a lab environment, as well as help them determine career opportunities they might not otherwise consider.

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Undergraduate research opportunities are one way to provide experiential learning in many disciplines, introducing learners to research methods under the supervision of a faculty member and providing experience for a résumé.

A 2021 study from the University of Central Florida found student researchers are more likely to have higher grade point averages and graduation rates, and higher matriculation into graduate school, as well as life skills such as analyzing literature critically, observing and collecting data and communication.

However, not every student has equal access to undergraduate research opportunities. The study found non-STEM students, transfer students and part-time students are less likely to participate in research compared to their peers.

To increase student participation in undergraduate research and boost skill development among student researchers, institutions have created innovative models of work. Here are seven examples.

Survey Says

Around three in 10 students say they are required to participate in undergraduate research, according to a winter 2023 Student Voice survey from Inside Higher Ed , and a slightly smaller number (27 percent) believe that undergraduate research should be required in their program.

Four-year students are more likely to say undergraduate research is required in their program (32 percent) compared to their two-year peers (15 percent).

First-year research opportunities—University of Missouri

Career exposure in the first year can help students feel confident about their paths throughout college and provide a head start in building their résumés.

Mizzou is known for its Interdisciplinary Plant Group that hosts research scholars exploring innovations in plant biology and a first-year program that provides young researchers a leg up in their work, giving them research time with more experienced researchers and mentorship.

FRIPS, short for Freshman Research in Plants , supports 10 to 15 students annually, who work alongside a faculty member and their research group on plant biology. Students also meet regularly with their FRIPS scholars cohort and gain professional development training.

Each student’s work is funded by grant dollars from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Graduates of FRIPS often go on to become Goldwater Scholars and NSF graduate research fellows. The program also creates a place of belonging and community for new students to the university.

Underrepresented minority students—Davidson College

Some students face systemic disadvantages in participating in co-curricular experiences because they may lack the social capital or be unfamiliar with the norms of higher ed to identify and participate in a faculty-led research experience.

At Davidson College in North Carolina, rising sophomores can participate in a four- to six-week summer intensive research fellowship program called RISE (Research in Science Experience) . This program is designed for students from historically marginalized groups including low-income and first-generation students.

The goal of RISE is to equip students to take on larger, more intensive academic-year and summer experiences for later in their college career. Each student receives $2,500 in scholarships and funds to cover on-campus housing, which the college arranges for all participants.

Jacquelline Nyakunu , a rising junior at Davidson, spent the summer with chemistry professor Cindy Hauser researching hookah, studying the smoking of shisha and the chemical composition of the tobacco. Nyakunu wrote in a blog post that the experience taught her about her passion for chemistry, built her research skills and solidified her career path as a pre-medicine student.

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Transfer students—University of California, Los Angeles

Transferring into a new institution can be a challenge for many students, and finding ways to get plugged in and connected to one’s field of interest can be just as hard.

UCLA offers an initiative exclusively for transfer students to both promote their academic success at the university and expose them to undergraduate research opportunities, the Transfer Research Entry Program (TREP).

To participate, each student must be an incoming transfer student with at least two years remaining at UCLA and be considering a career in research. Participants attend a one-week virtual bootcamp about research, which covers careers in research and how to write a cover letter and curriculum vitae. The program also provides networking opportunities for transfer students and academic survival skills for the transition to UCLA.

There’s no obligation to take a research role after the bootcamp, but students are encouraged to do so and given guidance on how to find their areas of interest, the application and interview process as well.

Financial support—University of Texas at El Paso

Financial need can be a barrier to participation for some students. The University of Texas at El Paso is a Hispanic Serving Institution (84 percent Hispanic), commuter school with a large population of Pell-eligible students (60 percent) and first-generation learners. Many students are working to support themselves and their families, explains Lourdes E. Echegoyen, director of the Campus Office of Undergraduate Research Initiatives.

As a result, UTEP staff realized a need to provide financial assistance through employment to give students high-impact activities.

University staff have identified grant funding from federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Education, and private foundations.

Students can receive financial support through stipends or tuition scholarships. The university’s student employment program also provides employment positions for undergraduate researchers across disciplines.

“Generally, full time students are supported to conduct research during the academic year from 10 to 19 hours per week—depending on the program—thus allowing students to remain on campus and be mentored as research trainees,” Echegoyen says.

UTEP leaders have seen the benefits of undergraduate research on retention and persistence among students, with one program focused on biomedical research having a 98 percent retention rate among students across four years, compared to a 37 percent retention rate among their peers who did not participate.&

Community partnerships—Roosevelt University

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Roosevelt University in Chicago partnered with The Field Museum to digitize and analyze data collected at the museum. Visitors had measured specimens of liverworts, but the data needed to be sorted and inaccurate measurements eliminated from the set to be most useful to scientists.

Students wrote code to screen and clean the data, helping set the researchers up for success and teaching students firsthand about research processes in a remote setting.

Career development—Elon University

At Elon in North Carolina, returning students can participate in undergraduate research over the summer in between academic terms, funded by the university. While career readiness is a natural component of research experiences, leaders at the university wanted to bolster student skills beyond the laboratory, says Eric Hall, professor of exercise and director of undergraduate research at Elon.

Now, student researchers attend regular professional-development workshops that inform and establish career competencies. The workshops are co-led by other campus partners, including the writing center, career services, the fellowships office and librarians, Hall says.

For the 2024 session, workshops include a session on LinkedIn on how the fellowships office can support student goals, professional writing for graduate school and industry, and navigating academic publishing.

The new initiative is still being evaluated, with formal data collection underway, but anecdotal evidence from post-assessments shows students enjoy and learn from the experiences.

Research in the classroom—California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Cal Poly Pomona leaders wanted to expose more learners to undergraduate research, understanding that first-generation, Pell-eligible or historically underserved students have lower access to research opportunities, says Winny Dong, faculty director for the office of undergraduate research.

Rather than asking students to squeeze an additional responsibility into their schedules, faculty members brought research to the classroom, embedding experiences into required general education courses.

The initiative makes it so all students are exposed to research and required to participate in some capacity, helping build their skills and pique interest for those who may consider a career in research.

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U.S. public, private and charter schools in 5 charts

A teacher instructs a fourth grade math class at a private school in Washington, D.C. (Sarah L. Voisin/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

While children in the United States are guaranteed a free education at their local public school through state constitutional law, many families weigh other educational options for their children. Even before the coronavirus pandemic upended families’ usual routines, 36% of parents with K-12 students say they considered multiple schools for their child in the 2018-19 school year.

Students’ school environments vary widely – sometimes even for children living in the same community – depending on whether they attend traditional public, private or charter schools.

Here are some key distinctions between these three types of schools, based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). All figures reflect the most recent school year with data for all three types of schools.

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to better understand how U.S. students’ school experiences might differ depending on whether they attend a traditional public school, a private school or a charter school.

Data comes from the Institute of Education Sciences’ National Center for Education Statistics . We used the most recent year in which data is available for all three school types.

Public, private and charter schools include those that teach students in kindergarten through 12th grade, unless otherwise specified. Racial categories used in this analysis include those who report being a single race and non-Hispanic. Hispanics are of any race. National School Lunch Program data for 2021-22 is not available for Alaska.

What’s the difference between public, private and charter schools?

Until a few decades ago, parents with kids in elementary, middle or high school could choose to send them to either a traditional public school or a private one. More recently, many states have added a third option: public charter schools.

Traditional public schools are taxpayer funded, are tuition free and must adhere to standards set by a school district or state board of education. These are the most common schooling option in the U.S.
Private schools are known for being selective, religiously affiliated or sometimes both, and charge tuition rather than receive public money. In addition to tuition dollars, private schools may be funded through a combination of donations, endowments or grants from other private sources. As a result, they have more autonomy when it comes to curriculum and other academic standards. During the 2021-22 school year, about three-quarters of private school K-12 students (77%) attended a religiously affiliated school. The largest share went to Catholic schools, which accounted for 35% of all private school enrollment. Another 23% of private school students attended secular institutions.
Public charter schools are legally allowed to operate in nearly all states, plus the District of Columbia, as of 2024. Like traditional public schools, these are taxpayer funded and tuition free. They’re open to any student who wishes to enroll. But unlike their traditional counterparts, agreements – or charters – with the state or local government allow them flexibility when it comes to curriculum and other standards. They also may turn students away due to space constraints.

A horizontal stacked bar chart showing that U.S. private and charter schools are mostly in urban or suburban communities.

Differences exist in the size and locale of each type of school, NCES data from the 2021-22 school year shows.

Traditional public schools tend to be larger than the other types. For instance, 39% of public schools enroll 500 or more students, compared with 32% of charter schools and 8% of private schools. And while 31% of public schools have fewer than 300 students, 44% of charter schools and 82% of private schools do.

Public schools are relatively evenly distributed across urban, suburban and rural areas, while most charter and private school campuses are located in either cities or suburbs.

(Traditional public and charter school environment data includes prekindergarten students, who account for less than 1% of enrollment at these types of schools.)

Where is enrollment growing and shrinking?

During the 2021-22 school year, the vast majority of the country’s roughly 54.6 million public, private and charter school students in pre-K through 12th grade (83%) attended traditional public schools. Another 10% were enrolled in private schools, and 7% went to public charter schools.

Enrollment numbers have shifted over the last decade:

An area chart showing that traditional public schools make up the bulk of U.S. enrollment.

Traditional public school enrollment has declined. In fall 2011, about 47.2 million students attended public elementary, middle and secondary schools, accounting for 87% of all school enrollment. By fall 2021, the number of public school students dropped to about 45.4 million, resulting in a small drop in public schools’ share of total enrollment.
The popularity of charter schools has grown. Minnesota became the first state to pass legislation allowing charter schools in 1991. In the last 10 years alone, enrollment has risen from about 2.1 million students in fall 2011 to nearly 3.7 million in fall 2021, an increase from 4% to 7% of total enrollment.
Private school enrollment has held relatively steady. Private school students have consistently made up about 10% of school enrollment, with numbers that have fluctuated from a 10-year low of fewer than 5.3 million in 2011 to a peak of almost 5.8 million in 2015.

How does enrollment look at the state level?

Nationwide, the vast majority of students in pre-K through 12th grade attend traditional public schools – but shares vary somewhat from state to state. In Wyoming, for example, nearly all students (97%) attend public school, while 45% do in D.C.

The states with the highest percentages of public school enrollment include some of those with the lowest population density . In addition to Wyoming, West Virginia (95%), Montana (93%), Kansas and Alaska (91% each) round out the top five states by share of public school enrollment.

In most states, students are more likely to attend a private school than a charter school. Charter school students make up a larger share of enrollment than private school students in just 12 states and D.C. (Data is unavailable for seven states because they did not have any charter schools or legislation allowing them in fall 2021.)

Among the places where students are the least likely to attend traditional public schools:

D.C. has the highest share of charter school students, at 36%. Just 45% of K-12 students there attend traditional public schools. Another 19% attend private schools.
D.C. and Hawaii have the largest percentage of students in private schools, at 19% each. In Hawaii, another 76% of students are enrolled in public school, and 6% are enrolled in charter schools.

A map showing that U.S. enrollment in traditional public, charter and private schools varies by state.

How do student demographics vary by school type?

Charter schools had the most racial and ethnic diversity during the 2021-22 school year. Hispanic students make up the largest share of enrollment there (36%), followed by White (29%), Black (24%) and Asian American students (4%).

A horizontal stacked bar chart showing that U.S. charter school students tend to be more racially and ethnically diverse than those in other types of schools.

In contrast, 47% of traditional public school students and 65% of private school students are White. Smaller shares are Hispanic, Black or Asian.

Differences also exist by household income level. Nearly all public and charter schools are part of the National School Lunch Program , which provides free or reduced-price meals to students based on family income.

In general, charter school students are more likely than public school kids to qualify for the program. For instance, 31% of charter students and 21% of traditional public school students are enrolled at a school where more than three-quarters of their peers qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

Because a relatively small share of private schools participate in this program, 2021-22 data is not available for them. However, research shows that private school enrollment rates are highest among upper-income families .

What does the teaching staff look like at each type of school?

More than 4.2 million full- and part-time teachers worked at public, private and charter schools during the 2020-21 school year, the most recent year with available data. That year, about 3.5 million teachers (83%) taught at traditional public schools. Another 466,000 (11%) worked in private schools, and 251,000 (6%) taught at public charters.

The teaching force in each environment varies based on race and ethnicity, age, experience, and educational attainment.

A horizontal stacked bar chart showing that teacher demographics vary somewhat by type of school.

Charter school teachers are the most racially and ethnically diverse: 69% of charter school teachers are White, compared with about eight-in-ten at both traditional public and private schools. Charters also employ the largest shares of Black and Hispanic teachers.
Private school teachers skew slightly older, while charter school teachers are the youngest: About 17% of private school teachers are ages 60 and older, compared with 8% in public schools and 7% in charter schools. And in charter schools, 21% of teachers are under 30, compared with 14% each in public and private schools.
Charters employ a larger share of teachers with fewer years of experience: For instance, 13% of both private and charter school teachers have fewer than three years of experience, compared with 7% of public school teachers. And 43% of charter school teachers have between three and nine years of experience, compared with 28% each in public and private schools.
Public school teachers are the most likely to have a master’s degree: 52% of public school teachers have a master’s degree, compared with about 41% each in charter and private schools.

Katherine Schaeffer is a research analyst at Pew Research Center .

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70 Best High School Science Fair Projects in Every Subject

Fire up the Bunsen burners!

Collage of high school science fair projects, including 3D printed cars and a DIY vacuum chamber

The cool thing about high school science fair projects is that kids are old enough to tackle some pretty amazing concepts. Some science experiments for high school are just advanced versions of simpler projects they did when they were younger, with detailed calculations or fewer instructions. Other projects involve fire, chemicals, or other materials they couldn’t use before.

Note: Some of these projects were written as classroom labs but can be adapted to become science fair projects too. Just consider variables that you can change up, like materials or other parameters. That changes a classroom activity into a true scientific method experiment!

To make it easier to find the right high school science fair project idea for you, we’ve rated all the projects by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete
Biology and Life Sciences High School Science Fair Projects

Chemistry High School Science Fair Projects

Physics high school science fair projects, engineering high school stem fair projects, biology and life science high school science fair projects.

Explore the living world with these biology science project ideas, learning more about plants, animals, the environment, and much more.

Extract DNA from an onion

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

You don’t need a lot of supplies to perform this experiment, but it’s impressive nonetheless. Turn this into a science fair project by trying it with other fruits and vegetables too.

Re-create Mendel’s pea plant experiment

Gregor Mendel’s pea plant experiments were some of the first to explore inherited traits and genetics. Try your own cross-pollination experiments with fast-growing plants like peas or beans.

Make plants move with light

By this age, kids know that many plants move toward sunlight, a process known as phototropism. So high school science fair projects on this topic need to introduce variables into the process, like covering seedling parts with different materials to see the effects.

Test the 5-second rule

We’d all like to know the answer to this one: Is it really safe to eat food you’ve dropped on the floor? Design and conduct an experiment to find out (although we think we might already know the answer).

Find out if color affects taste

Just how interlinked are all our senses? Does the sight of food affect how it tastes? Find out with a fun food science fair project like this one!

See the effects of antibiotics on bacteria

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Advanced

Bacteria can be divided into two groups: gram-positive and gram-negative. In this experiment, students first determine the two groups, then try the effects of various antibiotics on them. You can get a gram stain kit , bacillus cereus and rhodospirillum rubrum cultures, and antibiotic discs from Home Science Tools.

Learn more: Antibiotics Project at Home Science Tools

Witness the carbon cycle in action

Test tubes filled with plants and green and blue liquid

Experiment with the effects of light on the carbon cycle. Make this science fair project even more interesting by adding some small aquatic animals like snails or fish into the mix.

Learn more: Carbon Cycle at Science Lessons That Rock

Look for cell mitosis in an onion

Cell mitosis (division) is actually easy to see in action when you look at onion root tips under a microscope. Students will be amazed to see science theory become science reality right before their eyes. Adapt this lab into a high school science fair project by applying the process to other organisms too.

Test the effects of disinfectants

Petri dish divided in half with bacteria and paper disks on the surface

Grow bacteria in a petri dish along with paper disks soaked in various antiseptics and disinfectants. You’ll be able to see which ones effectively inhibit bacteria growth.

Learn more: Effectiveness of Antiseptics and Disinfectants at Amy Brown Science

Pit hydroponics against soil

Growing vegetables without soil (hydroponics) is a popular trend, allowing people to garden just about anywhere.

More Life Sciences and Biology Science Fair Projects for High School

Use these questions and ideas to design your own experiment:

Explore ways to prevent soil erosion.
What are the most accurate methods of predicting various weather patterns?
Try out various fertilization methods to find the best and safest way to increase crop yield.
What’s the best way to prevent mold growth on food for long-term storage?
Does exposure to smoke or other air pollutants affect plant growth?
Compare the chemical and/or bacterial content of various water sources (bottled, tap, spring, well water, etc.).
Explore ways to clean up after an oil spill on land or water.
Conduct a wildlife field survey in a given area and compare it to results from previous surveys.
Find a new use for plastic bottles or bags to keep them out of landfills.
Devise a way to desalinate seawater and make it safe to drink.

Bunsen burners, beakers and test tubes, and the possibility of (controlled) explosions? No wonder chemistry is such a popular topic for high school science fair projects!

Break apart covalent bonds

Break the covalent bond of H 2 O into H and O with this simple experiment. You only need simple supplies for this one. Turn it into a science fair project by changing up the variables—does the temperature of the water matter? What happens if you try this with other liquids?

Learn more: Covalent Bonds at Teaching Without Chairs

Measure the calories in various foods

Are the calorie counts on your favorite snacks accurate? Build your own calorimeter and find out! This kit from Home Science Tools has all the supplies you’ll need.

Detect latent fingerprints

Fingerprint divided into two, one half yellow and one half black

Forensic science is engrossing and can lead to important career opportunities too. Explore the chemistry needed to detect latent (invisible) fingerprints, just like they do for crime scenes!

Learn more: Fingerprints Project at Hub Pages

Use Alka-Seltzer to explore reaction rate

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Tweak this basic concept to create a variety of high school chemistry science fair projects. Change the temperature, surface area, pressure, and more to see how reaction rates change.

Determine whether sports drinks provide more electrolytes than OJ

Are those pricey sports drinks really worth it? Try this experiment to find out. You’ll need some special equipment for this one; buy a complete kit at Home Science Tools .

Turn flames into a rainbow

You’ll need to get your hands on a few different chemicals for this experiment, but the wow factor will make it worth the effort! Make it a science project by seeing if different materials, air temperature, or other factors change the results.

Discover the size of a mole

Supplies needed for mole experiment, included scale, salt, and chalk

The mole is a key concept in chemistry, so it’s important to ensure students really understand it. This experiment uses simple materials like salt and chalk to make an abstract concept more concrete. Make it a project by applying the same procedure to a variety of substances, or determining whether outside variables have an effect on the results.

Learn more: How Big Is a Mole? at Amy Brown Science

Cook up candy to learn mole and molecule calculations

Aluminum foil bowl filled with bubbling liquid over a bunsen burner

This edible experiment lets students make their own peppermint hard candy while they calculate mass, moles, molecules, and formula weights. Tweak the formulas to create different types of candy and make this into a sweet science fair project!

Learn more: Candy Chemistry at Dunigan Science on TpT

Make soap to understand saponification

Colorful soaps from saponification science experiments for high school

Take a closer look at an everyday item: soap! Use oils and other ingredients to make your own soap, learning about esters and saponification. Tinker with the formula to find one that fits a particular set of parameters.

Learn more: Saponification at Chemistry Solutions on TpT

Uncover the secrets of evaporation

Explore the factors that affect evaporation, then come up with ways to slow them down or speed them up for a simple science fair project.

Learn more: Evaporation at Science Projects

More Chemistry Science Fair Projects for High School

These questions and ideas can spark ideas for a unique experiment:

Compare the properties of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Explore the impact of temperature, concentration, and seeding on crystal growth.
Test various antacids on the market to find the most effective product.
What is the optimum temperature for yeast production when baking bread from scratch?
Compare the vitamin C content of various fruits and vegetables.
How does temperature affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions?
Investigate the effects of pH on an acid-base chemical reaction.
Devise a new natural way to test pH levels (such as cabbage leaves).
What’s the best way to slow down metal oxidation (the form of rust)?
How do changes in ingredients and method affect the results of a baking recipe?

When you think of physics science projects for high school, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the classic build-a-bridge. But there are plenty of other ways for teens to get hands-on with physics concepts. Here are some to try.

Remove the air in a DIY vacuum chamber

DIY vacuum chamber made from a jar and large hypodermic needle

You can use a vacuum chamber to do lots of cool high school science fair projects, but a ready-made one can be expensive. Try this project to make your own with basic supplies.

Learn more: Vacuum Chamber at Instructables

Put together a mini Tesla coil

Looking for a simple but showy high school science fair project? Build your own mini Tesla coil and wow the crowd!

Boil water in a paper cup

Logic tells us we shouldn’t set a paper cup over a heat source, right? Yet it’s actually possible to boil water in a paper cup without burning the cup up! Learn about heat transfer and thermal conductivity with this experiment. Go deeper by trying other liquids like honey to see what happens.

Build a better light bulb

Emulate Edison and build your own simple light bulb. You can turn this into a science fair project by experimenting with different types of materials for filaments.

Measure the speed of light—with your microwave

Grab an egg and head to your microwave for this surprisingly simple experiment. By measuring the distance between cooked portions of egg whites, you’ll be able to calculate the wavelength of the microwaves in your oven and, in turn, the speed of light.

Generate a Lichtenberg figure

Lichtenberg figure generated on a sheet of Plexiglass

See electricity in action when you generate and capture a Lichtenberg figure with polyethylene sheets, wood, or even acrylic and toner. Change the electrical intensity and materials to see what types of patterns you can create.

Learn more: Lichtenberg Figure at Science Notes

Explore the power of friction with sticky note pads

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Ever try to pull a piece of paper out of the middle of a big stack? It’s harder than you think it would be! That’s due to the power of friction. In this experiment, students interleave the sheets of two sticky note pads, then measure how much weight it takes to pull them apart. The results are astonishing!

Build a cloud chamber to prove background radiation

Ready to dip your toe into particle physics? Learn about background radiation and build a cloud chamber to prove the existence of muons.

Measure the effect of temperature on resistance

A beaker with a tungsten rod, connected to a multimeter

This is a popular and classic science fair experiment in physics. You’ll need a few specialized supplies, but they’re pretty easy to find.

Learn more: Temperature and Resistance at Science Project

Launch the best bottle rocket

A basic bottle rocket is pretty easy to build, but it opens the door to lots of different science fair projects. Design a powerful launcher, alter the rocket so it flies higher or farther, or use only recycled materials for your flyer.

More Physics Science Fair Projects for High School

Design your own experiment in response to these questions and prompts.

Determine the most efficient solar panel design and placement.
What’s the best way to eliminate friction between two objects?
Explore the best methods of insulating an object against heat loss.
What effect does temperature have on batteries when stored for long periods of time?
Test the effects of magnets or electromagnetic fields on plants or other living organisms.
Determine the best angle and speed of a bat swing in baseball.
What’s the best way to soundproof an area or reduce noise produced by an item?
Explore methods for reducing air resistance in automotive design.
Use the concepts of torque and rotation to perfect a golf swing.
Compare the strength and durability of various building materials.

Many schools are changing up their science fairs to STEM fairs, to encourage students with an interest in engineering to participate. Many great engineering science fair projects start with a STEM challenge, like those shown here. Use these ideas to spark a full-blown project to build something new and amazing!

Solve a current environmental issue

A science fair project can also be an entry into the Slingshot Challenge . Students produce a 1-minute video with a solution to a current environmental problem (think: uniting creative waste reducers on social media or rehabilitating forests affected by fire) for the chance to receive up to $10,000 in funding.

Construct a model maglev train

Maglev model train built from magnets and wood craft sticks on green felt

Maglev trains may just be the future of mass transportation. Build a model at home, and explore ways to implement the technology on a wider basis.

Learn more: Maglev Model Train at Supermagnete

Design a more efficient wind turbine

Wind energy is renewable, making it a good solution for the fossil fuel problem. For a smart science fair project, experiment to find the most efficient wind turbine design for a given situation.

Re-create Da Vinci’s flying machine

Da Vinci flying machine built from a paper cup and other basic supplies

Da Vinci sketched several models of “flying machines” and hoped to soar through the sky. Do some research into his models and try to reconstruct one of your own.

Learn more: Da Vinci Flying Machine at Student Savvy

Design a heart-rate monitor

Smartwatches are ubiquitous these days, so pretty much anyone can wear a heart-rate monitor on their wrist. But do they work any better than one you can build yourself? Get the specialized items you need like the Arduino LilyPad Board on Amazon.

Race 3D printed cars

Simple 3-D printed race cars with vegetables strapped to them (Science Experiments for High School)

3D printers are a marvel of the modern era, and budding engineers should definitely learn to use them. Use Tinkercad or a similar program to design and print race cars that can support a defined weight, then see which can roll the fastest! (No 3D printer in your STEM lab? Check the local library. Many of them have 3D printers available for patrons to use.)

Learn more: 3D Printed Cars at Instructables

Grow veggies in a hydroponic garden

Vertical hydroponic garden made from PVC pipes and aluminum downspouts

Hydroponics is the gardening wave of the future, making it easy to grow plants anywhere with minimal soil required. For a science fair STEM engineering challenge, design and construct your own hydroponic garden capable of growing vegetables to feed a family. This model is just one possible option.

Learn more: Hydroponics at Instructables

Grab items with a mechanical claw

KiwiCo hydraulic claw kit (Science Experiments for High School)

Delve into robotics with this engineering project. This kit includes all the materials you need, with complete video instructions. Once you’ve built the basic structure, tinker around with the design to improve its strength, accuracy, or other traits.

Learn more: Hydraulic Claw at KiwiCo

Construct a crystal radio

Homemade crystal radio set (Science Experiments for High School)

Return to the good old days and build a radio from scratch. This makes a cool science fair project if you experiment with different types of materials for the antenna. It takes some specialized equipment, but fortunately, Home Science Tools has an all-in-one kit for this project.

Learn more: Crystal Radio at Scitoys.com

Build a burglar alarm

Simple electronic burglar alarm with a cell phone

The challenge? Set up a system to alert you when someone has broken into your house or classroom. This can take any form students can dream up, and you can customize this STEM high school science experiment for multiple skill levels. Keep it simple with an alarm that makes a sound that can be heard from a specified distance. Or kick it up a notch and require the alarm system to send a notification to a cell phone, like the project at the link.

Learn more: Intruder Alarm at Instructables

Walk across a plastic bottle bridge

Students sitting on a large bridge made of plastic bottles

Balsa wood bridges are OK, but this plastic bottle bridge is really impressive! In fact, students can build all sorts of structures using the concept detailed at the link. It’s the ultimate upcycled STEM challenge!

Learn more: TrussFab Structures at Instructables

Looking for more science content? Check out the Best Science Websites for Middle and High School .

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Explore high school science fair projects in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering and more, from easy projects to advanced ideas.

Chemistry experiments including using cabbage to test pH and breaking apart covalent bonds

45 Cool Chemistry Experiments, Demos, and Science Fair Projects

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Duration: 10 weeks (June 3 - August 9) Open to New York City high school students who will complete 10th or 11th grade in June 2024, the ARISE program provides access to college-level workshops and lab research across fields like bio, molecular, and chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, and AI.
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Economic Research Area #1: Technology and Labor Markets. The impact of technology on labor markets is crucial for high school students exploring economics research ideas. Understanding how automation and artificial intelligence reshape jobs prepares students for future challenges. This knowledge is vital for those planning to major in economics ...
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This program is designed for students from historically marginalized groups including low-income and first-generation students. The goal of RISE is to equip students to take on larger, more intensive academic-year and summer experiences for later in their college career. Each student receives $2,500 in scholarships and funds to cover on-campus ...
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Remove the air in a DIY vacuum chamber. Instructables. Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium. You can use a vacuum chamber to do lots of cool high school science fair projects, but a ready-made one can be expensive. Try this project to make your own with basic supplies. Learn more: Vacuum Chamber at Instructables.

35 Good Research Topics for High School Students

Finding a Good Research Topic

Bonus List of 14 History Research Paper Topics

Controversial Topics

94 More Essay Writing Resources

129 Most Insightful Research Topics For High School

Table of Contents

1. Relevance

2. Originality

3. Depth and Complexity

4. Feasibility

5. Controversy or Debate

6. Interest and Engagement

Otio: Revolutionizing Research Workflows with AI-Native Workspace and Content Management

2. Extract key takeaways

Related Reading

1. Development of Critical Thinking Skills

2. Enhanced Understanding of Subject Matter

3. Acquisition of Research Skills

4. Exposure to the Scientific Method

5. Development of Presentation and Communication Skills

6. Exploration of Personal Interests and Passions

7. Preparation for Higher Education

1. Finding a Suitable Research Topic

2. Limited Access to Resources

3. Developing Effective Research Skills

4. Time Management and Procrastination

5. Dealing with Information Overload

6. Writing and Citations

Otio: Revolutionizing Research and Writing with AI-Powered Workspaces

1. Set Clear Goals and Prioritize Tasks

2. Create a Schedule

3. Utilize Technology and Research Tools

4. Stay Organized

5. Avoid Procrastination

6. Seek Help and Collaboration

Otio: Simplifying Research Workflows with an AI-Powered Workspace

151 Good Research Topics For High School Students

Importance of Research Topics For High School Students

Develop Research And Critical Thinking Skills

Explore Passions and Interests

Learn Time Management and Responsibility

Build Knowledge

Practice Academic Writing

Develop Presentation Skills

Gain Credibility and Recognition

Elements of a Strong Research Paper

151 Research Topics For High School Students

Science and Technology

Environmental Science

Social Sciences

Literature and Language Arts

Mathematics

Political Science

Health and Nutrition

Art and Music

How to Pick the Right Research Topic

Final Remarks

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120 Research Paper Topics for High School

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Good Research Topics for High School Students

Good Research Topics for High School

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