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top research topics for high school students

100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers

What’s covered:, how to pick the right research topic, elements of a strong research paper.

  • Interesting Research Paper Topics

Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you’re using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in.

CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will help you engage with your project and keep you motivated until you’ve typed the final period. 

A research paper is similar to an academic essay but more lengthy and requires more research. This added length and depth is bittersweet: although a research paper is more work, you can create a more nuanced argument, and learn more about your topic. Research papers are a demonstration of your research ability and your ability to formulate a convincing argument. How well you’re able to engage with the sources and make original contributions will determine the strength of your paper. 

You can’t have a good research paper without a good research paper topic. “Good” is subjective, and different students will find different topics interesting. What’s important is that you find a topic that makes you want to find out more and make a convincing argument. Maybe you’ll be so interested that you’ll want to take it further and investigate some detail in even greater depth!

For example, last year over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a rigorous research program founded by Harvard researchers. The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . The program actually does not require you to have a research topic in mind when you apply, but pro tip: the more specific you can be the more likely you are to get in!

Introduction

The introduction to a research paper serves two critical functions: it conveys the topic of the paper and illustrates how you will address it. A strong introduction will also pique the interest of the reader and make them excited to read more. Selecting a research paper topic that is meaningful, interesting, and fascinates you is an excellent first step toward creating an engaging paper that people will want to read.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is technically part of the introduction—generally the last sentence of it—but is so important that it merits a section of its own. The thesis statement is a declarative sentence that tells the reader what the paper is about. A strong thesis statement serves three purposes: present the topic of the paper, deliver a clear opinion on the topic, and summarize the points the paper will cover.

An example of a good thesis statement of diversity in the workforce is:

Diversity in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses, as it fosters innovation, enhances creativity, improves decision-making, and enables companies to better understand and connect with a diverse customer base.

The body is the largest section of a research paper. It’s here where you support your thesis, present your facts and research, and persuade the reader.

Each paragraph in the body of a research paper should have its own idea. The idea is presented, generally in the first sentence of the paragraph, by a topic sentence. The topic sentence acts similarly to the thesis statement, only on a smaller scale, and every sentence in the paragraph with it supports the idea it conveys.

An example of a topic sentence on how diversity in the workplace fosters innovation is:

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which stimulates creativity, encourages new ideas, and leads to the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

The body of an engaging research paper flows smoothly from one idea to the next. Create an outline before writing and order your ideas so that each idea logically leads to another.

The conclusion of a research paper should summarize your thesis and reinforce your argument. It’s common to restate the thesis in the conclusion of a research paper.

For example, a conclusion for a paper about diversity in the workforce is:

In conclusion, diversity in the workplace is vital to success in the modern business world. By embracing diversity, companies can tap into the full potential of their workforce, promote creativity and innovation, and better connect with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to greater success and a more prosperous future for all.

Reference Page

The reference page is normally found at the end of a research paper. It provides proof that you did research using credible sources, properly credits the originators of information, and prevents plagiarism.

There are a number of different formats of reference pages, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. Make sure to format your reference page in your teacher’s preferred style.

  • Analyze the benefits of diversity in education.
  • Are charter schools useful for the national education system?
  • How has modern technology changed teaching?
  • Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing.
  • What are the benefits of a gap year between high school and college?
  • What funding allocations give the most benefit to students?
  • Does homeschooling set students up for success?
  • Should universities/high schools require students to be vaccinated?
  • What effect does rising college tuition have on high schoolers?
  • Do students perform better in same-sex schools?
  • Discuss and analyze the impacts of a famous musician on pop music.
  • How has pop music evolved over the past decade?
  • How has the portrayal of women in music changed in the media over the past decade?
  • How does a synthesizer work?
  • How has music evolved to feature different instruments/voices?
  • How has sound effect technology changed the music industry?
  • Analyze the benefits of music education in high schools.
  • Are rehabilitation centers more effective than prisons?
  • Are congestion taxes useful?
  • Does affirmative action help minorities?
  • Can a capitalist system effectively reduce inequality?
  • Is a three-branch government system effective?
  • What causes polarization in today’s politics?
  • Is the U.S. government racially unbiased?
  • Choose a historical invention and discuss its impact on society today.
  • Choose a famous historical leader who lost power—what led to their eventual downfall?
  • How has your country evolved over the past century?
  • What historical event has had the largest effect on the U.S.?
  • Has the government’s response to national disasters improved or declined throughout history?
  • Discuss the history of the American occupation of Iraq.
  • Explain the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
  • Is literature relevant in modern society?
  • Discuss how fiction can be used for propaganda.
  • How does literature teach and inform about society?
  • Explain the influence of children’s literature on adulthood.
  • How has literature addressed homosexuality?
  • Does the media portray minorities realistically?
  • Does the media reinforce stereotypes?
  • Why have podcasts become so popular?
  • Will streaming end traditional television?
  • What is a patriot?
  • What are the pros and cons of global citizenship?
  • What are the causes and effects of bullying?
  • Why has the divorce rate in the U.S. been declining in recent years?
  • Is it more important to follow social norms or religion?
  • What are the responsible limits on abortion, if any?
  • How does an MRI machine work?
  • Would the U.S. benefit from socialized healthcare?
  • Elderly populations
  • The education system
  • State tax bases
  • How do anti-vaxxers affect the health of the country?
  • Analyze the costs and benefits of diet culture.
  • Should companies allow employees to exercise on company time?
  • What is an adequate amount of exercise for an adult per week/per month/per day?
  • Discuss the effects of the obesity epidemic on American society.
  • Are students smarter since the advent of the internet?
  • What departures has the internet made from its original design?
  • Has digital downloading helped the music industry?
  • Discuss the benefits and costs of stricter internet censorship.
  • Analyze the effects of the internet on the paper news industry.
  • What would happen if the internet went out?
  • How will artificial intelligence (AI) change our lives?
  • What are the pros and cons of cryptocurrency?
  • How has social media affected the way people relate with each other?
  • Should social media have an age restriction?
  • Discuss the importance of source software.
  • What is more relevant in today’s world: mobile apps or websites?
  • How will fully autonomous vehicles change our lives?
  • How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?

Mental Health

  • What are the benefits of daily exercise?
  • How has social media affected people’s mental health?
  • What things contribute to poor mental and physical health?
  • Analyze how mental health is talked about in pop culture.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of more counselors in high schools.
  • How does stress affect the body?
  • How do emotional support animals help people?
  • What are black holes?
  • Discuss the biggest successes and failures of the EPA.
  • How has the Flint water crisis affected life in Michigan?
  • Can science help save endangered species?
  • Is the development of an anti-cancer vaccine possible?

Environment

  • What are the effects of deforestation on climate change?
  • Is climate change reversible?
  • How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global warming and climate change?
  • Are carbon credits effective for offsetting emissions or just marketing?
  • Is nuclear power a safe alternative to fossil fuels?
  • Are hybrid vehicles helping to control pollution in the atmosphere?
  • How is plastic waste harming the environment?
  • Is entrepreneurism a trait people are born with or something they learn?
  • How much more should CEOs make than their average employee?
  • Can you start a business without money?
  • Should the U.S. raise the minimum wage?
  • Discuss how happy employees benefit businesses.
  • How important is branding for a business?
  • Discuss the ease, or difficulty, of landing a job today.
  • What is the economic impact of sporting events?
  • Are professional athletes overpaid?
  • Should male and female athletes receive equal pay?
  • What is a fair and equitable way for transgender athletes to compete in high school sports?
  • What are the benefits of playing team sports?
  • What is the most corrupt professional sport?

Where to Get More Research Paper Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original research topic ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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top research topics for high school students

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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.

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

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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?

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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?

body_highschoolsc

  • 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 ?

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  • 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?

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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?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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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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  • A Research Guide
  • Research Paper Topics

120 Research Paper Topics for High School

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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

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Top 50+ Research Topics for High School Students in 2022

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Team Desklib

Published: 2022-08-09

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A research paper is a piece of writing in which you explain what you have learned, analyzed, and experienced while studying a topic in depth.

A Research paper is a document that professes your knowledge and your analytical skills toward a particular topic. But writing a research paper is not an easy task, it is hard to show your knowledge through your writing skills.

So, It is essential to write in such a way that will appeal to the reader and will convince the checker that you can grow. Research topic for high school students is easy to find as being a high school student, as expectations of a  checker and reader are not high that high from you.

So, try to keep it simple and sorted. To make your research paper more manageable try to draw a mind map after choosing a topic try to make important headlines that you are going to write in a bold format and then research these headlines and try to compartmentalize your research in different paragraphs to make your paper easy to read.

Don't worry internet will help you in finding the best research topic and before this, you should know what should be written in a research paper and what the importance of a research paper is.

Importance of Writing a Research Paper for High School Students:

Being a high school student You might not express every idea that you get, while a teacher teaches you in a classroom because that might be daunting for you.

In this case research paper provides you with a great intermediating platform to express all your ideas and doubts which you were unable to communicate in the classroom.

A research paper is also a good way of stating something, for those who are shy in the classroom, though you know the answer to every question that has been asked by the teacher in the classroom.

As you are shy, it becomes difficult for you to answer. Plus research paper can fetch you good internal marks and improves your knowledge. Writing a research paper is always a blessing as it improves your writing and analytical skills and adds more points to your knowledge and experience.

How the High School Students Should Select a Research Topic?

  • Research topics for high school students should be of their interest. As interesting topics ignite the fire of research and analysis. It has been noticed that, if students have an interest in some topic then they enjoy studying that topic else they get tired off very soon so in order to write a good quality research paper high school students must seek the topic of their interest.
  • The second important point that a high school student must keep in mind while choosing a topic for a research paper is that the topic they are going to choose must have valid resources available in the market on which a student can research and about that research student can write. Being a high school student one must not do excessive research as it is the work of Ph.D. students, but high school students should keep it simple and crisp as they are still in a learning stage. So simply go for that topic whose material and information is available in the market. Being a high school student there are several topics available but still, the topic chosen by you to write a research paper should be significant and must be appealing to the readers. A topic should connect you as a writer with readers and should influence them.
  • So the third point is to go for the significant and influencing topic that is triggering for minds. The fourth point to be kept in mind by high school students while choosing a topic for research is, that they must choose a topic through which they can show their ability to learn, write and grow.
  • After all, a research paper shows the ability and potential you have so to show your potential you must choose that topic through which you can manageably prove your points and thoughts. Research topic for high school students is generally given by their subject teachers so in this case, a student must add those points which have been taught by the teacher in the classroom this will actually leave a good impression on a teacher. And will fetch you good internal marks.
  • Last but not least point is that your document should not be plagiarized . As, so much information is available on the internet today use that information correctly and in a more manageable way but don't copy paste, because by doing this you will lose your authenticity and this will leave a bad impression on others, especially on your teachers s choose the topic wisely first understand the topic you have chosen then search them on the internet from there understand the topic well and then write it down.
Therefore, while selecting a research topic one must keep these points in his mind to create a good document and avoid being rejected.

List of a Few Easy Research Topics for High School Students

Here are some interesting topics for high school students that they may consider if they are searching for a good topic to write a research paper . We are pointing out a few interesting topics, that will trigger your interest in researching more on that topic, are manageable and sources of these topics are available in the market also.

Top 5 Easy Research Topics for High School Students 

These topics are influential by nature. Topics that we are going to suggest to you are really good and will improve your own knowledge and will make you aware of so many new things. 
  • Should recycling plastic be mandatory?

In this topic, you can take recycling as the main keyword around which your whole writing will revolve. The next word of utmost significance is plastic, so you can mention both advantages and disadvantages of using plastic , along with that you can also mention why plastics should be recycled and banned.

  • Air Pollution due to aviation

The aviation sector every year releases huge tonnes of carbon into the environment; you can take it as a research topic through which you can suggest some measures to combat these carbon emissions.

  • How to manage natural resources effectively

In this topic, you can take the readers towards sustainable development. And suggest your ways to tackle the problems which are coming in front due to the development.

  • Role of media in global politics

In this topic, you can describe the role of media both on the national and international levels as media is the bridge that binds two or more countries together and shares the ideologies of different countries with us. Media also make us aware of what is happening around us in a simple way one could say that media connects one country with another. 

  • Nuclear weapons

Nuclear weapons are another important and innovative topic that is a good topic and frequently comes in news globally as it has some extreme effects. In this case, you can surely take this topic as your research topic and write the bad and good effects of nuclear technology and state your own points as well.

Some More Interesting Research Topics for High School Students

        1. Environmental Studies-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Endangered species
  • Soil degradation
  • Climate disturbances  
  • Global Warming and Gases Involved in it
  • Development is a curse or a boon
  • Forest fire
  • Oceans’ garbage and its effect on marine animals

        2. International Affairs-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Global Friendship
  • Man is the citizen of the world yes or no
  • Functions of the United Nations and their significance in the 21st century
  • International trade
  • Interdependency of countries on each other
  • Role of the international court of justice
  • Bilateral trade

       3. Literature-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Role of literature in shaping the world
  • Literature is a mirror of society
  • Challenges faced by literature in the previous century
  • Women in literature or women's writings in literature
  • Types of writing in literature
  • Literature before independence and after independence
  • Literature from Shakespeare till now
  • Human Evolution in Literature  

       4. Politics-Based Research Topics for High School Students

  • Role of women in politics
  • Politics is the sound of a layman
  • What is dirty politics ?
  • Changes in the pattern of politics
  • Different political ideologies
  • Best political leaders
  • Challenges in the life of a politician

       5. Science-Based Research Topics for High School Students:

  • NASA is an epicenter of science and new technology in space
  • Science and the new world
  • Scientific spirit in new generations
  • Genetics and Molecular biology
  • Rocket science and Robotics
  • Neuroscience and mental problems
  • Virology and its importance in the COVID period

       6. Sports-Based Research Topics for High School Students:

  • What is the major difference between the commonwealth games and the Olympics ?
  • Participation of women in world championships
  • Rising competition in sports
  • Why cricket and football are the two most common games that are being watched by high school students?
  • Impact of the Olympics on the economy of the hosting nation
  • Para Olympics is a really good platform for talented opportunity seekers 
  • Over exaggerated and overpaid games

Conclusion:

Through this blog, we have provided some Research topics for high school students that might turn out helpful for young students. As selecting a research topic is always intriguing, we have solved this problem by providing you with some really good topics on which you can research and write.

Related Resources - 

Topics of Persuasive Speech

Research Topics for Psychology

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

Scientific Research Topics for High School Students

  • 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:-

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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25+ Best Science Research Ideas for High School Students

If you’re an ambitious high school student looking for opportunities to build your college profile and learn new skills, consider undertaking a research project. You do not need to be sure about what you want to major in, but having a general idea aligned with your interests helps! Conducting research shows demonstrated interest in a subject, aids critical thinking and problem-solving, provides laboratory experience, and helps you gain analytical and communication skills. 

What makes a good research idea?

There are a few key components you need to keep in mind when thinking about a research topic:

What is your project trying to achieve? For your research to be relevant, it needs to identify a knowledge gap and be significant. Your research findings should add to existing literature and help future researchers.

It is important to state what will be included in your research explicitly.  Clearly defined boundaries help estimate a realistic timeline and allocate any necessary resources.  

The easiest way to be dedicated throughout your research project is by choosing a topic you are passionate about!  This will make sure you remain motivated throughout, and it will reflect in your work. Do not choose a topic for the sake of it — you will find the project difficult to complete and your disinterest will reflect in the quality of your work.

Feasibility:

You may have a grand idea for your research topic, but can you execute it? It’s important to consider any constraints you may have — time, money, etc. — and choose a topic that can be completed with your given resources.  If you are working independently, choose a topic that isn't resource-intensive. For example, research that requires you use advanced telescopes to examine cosmological patterns may not be feasible if you do not already have access to one. 

What do I do once I have a research idea?

Great job, you have found a topic that interests you, is relevant to the field, and is feasible in scope and resources! Next step, you need to find a mentor who can guide and advise you through the research process.  They could be a working researcher, a college professor, a graduate student, or a Ph.D. candidate.

If you’re looking for a mentor, we’d recommend applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program  which connects students with world-class researchers, offers one-on-one mentorship, and guides you through the research and writing process, even helping you get your paper published!

Chemistry research ideas for high school students:

Chemistry can be a great field to undertake independent research in — chemical reactions form the basis of life and can give you a deeper understanding of the world.  Moreover, chemistry is directly related to important issues that affect us, like climate change, drug discovery, nanotechnology, and more. Research in these domains can lead to life-changing benefits for society! 

Some topics you can research include:

1. Using green chemistry to achieve sustainability targets in the fields of energy, water remediation, agriculture, and sensing

2. Analyzing different energy storage options and comparing and contrasting different technologies' chemistries, performance, lifetime, cost, geographic and resource constraints, and more

3. Investigating how startups and the private sector’s newest technologies are critical to the transition to a green future and how products are commercialized from lab to market

4. Understanding how material nano-structure can create specific properties and take advantage of "structure-property" understanding to engineer new materials

5. Determining the role small molecules play in imaging, labeling, target identification, inhibiting native protein functions, and facilitating foreign ones, especially in new techniques used to understand disease pathways

6. Investigating how molecules are made in nature, such as the reactions performed by enzymes to make natural products

Suggested by Lumiere PhD mentors at Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley, Yale University, University of Cambridge, Technical University of Munich, Georgia Institute of Technology, Duke University, University of Leeds, Cornell University, and John Hopkins University

Biology research ideas for high school students:

Research in biology can contribute to humans’ understanding of living organisms, lead to medical breakthroughs and advancements in healthcare, contribute to cancer research and treatment, deepen our understanding of genetics, improve sustainability by helping develop biofuels and biodegradable materials, and more. 

7. Tumor progression and how cancer cells invade and interact with other cells

8. Cancer immunotherapy: the study of how cancer cells evade the immune system and how we can harness the immune system to battle cancer

9. Researching past and current technologies used in gene editing. Identify challenges and weigh the ethical and social implications of these technologies

10. Identifying technical challenges in mass vaccination campaigns. Review existing data from public health organizations and current scientific literature on new vaccine delivery technologies

11. Analyzing the effects of alcohol and drug addiction on the brain

12. Discovering different theories of learning and memory. You can design and use different  clinical studies here

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Cornell University,  Duke University, and Yale University   

Physics research ideas for high school students:

Have space, quantum physics, nuclear science, and other such subjects always fascinated you? If so, a research project in physics is a great way to dig deeper and understand why different phenomena occur. Physics is a broad and interconnected discipline; research in the subject can cover topics like mechanical and electrical engineering, quantum computing, nuclear energy, astrophysical and cosmological phenomena, and computational technologies.

13. The features and limitations of augmented and virtual reality technologies, current industry standards of performance, and solutions to address challenges

14. Cosmological mysteries (like dark energy, inflation, and dark matter) and their hypothesized explanations

15. Physical processes that shape galaxies through cosmic time in the context of extragalactic astronomy and the current issues and frontiers in galaxy evolution

16. Radiation or radiation measurement in applications of nuclear physics (such as reactors, nuclear batteries, and sensors/detectors)

17. The electrical and thermodynamic properties of Boson particles, whose quantum nature is responsible for laser radiation

18. Mathematical derivation of the dynamics of particles from fundamental laws (such as special relativity, general relativity, and quantum mechanics)

19. The theoretical and experimental advances in quantum computing. Explore current high-impact research directions for quantum computing from a hardware or theoretical perspective

20. Nuclear fission or nuclear fusion energy as a possible solution to mitigate climate change

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Northwestern University, Princeton University, Stanford University, Cornell University, University of Cambridge, Harvard University, University of California, Irvine, and University of Southampton.

Marine biology research ideas for high school students:

Contributing to research in marine biology can be extremely important given the diversity of marine ecosystems, the life they support, and their importance in combating climate change and preventing extreme weather events.  Understanding how oceans work directly relates to water pollution and the quality of seafood, contributes to coastal protection and carbon sequestration (the process of capturing and storing excess carbon dioxide), and helps educate the public on the importance of protecting marine habitats.

 If this interests you, here are some research topics to consider:

21. Examine how corals are responding to climate change, how the change in oceanic temperatures affects their reef-building capabilities, and the knock-on effects

22. Examine how marine conservation and tourism can go coexist. Suggest ways to ensure the sustainable development of coastal economies

23. Study how marine pollution impacts coastal areas, marine biodiversity, and communities’ livelihoods

24. Study how human activity (like pollution, fishing, and habitat destruction) has impacted marine genomes and how other anthropogenic factors have influenced adaptation and genetic diversity in marine organisms

25. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

26. Study carbon sequestration. Investigate how coastal ecosystems like mangroves, saltmarshes, seagrasses, etc. can help mitigate C02 emissions

27. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

If you’re serious about conducting independent research, you may want to consider the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students founded by researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here . You can also reach out to us at [email protected] to know more, or to have a chat about possible collaborations!

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Kieran Lobo is a freelance writer from India, who currently teaches English in Spain.

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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.

top research topics for high school students

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10 creative research topics for students (2024)

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Miroslav Damyanov

Research is a key part of student life, but deciding which topic to research can take time and effort. The right research topic typically aligns with your skills and interests, has current relevance, and can positively impact the world.

In this article, you’ll find some helpful examples to help you get started.

  • What is a research topic, and what is it for?

Research topics enable students to drill down into a specific aspect of a subject to broaden their knowledge and share learnings with others. They are typically used to make discoveries or develop fresh viewpoints.

A research topic defines the specific theme that research will be conducted around. It’s essential for providing a key focus for the work to be completed. Ultimately, it defines a core problem or knowledge gap that needs to be solved. 

A clear topic helps define what is being studied and how that information will be communicated to others.

  • Research topic vs. research question

A research topic is a broad theme of focus that requires further investigation. It’s the project’s overall subject—an aspect of which will be studied.

A research topic example could be “The effects of meditation on stress reduction.”

A research question is a specific inquiry that researchers want to investigate and answer to broaden their knowledge and make new discoveries. Research questions are much more specific, focusing on a very small aspect of the overall topic.

The right research question will specifically set out what is being researched so there is no ambiguity.

Here’s an example of a research question within the topic: “How does meditation impact stress, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace?”

  • What makes a good research paper topic?

Here are the characteristics that make some topics more favorable and useful than others:

Clarity: a helpful research topic should be clearly understood to ensure the integrity of the research. It should be clear to the student and mentor/professor what the topic is and how it will be explored.

Originality: answering questions that have already been researched and answered many times before could be a waste of resources. Answering original questions is key to getting the most out of research. This might involve researching topics that have already been covered from a different angle or exploring an entirely new topic.

Relevance: it’s helpful to ensure that a research topic is related to your expertise and your access to resources. This will ensure that the research topic is relevant to you.

Ethical : ethics should always be considered when conducting research. Your research shouldn’t cause physical or mental harm to any participants. You should also consider animal and environmental ethics.

  • How can I choose a good topic for my research paper?

With so many topics to choose from, selecting a topic for your research paper can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider these three points to make the best choice:

1. Lean into personal interest

Being interested and experienced in a particular field will make the research more interesting, relevant, and straightforward to conduct.

Your interest will mean you’re committed and motivated to discover the answer to your research question. Being personally engaged also makes the process more enjoyable.

One caveat to keep in mind is the potential for bias. If you are invested in the research having a particular result, you must ensure it’s accurate, double-checked, and reviewed by an impartial party.

2. Choose a topic with enough information

Your research project might fail if you don’t have access to sufficient information and resources. There needs to be enough information to gain deep insights into the research at hand.

Consider the resources you have within your project limits. If your research has funding, carefully work out what that funding could be used for. If not, you may need to consider research that you’ll be able to complete with access to public records and other free resources.

Timings, finances, access to participants, and publicly accessible information will all need to be considered before choosing the final topic to research.

3. Consider the guidelines

You’ll need to adhere to the specific guidelines that your school, mentor, or professor have laid out. They may request that the topic be related to public interest, a currently challenging topic for the environment, or another parameter.

When considering those guidelines, make ethical considerations. Your school or university is unlikely to permit unethical research.

  • How to find research topics to write about

Even though there’s an endless range of topics to research, you might not know where to begin. Starting with background reading, mind mapping, and speaking with mentors can help mold general ideas into useful topics and questions.

Extensive reading: completing background reading of educational databases, journals, and scientific studies can help provide a good working knowledge of what is currently being researched and identify key gaps.

Social problems: current challenges on both a local and global scale can make excellent research questions. Whether it’s investigating climate change, human health, or the impact of pandemics, there’s likely to be large human interest if you research social problems and challenges. The research you conduct may even have a positive impact on the world around you.

Mind mapping: brainstorming different ideas inspired by your background reading and personal interests can lead to ideal research topics. Create a large mind map, whether in a notebook or on a whiteboard, to get all your ideas down on paper. You may be surprised at what unique ideas you come up with.

Speak to mentors: running topics over with your professor or mentor could prove very helpful. They may be able to help you refine your ideas, provide feedback on research questions, and offer useful suggestions to ensure the topic you pick is appropriate.

  • The top 10 research topics for students

Here are some of the top 10 research topics and research areas for students. Whether in high school, senior high school, or college, these topics are important and relevant for students today.

You might use these ideas as starting points for your own original research topics and research questions.

1. High school research paper topic ideas

Research topics in high school can promote critical thinking , personal growth, and problem-solving skills.

Some of the most relevant research topics for high schoolers revolve around social and political issues, as those are often core topics within the school curriculum. Also, students are often interested in how they can positively impact the world around them, so topics within social change and social issues are particularly relevant.

The impacts of bullying

Bullying and its impacts are an interesting and relevant topic for high school students. Students may want to consider ways to mitigate bullying or explore whether bullying can affect people long-term.

Some specific research questions within the bullying topic are:

What is the evidence that parental support can alleviate the impact of bullying in schools?

What are the effects of bullying and victimization on short-term mental health?

How can we predict adolescents’ bullying participation and understand the participant roles of bullying in different grades?

Social media in high schools

With social media use prolific in the modern world, students may be particularly interested to learn about how it impacts humans. Students may want to research the effects of different social media types, ways to reduce social media use, or how social media is impacting people around the world.

Some topics within social media could be:

Is there a correlation between social media use and academic performance?

What are the effects of social media use on mental health in people aged 12–18?

How does social media use affect self-esteem in students?

2. Psychology research paper topics

Psychology is a broadly studied topic with many possible avenues for exploration. Whether you’d like to understand how the human brain works, ways to boost mental health, or treatment options in psychology, there are endless options.

Here are some of the top 10 research topics for college students in psychology: 

Increasing happiness

Some specific research questions related to happiness include the following:

What are the factors driving the fear of leaning into happiness in American society?

How can practicing vulnerability reduce stress and boost happiness?

What impact does forest bathing have on overall mood scores?

Mitigating anxiety

With 37% of US adults more anxious in 2023 than in 2022, anxiety as a research topic is very relevant.

Below are some example research questions:

How does chronic anxiety impact people’s day-to-day lives?

What is the impact of meditation interventions on anxiety?

Is there data to support physical exercise interventions for anxiety disorders?

3. Science research paper topics

Scientific research covers many study fields. From biology and chemistry to physics and biochemistry, science helps researchers discover critical information about humans and our world.

Here are a few potential topics for exploration:

Reducing pandemic risk

Given the impact of COVID-19, mitigating the risk of a future pandemic is of significant human interest. A student may look at ways to improve pandemic responses, identify future pandemics, boost vaccine adoption, and reduce the spread of misinformation. 

Specific research questions include the following:

How can AI help predict future pandemics?

How does animal breeding contribute to zoonotic disease risk?

What are the key ways to identify and control a potential future pandemic before it becomes widespread?

Renewable energy

With climate change and the planet’s health a major concern for many scientists, investigations into more environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources are of great social interest.

Here are some research questions about renewable energy to consider:

What is the economic feasibility of widespread renewable energy use across the US?

How could wind, water, and solar energy reduce global emissions?

What are the core factors preventing the widespread use of renewable energy?

4. Good environmental research topics

Climate change impacts every person on the planet, so it can make an excellent research topic. Particularly for the younger generation, climate change is an interesting and often concerning discussion topic. Gen Z, for example, speaks much more actively about climate change both on and offline.

Climate change on a global scale

Some specific research questions within the climate change topic are:

What is the impact of climate change on biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest?

What impact could the use of solar power have in the US in relation to carbon emissions?

How do carbon dioxide emissions affect ocean acidity levels?

5. Argumentative research paper topics

Setting out a specific argument and exploring the topic can make for interesting research. Argumentative research topics are typically related to human interest, issues that impact us on a global scale, or challenges that particular social groups face.

Affirmative action

With rising interest in equality, researching affirmative action—designed to prevent the impacts of discrimination—is a relevant research topic for high school and college students.

Some specific questions relating to affirmative action could be:

Does affirmative action promote equality in the workplace?

What is the evidence that affirmative action is helpful in university admissions?

How has the affirmative action ban impacted the tech industry?

The ethical use of AI

AI use is expanding rapidly across the globe, so there’s growing interest in its impacts and the need for ethical usage.

Some research questions relating to AI include the following:

Could AI lead to more global conflict?

Can ethical legislation reduce the risk of AI and its implementation?

How many jobs could be impacted by AI in 2025?

6. Human rights paper topics

Human rights impact everyone on the planet, so it’s a topic that’s of continual interest.

Research in this area could cover human rights in the workplace, privacy rights, gender equality, and much more.

International human rights

International human rights is a complex yet critical area of global interest. Human rights help protect people’s freedom and safety around the world.

What are ways to reduce human rights violations in conflict zones?

What is the impact of organizations such as Amnesty International on international human rights?

In what ways can governments enforce human rights globally?

LGBTQI+ rights

With LGBTQI+ issues gaining a brighter spotlight in mainstream media, research into this area can be very beneficial, not just for those impacted by discrimination but for society as a whole.

Here are some potential research questions:

How can gender dysphoria impact transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) adolescents’ mental health and quality of life?

What are ways to boost mental health for those who experience discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity?

How could genderless bathrooms increase access and safety for LGBTQI+ people?

7. US history research paper topics

The US has a vast and interesting history, which forms part of the curriculum in many high schools and colleges. Different aspects of this history can make relevant fields of research, such as the following:

What factors that led to the abolishment of slavery in the US are relevant in politics today?

How did the Founding Fathers shape the US political system, and what can be learned?

Why did the Louisiana Purchase have such a significant impact on US history?

8. Law enforcement research topics

Maintaining law and order in society is highly complex. Exploring how law enforcement can benefit society as a whole can be a rewarding field of study.

Some possible law enforcement topics include the following:

How can data analysis and intelligence-led policing reduce crime?

What is the role of Crisis Intervention Training in policing?

How can data improve the enforcement of cybersecurity laws?

9. Business research paper topics

Business is a broad area of study with many possible directions for research papers. Business drives the economy, providing jobs and industry. It’s the cornerstone of society, so research in this area is always of social interest. 

Here are some possible business research topics to consider:

How can data analysis impact consumer purchasing decisions?

What are some of the key dilemmas in ethical business practices?

How can diversity and inclusion be boosted in the workforce?

10. Economics research paper topics

Whether you choose to focus on microeconomics, macroeconomics, or applied fields, economics research can take you in many directions.

Below are some general economics paper topics:

What are the widespread impacts of the gig economy?

How can investing in female-founded businesses impact economies in developing countries?

How does progressive taxation impact income inequality?

It all starts with the right research question  

Successful research starts with the right question, regardless of your chosen topic.

Taking time to pose a relevant and clear research question will help you discover new insights, learnings, and evidence.

Research is the very thing that drives human knowledge. Remember, your research might not just impact you but also the world and people around you.

How can I get research ideas?

To come up with research ideas, you might find it helpful to do some background reading, consider current social issues, lean into your skills and interests, and speak to a mentor or professor. Brainstorming and mind mapping can also help.

What is a good research question?

A good research question should be clear, relevant, original, and ethical. You should also have access to the necessary resources to perform the research thoroughly.

How do I create a title for my research topic?

The right title for a research topic is clear and relevant to your field of study. Ideally, it’s an original idea and refers to the specific question you’re posing.

What are some good qualitative research topics?

Qualitative research involves analyzing people’s attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors.

There are qualitative research topics across almost every field of study, including psychology, education, social sciences, human resources, technology, and healthcare.

What qualitative research topics can be good for STEM students?

For STEM (​​science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students, qualitative research topics could revolve around social impacts and perceptions of science and technology.

Here are some examples:

How the general population views climate change

The potential social impacts of AI

How to use Big Data ethically

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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

Research topic idea mega list

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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64 Comments

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Research title related to students

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

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parental involvement and students academic performance

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How about School management and supervision pls.?

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Research Defense for students in senior high

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

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

Sarah Moyambo

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)

Ernest Gyabaah

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

Aron kirui

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

revathy a/p letchumanan

request suggestion on topic in masters in medical education .

D.Newlands PhD.

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.

Monica

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

Aman

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

Ellyjoy

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

muhammad sani

please i need a proposed thesis project regardging computer science

also916

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.

shantel orox

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

Rey

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

Omada Victoria Enyojo

Amazing guidelines

JAMES MALUKI MUTIA

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

betiel

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.

TURIKUMWE JEAN BOSCO

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”.

Fitsum Ayele

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.

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Research Opportunities for High School Students in 2024: More Than 50 Options Across Multiple Academic Disciplines and Interests

Jin Chow with Tree Background

By Jin Chow

Co-founder of Polygence, Forbes 30 Under 30 for Education

24 minute read

High school research projects offer a gateway for exploring passions, honing critical skills, and showcasing ambition for college admissions. Details from Harvard suggest that applicants who provide evidence of “substantial scholarship or academic creativity” have a much greater chance of gaining admission.

High school research projects offer a gateway for exploring passions, honing critical skills, and showcasing ambition for college admissions. Details from Harvard suggest that applicants who provide evidence of “substantial scholarship or academic creativity” have a much greater chance of gaining admission. In fact, 92% of students who completed the Polygence high school student research program were admitted to R1 universities in 2023. They significantly enhance a student's profile and academic creativity, boosting their chances of admission to top universities. These projects not only boost learning enthusiasm but also contribute positively to mental well-being .

Our curated list provides a program overview of over 50 research opportunities and programs for high school students covering various fields, emphasizing affordability, prestige, rigor, and social engagement. We encourage current students to verify program details, such as the necessary application information, and review updates as they may change yearly.

For personalized, self-driven projects, consider Polygence Core Program research mentorship to achieve your unique goals.

Do your own research through Polygence!

Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in your area of passion. Together, you work to create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own.

7 Top Business, Economics, Finance, and Leadership Research Opportunities for High School Students

1 . beta camp .

Hosting institution: BETA Camp

Super Early Bird (Enroll by January 15, 2024): $3,000

Early Bird (Enroll by March 1, 2024): $3,500

Regular (Enjoll by June 15, 2024): $3,950

Format: Online

Application deadline: Mid-April

In this 6-week program, high school students aged 13-18 can learn from experts at world-class companies like Google, IKEA, Airbnb, and more. Participants create a real-world company, reach out to influencers, and partner with them to promote a real solution. Participants also practice their skills on real companies with feedback from their top executives. Finally, all learnings go toward building your own startup with weekly guidance. 

2 . Essentials of Finance 

Hosting institution: Wharton University

Cost: $7,299

Format: In-person (Philadelphia, PA)

Application deadline: Early April

This two-week intensive program gives high school students in grades 9 - 11 an opportunity to learn finance theory and methods at one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Participants are exposed to the fundamentals of both personal and corporate finance. Other topics include the time value of money, the trade-off between risk and return, equities, and corporate accounting. You’ll learn the fundamentals of finance with real-world applications and case studies.

3 . Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY)

Hosting Institution: Haas School of Business - University of California, Berkeley

Cost: $7,050

Format: In-person (Berkeley, CA)

Application deadline: Mid-March

With an intimate cohort of only 50 students, this immersive two-week college prep business program invites students to learn concepts of teamwork, communications, presentations, writing a business plan, and research skills. While immersed in on-campus life, participants also experience social activities, hear from guest speakers, and collaborate with a team to build a business plan which they then present at the end of the course. We think this is a great, immersive experience and B-BAY’s cost is the only reason it falls lower on the list of top business research opportunities for high school students.

4 . Entrepreneurship Academy

Hosting Institution: Georgetown University

Cost: Estimated tuition $5,775

Format: In-person (Washington, DC)

Application deadline:

Early Bird Deadline: January 31, 2024

Final Deadline: May 15, 2024

This high school student business program in Washington, DC, would have been higher on our list, but the Entrepreneurship Academy price tag relative to its short week-long length made it less cost-effective than our top options. That said, this program offers high school students the opportunity to hone practical business skills like public speaking, networking strategies, and team-building techniques. They also participate in the complete startup process: from doing market research to developing business plans to giving a pitch presentation to running their own enterprise. This high school student business program is a mix of classroom lectures, field trips, hands-on activities, and group discussions.

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5 . Camp Business

Hosting Institution: Drexel University

Cost: $950-$2,000

Application deadline: Ongoing

Camp Business is a great option for business-minded high school students. This hands-on summer program is designed to teach rising high school sophomores and juniors skills, such as accounting, marketing, and stock market basics. Students also take part in a team business pitch competition and learn critical soft skills such as leadership, professional image, etiquette, and team building.

6 . Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS) 

Hosting institution: Penn State

Cost: $50 registration fee, only if accepted

Format: In–person (State College, PA)

Application deadline: Late March

BOSS is an excellent pick for business-minded high school students. This competitive two-week program gives students a taste of college life via college prep and business fundamentals courses taught by Penn State faculty. In addition to coursework in Hospitality Management, Risk Management, and Management and Organization, students are invited to participate in social activities. Typically, around 60 high school students are accepted to this business program.

7 . Summer High School Sessions and Pre-College Programs

Hosting institution: Adelphi University

Cost: $5,200

Format: In-person (Garden City, NY)

Application deadline: Late May

During this three-week course, high school students can delve into various aspects of starting a business as well as review the parameters for business success. Students are introduced to the primary areas of business including accounting, finance, production, operations, marketing, human resources, and information/technology. Creating business plans and exploring communication skills are integral to the program. Adelphi University summer sessions and pre-college programs made it to the top of our business program list because participants are provided with a ton of valuable information in a very short timeframe.

Business, Economics, Finance, and Leadership Research Resources for High School Students

High school research opportunities:.

Business and Finance research opportunities for high school students

Leadership research opportunities for high school students

High school research and passion project ideas:

Economics and Business passion project ideas for high school students

Leadership passion project ideas for high school students

High school research mentor profiles:

Business research mentors

Economics research mentors

Finance research mentors

Organizational Leadership research mentors

13 Top Biology, Medical, and Neuroscience Research Opportunities for High School Students

1. embarc summer design academy.

Hosting institution: UC Berkeley

Cost: $9,675

Application deadline: Early May 

This summer science research program is perfect for high school students interested in both environmental studies and urban planning. Students at embARC study urban design, architecture, and sustainable city components. Throughout the program, you will have access to the Cal Architecture and Urban Design Studio. You’ll also have the chance to participate in Sustainable City Planning and Digital Design workshops and engage in an Environmental Design Conversations Series and a Community Build project.

2. CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp

Hosting institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Format: In-person (Atlanta, GA)

Application deadline: End of March

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) had a lot of media exposure during the pandemic and students interested in biology and medicine may recognize its value like never before. This week-long summer program allows high school students to fully immerse themselves in subjects such as epidemiology, environmental health, public health law, global health, and public health communication. Newsworthy topics are woven into many of the camp’s activities. Students will even experience re-created outbreaks and mock press conferences. This is a short but academically rigorous program that we believe provides a unique and valuable student experience.

3. High School Research Immersion Program

Hosting institution: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Cost: Free; you get paid a $4,800 stipend

Format: In-person (Memphis - Shelby County, TN)

Application deadline: January 31, 2024

This 8-week summer program for incoming high school seniors based in the Memphis, TN area offers you a chance to work in partnership with a research mentor and showcase your research project in a community exhibition. Your research project will be conducted in St. Jude laboratories and could focus on oncology, epidemiology, clinical research, pharmaceutical science, or another topic. You will also work with a science educator; develop a personal statement for your college application; explore St. Jude career paths; and gain valuable experience in scientific research.

Student participants must attend in person 40 hours a week within a typical 9 am-5 pm weekday schedule; housing is not provided. The St. Jude High School Research Immersion Program launched in 2022 , so it’s still relatively new. We believe it has great potential and is an incredible opportunity that Memphis area students with a passion for science and medical research should consider.

4. Texas Tech’s Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Hosting institution: Texas Tech University

Format: In-person (Lubbock, TX)

Application deadline: February 15, 2024

This free and intensive seven-week program offers exceptional junior and senior high school students interested in biology the opportunity to work with outstanding professors at Texas Tech University's General Health Sciences Center . Although the program is research-based, it also includes weekly hands-on seminars, discussions, and field trips. We’re very impressed by this program’s academic rigor and its on-campus experience with zero cost to the student. The biggest drawback is that only twelve students are selected every year, so getting into this research program is extremely competitive.

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5. Provost’s Summer Mentorship Program (SMP)

Hosting institution: University of Pennsylvania

Application deadline: May

Though this college preparatory experience is only available to Philadelphia, PA high school students, its academic rigor, excellent facilities, and no-cost status earned it a spot on our top biology opportunities for high school students list. SMP is a 4-week immersion summer program that pairs participants with one of the five affiliate University of Pennsylvania Professional Schools. It is highly competitive and typically accepts between 40-50 high school students each year.

6. Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL)

Hosting institution: Brown University

Cost: $2,707-$9,459

Format: In-person (Anchorage, AK; Mammoth, CA; or Providence, RI)

Application deadline: May 10, 2024

For high school students looking to literally expand their horizons, BELL is a great chance to visit a spectacular landscape, learn its native history, and do your own research. You will also investigate the causes and impacts of climate change, identify sustainability practices, and learn about socially responsible leadership. This program guides you to create your own environmental action plan and apply your learnings to issues in your hometown. This high school student research program can be a bit more of an investment than a paid internship, but it’s one of our top picks for future environmental leaders.

7. Summer Child Health Research Internship

Hosting institution: University of Colorado Boulder

Cost: None; you get paid a $3,500 stipend

Format: In-person (Boulder, CO)

Application deadline: Early February

The University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Pediatrics offers summer research opportunities for rising high school seniors, college students, and first-year medical students. After the research program, the summer research interns hand in a 2 to 3-page written summary of their research experience. They are encouraged to submit these abstracts to local, regional, and national meetings. The Child Health Research Internship also provides funding for travel and registration if a student’s paper is accepted at a medical conference. We feel this is a uniquely robust program and really love that it gives you the opportunity to walk away with professional presentation experience.

8. Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Honors Biology

Hosting institution: Johns Hopkins University

Cost: $1,455

Although the CTY Honors Biology program doesn’t have that same exciting campus feel as some of our other top picks for high school students, we’re impressed by its academic rigor, cost-effectiveness, relative affordability, flexible scheduling, and geographic accessibility. This grade 7+ course allows academically advanced students to dig into challenging biological concepts with expert instructors and a dynamic online environment. Courses are offered in various formats to fit your schedule. If biology isn’t your primary study interest, take note that CTY offers online courses in a variety of other disciplines as well.

9. Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program

Hosting institution: MD Anderson Cancer Center

Format: In-person (Houston, TX)

Application deadline: January 17, 2024

This is an incredible opportunity for aspiring doctors. The Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program offers a rare chance for high school students to participate in a research project in one of the biomedical courses under the guidance of a full-time MD Anderson faculty member. Program participants will learn the importance of basic principles that form the basis of scientific research. Selected students will work in the MD Anderson labs during the week, participating in hands-on research. Students walk away from the experience with a clear understanding of what it means and what it’s like to be a researcher in the biomedical sciences . Although this program is only open to current Texas high school seniors, it made our top 10 list of biology opportunities for teens because its no-cost aspect makes it accessible to underrepresented communities.

10 . Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia (BRAINYAC)

Hosting institution: Columbia University

Format: In-person (New York, NY)

Application deadline: Fall

BRAINYAC is a bit of a niche neuroscience program based solely in New York City, but it provides exceptional mentorship at no cost to the student. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships offer New York City high school students a hands-on summer research experience in a Columbia laboratory. Each student is matched with a Columbia neuroscientist who guides the student through a research project. In the process, participants learn key skills required to work in a research environment, and the experience looks great on a college application.

11 . Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

Hosting institution: Carnegie Mellon

Format: In-person (Pittsburgh, PA), with an online “pre-course”

Application deadline: March 1, 2024

This is a great program for high school students interested in taking a deep dive into engineering (it’s a five-week course) and it’s free. SAMS concludes with an exciting symposium. Students explore math, science, seminars, writing workshops, small group mentoring, and collaborative learning, as well as have a chance to learn about financial aid, FAFSA, and college admissions. We love this program because it is a fully funded, merit-based program for participants, making it accessible to traditionally underrepresented communities.

12. Summer Student Program

Hosting institution: The Jackson Laboratory

Cost: None; you get paid a $6,250 stipend

Format: In-person (Bar Harbor, ME)

Application deadline: January 29, 2024 (by 12:00 pm EST)

If you’re going to be a graduating high school senior and you love genetics, this highly competitive 10-week program is an amazing opportunity. Approximately 40 students are chosen to work alongside an experienced mentor on a genetics or genome-centered research project. Each student develops an independent project in state-of-the-art facilities, implements their plans, analyzes data, and reports results. Outside the lab, students are encouraged to visit Acadia National Park . You’ll receive a great stipend, room and board is provided, as well as roundtrip travel costs.

13. Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X)

Hosting institution: Stanford University 

Cost: $1,295

Format: In-person (Stanford, CA); online options are also available

If you’re interested in medicine, this immersion experience for high schoolers is a great pick for you. This shorter 10-day program provides you with basic exposure to the study of neuroscience, psychiatry, and brain science in addition to a potential chance to finish a cooperative capstone project. High school students get the chance to work with Stanford professors and researchers and engage in exciting and cutting-edge research in the standards of neuroscience, clinical neuropsychiatry, and other areas within neuroscience research. In addition to participating in interactive lectures, you would also work in small teams to design solutions to pressing issues related to psychiatry, psychology, and neuroscience.

Biology, Medical, and Neuroscience Research Resources for High School Students

Biology research opportunities for high school students

Medical research opportunities for high school students

Neuroscience research opportunities for high school students

Biology passion project ideas for high school students

Environmental Studies passion project ideas for high school students

Medical passion project ideas for high school students

Neuroscience passion project ideas for high school students

Biology research mentors

Cancer research mentors

Chemistry research mentors

Cognitive research mentors

Environmental Science research mentors

Healthcare research mentors

Medicine research mentors

Psychiatry research mentors

Public Health research mentors

Neuroscience research mentors

Surgery research mentors

Check out the unique journey Polygence cancer research mentor Selena Lorrey took to discover her passions and become a cancer researcher and PhD candidate at Duke University.

14 Top STEM Research Opportunities for High School Students

1. california state summer school for mathematics and science (cosmos).

Hosting institution: University of California (students apply to one of four campuses: Davis; Irvine; San Diego; and Santa Cruz)

Cost: $5,008 (for California residents)

Format: In-person (California)

Application deadline: February 9, 2024

This four-week study program for future scientists, engineers, and mathematicians lets high school students work alongside university researchers and faculty. You can explore topics that extend far beyond the common high school curriculum. Past topics have included Biodiesel from Renewable Sources, Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, and Introduction to Autonomous Vehicles.

2. Engineering Academy

Hosting institution: Oxford University

Cost: £6,495 GBP

Format: In-person (Oxford, UK)

This program allows high school students to experience Oxford-style teaching with practical challenges and debates. Small class sizes help students explore the concepts of hydraulics, pneumatics and the math behind engineering. The curriculum also helps students develop skills in public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork. If you’ve always wanted to immerse yourself in Oxford life , love engineering, and can afford its price tag, Engineering Academy is an amazing teen study program to pursue.

3. Academy for Robotics

Hosting institution: University of Texas at Austin

Cost: $2,100

Format: In-person (Austin, TX)

Application deadline: Closes after first 60 accepted registrants

ChatGPT and Bing are all the rage, and the robotics market is expected to grow 400% by 2026. Our list, therefore, would not be complete without a high school research opportunity focused on robotics. This program focuses on the study of AI robotics and teaching participants how to think critically to solve complex problems. Students will delve into Linux and C++ programming, sensor thresholding, skid steering, utilize tools used in robotics research, and compete in a robot race.

4. High School Research Academy (HSRA)

Cost: $3,500 per student

Application deadline: Late March 

This great (albeit costly) on-campus experience offers STEM research opportunities for high school students. This 5-week program provides participants with immersive and hands-on research experiences in the fields of biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. Students participate in research projects and active laboratories in the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) and get a real taste of life as a researcher.   

5. Adler Planetarium Summer High School Internship

Hosting institution: Adler Planetarium

Cost: None; you get paid a $350 stipend

Format: In-person (Chicago, IL)

Application deadline: Early March

If you live in Chicagoland and want a more diverse yet still immersive experience, this is an amazing option. This 6-week hands-on internship allows Chicago area high schoolers to engage with STEAM fields while preparing for a variety of careers. Participants are given space for personal growth and scientific experimentation while connecting with peers from around the city. You may also get the opportunity to present your research at the end of the internship.

6. Stockholm Junior Water Prize

Hosting institution: The Water Environment Federation

Format: In-person (location varies year to year)

This is a bit of a niche opportunity and more of a competition rather than a research program. However, for those high schoolers who can participate, it is an excellent opportunity to expand on your existing research (especially if you have participated in science fairs such as Regeneron ISEF ) and reach a worldwide audience. If you’re a high school student who has conducted a water-related science project, you can present it to this panel of expert judges. They will rate it on relevance, methodology, subject knowledge, practical skills, creativity, and paper/presentation. A national winner is chosen to compete in an international competition in late August, with all-expenses-paid travel to Stockholm.

7. Genes in Space

Hosting institution: Boeing and miniPCR bio, along with ISS U.S. National Laboratory and New England Biolabs

Application deadline: April 15, 2024

If you love space exploration , this program for high school students is a wonderful option. To apply to the program, you must first design DNA experiments that address a challenge in space exploration using tools such as the fluorescence viewer, PCR thermal cycler, or the BioBits cell-free system (or a combination of them). The grand prize is an opportunity to participate in Space Biology Camp and travel to the Kennedy Space Center to see the launch of your DNA experiment into space! Initially, you must be self-driven enough to drive your own research and the social aspect is rather limited at first, but there is the potential for networking on a grand scale. At least one student from each finalist team must be available to present at the ISS Research & Development Conference (late July to early August).

8. CURIE Academy

Hosting institution: Cornell University

Cost: $1,850 (tuition subject to change)

Format: In-person (Ithaca, NY)

We appreciate that this one-week residential engineering program is designed specifically for rising junior and senior high school girls. Because, let’s face it: engineering is still a male-dominated field. This wonderful program helps female students feel more confident about engineering as a viable career choice and shows them graduate school pathways into engineering. High school students work collaboratively with professors, graduate students, and undergraduate students. Additionally, they participate in nine field sessions across the school’s engineering majors, as well as a field session focused on the admissions process.

9. Yale Summer Session

Hosting institution: Yale University

Cost: $4,650 (+$85 technology fee)

Format: In-person (New Haven, CT) and online

If engineering is your passion, this might be a top program for you. At these Yale Summer Sessions, high school students can pick from five-week courses such as Multivariable Calculus for Engineers, Engineering Improv: An Introduction to Engineering Analysis, and Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics. You will get an on-campus feel for the rigors of an Ivy League college experience, but this experience does come with a heftier price tag than other high school STEM research opportunities on our list.

10. Simons Summer Research Program

Hosting institution: Stony Brook University

Cost: None; this is a paid fellowship

Format: In-person (Stony Brook, NY)

Application deadline: February 7, 2024

This prestigious and highly selective program matches about 30 high school students each year with a Stony Brook faculty mentor in the fields of science, math, computer science, and more. Simons Fellows are selected based on their academic achievements, research potential, and personal qualities such as creativity, curiosity, and dedication. This program gives you a great opportunity to join research groups, produce a research abstract, work with a supportive community of peers and mentors, plus receive a stipend award. This high school student fellowship program is supported by the Simons Foundation .

11. Internship and Fellowships

Hosting institution: Library of Congress

Cost: Free, with some paid internships

Format: In-person (various locations)

Application deadline: Various 

This hidden gem of a program offers around fifty different internship and research opportunities for all sorts of under-represented areas of interest and is open to high school students. Research opportunities range in focus from the Digital Data and Geographic Information Systems to the Young Readers Center to the Manuscript Division . We love that you can get paid for your time and that the program offers scheduling flexibility. This is an opportunity that’s worth looking into, especially if you’re an ambitious high school student interested in history, architecture, art, or literature.

12 . Laboratory Learning Program

Hosting institution: Princeton University

Format: In-person (Princeton, NJ)

Application deadline: March 15, 2024

This is an intensive, academically rigorous 5 to 6-week summer internship program with prestigious Princeton faculty and research staff, who will mentor you in ongoing research projects. The fields of study are engineering and natural science. High school students submit a 2-page research summary of their summer project at the end of the Laboratory Learning Program internship. These research papers can be used to great effect on college applications and/or serve as a jumping-off point for independent research.

13. Internship Programs

Hosting institution: NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM)

Cost: None; these are paid internships

Format: In-person (Greenbelt, MD; Wallops Island, VA; New York, NY; or Fairmont, WV)

Application deadline: Varies according to program 

It doesn’t get much better than NASA when it comes to name recognition. These internships are designed to provide you with the exciting opportunity of performing research under the guidance of a NASA mentor at an actual NASA facility. NASA offers many internship opportunities for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors over 16 years of age. In addition to being able to put this research experience on your resume and college applications, you will be paid for your efforts. Students can find available intern positions via NASA STEM Gateway .

14. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Hosting institution: Center for Excellence in Education (CEE)

Application deadline: December 13, 2023

Our top cost-effective, prestigious, academically rigorous, socially enriching pick is the Research Science Institute (RSI) program. The biggest caveat is that RSI is highly selective and only admits about 80 high school students each year from a pool of thousands of applicants. The program is hosted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Students are selected based on their academic achievements, research potential, and personal qualities such as creativity, leadership, and motivation. RSI is free, with all expenses paid (including travel, room and board, and research supplies).

STEM Research Resources for High School Students

Computer Science research opportunities for high school students

Data Science research opportunities for high school students

Engineering research opportunities for high school students

Participating in a high school science fair or competition is another opportunity for teens to utilize STEM research - and maybe win awards!

Computer Science passion project ideas for high school students

Data science passion project ideas for high school students

Engineering passion project ideas for high school students

AI and Machine Learning (AI/ML) research mentors

Animation research mentors

Biotech research mentors

Computer Science research mentors

Engineering research mentors

Game Design research mentors

Math research mentors

Polygence computer science mentor Ross Greer wrote a High School Computer Science Research Guide that details everything from how to scope, create, and showcase your own high school research project . It’s a great resource to refer to when deciding on a passion project to pursue, especially if you’re considering taking on a STEM-related study topic.

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13 Top Humanities Research Opportunities for High School Students

1. medill cherubs.

Hosting institution: Medill-Northwestern Journalism Institute

Cost: $5,000

Format: In-person (Evanston, IL)

Application deadline: Mid-March 

Notable alumni of the Medill School of Journalism include NPR host Peter Sagal , CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Sanjay Guupta and Vox co-founder Ezra Klein , which gives you some indication of its reputation and proven track record. This Northwestern University summer program for high school students gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in all aspects of media for five weeks at this esteemed school. Areas of study include: writing, reporting, and editing for print, digital and broadcast; photography; videography; and website and podcast creation. Collaborative learning occurs both inside the classroom and on field trips. The Medill Cherubs program includes private mentoring sessions.

2. Sotheby’s Summer Institute

Hosting institution: Sotheby’s

Cost: $5,560 for day students; $6,845 for residential students

Format: In person (New York, NY)

Monday, February 6 (Early Decision)

Monday, March 13 (Priority + Financial Aid)

Monday, April 24 (Regular)

Curious and passionate about the arts? This two-week program will immerse you in one of the most vibrant art capitals in the world: New York City. High school students are invited to learn the intricacies of running galleries and museums as well as to explore painting and drawing techniques throughout history. Each course draws on the caché of Sotheby's Institute of Art , taking students behind the scenes of world class museums, galleries, auction houses, artists’ studios, and more. 

3 . RISD Pre-College

Hosting institution: Rhode Island School of Design

Cost: $8,715 - $11,350

Format: In-person (Providence, RI)

Application deadline: February 8, 2024 

This visual arts summer program offers an intensive six-week-long pre-college experience for young artists at, arguably, one of the top design schools in the world. High school students experience a college-style curriculum with day-long studio classes and can avail themselves of resources such as the RISD Nature Lab and the RISD Museum . Participants experiment with new materials, tools and techniques, learn from mentors, and create final projects that can be used for college application. Its hefty cost kept this opportunity for high school students from being higher on our list. However, need-based financial aid can cover up to 50% of the RISD Pre-College program tuition and fees .

4. SCAD Rising Star

Hosting institution: Savannah College of Art and Design

Cost: $6,334

Format: In-person (Atlanta, GA; Savannah, GA; or Hong Kong) and online

Application deadline: May 31, 2024

Creative high school students should definitely consider SCAD Rising Star as one of the top US design schools. This intensive five-week program lets you take two college-level art classes while helping you build your personal portfolios. The program includes courses in a variety of disciplines, and students have the option of participating online, or in-person in Savannah, Atlanta, or even Hong Kong. If the SCAD Rising Star pre-college program cost is prohibitive, you might be eligible for financial aid.

5. Summer Drama Program

Hosting institution: Yale

Cost: $9,475 (plus meals and housing)

Format: In-person (New Haven, CT)

Application deadline: Mid-April 

This is our top pick for high school students interested in theater. The Yale School of Drama is considered to be one of the most prestigious and selective drama programs in the world, and the Summer Drama Program at Yale is no exception. Applicants can choose between the 5-week-long Conservatory for Actors and the 10-day Director’s Workshop . With small groups of 10-12 students, participants will benefit from focused collaboration and attention. Rehearsing and clowning are part of the “out of classroom” experience of living on campus.

6. Parsons Summer Intensive Studies

Hosting institution: Parsons New School

Cost: $4,675

Format: In-person (New York, NY or Paris, France)

Application deadline: Mid-May to Mid-June

Parsons School of Design is a highly esteemed art school and this three-week summer program can provide a life-changing experience for arts-minded high school students. Offered in two cultural centers of the art world, this program enables students to focus on their own projects, present their work, explore the city during art and design field trips, network with guest speakers, and earn up to 3 college credits.

7. Met High School Internships

Hosting institution: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Cost: None; this is a paid internship

If you’re interested in art history, writing, marketing, social media, education, or conservation, this is a top pick for you. The program accepts rising juniors and seniors from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut high schools and connects them with professionals at one of the world’s finest museums: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Throughout this program, students will develop professional skills, build a network, gain work experience amidst masterpieces, and get paid.

8. Summer Immersion: New York City

Cost: $2,825-$12,449

This is our top pick for future journalists, but we also recognize the cost might be prohibitive for some. High school students can choose either a one-week or three-week program and will learn reporting and interviewing skills through writing assignments such as profiles, op-eds, features, and audio pieces. Summer Immersion: New York City is an exciting pre-college program since you will work with Columbia writing professors and acclaimed journalists in the field.

9. Pre-College Scholars: Summer Residential-Track

Hosting institution: University of California, Berkeley

Cost: $15,800 (8-week session); $14,500 (6-week session)

Application deadline: March 11, 2024

Although this program’s social, prestigious, intensive, and academic advantages put it in our top ten picks of humanities research opportunities for high school students, we took points off for its expense. Still, it offers students from all over the world a chance to experience college campus life at UC Berkeley and take college-level courses taught by Berkeley professors. Here, you can earn college credit while experiencing university campus life with a cohort of students. Like us, you may believe that earning college credit can later justify the program’s expense. High school students can enroll in 2 different courses offered through Berkeley’s Summer Sessions program and participate in a series of extracurricular activities and excursions.

10. Camp ARCH

Hosting institution: Texas A&M University

Cost: $1,500

Format: In-person (College Station, TX)

This week-long program sponsored by the Texas A&M School of Architecture is for high-achieving high school students. Camp ARCH combines academic courses with social activities to create an in-depth research-focused pre-college experience. Participants work with faculty and choose an area of focus from architecture, construction science, or landscape architecture and urban planning.

11. Summer Arts Camp

Hosting institution: Interlochen Center for the Arts

Cost: $1,830-$10,880

Format: In-person (Interlochen, MI)

Application deadline: January 15, 2024

Art students, this is a fantastic option for you. High schoolers can choose to spend 1 week, 3 weeks, or 6 weeks at Interlochen Center for the Arts pursuing visual arts, dance, creative writing, music, theatre, or film and new media. Arts Merge, a 3-week interdisciplinary arts program , is open to students in grades 6 through 9. All of Interlochen’s programs encourage the creation of original work as final projects. The social opportunities and beautiful natural surroundings it provides also really round out the teen participants’ experience.

12. Film and Television Summer Institute - Digital Filmmaking

Hosting institution: UCLA

Cost: $4,225

Format: In-person (Los Angeles, CA)

Application deadline: June 1, 2024

Future filmmakers, this is the research opportunity for you. This two-week, intensive production workshop gives high school students a chance to get hands-on experience course can expand high school at one of the most prestigious film schools in the world. Along with filming collaboratively on projects, students will attend film screenings, hear guest speakers, and visit a Hollywood studio. If cost is a barrier, UCLA Summer Sessions Summer Scholars Support is a financial aid option for California high school students that is worth looking into.

13. Art as Experience: Drawing and New Media Program

Cost: $5,040

Art is woefully under-represented on this list, but this immersive Cornell University pre-college studies course can expand high school students’ understanding of the ideas and practices of art today. Studio projects include a range of media from drawing and collage to digital photography and video installation. Participants attend online seminars; synchronous and asynchronous lectures; labs; and discussions, supplemented by readings and critiques. You may earn up to 3 college credits and an official Cornell transcript as a high school student , which helps justify the cost. Despite its virtual nature, many participants have made long-lasting friendships with other artistically gifted students all over the globe.

Humanities Research Resources for High School Students

Architecture research opportunities for high school students

Arts research opportunities for high school students

Arts and Humanities research opportunities for high school students

Literature research opportunities for high school students

Architecture passion project ideas for high school students

Arts and humanities passion project ideas for high school students

Creative Writing passion project ideas for high school students

Design passion project ideas for high school students

Literature passion project ideas for high school students

High school research project mentors:

Arts research mentors

Creative Writing research mentors

Dance research mentors

Fashion research mentors

Illustration research mentors

Languages research mentors

Linguistics research mentors

Literature research mentors

Music research mentors

Photography research mentors

3 Top Social Science Research Opportunities for High School Students

1 . explo psychology + neuroscience.

Hosting institution: Wellesley College

Cost: Residential: $7,895; Commuter: $3,995

Format: In-person (Norwood, MA)

This EXPLO Pre-College Career Concentrations program gives high school students interested in psychology the chance to deep dive into highly specific topics. For the neuroscience concentration, participants will dissect a brain, diagnose mental illness in patients, and analyze neurochemical reactions to connect how brain structures and biology deeply impact the way that humans think and behave. Key benefits for participants include the chances to learn from industry experts, such as Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett – one of the most-cited scientists in the world for her psychology and neuroscience research – who was a guest instructor in 2023; and earn credits at Sarah Lawrence College, Hampshire College, or Wheaton College .

2. Pre-College Program in American History

Hosting institution: William & Mary and National Institute of American History & Democracy (NIAHD)

Cost: $5,600

Format: Online and in-person (Williamsburg, VA)

15 May 2024: Deadline for domestic students applying to Session 1

1 June 2024: Deadline for domestic students applying to Session 2

History buffs will love this program, both for its historic campus and its curriculum. This three-week program gives high schoolers a good preview of college-level history while helping you earn college credit. Students will participate in class discussions, read 30-60 pages of college-level articles and primary source documents each night, and submit written work each week. Coursework includes Artifacts of American History (a new course), The Road to the American Revolution, and The Road to the United States Civil War.

3. Student Volunteer Program

Hosting institution: United States Secret Service (USSS)

Format: In-person (various)

Application deadline: Various

If you’re interested in sociology, criminal justice, history, government, homeland security, and other related fields, the Secret Service Student Volunteer Program is a unique, hands-on, and fast-paced opportunity. It gives high school students insight into the nature and structure of the USSS while teaching important “soft skills”, such as excellent communication, analytical observation, and problem solving. Student volunteers must be at least 16 years old and devote at least 12 hours per week. While the positions are unpaid, you may receive academic credit for your time.

History and Social Science Research Resources for High School Students

History research programs for high school students

Psychology research programs for high school students

History passion project ideas for high school students

Psychology passion project ideas for high school students

History research mentors

Psychology research mentors

Social Science research mentors

Psychology research guides

How to do psychology research

Data collection in psychology

The IRB approval process

Additional Ways to Conduct Research as a High School Student

Of course, our lists don’t include every pre-college program, internship, and research opportunity available to high schoolers; there are lots of other amazing options out there, likely in your city or state. If you don’t come across a perfect match for you and your interests, create your own research opportunity!

Find high school research programs close to home

Our High School Student Research Opportunities Database is an excellent resource you can use to find research programs for teens based on location .

Work directly with a professor

If you have a clear idea of your passions, you can reach out to professors in your field to see if they are open to collaborating with you. Refer to our Guide to Cold-Emailing Professors (written by Polygence literature research mentor Daniel Hazard , a PhD candidate at Princeton University).

Engage in your own research project

Students with initiative and focus can opt to tackle research on their own. Carly Taylor , a Stanford University senior who has completed several research projects this way, outlined a guide about how to write a self-guided research paper . By reading it, you’ll get a better understanding of what to expect when taking on this type of project.

Need some inspiration to prepare yourself to develop your own high school research opportunity? Here are some resources to help you:

Types of research ideas for high school students

Passion project ideas for high school students

Research projects completed by Polygence students

Choosing the perfect project idea using ikigai

5 exciting ways to discover your passions

How to brainstorm your way to perfect research topic ideas

The essential elements of research

Connect with a research project mentor

You’re never too young to start researching, especially if you think you'll be interested in doing undergraduate research as a college student. And if you're one of many prospective students looking to get into a great school like Rice University, Baylor College, or George Mason University contact us to get matched to a mentor from one of those schools!

Polygence has helped over 2,000 students work with leading research mentors in their field to conduct high-quality research projects. High school students have been able to achieve amazing outcomes, ranging from award-winning short films to conversations with local politicians about policy improvement . We provide research project support , from pairing students with mentors to offering showcasing opportunities , to guiding students in their passion identification and discovery process.

Learn more about what sets Polygence apart from other middle school and high school student research opportunities.

Want to start a project of your own?

Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors who can help take your project off the ground!

Top 10 Research Topics For Students In 2024

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Research Beyond the Obvious!

Are you struggling to find a topic that can unearth new findings? Even before starting, many students feel drowning with the mere task of sorting out the best research topics. Don’t sweat it! This blog explores the top 10 research topics for students, with a focus on different subjects, including psychology, social sciences, etc. From exploring the impact of AI to dealing with social issues, let’s discover good ideas for a research paper! 

Why Do You Need to Find a Research Topic?

Before we get down to the top 10 research topics for students, let’s understand what they are. Research topics help students to drill down into a subject and break down a wide aspect into smaller things. The topics serve the purpose of bringing fresh perspectives to the table and point out a potential knowledge gap or core problem. 

Research Topic vs. Research Question 

Going by its definition, a research topic focuses on a broad theme that calls for deep investigation. On the other hand, a research question is a particular query that researchers use to find plausible answers and new scopes. While you may be busy finding the top 10 research topics for students in college or senior high school, always remember that the topic reflects an aspect of a subject. 

Factors to Choose Research Project Topics 

The key to finding the top 10 research topics may leave you confused but don’t worry. The table below portrays the characteristics of interesting research paper topics that you must keep in mind: 

What Makes a Good Research Topic

While we will give you some ideas about the top 10 research topics for students, you still need to pick one. However, getting closer to this sole topic may feel soul-crushing! Don’t worry; these tips will help you select the best research topics for students. 

1. Focus on Personal Interests

The research topics for students usually stem from what motivates them. If you are interested in a specific field, you can go forward with the topic as long as it is relevant to your field. However, this does not mean you can overlook potential biases - being too close to the subject might even lead you nowhere. 

2. Check the Guidelines

When looking for the top 10 research topics for students, it’s imperative to adhere to guidelines laid out by your school. Sometimes, they approve good topics for research papers only if they are related to the public interest or environment. Ask your professor/mentor whether you need to follow certain guidelines while finding the best research topics for students. 

3. Availability of Resources  

Your research project might never see the daylight if you do not have enough resources available. Make sure the resources are within your limits! In case your research has funding, always check how you will be able to use it. Finances, access to participants, and timings are key factors in finalising among the top 10 research topics for students. 

top research topics for high school students

Top 10 Research Topics for Students in College and Senior High School

Here, we will delve into the top 10 research topics for students. Whether you are in a college or senior high school, these topics will show you light at the end of the tunnel. You might find inspiration from these topics and may even come up with original research topics and research questions. So, let’s unveil the best research topic ideas for students! 

1. Psychology Research Paper Topics 

Psychology papers offer an exciting opportunity to explore and understand the human psyche. Emerging technologies and their impact on mental health is one of the best research topics for students, yet there are more you can explore. Below, are some of the best research topics for students: 

1. The impact of social media on mental health among adolescents and young adults.

2. The potential benefits and risks of virtual reality therapy for mental health conditions. 

3. The ethical considerations of using AI in psychological treatment. 

4. The influence of mindfulness practices on cognitive performance and well-being.

5. The link between sleep quality and cognitive decline in ageing populations.

2. Business and Economics Research Topics 

From sustainable business practices to global trade dynamics, the best research topics for students regarding business and economics revolve around many areas. While you may initially find it challenging how to conduct research , you can draw inspiration from these topics for research paper:

1. The impact of AI on various aspects of business, such as marketing and financial analysis.

2. The ethical considerations and challenges associated with the use of big data and analytics in business practices.

3. The potential of blockchain technology to revolutionise supply chain management and improve data privacy.

4. The effectiveness of policy interventions to promote sustainable economic growth & development.

5. Exploring the factors that contribute to the success of startups and new ventures in the digital age.

While you find research topics, discover the best accommodation too!

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3. Social Sciences Research Topics 

Social sciences deal with the study of human behaviour and explore socioeconomic inequalities, political ideologies, urban development, and more. If you are looking for good ideas for a research paper regarding social sciences, here are some: 

1. The effectiveness of different social policy interventions aimed at addressing global issues. 

2. The potential of blockchain technology to improve transparency and accountability in social structures.

3. The social and ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of life. 

4. The psychological and social impacts of climate change on individuals and communities. 

5. The increasing focus on interdisciplinary research that combines social science with data science.

4. Language and Linguistics Research Topics 

From computational linguistics to semantics to language preservation, the field of language  leads to some really good topics for research papers. While going through our list of top 10 research topics for students, you can already grasp that there are a few things to keep in mind when writing a college paper ! So, here are the best research topic ideas for students regarding language studies: 

1. The influence of social media and digital communication on language use and evolution.   

2. The impact of language learning apps and online platforms on pedagogy. 

3. The role of language in perpetuating social inequalities.

4. The link between language and mental health in the context of cultural displacement.

5. The potential of multilingualism to enhance cognitive abilities. 

5. Health and Medicine Research Topics

Finding the best research topics for students is daunting when it comes to a dynamic field like health and medicine. After going through this compilation of the top 10 research topics for students, you can understand how to come up with the right one. Here, based on the emerging areas of interest, we share some of the potentially impactful and the best research ideas for students: 

1. The integration of AI in medical diagnosis and treatment. 

2. Investigating the ethical considerations of using AI in the healthcare sector. 

3. The developing field of preventive health measures and promoting healthy lifestyles.

4. The link between social determinants of health and mental well-being. 

5. Improving access to healthcare and promoting health equity in minority communities.

6. Renewable Energy & Clean Technologies Research Topics

Initially, you might find it impossible to understand how to write a research paper for college , but these top 10 research topics for students will have you covered. Especially when your focus is on clean energy sources and the emission of greenhouse gases, there is a lot to cover nowadays. Here are some of the best research topics for students: 

1. The potential of next-generation solar cell technologies. 

2. The social and environmental aspects of renewable energy deployment.

3. Discovering the potential of decentralised energy systems.

4. The potential of hydrogen energy, including production, storage, and utilisation.

5. The impact of climate change on renewable energy resources.

7. Technology and Innovation Research Topics 

The sector for technology is ever-evolving, with innovations taking place every other. With the emergence of IoT, artificial intelligence, and ML, the world of technology is your oyster. Here are the best research topics for students: 

1. The societal implications of AI in healthcare, finance, and autonomous vehicles. 

2. The potential of blockchain technology to revolutionise cybersecurity and voting systems.

3. Innovative solutions to combat climate change, including renewable energy technologies and sustainable infrastructure. 

4. The role of technology in disaster preparedness and risk management. 

5. The use of technology to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to information. 

8. Arts and Design Research Topics 

Whether your niche lies in art therapy, cultural studies in arts, or architecture innovation, there are interesting research paper topics. While exploring the top 10 research topics for students, constructing research may seem difficult – going through the research design - elements and characteristics can solve your problems. So, here are the best research topics for students in college: 

1. The impact of AI on artistic creation. 

2. The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in storytelling. 

3. The role of art in addressing social and environmental challenges. 

4.  The use of art as a tool for social commentary and activism. 

5. The evolving nature of art museums and galleries in the digital age.

9. Argumentative Research Topics 

Building a specific argument and exploring topics can bring you some unique topics for research paper. Through these top 10 research topics for students, you can evaluate human interest on a global scale and beyond. Let’s have a look at these best research topics for students: 

1. Is universal basic income a viable solution to poverty?

2. Is nuclear power a solution to the global energy crisis?

3. Does increased global cooperation offer a solution to climate change?

4. The impact of automation and AI on the future of work and employment.

5. The ethical implications of gene editing and other emerging biotechnologies.

10. Human Rights Research Paper Topics  

Our list of top 10 research topics remains incomplete without human rights. This field is evolving and has become a growing interest for everyone around the world. If you want to probe questions about gender equality or privacy rights, here are a few of the research title examples for students: 

1. The role of human rights defenders and activists in promoting social change. 

2. The human rights of marginalised groups, such as LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities.

3. The impact of AI on human rights, including issues of bias and discrimination.

4. Examining the ethical implications of facial recognition technology. 

5. Exploring the human rights implications of environmental pollution and toxic waste disposal. 

Now that you have an idea about some of the top 10 research topics for students, we hope you come up with an original one. Remember, successful research always starts with the right question. Take time, dig deep into the relevant theories, and find thought-provoking topics for research papers. Meanwhile, don’t overlook the power of how to write a research paper appendix and how to create the right structure for the paper. You can also check out amber+ for essential tools that can help make your thesis writing process smoother! So, happy researching!  Also, dive into our exclusive visual guide to uncover intriguing research topics tailored for students like you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

WeAreTeachers

  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know?
  • What is your happiest memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?

What is your earliest memory?

  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience, so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
  • Should schools have dress codes?
  • If I could change one school rule, it would be …
  • Is year-round school a good idea?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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60 Senior Project Ideas for High School Students – 2024

May 13, 2024

Many high school students look forward to the exciting moment of choosing a senior project. This makes sense since senior projects provide opportunities for students to direct what they’ve learned into something they care about, and to take their academic interests beyond the classroom. At the same time, deciding what to pursue can be nerve-wracking. After all the anticipation, when it finally comes time to decide on a project, students might ask themselves, now what ? If you find yourself in this dilemma, or if you could just use some further inspiration, continue reading for a list of 60 senior project ideas for high school students. Once you find a senior project idea that catches your eye, you can always put your own spin on it, or use it to inspire projects on topics outside this list.

What is a senior project?

Put simply, a senior project is a semester-long project you take on in your final year of high school. So, what counts as a senior project? This can vary widely. While different schools have different requirements (for example, some high schools expect students to focus specifically on internship experiences), the assignments tend to be pretty flexible. In the senior project ideas listed below, you will find suggestions ranging from assisting a science researcher, to interning at a local museum, to organizing an academic tutoring program, to helping with community voter registration. The final outputs for senior projects may also vary in form, from guidebooks, to plays, to research papers, and apps.

Considerations when choosing a senior project

Because a senior project is often seen as the culmination of your high school experience, you should choose a topic that reflects your passions and interests. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to develop new skills and challenge yourself as you prepare for your next steps after graduation. Whether you have plans to begin a 4-year university program, enroll in a 2-year degree program , take a gap year , or start a new job, a senior project can prepare you with experience that you wouldn’t receive in your high school classes in an ordinary semester.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself when thinking of a senior project idea:

  • What field or career do you wish to pursue? If you’re not sure, what are 2-3 fields that you could possibly see yourself pursuing at this point in your life?
  • What world issues do you care most about? Climate change? LGBTQIA+ rights? Accessible healthcare? If thinking about a particular issue sparks a passion, this could be a great place to start.
  • Based on your high school coursework experience, could you see yourself spending extra time on an artistic project? A science-based one? A research paper with a political theme?
  • What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Volunteering with kids? Hiking and camping? Dancing? Cooking? Perhaps you can orient your senior project to something that you already know brings you joy.

60 senior project ideas

Below you can find 60 high school senior project ideas, divided into some general categories that might help you focus your search. As you read through, feel free to stick to these exact ideas or use them to inspire other ones.

Business – Senior Project Idea

  • Write a printed or virtual guidebook to small local businesses in your area, including descriptions, photographs phone numbers and social media accounts.
  • Help a local business with an advertising campaign, through local news outlets and social media.
  • Develop a mentorship program to help those who are searching for jobs with resumes, interviews, and cover letters.
  • Intern at a start-up based in your area.
  • Write a research paper about models for sustainable businesses.
  • Organize an after-school program that helps students learn financial literacy.

Community service

  • Organize a ride service to bring elderly community members to and from doctor’s appointments, or to provide them with groceries and other needs.
  • Volunteer at a local soup kitchen.
  • Organize a food drive at your school.
  • Create a social media campaign for a local animal shelter to raise awareness.
  • Collaborate with a local charity or non-profit with a mission you believe in to organize a fundraiser.
  • Collect school supplies and art supplies for families in need.

Creative writing – Senior Project Ideas

  • Write and illustrate a children’s book.
  • Create a handmade poetry book.
  • Intern at a small local publisher or magazine.
  • Work to translate a short story or poem to another language.
  • Write a screenplay for a short film.
  • Start a school literary magazine that accepts student submissions of poems, essays, and short stories. Organize a team so that the magazine can continue after you graduate.
  • Organize a peer tutoring program at your school for students who need extra help with writing, languages, or math.
  • Construct a free library box in your neighborhood so that more people have access to books.
  • Volunteer at a local elementary school to help children with their homework after school.
  • Work with a local senior center to teach a foreign language to residents.
  • Develop a website or app for students to match with language partners for practicing conversation skills.
  • Start a visual or performing arts class for children in your community.

Environmentalism- Senior Project Ideas

  • Design and build a sustainable garden.
  • Organize a community clean-up day, or a series of community clean-up days, at a local park or waterfront.
  • Organize an Earth Day festival at your school. This could involve live music and performance, environmental art displays, local vegetarian food, and sustainable clothing swaps.
  • Write a research paper on one thing that contributes to climate change, as well as potential solutions.
  • Write a guidebook to local parks and hiking trails so that locals and visitors alike can appreciate these outdoor spots.
  • Create a fashion line with all reused materials.
  • Research historic sites in your neighborhood or town, and write a printed or online guidebook to these points of local history.
  • Record a podcast on the history of one of your hobbies (fashion? sports?) Contact an expert on this history to ask if you can interview them on the podcast.
  • Write a research paper on the history of a particular protest movement.
  • Write and direct a short play with a contemporary take on a historical event that interests you.
  • Create a documentary film on the history of your community (school, town, etc.), and organize a community screening.
  • Intern at a local history museum.

Performing Arts – Senior Project Ideas

  • Write and record an original song.
  • Write, direct, and show a one-act play.
  • Organize a community dance performance with student choreographers and performers, featuring a range of different styles.
  • Volunteer to help with accessibility needs (theater access, live captioning, etc.) at a local theater.
  • Organize a school comedy night or talent show that benefits a charity of your choice.
  • Research the history of a film genre, and direct a short film that reflects this genre.
  • Intern for a local political newspaper or magazine.
  • Volunteer on the campaign of a local candidate.
  • Create an online blog to write on a political issue you care about, or write a series of op-eds for a local newspaper.
  • Write a research paper on a local problem (housing prices, green space, voting access) that discusses possible solutions to this problem.
  • Create a Model UN or Mock Trial team at your school if one doesn’t already exist.
  • Help teens and other community members register to vote.

Science and medicine – Senior Project Ideas

  • Build a Rube Goldberg machine .
  • Work in the lab of a STEM professor at a nearby university who works on a topic you’re interested in.
  • Research a community health problem (drug safety, air/water quality, nutritional food access) and develop solutions with the help of local politicians and/or medical experts. Create a research paper, blog, or documentary film on your findings.
  • Assist at a doctor’s office or hospital by helping to translate for patients who are non-native English speakers.
  • Design an architectural structure (for example, a house or bridge) and build a 3D model.
  • Organize a technology support group at your school to make technology more accessible and help with easy tech repairs.

Visual arts

  • Design a mural for your school to highlight an aspect of the school culture or commemorate an important moment in its history.
  • Intern at a local art museum and learn how to give a tour of its current exhibits.
  • Organize the collaborative building of a sculpture at your school made of all reused or found objects.
  • Offer to take wedding or senior photographs for those who might not be able to afford a professional photographer.
  • Study a famous painter, and then create a series of paintings (or art of another medium) based on, or in response to, their works.
  • Create a school-wide photography exhibition, with a theme of your choosing.

Senior Project Ideas – Final thoughts

We hope that this list has sparked inspiration for your high school senior project. Remember that while senior projects are important (and hopefully fun) opportunities to culminate your high school experience, you don’t need to do it all in one project! If you’re inspired by more than one of these project ideas, hold onto them for years to come or pursue them as summer internships .

If you’re interested in more project ideas for high school students, we recommend the following articles:

  • 100 Examples of Community Service Projects
  • 98 Passion Project Ideas
  • 100 Best Clubs to Start in High School
  • Persuasive Speech Topics
  • High School Success

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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Innovative Statistics Project Ideas for Insightful Analysis

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Table of contents

  • 1.1 AP Statistics Topics for Project
  • 1.2 Statistics Project Topics for High School Students
  • 1.3 Statistical Survey Topics
  • 1.4 Statistical Experiment Ideas
  • 1.5 Easy Stats Project Ideas
  • 1.6 Business Ideas for Statistics Project
  • 1.7 Socio-Economic Easy Statistics Project Ideas
  • 1.8 Experiment Ideas for Statistics and Analysis
  • 2 Conclusion: Navigating the World of Data Through Statistics

Diving into the world of data, statistics presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities to uncover patterns, test hypotheses, and make informed decisions. It is a fascinating field that offers many opportunities for exploration and discovery. This article is designed to inspire students, educators, and statistics enthusiasts with various project ideas. We will cover:

  • Challenging concepts suitable for advanced placement courses.
  • Accessible ideas that are engaging and educational for younger students.
  • Ideas for conducting surveys and analyzing the results.
  • Topics that explore the application of statistics in business and socio-economic areas.

Each category of topics for the statistics project provides unique insights into the world of statistics, offering opportunities for learning and application. Let’s dive into these ideas and explore the exciting world of statistical analysis.

Top Statistics Project Ideas for High School

Statistics is not only about numbers and data; it’s a unique lens for interpreting the world. Ideal for students, educators, or anyone with a curiosity about statistical analysis, these project ideas offer an interactive, hands-on approach to learning. These projects range from fundamental concepts suitable for beginners to more intricate studies for advanced learners. They are designed to ignite interest in statistics by demonstrating its real-world applications, making it accessible and enjoyable for people of all skill levels.

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AP Statistics Topics for Project

  • Analyzing Variance in Climate Data Over Decades.
  • The Correlation Between Economic Indicators and Standard of Living.
  • Statistical Analysis of Voter Behavior Patterns.
  • Probability Models in Sports: Predicting Outcomes.
  • The Effectiveness of Different Teaching Methods: A Statistical Study.
  • Analysis of Demographic Data in Public Health.
  • Time Series Analysis of Stock Market Trends.
  • Investigating the Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance.
  • Survival Analysis in Clinical Trial Data.
  • Regression Analysis on Housing Prices and Market Factors.

Statistics Project Topics for High School Students

  • The Mathematics of Personal Finance: Budgeting and Spending Habits.
  • Analysis of Class Performance: Test Scores and Study Habits.
  • A Statistical Comparison of Local Public Transportation Options.
  • Survey on Dietary Habits and Physical Health Among Teenagers.
  • Analyzing the Popularity of Various Music Genres in School.
  • The Impact of Sleep on Academic Performance: A Statistical Approach.
  • Statistical Study on the Use of Technology in Education.
  • Comparing Athletic Performance Across Different Sports.
  • Trends in Social Media Usage Among High School Students.
  • The Effect of Part-Time Jobs on Student Academic Achievement.

Statistical Survey Topics

  • Public Opinion on Environmental Conservation Efforts.
  • Consumer Preferences in the Fast Food Industry.
  • Attitudes Towards Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Learning.
  • Survey on Workplace Satisfaction and Productivity.
  • Public Health: Attitudes Towards Vaccination.
  • Trends in Mobile Phone Usage and Preferences.
  • Community Response to Local Government Policies.
  • Consumer Behavior in Online vs. Offline Shopping.
  • Perceptions of Public Safety and Law Enforcement.
  • Social Media Influence on Political Opinions.

Statistical Experiment Ideas

  • The Effect of Light on Plant Growth.
  • Memory Retention: Visual vs. Auditory Information.
  • Caffeine Consumption and Cognitive Performance.
  • The Impact of Exercise on Stress Levels.
  • Testing the Efficacy of Natural vs. Chemical Fertilizers.
  • The Influence of Color on Mood and Perception.
  • Sleep Patterns: Analyzing Factors Affecting Sleep Quality.
  • The Effectiveness of Different Types of Water Filters.
  • Analyzing the Impact of Room Temperature on Concentration.
  • Testing the Strength of Different Brands of Batteries.

Easy Stats Project Ideas

  • Average Daily Screen Time Among Students.
  • Analyzing the Most Common Birth Months.
  • Favorite School Subjects Among Peers.
  • Average Time Spent on Homework Weekly.
  • Frequency of Public Transport Usage.
  • Comparison of Pet Ownership in the Community.
  • Favorite Types of Movies or TV Shows.
  • Daily Water Consumption Habits.
  • Common Breakfast Choices and Their Nutritional Value.
  • Steps Count: A Week-Long Study.

Business Ideas for Statistics Project

  • Analyzing Customer Satisfaction in Retail Stores.
  • Market Analysis of a New Product Launch.
  • Employee Performance Metrics and Organizational Success.
  • Sales Data Analysis for E-commerce Websites.
  • Impact of Advertising on Consumer Buying Behavior.
  • Analysis of Supply Chain Efficiency.
  • Customer Loyalty and Retention Strategies.
  • Trend Analysis in Social Media Marketing.
  • Financial Risk Assessment in Investment Decisions.
  • Market Segmentation and Targeting Strategies.

Socio-Economic Easy Statistics Project Ideas

  • Income Inequality and Its Impact on Education.
  • The Correlation Between Unemployment Rates and Crime Levels.
  • Analyzing the Effects of Minimum Wage Changes.
  • The Relationship Between Public Health Expenditure and Population Health.
  • Demographic Analysis of Housing Affordability.
  • The Impact of Immigration on Local Economies.
  • Analysis of Gender Pay Gap in Different Industries.
  • Statistical Study of Homelessness Causes and Solutions.
  • Education Levels and Their Impact on Job Opportunities.
  • Analyzing Trends in Government Social Spending.

Experiment Ideas for Statistics and Analysis

  • Multivariate Analysis of Global Climate Change Data.
  • Time-Series Analysis in Predicting Economic Recessions.
  • Logistic Regression in Medical Outcome Prediction.
  • Machine Learning Applications in Statistical Modeling.
  • Network Analysis in Social Media Data.
  • Bayesian Analysis of Scientific Research Data.
  • The Use of Factor Analysis in Psychology Studies.
  • Spatial Data Analysis in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
  • Predictive Analysis in Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
  • Cluster Analysis in Market Research.

Conclusion: Navigating the World of Data Through Statistics

In this exploration of good statistics project ideas, we’ve ventured through various topics, from the straightforward to the complex, from personal finance to global climate change. These ideas are gateways to understanding the world of data and statistics, and platforms for cultivating critical thinking and analytical skills. Whether you’re a high school student, a college student, or a professional, engaging in these projects can deepen your appreciation of how statistics shapes our understanding of the world around us. These projects encourage exploration, inquiry, and a deeper engagement with the world of numbers, trends, and patterns – the essence of statistics.

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top research topics for high school students

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New advances in technology are upending education, from the recent debut of new artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots like ChatGPT to the growing accessibility of virtual-reality tools that expand the boundaries of the classroom. For educators, at the heart of it all is the hope that every learner gets an equal chance to develop the skills they need to succeed. But that promise is not without its pitfalls.

“Technology is a game-changer for education – it offers the prospect of universal access to high-quality learning experiences, and it creates fundamentally new ways of teaching,” said Dan Schwartz, dean of Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE), who is also a professor of educational technology at the GSE and faculty director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning . “But there are a lot of ways we teach that aren’t great, and a big fear with AI in particular is that we just get more efficient at teaching badly. This is a moment to pay attention, to do things differently.”

For K-12 schools, this year also marks the end of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding program, which has provided pandemic recovery funds that many districts used to invest in educational software and systems. With these funds running out in September 2024, schools are trying to determine their best use of technology as they face the prospect of diminishing resources.

Here, Schwartz and other Stanford education scholars weigh in on some of the technology trends taking center stage in the classroom this year.

AI in the classroom

In 2023, the big story in technology and education was generative AI, following the introduction of ChatGPT and other chatbots that produce text seemingly written by a human in response to a question or prompt. Educators immediately worried that students would use the chatbot to cheat by trying to pass its writing off as their own. As schools move to adopt policies around students’ use of the tool, many are also beginning to explore potential opportunities – for example, to generate reading assignments or coach students during the writing process.

AI can also help automate tasks like grading and lesson planning, freeing teachers to do the human work that drew them into the profession in the first place, said Victor Lee, an associate professor at the GSE and faculty lead for the AI + Education initiative at the Stanford Accelerator for Learning. “I’m heartened to see some movement toward creating AI tools that make teachers’ lives better – not to replace them, but to give them the time to do the work that only teachers are able to do,” he said. “I hope to see more on that front.”

He also emphasized the need to teach students now to begin questioning and critiquing the development and use of AI. “AI is not going away,” said Lee, who is also director of CRAFT (Classroom-Ready Resources about AI for Teaching), which provides free resources to help teach AI literacy to high school students across subject areas. “We need to teach students how to understand and think critically about this technology.”

Immersive environments

The use of immersive technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality is also expected to surge in the classroom, especially as new high-profile devices integrating these realities hit the marketplace in 2024.

The educational possibilities now go beyond putting on a headset and experiencing life in a distant location. With new technologies, students can create their own local interactive 360-degree scenarios, using just a cell phone or inexpensive camera and simple online tools.

“This is an area that’s really going to explode over the next couple of years,” said Kristen Pilner Blair, director of research for the Digital Learning initiative at the Stanford Accelerator for Learning, which runs a program exploring the use of virtual field trips to promote learning. “Students can learn about the effects of climate change, say, by virtually experiencing the impact on a particular environment. But they can also become creators, documenting and sharing immersive media that shows the effects where they live.”

Integrating AI into virtual simulations could also soon take the experience to another level, Schwartz said. “If your VR experience brings me to a redwood tree, you could have a window pop up that allows me to ask questions about the tree, and AI can deliver the answers.”

Gamification

Another trend expected to intensify this year is the gamification of learning activities, often featuring dynamic videos with interactive elements to engage and hold students’ attention.

“Gamification is a good motivator, because one key aspect is reward, which is very powerful,” said Schwartz. The downside? Rewards are specific to the activity at hand, which may not extend to learning more generally. “If I get rewarded for doing math in a space-age video game, it doesn’t mean I’m going to be motivated to do math anywhere else.”

Gamification sometimes tries to make “chocolate-covered broccoli,” Schwartz said, by adding art and rewards to make speeded response tasks involving single-answer, factual questions more fun. He hopes to see more creative play patterns that give students points for rethinking an approach or adapting their strategy, rather than only rewarding them for quickly producing a correct response.

Data-gathering and analysis

The growing use of technology in schools is producing massive amounts of data on students’ activities in the classroom and online. “We’re now able to capture moment-to-moment data, every keystroke a kid makes,” said Schwartz – data that can reveal areas of struggle and different learning opportunities, from solving a math problem to approaching a writing assignment.

But outside of research settings, he said, that type of granular data – now owned by tech companies – is more likely used to refine the design of the software than to provide teachers with actionable information.

The promise of personalized learning is being able to generate content aligned with students’ interests and skill levels, and making lessons more accessible for multilingual learners and students with disabilities. Realizing that promise requires that educators can make sense of the data that’s being collected, said Schwartz – and while advances in AI are making it easier to identify patterns and findings, the data also needs to be in a system and form educators can access and analyze for decision-making. Developing a usable infrastructure for that data, Schwartz said, is an important next step.

With the accumulation of student data comes privacy concerns: How is the data being collected? Are there regulations or guidelines around its use in decision-making? What steps are being taken to prevent unauthorized access? In 2023 K-12 schools experienced a rise in cyberattacks, underscoring the need to implement strong systems to safeguard student data.

Technology is “requiring people to check their assumptions about education,” said Schwartz, noting that AI in particular is very efficient at replicating biases and automating the way things have been done in the past, including poor models of instruction. “But it’s also opening up new possibilities for students producing material, and for being able to identify children who are not average so we can customize toward them. It’s an opportunity to think of entirely new ways of teaching – this is the path I hope to see.”

More From Forbes

How important is research for bs/md programs.

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Direct medical programs, often referred to as BS/MD programs, are some of the most competitive programs in the country. With programs at Baylor University, Brown University and Case Western Reserve University accepting less than 3% of all its applicants, these programs are often more competitive than the Ivy League. They are looking for exceptional students who are completely committed to becoming physicians. That means the students have spent the better part of their high school career pursuing STEM-focused activities, including physician shadowing, volunteering in healthcare settings and leadership positions in clubs.

Many BS/MD hopefuls pursue research as a way to build their resume.

Numerous BS/MD programs like Rensselaer Polytechnic University, like to see students with extensive research experience. Its program, aptly named the Physician-Scientist Program, wants to see students who will not only participate in research during their tenure in the program but also lead and create their own research projects. The University of South Carolina’s Accelerated Undergraduate to M.D. program has an extensive research and thesis component that is required throughout the student’s academic career. The University of Rochester offers funding for summer research for its BS/MD students. Similarly, the University of Illinois at Chicago looks for students who can demonstrate their “research aptitude.”

What Type Of Research Do BS/MD Programs Accept?

High school students have access to a wide array of research opportunities. School-related options could include science fair projects or AP Seminar and AP Research. Students might also choose to pursue camps or programs over the summer, which allows them to dedicate more time to research. Other students find independent research projects with a local professor. Alternatively, others opt to write a literature review paper to get published.

When BS/MD admission officers review applications, they don’t pit one type of experience against another. They know not every student will be able to find a local professor who allows them to research with them or can afford to do a paid summer program that spans numerous weeks or months. Consequently, they typically will consider holistically the depth of a student’s research experience, irrespective of the type of research the student completes.

Virtual Or In-Person Programs?

Both virtual and in-person experiences can add value to a BS/MD application. However, it depends on the program’s learning objectives and deliverables. Some students don’t have the flexibility to travel to an in-person camp and spend multiple weeks or months there. The University of Pittsburgh’s Guaranteed Admission Program says that “while in-person experiences are encouraged, virtual or remote experiences will be considered when evaluating the applicant.” For those students who have other obligations, a virtual camp might be the perfect fit and still offer a valuable experience.

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The research experience doesn’t necessarily have to align with the student’s research interests, but it can often be helpful if it does. However, BS/MD admission officers know that high school students are still exploring their interests, which will likely evolve over the years. An opportunity that doesn’t align with the student’s interest will still be valuable because it allows the student to gain valuable skills that they can leverage to other research experiences in the future.

Summer programs might give students a chance to explore dual interests. Some students interested in medicine might also want to explore computer science or Artificial Intelligence, so finding an opportunity that allows them to blend those interests might be ideal. For example, Rising Researchers , a sister company of Moon Prep, is hosting two five-week summer camps that allow students to practice AI and Machine Learning to study human diseases. Other camps, like Penn Summer Academies, allow students to apply coding skills to other areas of study.

How Long Should The Research Experience Be?

The typical length of a research experience, especially one in the summer, can vary from as short as one week to up to eight weeks. A longer research experience can give students a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and, importantly, the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with their mentor and fellow students. However, the duration is not the sole determinant of a meaningful experience. Students should also look to see what the tangible outcomes of the program, such as a research paper, skills gained, letter of recommendation and more.

For students who find an independent research experience, the relationship might span several months or even years. Those experiences might result in more fruitful research results and a strong relationship between the student and the mentor.

Are Publications Required?

An experience resulting in a research publication is an added bonus, but it isn’t a requirement. If a student writes a research paper, even if not published, can still demonstrate the student’s scientific writing ability and add value to their college application.

Every BS/MD program is different, and the admission officers' value of research might vary from program to program. Ultimately, BS/MD programs are looking for students who are passionate about medicine and have had extensive experiences to affirm that passion. The College of New Jersey stated in an interview with Moon Prep that they are looking for passionate students, be it a deep involvement in Boy Scouts, Taekwondo or music. Therefore, students should never feel obligated to research if it does not align with their interests. Being genuine in their activities and demonstrating their passions is how to build a resume that stands out to BS/MD admission officers.

Kristen Moon

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Jenny Grant Rankin Ph.D.

High School Student Researches Real-Life Marketing

Authentic exploratory research hones students’ business and analysis skills..

Posted May 1, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

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Jessica Weiller (jweiller)/Unsplash, used with permission

This is the second post in a series.

What if high school students could conduct methodical research on important questions like graduate students and researchers do? Well, as the students at Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) are demonstrating, they can.

In Part I of this series I interviewed Jun Shen, the passionate teacher and edtech coordinator who runs LBHS’s Authentic Exploratory Research (AER) Program . AER is an independent research course inspired by Palo Alto Unified School District’s Advanced Authentic Research program . The program pairs students with adult mentors (such as LBUSD staff, industry experts, and academics) who assist the teens in researching their own big questions in fields of their choice. Shen’s explanation of how the AER program works, combined with students’ input through the rest of this interview series, lets us glimpse some of the different ways students can use the program to pursue individual passions , as well as how other educators can implement such a program.

LBHS student Aryana Mohajerian was the first to give us an account of her experience in AER and the findings that her AER research produced. Mohajerian’s answers follow each question below.

Jenny Grant Rankin: In short, what was your research study about?

Aryana Mohajerian: In short, my research was about marketing a membership program to different target demographics in a small, high-end, health-conscious, confectionary business in Hawaii.

I analyzed how new marketing efforts will help increase overall revenue and cash flow in the business. The new strategies I implemented were creating a set target market using survey data. I also created a brand kit with all the customer values, color palettes for the website, and copy.

JGR: What were your most important findings?

AM: My most important findings were that it is critical to know the psychology of business and be able to put yourself in the customer’s shoes. I had to figure out what a target market’s values, goals , and mindset are like to better appeal to their logic and emotions when trying to make a sale.

I distributed a survey to better understand the company’s current customers, what their values are, and what draws them towards purchasing.

When proposing ideas for what draws customers to the company, my hypothesis proved correct. 100% of people selected that they value environmental sustainability and the farm-to-table process. 70% of people selected that they are health-conscious consumers and 85% love the Hawaii-island, beachy lifestyle. With these proven conclusions, I created three new membership plans for Lonohana, each targeting a specific audience, according to the survey results.

The first membership was family-oriented, catering to children and their parents. The customer values were inclusivity, appeals to a health-conscious family, and living an active lifestyle in the great outdoors. The second membership caters to young adults. For example, college students or recent graduates living a youthful, and spontaneous lifestyle. This membership was an affordable line of products, since young adults like to have fun on a budget. These young individuals love the island lifestyle of Hawaii and love trying Lonohana’s unique flavors. The third membership was targeted toward more professional and formal individuals. These high-end customers value luxury products and the education behind making them. This membership included informational cards on each bar, describing how it was made and where the ingredients come from.

JGR: What was the biggest thing you learned about conducting research?

AM: The biggest thing I learned about conducting research is that it requires thorough planning and first making a hypothesis of what the results will be. Understanding the psychology behind why people spend money on luxury items was essential because it guided me on how I worded my survey to get the most honest responses from customers. For example, a customer value I noted was a sense of family and community involvement. Therefore, I concluded that customers are likely to purchase membership boxes to have enough gifts on hand for family or community gatherings, which was proven true based on the survey.

JGR: What was the biggest thing you learned about communicating research?

AM: The biggest thing I learned about communicating research is that I need to create an eye-catching, yet simple poster to present at the AER Symposium. When I did my presentation, I mainly focused on the visuals of my project and some easy-to-read graphs. I brought the marketing materials I had made, such as brochures, business cards, and the printed-out brand kit to show my audience. I found that having a hands-on experience with cohesively colored materials helped me get my message across in a fun way that did not bore anyone. Having all these materials helped invoke questions from my audience as well.

JGR: What was your favorite part about AER?

AM: My favorite part about AER was the fact that I was able to work with a real-world company while in high school alongside a mentor who was working my dream job. AER was such a unique opportunity for me to learn about my interest in marketing and the psychology behind why we buy luxury items. Although this was a class, it did not feel like traditional learning because I went out into the real world to enhance a business’s marketing tactics. Learning by doing is the best way to gain experience. I learned a lot more about marketing through my AER project than I did taking “Intro to Marketing” in a dual-enrollment community college class.

top research topics for high school students

It’s exciting to find that the program advanced not only Mohajerian’s research skills but her career skills, as well. That is a common theme in students’ accounts of their AER experiences.

Jenny Grant Rankin Ph.D.

Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D., is a Fulbright Specialist for the U.S. Department of State.

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What School Subjects Do You Need in High School?

The subjects you study in high school should allow you to graduate, but you’ll also want classes that will prepare you for college and for life as an adult.

  • Subjects Offered in High School
  • Subjects Needed to Graduate
  • Subjects for College Preparation

Picking high school courses is an exciting process. Core high school subjects like math, science, and language arts are required, but a range of others can be selected. Finally being given more of a choice in what a student studies can be freeing, but also may feel overwhelming, confusing, or stressful.

What courses are best? There's no one right path. First, consider what is needed to graduate. Then, take a look at your options.

Parents and teens can work together to choose school subjects that not only engage their interests but also have their future plans and goals in mind.

For example, students who want to go to college may be required to take more years of a foreign language or other classes required by the schools they are interested in. A student who is interested in pursuing a career in construction may want to take an industrial arts class.

Read on to learn more about selecting courses in high school.

Parents / Nusha Ashjaee 

What School Subjects Are Offered in High School?

Most high schools offer the same basic school subjects: Math, language arts, foreign language, science, social studies, health, and physical education (PE).

However, the exact courses may vary dramatically from school to school. Different high schools—even within the same district—often have different course offerings or special programs. If possible, choose the local high school that provides the programs and classes that best suit your needs and passions.

Below is a list of the most common school subjects. However, individual schools may offer a range of specialized classes, such as mindfulness or engineering.

High School Subjects

  • Literature or Language Arts
  • Speech and Debate
  • Writing or Composition
  • Trigonometry or Calculus
  • Biology (typically has advanced class options)
  • Chemistry (typically has advanced class options)
  • Earth or Space Sciences
  • Physics (typically has advanced class options)
  • US Government
  • World History
  • Foreign Language, such as Spanish, French, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, and German
  • Physical Education and Health
  • Arts, such as Music, Photography, Drawing, or Ceramics
  • Computer Applications, Graphic Design, or Web Design
  • Cooking and other life skills
  • Physical Education
  • Trade field studies such as Auto Mechanics, Woodworking, or Nursing
  • Personal Finance

School Subjects You Need to Graduate

Ideally, teens should start high school with a basic plan of the classes they will need to take to graduate. Every state has different requirements for obtaining a high school diploma, and each school varies greatly in what it offers to give kids a chance to fulfill them. Different schools also vary in the number of classes students take each year.

The school's guidance department can help students understand the graduation requirements and how their coursework aligns with them.

English language arts

Studying the English language and literature is an important part of high school for every student, regardless of their post-school plans. In addition to studying important pieces of literature, English classes teach teens about writing, reading, and speaking.

Most states require four years of English or language arts classes. Colleges require four years of English for admission. The main English classes in high school include:

Mathematics

In high school, students dig into several different types of math . Algebra and geometry are required at most high schools, and students may choose to take advanced math classes if they are offered.

Most states require three or four years of math coursework in high school. The main math classes in high school include:

Basic life sciences (biology) and physical sciences (chemistry and physics) are required at most high schools. These classes often include lab components that allow students to perform hands-on experiments.

Most states require two to three years of science coursework in high school. These may include:

  • Biology (typically has advanced class options)
  • Chemistry (typically has advanced class options)
  • Earth or Space sciences

Social studies and history

Understanding the past and how the world works is important for young adults. In high school, students will study history and government and learn about how social studies affects their lives.

Most states require three to four years of social studies coursework in high school, including:

Foreign languages

Learning a second language is important in today's global world. While many high schools offer foreign language courses, only 11 states require students to take a foreign language course.  

High school students can fill these requirements by learning the basics of at least one foreign language. They may also be able to choose to take advanced classes to learn more.

Common languages offered in high school include:

  • Mandarin Chinese

Other possible language offerings include Russian, Latin, American Sign Language, Arabic, and German.

Physical education and health

Physical education and health classes can teach high schoolers how to care for their bodies' fitness, health, and nutritional needs. These courses often touch on the following:

  • Mental health
  • Sexual health
  • Making healthy choices about drugs, alcohol, and nicotine.

Many states require at least one unit of PE and health to graduate. Other states offer these subjects as electives.

School Subjects for College Preparation

Students planning to go to college should consider how colleges will look at their courses during the application process. Grade point average (GPA) is important, but coursework should also demonstrate academic rigor.

When planning, it can be helpful to balance standard high school courses with some that are more challenging. Additionally, students can do this—and even get a head start on college—by taking advanced placement (AP) or college-level classes.

AP classes are more rigorous courses that teach subjects at an introductory college level. Some of the most common AP courses that are available include:

  • Calculus AB
  • English Literature
  • African American Studies

Students who take AP classes have the option to take an AP test in the spring. If they get a certain score, they can get credit for the course at many colleges.

College credit courses

Many high schools offer opportunities to gain college credit through various programs. Your child's academic advisor, teachers, or counseling department can inform them about such offerings.

These may be online or in-person classes through programs offered by colleges and universities, and a professor or a high school teacher may teach them. Dual-credit programs allow students to fulfill their high school requirements while obtaining some college credits free of charge.

School Subject Electives

In addition to the basic classes, there are usually plenty of opportunities to take electives in various areas of study. These can not only broaden a student's academic knowledge but also teach them valuable life skills and inspire their career aspirations .

In some cases, a student may be given the freedom to choose one class from a select group of options required in the school's curriculum. In others, a student may have room in their schedule to choose to study something simply based on their interests and goals.

Examples of elective classes may include:

  • Arts, such as music, photography, fashion design, painting, theater, dance, or ceramics
  • Computer applications, graphic design, or web design
  • Student government
  • Forensic science
  • Physical education
  • Sports medicine
  • Trade field studies such as auto mechanics, welding, or nursing
  • Personal finance or business

Students on a vocational track may be able to gain some hands-on learning in fields such as metalworks and woodworking. Many schools even offer the opportunity to gain certificates or licenses that will help them in their future careers .

Key Takeaways

Choosing high school classes requires planning both as a student enters school and throughout their high school experience. The right classes are challenging and engaging but not unrealistically rigorous or overwhelming.

An ideal schedule can help a student succeed, enjoy learning, and have a good academic experience while preparing them for their future plans , whatever they may be. Have your teen set up a meeting with their school counselor if they need any help.

The association between neighbourhoods and educational achievement, a systematic review and meta-analysis . J Hous Built Environ . 2016.

50-state comparison . Education Commission of the States . 2019.

High school classes required for college admission . National Association for College Admission Counseling . n.d.

The national K-16 foreign language enrollment survey report . American Councils for International Education . 2017.

Program summary report . College Board. 2019.

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