High school students interested in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) will have a new opportunity next year as UC Merced becomes a host for the California State Summer School for Math and Science (COSMOS). The university joins other University of California campuses—Davis, Irvine, Los Angeles, San Diego and Santa Cruz—in offering this program.
According to a recent article from UC Merced, COSMOS is designed to give top students in California the chance to work closely with UC faculty members, researchers and both graduate and undergraduate students. The program is described as one of the most competitive pre-college STEM programs in the state. Each year it receives nearly 9,000 applications for about 1,000 available spots.
The application process for COSMOS will open online on January 7 and close on February 6. UC Merced’s first session is scheduled to begin in early July. Students accepted into the program will live on campus for four weeks during the summer.
Professor Michele “Nish” Nishiguchi from the molecular and cell biology department will lead UC Merced’s COSMOS program. Bobbi Henderson has been named assistant director.
The cost of attending ranges from $6,000 to $7,000. This fee covers tuition, housing and meals. Financial aid options are available so that all admitted students can participate regardless of family income. “Acceptance is based solely on academics,” said Nishiguchi.
For additional details or to apply, prospective students can visit the COSMOS website.
