Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)

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The Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) is designed to increase the number of economically disadvantaged students who are pursuing professional licensure and careers in mathematics, science, technology, and health-related fields.
With a network of mentors, hands-on research experiences, career-building internships, and targeted academic support, we help our students succeed in rigorous programs so that they can become the leaders of tomorrow.
CSTEP is a grant-funded program sponsored by the , established in 1987.

Signature Offerings
- Peer-led supplemental instruction in high-impact gateway STEM courses
- Targeted tutoring for upper-level coursework
- Co-requisite parachute courses designed to boost academic success
- Individual academic plans and intrusive advising tailored to each students goals
- One-on-one faculty mentorship in research or internship settings
- Peer mentoring through the First-Year Experience program
- Professional and career mentorship opportunities through alumni and industry partners
- Social-emotional support via CarrotPath and ongoing check-ins
- Paid undergraduate research and STEM internships
- Weekly seminar on integrative and applied learning and career readiness
- Hands-on service-learning experiences in the local community
- Job shadowing and volunteer opportunities in STEM fields
- Workshops on STEM entrepreneurship, personal branding, and diversity in STEM
- Test prep for graduate and licensing exams (MCAT, GRE, DAT, etc.)
- Career exploration resources through the Career Design Center
- Support in developing resumes, interview skills, and professional networks
- Annual participation in һԹ Recognizing Excellence, Achievement and Talent (GREAT) Day
- Opportunities to present research at state and national conferences
- Community of scholars committed to academic excellence and social impact
Can I Join CSTEP?
In accordance with the New York State Education Department (NYSED) guidance, student eligibility determinations are based on indicators of economic disadvantage, in alignment with applicable state and federal guidelines.
һԹs CSTEP program is open to students who show strong academic promise and have financial need, and who are pursuingor planning to pursuecareers in STEM fields or licensed professions in New York State.
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a New York State resident
- Are enrolled full-time at һԹ in a CSTEP-qualifying major
- Have demonstrated academic potential (GPA of 2.5 or higher preferred)
- Meet income eligibility requirements set by New York State Education Department
- Plan to pursue a career in a STEM field or licensed profession such as medicine, psychology, law, or education
CSTEP serves students in over 20 һԹ majorsincluding Biology, Chemistry, Geophysics, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Psychology, and more.
Applying to CSTEP is simple and designed to get you connected with resources fast.
Step 1:
Youll provide:
- Basic eligibility information (residency, income, major)
- High school or current GPA
- A brief statement of purpose about your STEM goals and interest in CSTEP
Step 2: Schedule an Intake Interview
Once your application is reviewed, the CSTEP Coordinator will reach out to schedule a one-on-one intake session to:
- Discuss your academic goals and strengths
- Begin creating your Individual Academic Plan (IAP)
- Explore the services youll access through CSTEP
Step 3: Get Started
If accepted, youll receive a personalized plan and full access to CSTEPs academic support, mentorship, workshops, and career preparation resources.
CSTEP Fast Facts
һԹ ranks #1 nationally among masters institutions for grads who go on to earn research doctorates.
Nearly 60% of STEM students at һԹ are CSTEP-eligible.
We are home to the only Pelletron particle accelerator in Western New York.
Students benefit from cross-campus collaboration with faculty, advisors, and partners like the University of Rochester Medical Center.