STEM Core

Looking to jumpstart your career in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM)? Mission College's STEM Core program is here to guide you! Designed for motivated students, STEM Core provides a supportive environment where you’ll build a strong foundation in math, develop career-ready skills, and unlock exclusive opportunities like internships with top organizations.

Apply with the Mission Support Form

Why Join

The STEM Core program offers:

Cohort-Based Support: Learn alongside a community of like-minded peers in a collaborative and encouraging environment.
Strong Math Foundation: Strengthen your algebra and trigonometry skills to prepare for calculus and advanced STEM courses.
Dedicated Tutoring & Support: Benefit from in-class math tutors and a Student Support Specialist to guide you through challenges.
Hands-On Opportunities: Take exciting classes like Introduction to Engineering (EGR 10) and Python Programming (CIS 7) to gain real-world experience.
Professional Development: Access workshops, career speakers, resume/interview coaching, and site visits to leading companies and universities.
Paid Internships: Apply for exclusive internships at organizations like NASA, Cisco, and Lockheed Martin, earning up to $6,000 for 10 weeks of full-time work.

Program Benefits

Female student discussing her presentation

Free Online Resources: Free licenses for math course materials and textbooks.
Extra Tutoring: Both in-class and external tutoring support for STEM Core math courses.
Career Development: Internship presentations, career speakers, and professional development workshops.
Networking Opportunities: Site visits to local tech companies and universities.
Paid Internships: Apply for exclusive internships paying $6,000 for 10 weeks of full-time work.

Note: To qualify for internships, students must complete STEM Core math courses with a 3.0 GPA.

Steps to Join

Confirm Your Eligibility: Successfully complete Intermediate Algebra (or equivalent). Be ready to enroll in College Algebra (Math 1) or Trigonometry (Math D).

Apply for STEM Core: Complete the online STEM Core application and participate in the interview process.

Enroll in Required Courses: Sign up for the designated College Algebra or Trigonometry classes. If needed, complete Intermediate Algebra during the summer or prior academic year.

Start Your Journey! Join your cohort and access all the resources to succeed.

How STEM Core Works

STEM Core is designed to help students transition into STEM careers through focused math preparation and additional resources.

Students begin in College Algebra or Trigonometry, completing prerequisites for Calculus within one academic year or less.
Cohort members receive support from dedicated in-class math tutors and a Student Support Specialist.
Participants are encouraged to take complementary courses like Introduction to Engineering (EGR 10) or Python Programming (CIS 7) to boost readiness for internships.
Students can also explore Mechatronics Technology classes to enhance technical skills.

Eligibility Requirements

To join STEM Core, you must:

Successfully complete Intermediate Algebra or its equivalent before the program year.
Be ready to enroll in College Algebra (Math 1) or Trigonometry (Math D).
Participate in the STEM Core application and interview process.

Commitment to Success: Students should be willing to participate actively, collaborate with peers, and complete all coursework on time.

Contact Us

Becca Davidson

STEM Core Student Support Specialist

(408) 855-5199

Visit Us

Questions? We’re here to support you!

Come visit us in the Student Engagement Center (SEC), Office 350.