Overview

NASA PREP is a six-week program designed to strengthen the academic, study and interpersonal skills of minority students who are interested in a bachelor of science degree in astronautical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering or software engineering. The program sets the foundation for the challenging curriculum required for an engineering degree.

NASA PREP is a total immersion program running Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with field trips on Friday. You’ll live in the apartment-style residence halls during the week, leave on Friday evening and return to campus Sunday night.

Curriculum

The six components of the program are skill building, mathematics, English, electronics, computers and group dynamics. Throughout the program, you will be mentored by a team member.

Field Trips

You’ll go on field trips that will introduce you to career opportunities in engineering. Past trips have included visiting NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, which is just five minutes from campus, and visiting several local employers, such as MET Labs, Northrop Grumman and Oceaneering Technologies. There’s time for fun too — cultural enrichment trips include visits to museums and more in Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Scholarship

Successful completion of NASA PREP, qualifies you for a $2,000 scholarship to Capitol College. You must be admitted and enroll in one of the four engineering programs or computer science. The scholarship is awarded your freshman year and can be renewed each year as long as you meet the requirements of the college’s scholarship committee.

Tuition

Tuition, textbooks, a PDA and your supplies will be funded by NASA. You will also receive a $50 per week stipend.

Housing

You’ll live on the college campus in apartment-style residence halls. Each apartment has a kitchen, living room area and modern furnishings. Meals are provided at no cost.

Criteria

Admission to NASA PREP is competitive and limited to eight students. The program is open only to minority high school juniors and seniors. Preference is given to graduating seniors. To apply, you should have completed two years of algebra, one year of trigonometry and three years of a laboratory science. You must be a U.S. citizen. You should also have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 and an SAT score of 950 or higher with at least a 500 in the math section. Placement tests may be required. The purpose is to identify candidates who will benefit from an intense pre-college preparatory program by learning to develop the discipline and study skills necessary to succeed in an engineering program.

Application Process

Send completed application form, high school transcript, SAT scores and one letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor to:

Capitol College Office of Admissions
11301 Springfield Road
Laurel, MD 20708-9759

Deadline: April 30, 2006

For more information:
Washington: 301-953-3200
Baltimore: 410-792-8800
Toll free: 800-950-1992
Email: admissions@capitol-college.edu