College Scholars Program (CSP) Frequently Asked Questions

Does being a part of CSP have an impact on my academic workload?

In general, we find that students are easily able to integrate the activities of CSP with their other coursework. The two quarters with the biggest time commitment are the 2-unit Service Learning course (Winter quarter, Year 1) and the 5-unit research seminar (Fall quarter, Year 2). Since both of these courses satisfy GE requirements, they are normally part of a regular course load, and not an additional course.

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What are the benefits of the College Scholars Program?

There are many benefits! As a CSP participant, you are part of a group of highly motivated students that can provide a sense of community and support. You are able to enroll in a variety of courses that are restricted to only College Scholars. These courses are opportunities to engage with faculty, develop skills for academic success, and explore different forms of inquiry. One of the main benefits is that the program provides early exposure to undergraduate research. In our spring Faculty Research Colloquium, students learn about many kinds of research happening on campus. We also help students develop the networking and communication skills to seek out potential research opportunities. Finally, students take a research-based seminar early in their career at UCSC (usually Fall quarter, Year 2). Refer to the courses listed on the program's curriculum page for more details. Participants will also receive priority enrollment through fall quarter of their second year (a total of 4 quarters).

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I am a transfer student. Can I apply to CSP?

At the moment, there is no transfer student entry into CSP. However, there are other ways for non-first year students to gain similar experiences. 

Begin building personal relationships with faculty. A good practice is to attend office hours weekly for at least one class. Ask questions about the class, but also ask about the professor's research and career path. In addition to helping you with the class, in some cases a professor might be able to help you discover positions in research groups or help you find work as an undergraduate research assistant.

Begin to research summer programs as soon as possible. It may be challenging to get a position on campus if you have just arrived, and a successful summer research experience may give you an advantage. See STEM Diversity Programs.

Consider classes in your department that involve doing research. You can receive course credit and also build a relationship with a professor. Internships and Field Study opportunities are also popular ways to enrich your educational experience.

Utilize the support available for transfer students at STARS and other academic support units.

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As a current UCSC student, how do I apply to CSP?

Currently, the program is only available to incoming frosh at the time of admission to UC Santa Cruz.

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Does the separate lodging of CSP students impact interactions between them and the general student body?

The housing arrangements for CSP students help build a strong cohort within the program. CSP students do not have "separate" lodging. There are non-CSP students in the same building. As a result, these connections don't diminish the opportunity to meet other students. 

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When does a participant of CSP lose their priority enrollment?

Participants in the program may lose their priority enrollment in various ways. One example is a participant does not actively engage in the program curriculum by enrolling in the required courses. Another way is once the student finishes their fall quarter of their second year. Once the student enters the last quarter of the program (fall quarter of the second year) the priority enrollment benefit granted as a College Scholar will end.