CSTEP

CSTEP Mission

The Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) at Nassau Community College (NCC) aims to increase and support the number of economically disadvantaged students pursuing postsecondary degrees and professional licensure through programs in mathematics, science, technology, health-related fields, and the licensed professions at NCC. These students play a vital role in STEM fields and licensed professions because of their innovative perspectives in research and academia, the diversity of languages they speak, and their ability to relate to clients and consumers on both cultural and socioeconomic levels.

CSTEP is funded by the New York State Education Department and administered through Sponsored Programs & Research (SPR) at Nassau Community College (NCC). Established at NCC in 2020, CSTEP continues to build upon the dedication of NCC in educating students in STEM and preparing them for a career market where such knowledge is in high demand.

Services

CSTEP achieves success through collaborative partnerships with staff, faculty, administrators, community stakeholders and other higher education partnerships.  CSTEP at NCC provides:

• Tutoring
• Mentoring
• Stipends
• Research and internship opportunities
• Professional development
• Test preparation
• College field trips
• Assistance with the four-year college transfer and application process
• Academic and career counseling

Eligibility

• Must be a resident of New York
• Economically disadvantaged
• Enrolled full-time and pursuing the scientific, technical or licensed professions

Documentation confirming economically disadvantaged status is required. Acceptable documentation includes: a copy of the student’s FAFSA and/or a signed copy of all applicable and most recent tax returns (IRS form 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ or 4506).

The following are New York State Education Department CSTEP Income Eligibility Criteria.

• Entering freshmen students must be in good academic standing (2.5 or C+ high school average or equivalency for entering.)
• Eligible NCC freshmen, continuing or transfer students, must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
• Once enrolled, students must maintain good academic standing at Nassau Community College. Academic standing is determined according to the regulations of the Academic Standing Committee.

Application

Students must complete an application prior to participation in the project. Students may not receive services or participate in activities if a signed application and required documentation are not available. The project is also required to obtain previous and current transcripts for each student on file for the duration of their participation in the project.

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