Welcome to the STARS Program

Our mission

The University of Washington Bothell State Academic Rising Scholars (STARS) program seeks to increase diversity and access for pre-major students interested in applying to and graduating with technology degrees, contributing to a more inclusive and representative workforce. 

Benefits

As a STARS scholar, you will be a part of a vibrant community dedicated to helping you explore the field of technology and succeed as a pre-major student. STARS offers a holistic experience with redesigned STEM prerequisite courses to strengthen your academic foundation while enhancing essential personal and professional skills. You’ll receive tailored guidance and resources to navigate your pre-major journey and apply for your desired technology-related major. 

STARS scholars are expected to participate in all STARS-related courses and programming. 

Program features

The cohort experience

Join a small community of about 35 scholars who are passionate about pursuing careers in the technology field. You’ll have the chance to collaborate, share your unique experiences, and build a supportive network. 

Summer Bridge Program

A one-week immersive summer program that helps scholars: 

• Transition to college: Pre-fall course B CUSP 102: Transitioning to College Learning 
• Immerse in campus life: Experience what it’s like to live and learn on campus 
• Build support networks: Form connections with peers, mentors, staff, and faculty 
• Connect with campus resources: Engage with key resources such as the Collaboratory, Academic Learning Commons, Disability Resource Services, and many more 

Note: Participation is mandatory. Meals and housing are provided during this week. 

Career readiness

Partnering with Career Services, scholars will engage in programs designed to prepare them for their lifelong career management. This includes: 

• Spring Tech Trek: Visit and learn about career opportunities at local tech companies. 

• Career fairs: Explore job opportunities and meet potential employers on campus. 

• Career workshops: Learn how to stand out as a competitive applicant while receiving application, interview, and job search strategy support. 

Dedicated STARS faculty and staff

We are committed to providing high-touch and individualized support both inside and outside of the classroom. This includes a dedicated STARS director and adviser, peer facilitators, tutors, mentors, and resident advisers. 

Resigned and innovative courses

Some courses include: 

• B CUSP 102: Transitioning into College Learning* 
• STMATH 113/114 Calculus I: Stretch I & II* 
• STMATH 125 Calculus II 
• B WRIT 134 Composition, with tech focus
• CSS 142/142 Computer Programming I & II 
• Various technology-focused seminar courses 

*Scholars are required to take in their first year.

Mentorship & Growth workshops

Designed to cultivate purpose and explore pathways to achieve individual goals, these sessions foster community, promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, support career development, enhance well-being, and strengthen persistence, belonging, and retention. 

On-campus housing

Located in Summit Hall, the STARS wing is available to scholars interested in living on campus. Apply here.

Who’s eligible?

• First-year students admitted to the UWB 
• Interested in pursuing a technology major
• Washington state residents
• Has less than 45 transferrable college credits 
• Students who need to take calculus I in college 
• Students who can attend summer and regular school year programming 

Admissions

There is no separate STARS application. Washington state residents admitted to UW Bothell, who list a technology major* on their Common App will be considered for STARS. Selected students receive invitations to the program with their admission decisions through their online portal. 

Invited scholars will need to confirm their intent to enroll in STARS by the National Confirmation Deadline, May 1. 

*The technology majors we currently support are computer science, computer engineering, applied computing, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, data visualization, and mathematics.  

Note: Admission to computer science and computer engineering is competitive. Students accepted into STARS will enter as pre-major students and receive holistic support for applying to these majors and other technology-related majors.