Bridge Program for Scientists and Engineers
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| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2027-06-22 | - |
Program Overview
Introduction to the Bridge Program for Scientists and Engineers
The Bridge Program is designed to provide academic support, professional development, and community to incoming freshmen pursuing engineering at the University of Maryland. The program extends throughout the academic year, offering extensive campus resources, academic support, and professional development to ensure participants' success during their first collegiate year.
Program Overview
The Bridge Program invites 35-40 incoming UMD freshmen pursuing engineering to receive academic and personal support through supplemental instruction resources, math and science workshops, professional development, and community. As a Bridge participant, students have access to the Travel Award Program, Undergraduate Research program, opportunities to attend various conferences, and the Bridge to Doctorate Program.
Program Components
The Bridge Program is comprised of two components: Summer and the Academic Year.
- Summer Component: The summer program will meet virtually from Monday, June 22nd, 2026, to Friday, June 26th, 2026, and will transition to an in-person/residential program from Sunday, June 28th, 2026, to July 31st, 2026.
- Math (Precalculus and Calculus) & Chemistry for Engineers workshops
- Academic Success Class (campus resources)
- Peer Mentors
- Supplemental Instruction hours
- Bridge advisor
- Community building activities
- Summer course costs (4 credits) included
- Professional/career development with partner companies such as:
- Northrop Grumman
- W. L. Gore and Associates
- Lockheed Martin
- Bechtel
- Boeing
- Fall Component:
- Mandatory tutoring for Math or Chemistry (based on the cohort's needs)
- Mandatory attendance of Bridge community-building activities
- Professional and career development activities/workshops
- Required Enrollment in "First-Year Transition" course (Spring semester)
- Required advising meetings with the Bridge coordinator
- Required volunteer service
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Bridge Program, applicants must:
- Show evidence of superior academic excellence and interest in engineering.
- Be an incoming freshman admitted to the University of Maryland, having confirmed attendance to the University of Maryland, College Park.
- Plan to pursue an engineering degree through required ENGR courses.
- Be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident.
- Be available during the program dates and fully participate in all activities.
- Commit to registering for Achieving College Success: First Year Transition course for Fall 2025/Spring 2026 semesters.
Application Information
- The 2026 Bridge Application will be opening soon.
- Completed applications include:
- Completed written prompts
- Unofficial transcripts submission
- Reminder: Student must be a citizen/permanent resident to apply.
- Space is limited; the priority deadline is April 19th, 2026.
- Decisions following the priority deadline will be made on a rolling basis.
Cost
The 2026 Bridge program costs $300. If assistance is needed in financing the program costs, please note that support is available.
Action Steps
- Complete the Bridge Summer Application with the required documentation.
- Complete the UMD Math Placement Exam (must be completed by all UMD students).
- If selected, complete and submit program documents by the deadline given in the emailed packet.
- Pay the participant fee.