Program Overview

Introduction to the BRIDGE Program

The BRIDGE program is an immersive and inclusive initiative designed to facilitate a smooth transition for students from high school to college. Through personalized support, engaging activities, and community-focused programming, BRIDGE empowers students by addressing challenges, improving access to resources, and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Program Overview

The BRIDGE program offers a "low-stakes" learning environment where students can build a strong foundation in core courses without the pressure of grades. The program provides prep courses in Chemistry, Physics, Python Coding (CSE), Pre-Calculus/Calculus, and helps students focus on understanding the material and discovering their best learning styles/strategies. Beyond academics, BRIDGE provides high-impact experiences such as industry tours, career development, ensuring students are well-prepared for college and beyond.

Program Structure

The BRIDGE program is a five-week intensive academic enrichment program held at UConn Storrs (in-person, residential). The program takes place from Sunday, June 28, 2026, to Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Subjects Offered

• Mathematics: Pre-Calculus, Introduction to Calculus & Calculus
• Chemistry: Introduction to Chemistry
• Physics: Introduction to Physics
• Biology – for healthcare-focused students

Application Process

To apply for the BRIDGE program, students must:

1. Review eligibility
2. Commit to full participation
3. Complete the online application
4. Submit the application by May 1st
5. Confirm financial aid details
6. Contact the BRIDGE team with any questions

Eligibility

The BRIDGE program is open to all majors in Engineering, students in ACES (pre-engineering, pre-nursing), and students in CLAS wishing to be engineers or health science professionals. The program has partnerships to provide curated content and financial support for students in the following majors:

• Civil and Environmental Engineering (through CT Department of Transportation)
• Biomedical and Chemical Engineering interested in healthcare careers, Biological and Health Science (through UConn Health)
• Physics or Engineering Physics (through UConn Physics Faculty)

The Five Pillars

The BRIDGE program is built around five pillars:

1. Academic Excellence: Emphasizes the importance of a strong work ethic and dedication to academics for students in the College of Engineering.
2. Self-Care and Advocacy: Helps students learn ways to manage stress and take care of themselves.
3. Professional Foundations: Offers an immersive look into engineering careers through industry tours and interactions with professionals.
4. Community Development: Encourages students to cultivate a sense of belonging and mutual support within the engineering community.
5. Strategic Success: Develops essential skills for navigating the college environment effectively.

Program Fee and Financial Aid

The BRIDGE program fee is $1995 USD. The program is committed to supporting students through a combination of fellowships and scholarships, which significantly reduce the program fee. Fellowships are awarded based on need, and students with high financial aid needs will have their program fee completely covered. The program fee covers:

• Room & Board at Storrs, CT for the 5-week summer program duration
• Access to 5 academic teachers, programmatic staff/faculty, and undergraduate coaches
• Weekend activities and transportation during the program
• Industry tour programming and transportation during the program & academic year
• Academic materials, including textbooks and online platforms
• Mentor-Mentee programming during the academic year, including bus trips to NYC/Boston
• Tutoring services for BRIDGE students during the academic year
• One-on-one coaching and check-ins during the first year
• Other needs and incidentals

Payment is required only after receiving formal acceptance to the BRIDGE program (end of May/June).