Our Program

Science Bound is Iowa State University's premier pre-college program to increase the number of ethnically diverse Iowa students who pursue ASTEM (agricultural, scientific, technical, engineering and mathematics) degrees. The program draws students with potential from middle and high schools in Des Moines, Denison and Marshalltown, Iowa.

Participation

Most students are invited to participate during the end of their 7th grade year. If space is available, some students are also invited to participate the first semester of their freshman year.

Organization

In-service teachers champion the program at the district level. ISU staff provide the vision and support for program implementation.

The ISU Commitment

Iowa State University provides core administrative and financial support, including scholarships.

Benefits

Students who successfully complete the high school program, meet admission requirements to Iowa State University and pursue a technical degree at ISU receive a FULL TUITION SCHOLARSHIP from the university. Research also indicates that students in the program benefit by developing more positive attitudes toward science and improve their academic achievement.

Requirements

Preparatory participants must meet program requirements, including satisfactory completion of a science fair project and an essay that demonstrates a desire to give to, and learn from, Science Bound. High school participants must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0, participate in 75% of the program activities, and present a satisfactory oral justification yearly for continuation.

Activities

Regular meetings with teachers and visits to the Iowa State campus are the program's core. Additionally, students participate in summer academic programs, overnight retreats, and study tables.

Other Components

Teacher enrichment opportunities provide resources and professional development. Parent workshops are also provided. And, since parental involvement is critical to student success, it is a requirement of Science Bound.

The Results

SB has offered scholarships to more than 200 program graduates. More than 40 SB graduates were on the Iowa State campus in Fall 2011. Sixty-six SB grads now hold degrees from Iowa State. The program boasts a number of masters graduates and a Ph.D. in biology from Cornell University in New York as well.