David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

MEMPHIS, TN— March 21, 2024—Christian Brothers University (CBU) is set to launch a five-week-long Summer Mathematics Bridge Program to better prepare students for entry into STEM majors, particularly Engineering and Computer Science programs. Dr. Andrew Assadollahi, Interim Dean of the Gadomski School of Engineering at CBU, explained the program's aim, stating, "This program is designed to assist students whose ACT Math score may not have been at the level they were hoping for or at the level to start in an Engineering or Computer Science program."

The Mathematics Bridge Program offers students valuable opportunities, including three credit hours towards their degree plan, networking chances, hands-on experiences, and ancillary support not typically available to students at the beginning of their academic journey. Dr. Assadollahi emphasized the significance of the program for students from underrepresented communities in STEM fields, noting, "This can be very valuable for new college students — especially for those from communities that may be underrepresented in STEM career fields."

Students participating in the program can choose between two courses: MATH 103: Bridge to Precalculus Program and MATH 117: Bridge to Calculus 1 Program, depending on their ACT Math scores. The courses aim to prepare students for success at different levels of Mathematics in their first fall semester.

In addition to coursework, students will engage in various activities such as labs, peer tutor/mentor support, and industry presentations to enhance their readiness for the fall semester. The program also includes offsite activities like manufacturing tours and exposure to relevant engineering applications.

To provide ongoing support, students in the Mathematics Bridge Program will be enrolled in an online seminar and assigned a faculty mentor during their freshman year at CBU. Interested students can enroll in the program as non-degree-seeking students for the summer term by paying an enrollment fee of $300.

For more information about the Summer Mathematics Bridge Program, interested individuals can visit www.cbu.edu/math-bridge or contact CBU Admissions at (901) 321-3205.