Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)

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The Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) supports students with demonstrated academic potential and financial need as they pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and licensed health professions.
With a network of mentors, hands-on research experiences, career-building internships, and targeted academic support, we help our students succeed in rigorous programs so that they can become the leaders of tomorrow.
CSTEP is a grant-funded program sponsored by the , established in 1987.

Signature Offerings
Academic Support
- Peer-led supplemental instruction in high-impact gateway STEM courses
- Targeted tutoring for upper-level coursework
- Co-requisite “parachute” courses designed to boost academic success
- Individual academic plans and intrusive advising tailored to each student’s goals
Mentorship and Community
- One-on-one faculty mentorship in research or internship settings
- Peer mentoring through the First-Year Experience program
- Professional and career mentorship opportunities through alumni and industry partners
- Social-emotional support via CarrotPath and ongoing check-ins
Applied Learning and Career Preparation
- Paid undergraduate research and STEM internships
- Weekly seminar on integrative and applied learning and career readiness
- Hands-on service-learning experiences in the local community
- Job shadowing and volunteer opportunities in STEM fields
Professional Development
- Workshops on STEM entrepreneurship, personal branding, and diversity in STEM
- Test prep for graduate and licensing exams (MCAT, GRE, DAT, etc.)
- Career exploration resources through the Career Design Center
- Support in developing resumes, interview skills, and professional networks
Recognition and Celebration
- Annual participation in Geneseo Recognizing Excellence, Achievement and Talent (GREAT) Day
- Opportunities to present research at state and national conferences
- Community of scholars committed to academic excellence and social impact
Can I Join CSTEP?
Eligibility Requirements
51’s CSTEP program is open to students who show strong academic promise and have financial need, and who are pursuing—or planning to pursue—careers in STEM fields or licensed professions in New York State.
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a New York State resident
- Are enrolled full-time at 51 in a CSTEP-qualifying major
- Have demonstrated academic potential (GPA of 2.5 or higher preferred)
- Meet income eligibility requirements set by New York State Education Department
- Plan to pursue a career in a STEM field or licensed profession such as medicine, psychology, law, or education
CSTEP serves students in over 20 Geneseo majors—including Biology, Chemistry, Geophysics, Mathematics, Neuroscience, Psychology, and more.
How to Apply
Applying to CSTEP is simple and designed to get you connected with resources fast.
Step 1:
You’ll provide:
- Basic eligibility information (residency, income, major)
- High school or current GPA
- A brief statement of purpose about your STEM goals and interest in CSTEP
Step 2: Schedule an Intake Interview
Once your application is reviewed, the CSTEP Coordinator will reach out to schedule a one-on-one intake session to:
- Discuss your academic goals and strengths
- Begin creating your Individual Academic Plan (IAP)
- Explore the services you’ll access through CSTEP
Step 3: Get Started
If accepted, you’ll receive a personalized plan and full access to CSTEP’s academic support, mentorship, workshops, and career preparation resources.
CSTEP Fast Facts
Geneseo ranks #1 nationally among master’s institutions for grads who go on to earn research doctorates.
Nearly 60% of STEM students at Geneseo are CSTEP-eligible.
We are home to the only Pelletron particle accelerator in Western New York.
Students benefit from cross-campus collaboration with faculty, advisors, and partners like the University of Rochester Medical Center.