Our Review of California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science for High Schoolers (COSMOS)

Participating in research programs during high school can significantly enhance one’s profile and skill set. These programs allow you to engage deeply with a field of interest, often beyond the scope of your high school curriculum. You will develop a thorough understanding of the field and its career paths. You will also likely build a valuable network of peers, university faculty, and industry professionals. 

In addition, by finding, applying for, and participating in one of these programs, you can demonstrate your intellectual curiosity. Many universities carefully note these traits—participating in a prestigious research program can help you stand out during college admissions.

In this blog, we will review one such program: the California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

What is COSMOS?

COSMOS is a four-week summer program for high school students interested in mathematics, science, engineering, or technology. Held at UC Santa Cruz, this program allows you to enroll in short courses designed to introduce subjects outside the high school curriculum. These courses are called “clusters,” specialized tracks focused on advanced STEM topics. You will spend your time on lab work, lectures, collaborative projects, and research reports.

You should select a cluster that best aligns with your interests. These clusters are: 

• Number theory and discrete math

• Nanochemistry and nanotechnology

• Making an animal: development and bioinformatics

• Quantum information science and engineering

• Video game design

• Introduction to smart and sustainable power

• Shining a light on the future: the photonics revolution in healthcare, energy, and information technologies

• Practical applications of chemical principles

• Molecular biology investigations

• Semiconductor materials and device engineering

• Brain-inspired machine learning

• Exploring the structure of quantum materials by neutron scattering and x-ray diffraction

• Safe and secure autonomous systems

In addition to your cluster, you will also attend “Discovery Lectures,” where scientists, engineers, and mathematicians will lecture on various research topics. Enrichment activities will provide valuable lessons for resumes, job interviews, career paths, and college life. 

What does a typical day at COSMOS look like?

A typical day will include lectures, cluster time, recreational activities, and more. Here is a sample schedule:

How much does the program cost?

The four-week program costs $5,007, and there is a $42 application fee. COSMOS offers full and partial financial rewards, which you can apply for through their statewide office.

Who is eligible to apply?

Rising 9th graders through current 12th graders who reside within the state of California are allowed to apply for COSMOS. The application includes an online application, two teacher recommendations, an unofficial transcript, and an application fee. 

How does the application process work?

The application includes an online application, two teacher recommendations, an unofficial transcript, and an application fee. Applications open on January 8th and close on February 7th. Students will find out about their acceptance on March 27th, and the program will run from July 6th to August 2nd. 

Is COSMOS prestigious?

COSMOS is widely regarded as a prestigious summer STEM program for high school students in California. Endorsed by the University of California system, the program offers exclusive access to advanced facilities, cutting-edge research, and mentorship from faculty. Each cluster only accepts 20-25 students a year, making admissions quite competitive. Having this program on your resume can greatly boost your profile! 

Pros and Cons to attending COSMOS

Pros

1. High-quality mentorship and network: You will work with university faculty and researchers. The Discovery Lecture Series will introduce you to well-known scientists, engineers, and researchers such as Raja Guhathakurta and Alison Galloway. The connections you make through the program are people you can turn to for future research ideas, recommendation letters, and more.

2. Specialized STEM exposure: The COSMOS program is designed to engage students with advanced STEM topics beyond the normal high school curriculum. The cluster system allows you to delve into specific areas of interest. In addition, you will be introduced to the cutting-edge resources, classrooms, laboratories, and research of the University of California. 

3. Campus experience: Living on a UC campus provides a glimpse of college life while still in high school. COSMOS offers the opportunity to develop the skills needed for success in college and introduces you to college culture. You will form friendships with peers, explore the UC campus, participate in field trips around the Santa Cruz area, and more. COSMOS also offers Enrichment Activities designed to introduce students to college life.

Cons

1. High cost: While the tuition covers room, board, and instruction, the more than $5,000 cost of the program may be financially out of reach for some families without financial aid. 

2. Limited geographic reach: This program is only open to students who reside in California. High school students outside of the state will have to find another program to apply to.

3. Lack of one-on-one learning: Many of the program’s special lectures, courses, and activities are geared toward a class of students. Other programs allow for one-on-one mentorship between teacher and student, which allows for a more individualized style of learning that some students might find more helpful. 

Is it legit?

Absolutely! The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science is a highly respected program that provides valuable STEM experiences. Its association with the University of California system, faculty mentorship, and alumni network elevates its credibility as a rigorous program for students who want to explore STEM in depth. For those who can afford it, COSMOS is a worthwhile investment in one’s academic and personal growth. 

One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Image Source - COSMOS Logo

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.