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Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) for High School Students
Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) for High School Students
The BMCC Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) is designed to support high school students in developing the skills, confidence, and access needed to pursue careers in science, technology, health, and related fields. The program works to identify and address these barriers by providing academic enrichment, mentorship, and pathways to postsecondary education, ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive.
The BMCC Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) is designed to support high school students in developing the skills, confidence, and access needed to pursue careers in science, technology, health, and related fields. The program works to identify and address these barriers by providing academic enrichment, mentorship, and pathways to postsecondary education, ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive.
What Can You Expect from STEP?
What Can You Expect from STEP?
STEM Academic Enrichment
Take hands-on, activity-based classes designed to strengthen your knowledge and skills in STEM subjects.
Courses may include areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and coding. Course offerings may change each session.
Research Opportunities
Eligible students can participate in actual STEM research in BMCC's science laboratories under the guidance of BMCC faculty and college students.
Research students work on projects that can lead to a research poster presentation.
Test Preparation
STEP provides preparation and practice for college admissions exams, including the ACT, PSAT, SAT, and Regents exams.
College Readiness
STEP workshops help students learn more about STEM degrees and careers while also providing college admissions preparation and support.
STEM Conferences & Special Events
Selected STEP students may have opportunities to attend the STEP Annual Conference in Albany, which includes STEM information sessions, speakers, and research poster and robotics competitions.
When Does STEP Run?
When Does STEP Run?
Fall: October – December
Fall: October – December
10–12 week session held on Fridays.
4:00–7:00 p.m.
Spring: February – May
Spring: February – May
12–14 week session held on Fridays.
4:00–7:00 p.m.
Summer: July – August
Summer: July – August
6-week intensive session held Monday–Thursday.
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Lunch and OMNY Cards are provided to participating students based on availability.
STEP Research
STEP Research
Ready to Explore Research?
Ready to Explore Research?
STEP also offers eligible students the opportunity to participate in faculty-mentored STEM research at BMCC.
Research students work with faculty mentors in BMCC science laboratories to design, conduct, and complete a research project and create a poster presentation showcasing their work.
Research students must:
Research students must:
Have a 3.0 GPA or higher
Submit a teacher or guidance counselor recommendation
Commit to a full year of research
Dedicate at least 2 hours per week to research
Students can apply for STEP courses, STEP research, or both. Students who adequately complete their research assignments may qualify for a stipend at the end of the session.
Who Can Apply?
Who Can Apply?
To participate in BMCC STEP, students must:
Be a NYC high school student
Be a New York State resident who has lived in New York State for at least one year
Meet STEP's eligibility requirements
Submit the required economic eligibility documentation
The current STEP application materials also require applicants to submit a recent transcript, while additional documentation depends on the student's circumstances and whether they are applying for research.
What Do I Need to Apply?
What Do I Need to Apply?
All applicants:
All applicants:
Completed STEP application
Most recent transcript
Required economic eligibility documentation
Some applicants
Some applicants
Depending on your situation, you may also need:
Free/reduced lunch documentation or
Family tax return showing adjusted gross income
A 250–500 word essay explaining why you want to join STEP or participate in STEP research
Research applicants
Research applicants
Students applying for research must also submit:
Research recommendation
Accepted students must submit a signed permission slip.
Why Join STEP?
Why Join STEP?
STEP can help you:
Explore STEM
Explore STEM
Discover subjects, careers, and fields you may want to pursue.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Gain Hands-On Experience
Learn through activities, laboratory experiences, research, and projects.
Prepare for College
Prepare for College
Build academic skills and get support with college admissions and standardized tests.
Explore Research
Explore Research
Work alongside BMCC faculty and college students on real STEM research projects.
Build Your Future
Build Your Future
Develop skills and experiences that can support your next academic step.
Questions about STEP?
Questions about STEP?
Cory Mcken
Program Coordinator
cmcken@bmcc.cuny.edu
Kazi Mansha
Asst Program Coordinator
kazi.mansha2@gmail.com
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