MISSION:
COSMOS has as its mission to motivate the most creative minds of the new generation of prospective scientists, engineers, and mathematicians who will become leaders for California, the nation, and the world. The program aims to create a community of students who participate in and contribute to an intensive academic experience delivered by distinguished educators and scholars.

BEST PRACTICES:
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INSTRUCTORS:
UCI Irvine faculty and research scientists create courses in exciting topics from astrophysics to mathematical modeling to human physiology just for COSMOS. Our instructors frequently engage their colleagues in research institutes, the California private colleges and universities, post doctoral fellows and graduate students. COSMOS students will have interactive and hands-on experiences in university laboratories and research facilities. They learn from the experts in the fields, and study topics in depth.

TEACHER FELLOWS:
High school science and math teachers have the opportunity to participate as COSMOS Teacher Fellows through an application process. The fellowship opens doors to professional development and comes with a stipend. A teacher is assigned to each cluster. The main responsibility is for a course on technical writing and communication, in which students write a technical/scientific abstract on the required research project. Teacher Fellows review COSMOS course material for content and standards, advise UCI faculty on trends in secondary science education, participate in labs and field trips, and enhance the overall COSMOS student academic experience.

ADVISORY BOARD:
Appointed by UC President Robert Dynes, a statewide advisory board composed of scientific and technological leaders in higher education and industry guide the California State Summer School in Mathematics and Science at the four host campuses. Representatives include faculty of the University of California and public and private universities as well as CEOs from the business community and non-profits. The board meets at least twice annually to review progress toward goals and ways to improve the program's effectiveness and participant rate. Board members make recommendations for expanded student opportunities and long-term development. Mrs. Gayle Wilson is Chairman of the board.