STEM Talent Expansion Program

WMU's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences

What is STEP?

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics are the driving forces for innovation that have improved the social and economic well-being of society and its citizens. STEM careers are exciting and interesting, but the path to obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering and applied sciences is challenging. That is why the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has implemented the STEM Talent Expansion Program (STEP) to help you develop the academic skills and habits, life skills and connections to the College of Engineering and WMU so you can successfully complete your studies and become engineers and applied scientists.

CEAS Preparatory Program

Students admitted to the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Preparatory major begin their first semester in MATH 1110 (Algebra II). This placement is based on SAT/ACT math score or an equivalent transferable math course from other institutions. CEAS-Preparatory students are also enrolled in a cohort of classes designed to foster academic success.

STEP Cohorts

The STEP cohort provides new students with an immediate community of peers who are starting In the same math level and have the same major. Natural study groups are encouraged, and mentorship is provided.

Engineering House Eldridge/Fox Residence Hall

Living Learning Communities

Engineering House features the largest student success center with free tutoring in math, chemistry, physics and engineering. It also has a computer lab with engineering-specific software available in the hall for engineering students only. Activities and engagement opportunities in the Engineering House that extend learning beyond the classroom. CEAS students who choose to live in the Engineering House traditionally have a higher grade point after the first year than students who live elsewhere.

Women and Leadership in Engineering and Applied Sciences

STEP has created a one credit hour course for incoming female first-year and transfer students entitled Women and Leadership in Engineering and Applied Sciences. This topics course, introduces speakers, mainly female alums of Western Michigan University College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS), who present to the class about their current job and experiences at WMU. Students are assigned a mentor who is also a female Western Michigan University CEAS graduate.