University of California Berkeley College of Chemistry

What Are Our Goals?

To increase the retention and success rates of students in the College from groups historically underrepresented in chemistry, chemical engineering, and other science fields.
To prepare these students for success in science-based industry, public service, or graduate study.

How Do We Achieve Them?

The CoCSP has developed a supportive environment and academic community, as well as an innovative, collaborative learning approach to the curriculum of the general (freshman) and organic (sophomore) chemistry courses.

Taking an honors approach, the program offers an intensive discussion session (IDS) for three hours each week in addition to regular lectures and laboratories. The IDS employs nontraditional teaching strategies that encourage the development of a community of scholars. Interactive learning is a core principle and is pursued through worksheets, problem sets, and community-building activities such as faculty visits, laboratory tours, and graduate/professional school preparation seminars. Membership, as a rule, is by invitation and requires the student's agreement to participate fully in the program's activities.

At the completion of the sophomore year, participants are encouraged to pursue research and are assisted by CoCSP staff in selecting a faculty mentor. Selected advanced students receive stipends to serve as tutors for the IDS and after-class sessions.

A study room exclusively for program participants provides a setting for tutoring and informal study group meetings. It also serves as a resource center where information on research, internship, and employment opportunities is available.The retention component of the CoCSP coordinates activities with the University of California's Coalition for Excellence and Diversity in Mathematics, Science and Engineering.