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MESA Programs

MESA USA, through its member states, provides academic support to educationally disadvantaged students through three programs.

The MESA Schools Program assists Pennsylvania K-12 students to excel in math and science, and go on to college in math-based majors.

The MESA Community College Program supports community college students to transfer to four-year institutions as majors in math, engineering, science, and technology.

The MESA Engineering Program centers provide support to students at four-year institutions to attain engineering or computer science baccalaureate degrees.


MESA Schools Program (MSP)

The MSP assists students at middle and senior high schools (and some elementary schools) so they excel in math and science and become competitively eligible for academically rigorous colleges and universities. The MSP partners with teachers, administrators, school district officials, schools and industry representatives to provide quality academic enrichment . Student selection and services are implemented through a collaboration involving teachers at participating schools and personnel from local MESA centers.
The MSP offers:

  • Individual Academic Plans. The plans help monitor individual student progress toward college..
  • Study skills training. Students learn the most effective study techniques for academic achievement.
  • MESA Day Academies. Hands-on math and science competitions give students a chance to meet like-minded students and vie for awards. Students follow MESA-developed curriculum that reinforce Pennsylvania state math and science content standards. Top winners of local competitions advance to regional and, in some instances, national contests.
  • Career and college exploration. Guest speakers and field trips present various college and career options.
  • Incentive awards. Outstanding student achievement and leadership is recognized.
  • Parent leadership development. Parents learn how to become effective advocates for their children's academic success.
  • MESA periods. These classes, held during regular hours in some schools, allow Advisors to work with students on academics and MESA activities. Some schools offer MESA periods while others schedule MESA actiities before or after school or at lunch.
  • Teacher professional development opportunities. Institutes are offered for MESA Advisors featuring hands-on curriculum and new techniques to teach math and science. The institutes are geared especially for educators who work in schools with limited resources.

    • Most MSPs are housed at universities and have ties with campus faculty members. MSP sites are located throughout Pennsylvania and serve hundreds of schools and school districts.

    MESA Community College Program

    Under Development

    MESA Summer Camps