Bridges to the Baccalaureate Program

To diversify the sciences and work toward the elimination of health disparities by supporting Tri-C students in the pursuit of education and careers in science. The Bridges Program prepares underrepresented students for science careers by providing paid research internships, academic support, professional skills development, networking with science professionals, travel to scientific conferences, and opportunities for awards and recognitions.

Majors: Biology and Biomedical Sciences

Internship Sites: Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland State University

Research Training: Bridges students complete BIO 1820 Introduction to Research Methods and BIO 1840 CURE laboratory research courses during their first year of participation in the program

Program Eligibility: 

• A student defined by NIH as underrepresented in the biomedical and behaviors sciences, which includes one of the following:
  • Low-income (Pell Grant eligible)
  • Educationally disadvantaged (have taken a developmental Math or English course)
  • Disabled
  • African American, Hispanic, Native American, Alaskan Native or Rural Appalachian
• US Citizen or permanent resident with a GED or high school diploma
• Enrolled full-time (12 credit hours or more) at Tri-C
• Pursuing a college-level degree for the first time
• Majoring in biology or biomedical sciences and planning to transfer to a four-year university
• Holding a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.80, and a GPA of at least 3.00 in all science courses attempted at Tri-C

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours do Bridges students work each week?
Students work 10 hours/week for 16 weeks during fall and spring semester and 30 hours/week for 10 weeks during the summer.

How long can a student participate in the program?
It is preferred that an applicant will commit to at least 2 semesters of participation. Employment ends when a student leaves the program, transfers or completes the maximum of 4 semesters.

What benefits does this program offer?
Students build their professional resumes with work experience and specialized training. Students are also able to present their research at local, regional and national meetings to build their resume. Academic support results in higher GPA's, an increase in the number of associate degrees, an increase in transfers to four-year universities, and an increase in the number of bachelor's and graduate degrees completed.

How do I apply?
Download, complete and submit the Bridges to the Baccalaureate Program Application.