Activity 2. Implement CCA-GPS model across new and existing STEM programs on all campuses

Building on previous CCA-GPS work at Middlesex, the MCC DOL-GPSTEM project is making significant progress in integrating the following CCA components into the STEM programs:

Academic Maps – "15 to FINISH"

Academic Maps have been developed for all STEM programs. The maps list semester-by-semester course sequences, as well as milestone courses that must be completed in order for students to remain "on track" to graduate on time. The STEM Academic Maps, emailed each semester prior to registration to all STEM majors and faculty, are being used during the advising process. They are also available from a link that appears under each program description in the catalog. "15 to FINISH" and "Do the Math" slogans appear throughout the campus and in print and online publications to emphasize how following the Academic Map each semester supports certificate and degree completion within one-two years. Below are two examples of the Academic Maps developed for each GPSTEM Program.
Academic Map CybersecurityAcademic Map for CAD Certificate

STEM Pathways

STEM PathwaysOne-semester STEM Pathway programs (calculus and non-calculus based) have been designed for students who are interested in exploring STEM programs and careers prior to identifying a major. The Science, Engineering and Mathematics Sequence offers degrees for students who want to be engineers, scientists, science or mathematics teachers, or computer scientists, or who have interest in pursuing research in science or mathematics. These degrees are all designed to transfer to four-year colleges or universities. The Technology Sequence offers degrees in fields that prepare students for direct entry into work and also offer transfer opportunities. Degrees in this sequence offer employment opportunities in the fields of biotechnology, energy, mechanical design, and IT/Cybersecurity.

To encourage college success, career exploration and a stronger understanding of STEM disciplines through hands-on experimentation and discussions with STEM faculty, both STEM Pathway sequences require that students take three, one-credit courses: IDS 101- General Education Seminar: First Year Experience; IDS 135 – General Education Seminar: STEM Career Exploration; and IDS 115: General Education Seminar: STEM Explorations.

The GPSTEM team is currently exploring a variety of options for identifying students who are candidates for the Pathways, so that communication can begin with them as early as possible.

Enhanced Advising

Photo of AdvisingEnhancing advising includes a redesign of the orientation and registration program, which was piloted with incoming Engineering, Computer Aided Design and Information Technology students in 2015 and was further enhanced and expanded to other STEM programs in 2016. The advising sessions include online presentations on college services and requirements, as well as meetings with faculty to learn more about STEM programs and to select classes. To support students in selecting and registering for classes, the College has purchased College Scheduler, a software product that enables students and advisors to create optimal schedules that take into account academic, personal and work commitments. The reduction in time to select courses and develop a schedule enables advisors to spend more time with students in discussing career goals and strategies for academic success.

Last Modified: 8/4/23