The Wayne State University Upward Bound program recently earned a five-year, $3.3M grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

The Upward Bound program aims to improve the academic skills, motivation and ability to attain a college degree for 150 high school students identified as high risk underperformers from low-income families and/or potential first-generation college graduates. Upward Bound, which consists of summer and academic year components, also aims to help participants earn college degrees within six years of high school graduation.

The summer component is a six-week residential program on Wayne State’s campus that provides an outcome-based, pre-college curriculum with a mastery learning approach. The core curriculum includes English composition and literature; mathematics through pre-calculus; laboratory enhanced courses in chemistry, biology and physics; foreign language (French, Spanish and Arabic); ACT/SAT preparation; computer technology, financial literacy, study and general reading skills; and counseling sessions focused on social responsibility, career development and college decision making.

The academic year component is an eight-month tutorial and counseling program conducted at two target high schools and on the WSU campus. Students attend at least four hours per week and work with a guidance counselor and tutors in areas of need. The program encourages input and leadership development from students, parents and the community.

For more information on the Wayne State University Upward Bound program, contact William Tandy at 313-577-7777 or wtandy@wayne.edu.