An institutional model for student and faculty support

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has developed a comprehensive support system for undergraduate science and engineering education with support from the National Science Foundation. This model integrates four programs designed to increase the retention and success of science and engineering students attending an urban commuter campus. In order to ensure a successful transition into college, UTEP has implemented an entering student program for our science and engineering majors. To strengthen the community of student learners on campus, UTEP has created both a state-of-the-art academic center for student support and a center for effective teaching and learning for professors, teaching assistants, and undergraduate peer leaders. Finally, UTEP has developed an undergraduate research program for students who wish to participate in an academic research experience under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Since the implementation of these programs, first and second-year student retention in science and engineering has increased significantly over baseline data. The graduation rate is expected to double over an eleven-year period. This paper describes the structure, goals, impact, and evaluation of the program.