About MESA

The Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program was established in California in 1970 to support students from underrepresented and underserved communities successfully transfer to 4-year institutions in calculus-based STEM majors.

Through services like one-on-one counseling, mentoring, tutoring, university visits, faculty and industry panels, and STEM internship opportunities, the MESA Program seeks to specifically support first generation college students whose goal is to transfer to a 4-year institution as a STEM major. The MESA Center, found in the Learning Commons, is where MESA students can access program services and connect with other participants in the program.

The MiraCosta MESA Program is open to all students who meet the eligibility criteria. We recognize that there are systems in place that affect students of color in their goal to transfer and succeed in a STEM major. Therefore, we especially welcome students from the African American/Black, Latinx, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, Native American, and other marginalized communities to apply to our program.

MESA Eligibility Requirements

Students who would like to be considered for MESA program participation must meet the following requirements:

• Be a first generation college student (this means your parent or guardian does not have a BA or BS degree).
• Intend to transfer to a 4-year institution.
• Be declared in a calculus-based math, engineering, or science field.
• Have no previous bachelor’s degree in any field.
• Demonstrate financial need, such as qualifying for a PELL grant, Cal Grant, CA DREAM Act, GI Bill, Federal Work Study, Cal Fresh, or other need-based aid.

For more information, please visit the MESA Program webpage or email us at MESA@miracosta.edu.