The Upward Bound Math & Science (UBMS) Regional Center at Northwest Missouri State University is a federally funded educational program supported by the U.S. Department of Education. The program is designed to serve high school students from Kansas and Missouri who are interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
OUR MISSION
To generate and maintain in participants the skills and motivation necessary to succeed in a program of post-secondary education that leads to a career in the fields of math and science.
OUR VISION
UBMS aspires to develop leaders who recognize and develop to their full potential and excel in math and science. UBMS encourages participants to pursue postsecondary degrees and ultimately careers in a STEM profession.
Program Values
The program’s mission and vision are accomplished by:
UBMS provides students with dynamic, hands-on experiences in math and science that extends beyond the typical high school classroom. This free program is designed for high school students on a college preparatory path who are taking math and science courses and plan to purue related degrees after graduation. It is not a remedial program—instead, it challenges students, strengthens their skills and helps them reach their full potential.
The Academic Year Program offers mentorship, academic tutoring, test prep, and ongoing projects. Students have the opportunity to earn stipends based on participation and performance throughout the school year.
Each student is also paired with a mentor who meets with them at least 12 times to offer guiance, discuss their interests, and support them through their project work.
The program is designed to help students grow in both competence and character—strengthening their academic skills in math and science while also supporting their development as students, future professionals, and individuals. Support may include tutoring, motivational discussions, and access to valuable academic and college resources.
Additionally, students receive ACT preparation courses and materials to help them succeed on standardized tests and strengthen their college readiness.
The Summer Residential Program is a six-week, on-campus experience at Northwest Missouri State University that immerses students in academics, college readiness, and STEM exploration. Participants live in a university residence hall and take classes aligned with their academic needs and STEM interests, while also engaging in workshops, cultural activities, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Students engage in hands-on activities through team teaching and cooperative learning. Each teaching team includes a university instructor or an exceptional high school teacher from the four-state region, supported by university students serving as teaching assistants (TAs). Both instructors and TAs provide in-class support to help students succeed.
A highlight of the program is the enrichment trip, where students help select a destination that enhances their learning and broadens their exposure to new environments. This trip allows students to explore life beyond their communities, broadening their worldview and supporting both academic and personal growth.
Counseling
Northwest's UBMS offers group and individual counseling to support students' growth. Group sessions focus on relationships, study skills, career exploration, and personal development. Students also learn important life skills like time management, stress management, decision-making, and goal setting.
Individual counseling is tailored to address each student’s unique needs. The program’s commitment to counseling is reflected in its dedicated staff and the regularly scheduled sessions held throughout the program.
Weekend Trips
Each summer, UBMS offers weekend trips that combine cultural, educational, and recreational experiences. These excursions help students explore new environments, broaden their perspectives, and build community. Past destinations include museums, zoos, science centers, and college campuses across the Midwest.
All expenses are covered by the program—students only bring money for souvenirs.
The UBMS Bridge Program is a summer transition program for recent high school graduates preparing to start college. It helps students adjust to college life through activities and courses designed to ease the move to higher education. Due to tuition fees, the number of students admitted to the Bride Program is limited.
The program runs during the University's 4-week June summer session block. UBMS covers all the costs for students to enroll in up to six credit hours of college classes, which can transfer to the college of the student's choice for the fall term. There is no cost to students or their families, just a commitment of time and effort.
To be eligible, students must be a graduating senior who have participated actively in UBMS throughout the year, attending two summer components, meeting regularly with their mentor, completing projects, and earning positive evaluations from program staff and teachers.
In addition to academic support and STEM-focused programming, UBMS at Northwest Missouri State University offers a wide range of enriching opportunities designed to support students' personal, academic, and professional growth:
College Visits – Tour campuses across the region to explore different types of colleges and universities.
Career Exploration – Engage with STEM professionals through guest speakers, job shadowing, and industry visits.
Cultural Experiences – Participate in field trips to museums, science centers, and historical landmarks to broaden your perspective and learning.
Leadership Development – Build confidence and communication skills through workshops, public speaking, and team-building activities.
Financial Literacy – Learn about budgeting, having, financial aid, and scholarships to prepare for college expenses.
Community and Lifelong Connections – Join a supportive peer network and connect with mentors and staff who are invested in your success.
Recognition & Incentives – Earn stipends, awards, and public recognition for your academic achievements and program participation.
UBMS is more than a program—it’s a pathway to lifelong opportunity.
