Scholar Programs

Join a Scholar Program— Your First Step to College Success!

Are you starting college in Fall 2025? Looking for a head start on your journey? Scholar Programs at Nevada State are designed to help incoming students build connections, gain confidence, and set themselves up for success while exploring their passions and academic interests!

Why join a Scholar Program?

Each Scholar Program offers:

• A shared theme— Connect with students who have similar interests.
• A two-day summer bridge experience— Get insider tips on college life, explore campus, meet professors and make friends before the semester even starts.
• A first-year course tailored for your cohort— Build connections and explore your program’s theme in a supportive classroom setting during the Fall semester.
• Faculty mentorship— Get guidance from professors who are invested in your success.
• Exclusive scholarships— Available only to Scholar Program participants during their first year.

By joining a Scholar Program, you’ll feel at home from day one and prepare for a successful college journey. Plus, you’ll get a head start in your academic journey and make meaningful connections along the way!

Which Scholar Program is right for you?

• Humanities Scholars – A supportive and engaging community for students interested in how arts and creativity can be a part of your experience at Nevada State. It is open to students of all majors, but it is particularly good for students majoring in English, Deaf Studies, Visual Media, History, or Communication. 
  • Summer Bridge Dates: July 21-22, 2025 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  • Fall ALS 101N (College Success) class: Tuesdays, from 9:30am -10:50am. Instructor: Dr. Erika Abad
• Nursing Scholars – This program is for Nevada State students interested in pursuing a career in Nursing. It is a great opportunity to meet the nursing faculty and learn about how to be successful in the Nursing program.
  • Summer Bridge Dates: July 14-15, 2025 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  • Fall ALS 101N (College Success) class: Mondays, 2:00pm – 3:20pm. Instructor: Clark Peterson
• Explorer Scholars – Not sure what to major in or what career to pursue? This program helps you explore different fields, match your skills and interests to potential careers, and find the right path for your future. This program is open to all majors, but it is particularly good for students who haven’t determined their major yet.
  • Summer Bridge Dates: July 28 – July 29, 2025 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  • Fall ALS 101N (College Success) class: Tuesdays, 2:00pm – 3:20pm. Instructor: TBD

Who can apply?

Scholar Programs are open to incoming first-year students starting at Nevada State in Fall 2025. Each student may only join one Scholar Program.

How do I complete the program?

In order to finish the program and be eligible for a scholarship, you’ll need to complete all the program requirements, which include:

• Participating in the two-day summer bridge
• Taking ALS 101N with your cohort in the fall (Advising will help you get into this section)
• Completing the engagement activities your program lead provides. These are generally fun and informative ways you can participate in NSU’s culture