What is COSMOS?
The California State Summer School for Mathematics & Science
COSMOS is a 4-week, residential summer program for high school scholars with demonstrated interest and achievement in math and science. COSMOS provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to work side-by-side with outstanding researchers and UC Santa Cruz faculty, covering topics that extend beyond the typical high school curriculum.
Clusters
Explore our COSMOS “clusters” or courses provided here at UCSC by clicking the images below! Each cluster is comprised of two science, math and/or engineering courses and one transferable skills course. (if an “*” follows the cluster title, that cluster has a prerequisite)
2026 Program
We are excited about the upcoming summer and hope that you are too!
We plan on hosting online info. sessions in December 2025 and January 2026. Check back for more information on specific dates and times.
**cluster offerings for 2026 will be updated ASAP – likely finalized by Thanksgiving**
Dates & Deadlines
- January 7th – February 6th
- Application Period
- March 26th
- Admissions notifications go out
July 5th – August 1st
- Program Dates
Cluster 1
Cluster 2
Cluster 5
Cluster 9
Cluster 11
Cluster 13
Our Newsletter
Each summer, a group of COSMOS student volunteers publish a weekly e-newsletter during the program, Macrocosm. See the program through their eyes at the links below.
