Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (TCUP)

This program provides awards to enhance the quality of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) instructional and outreach programs, with an emphasis on the leveraged use of information technologies at Tribal Colleges and Universities, Alaskan Native-serving Institutions and Native Hawaiian-serving institutions. Support is available for the implementation of comprehensive institutional approaches to strengthen STEM teaching and learning in ways that improve access to, retention within and graduation from STEM programs, particularly those that have a strong technological foundation. Through this program, assistance is provided to eligible institutions in their efforts to bridge the digital divide and prepare students for careers in information technology, science, mathematics and engineering fields. Proposed activities should be the result of a careful analysis of institutional needs, address institutional and NSF goals, and have the potential to result in significant and sustainable improvements in STEM program offerings. Typical project implementation strategies include curriculum enhancement; faculty professional development; undergraduate research and community service; academic enrichment; infusion of technology to enhance STEM instruction; collaborations; and, other activities that meet institutional and community needs.