Elevate your science, technology, engineering, and mathematics potential with QCC’s STEM Starter Academy (SSA). Learn more about our STEM facilities, unique programs, and exciting opportunities.

Step into STEM

A professor teaches a group of STEM students in a biology lab

STEM Starter Academy Goal

SSA is an initiative of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) that began in 2013 through the leadership of Speaker Robert A. DeLeo. In partnership with the Commonwealth’s community college system, SSA aims to attract, prepare, keep, and help students from different backgrounds earn STEM certificates and degrees. These students can later transfer to four-year STEM programs or start their careers.
A woman works with diagnostic software on a computer in a STEM Workshop

Why STEM Is Important in Massachusetts

Jobs that require a foundation in STEM education are becoming more common, expanding into new fields, and transforming traditional careers. Massachusetts needs a strong, varied, and growing STEM workforce to help our economy and make us known for innovation worldwide.

STEM-Related Support

Here are some of the ways QCC is here to support you on your STEM journey:

  • We implement STEM-focused recruitment strategies emphasizing the exciting opportunities in engineering, technology, computing and information technology, sciences, and math.
  • Freshmen are assigned to an Academic Advisor and second-year students are assigned to a STEM Faculty Advisor.
  • Our campus features Tutoring Centers, Student Accessibility Services, counseling, resume assistance, transfer options, and more.

STEM-Focused Opportunities

Discover the exciting opportunities available through our SSA program: 

  • Learn more about STEM from a mentor by signing up for QCC’s Mentoring Program. 
  • MASS Teach Program. Contact Adrienne Linnell at alinnell@qcc.mass.edu to learn more.
  • Research and Internship Opportunities
  • Industry Field Trips and STEM Workshops

Free Summer STEM Programs

Looking for something to do over the summer? Explore our upcoming STEM summer programs:

  • FREE 2-4 Year Transfer Program at all Massachusetts State Universities
  • STEM Summer Program
  • Computer Orientation

Discover how joining SSA can pave the way for exciting opportunities, innovative learning, and a rewarding future in science and technology.

QCC: Your Ultimate Tech Hub

Did you know that our Worcester campus is home to our QuEST Center- a STEM education center with cutting-edge technology and Massachusetts’ only Fab Lab? Learn more about STEM facilities.
QuEST Center
Fab Lab

Sci-Tech Scoop

Learn about the latest discoveries and innovations shaping the world of STEM!
Danielle Weaver (left) with Enoki and Derrick Oppong (right) with his mother

STEM Students of the Semester

In December 2024, QCC Dean of Math, Science & Engineering Ben Benton and Dean of Business, Computing & Applied Technologies Shunda Ware announced that 31 i

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A group of STEM students pose with the president in the QuEST Center

STEM Student of the Semester

Hey QCC faculty! Do you know a student who has gone above and beyond in STEM? Help us recognize Wyverns who are persisting and progressing in their STEM program by nominating them for STEM Student of the Semester.

Nominate a Student

Contact Us!

Have questions about STEM Starter Academy? Please reach out to one of our faculty members.

Shunda Ware

Dean of the School of Business, Computer and Applied Technology Programs