College of Behavioral & Social Sciences

B5: Bridges to Baccalaureate

The B5: Bridges to Baccalaureate program supports college-bound students and current Hispanic/Latinx and/or low-income students in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. Designed as a dynamic support system, this program is strategically positioned to serve students in the pivotal years of their academic success. The project activities, developed in collaboration with academic and student support programs and partners across campus, will support the enrollment, retention, and graduation rates of undergraduate Hispanic and Low-Income (HLI) students at Chico State.

The B5: Bridges to Baccalaureate program is administered by the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences with support from a five-year, $2.9 million Title V "Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions" (DHSI) grant from the U.S. Department of Education procured by Ryan Patten and Patrick Johnson.

For general inquiries, the B5 team can be reached at: b5bridgesteam@csuchico.edu


                              The Five Bridges Explained


Bridge I: College Bound & Entering Student Support

The High School Scholars (HSS) program is an excellent opportunity for high school students to take up to two courses at Chico State for a nominal $118 fee. This program aims to provide eligible high school students with an enriching educational experience, allowing them to earn college credits while still completing their high school requirements.

HSS is an established program managed by the Chico State Admissions Office, and we've teamed up with them to cover the $118 registration fee for eligible students. Any qualifying student can apply, however, only those who identify as Hispanic/Latinx and/or are low-income will qualify for the B5 grant waiver. The $118 is a flat rate and students can enroll in up to two, 100- or 200- level courses. This dual enrollment opportunity allows for 11th and 12th students to earn college credit while simultaneously attending high school.

High School Scholars Information Page(opens in new window)

High School Scholars Application(opens in new window)

Bridge II: Peer Mentoring Support for Transfer Students

Peers Assisting Wildcats for Success (PAWS) Navigators support the New Student Orientation and Transition Program. 

These mentors are designated to guide students before their Summer Orientation, leading group information sessions, answering questions from students and their families, offering referrals to support services, and covering essential college survival skills. 

For more information, please visit the Chico State PAWS Navigators Page(opens in new window).

Bridge III: Peer Mentoring Support Through The Game Changers Program

Calling all Criminal Justice and Psychology Majors! We have a really exciting opportunity for you to gain experience in fulfilling your graduation requirements while spending a year with a cohort of 30 other students in your major -- Introducing the “Game Changers” program.

For any questions about the program and/or regarding participation, please email Dr. Darin Haerle at dhaerle@csuchico.edu.

Bridge IV: BSS FUTURE Scholars Program

The BSS FUTURE Scholars Program is an undergraduate research experience designed to provide Hispanic/Latinx and/or low-income students with valuable opportunities to engage in hands-on research experiences, collaborate with faculty mentors, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of research methodologies within the behavioral and social sciences disciplines.

Student Eligibility Criteria:

  • Hispanic/Latinx and/or low-income
  • Chico State sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a declared major within the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident

If you're interested, please visit the How to Apply(opens in new window) page for more information.

*The application period for the Spring 2025 session has now ended. Fall 2025 applications will open in spring of 2025. 

  • This is a paid research assistantship (9-week program) - no prior experience required! 
  • Previous applicants may reapply, up two a total of two semesters.
  • Acceptance into the program is not guaranteed - based on the application submitted, the B5 Team will determine whether or not a student will actually be conducting/contributing to the advancement of research (this isn't a "student assistant" position). 

Student Testimonials

Not sure if the BSS FUTURE Scholars program is the right undergraduate research experience for you? Feeling nervous and doubtful about exploring the world of research? 

Read all about the transformative experiences and testimonials of our current students and alumni as they share their firsthand experiences and what inspired their decision to join!(opens in new window)

Bridge V: BSS Success Information Hub

Did you know that the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences has two Student Success Centers?

The purpose of these spaces is to provide students with resources that will help them achieve academic success! In these centers, students can expect to find:

  • Study spaces
  • Free printing
  • Advising Interns
  • Events & Wellness

Locations:

  • Behavioral & Social Sciences Hall, Room 111
  • Modoc Hall, Room 223

Hours & Days of Operation (during the academic year):

  • 8:00am-5:00pm - Monday-Friday

For more information, please visit the BSS Success Center information page(opens in new window).