This Bridges to the Baccalaureate program linking Central Washington University (CWU, Ellensburg, WA) and Yakima Valley Community College (YVCC, Yakima, WA) will increase the numbers of URMs transferring from YVCC with a Direct Transfer Associate's Degree into the Primate Behavior and Ecology program (PBE) at CWU. PBE majors choose a second major in psychology, anthropology, or biology and thus simultaneously earn two bachelor's degrees. Specific course requirements at CWU in all four disciplines give students a unique academic background, which is further enriched by multiple opportunities for faculty- guided fieldwork, research, and animal husbandry training. In addition students are prepared for careers in anthropology, psychology, or biology. The connection between YVCC and CWU will enhance the curriculum of both institutions by expanding laboratory and lecture resources at YVCC and by providing opportunities for YVCC and CWU faculty to more closely examine the compatibility of existing transfer classes. This grant will facilitate the purchase of equipment needed to, support training in the sciences at both institutions for Bridges and other students. The Bridges students' success will be ensured through careful recruitment and selection, intense mentoring by students, faculty, and other staff, financial support for several research opportunities, and strong social support. An independent evaluator will assess project objectives and goals through a variety of assessment tools including on classroom visits, student and faculty surveys, and monitoring of PBE graduates' demographic information. By supporting Bridges students through to completion of the dual BSc, this Bridges program will increase the diversity of practicing primatologists, biologists, anthropologists, and psychologists in various career settings, particularly the biomedical sciences. ? ?
