Why MSA? Facts and FAQs
What is the Mathematics and Science Academy (MSA)?
The MSA is a commuter program for high school-aged students who are gifted in mathematics and science. Students take classes from UTRGV faculty with UTRGV students. The difference is in the MSA experience where MSA students are provided more support and guidance than traditional college students.
Where are the MSA facilities located?
Students attending the Academy on the Brownsville Campus meet in MAIN Building, rooms 2.112 and 2.114. Academy students on the Edinburg Campus meet in MSAC 1.105.
How safe is the campus?
UTRGV is patrolled by university police. Off-limit areas and other age-appropriate rules promote security. The Student Health Center is available for student issues and the nearest hospital is minutes away. Under our Emergency Response System, on-call professionals provide counseling, support, and companionship until parents arrive.
Is transportation to MSA provided?
It is the student’s family responsibility to transport their student to and from the Academy. At this time, MSA does not offer transportation to its students; however, the university's partnerships with Valley Metro Transit Services and with Brownsville Metro allow all UTRGV students, including Academy students, to ride for FREE with a student ID card. Most importantly, UTRGV provides campus connectors between the Edinburg, Harlingen, and Brownsville campuses.
What will a typical day be for students of the Mathematics and Science Academy?
Academy students will report to campus by 8:30 a.m. and will be dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Students will follow their class schedule as would any other UTRGV student.
Do Academy students have a social life?
Some Academy organizations offer numerous leadership and service opportunities, from yearbook, Student Council and National Honor Society. The university sponsors dances, game and activity nights, movies, plays, and recreation. Academy students are at liberty to participate in many of the UTRGV-sponsored organizations and events.
Is there a dress code?
Neither the university nor the Academy imposes dress restrictions. Academy students are, however, expected to dress appropriately for school.
What happens to students who leave before graduation?
Students who leave for academic, behavioral, or personal reasons are eligible to return to their high schools. Most, however, will enroll in a university or a community college, or take correspondence courses before applying to college. College credits earned at MSA remain on their transcripts.
What academic help is available?
- FREE tutorial services are offered to students
- Supplement seminars on time management, note-taking, and study skills
- Counselors provide confidential assistance with the high school-to-college transition
What are the graduation requirements?
Students must complete 60 - 80 semester credit hours with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.7. A wide range of elective course options is available. Graduates receive an advanced high school diploma including college credits.
Where do graduates attend college?
Many MSA students complete their undergraduate degree at UTRGV because of the many benefits we offer including two years of fixed tuition beyond the MSA years. However, college acceptance of MSA graduates include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Columbia, Cornell, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, Bowdoin College, St. Mary's University, St. Edwards University, University of Houston, Baylor University, Sam Houston State, Texas State, Texas A&M, Texas A&M Kingsville, UT Austin, and UTSA among others.
How do I know if MSA is right for me?
- Come visit one of our informational sessions in the fall or spring, or email your questions to msa@utrgv.edu
- Schedule an appointment by calling (956) 665-2425 and visit us on campus.