About Washington Aerospace Scholars
Washington Aerospace Scholars is an online distance learning course and summer experience hosted by The Museum of Flight specifically designed for high school students interested in pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) pathways through the exploration of space and space travel.
The online curriculum is a University of Washington college course focused on NASA's space exploration program as well as topics in Earth and Space Science.
If scholars successfully complete the online curriculum, they are invited to participate in multi-day summer experiences that provide them the opportunity to work with STEM professionals, NASA scientists, university students, and STEM educators.
Why should a student participate?
- Participating in the online distance learning course helps students understand the components and expectations for college level coursework while they are still in high school, particularly the importance of good time management and the ability to prioritize.
- Being able to state on a resume or college admission application that they completed a five-credit University of Washington course, while in high school, will help to set them apart from other applicants.
- Regardless of where they live, participating in WAS enables students to interact with like-minded peers and participate in virtual chats with STEM professionals currently working in a field of interest to them.
- The summer experiences provide students the opportunity to have fun learning about the universe in which we live, to meet other students with similar interests, and to challenge themselves to plan realistic future space missions.
- Being a graduate of the WAS program puts scholars in an alumni network of over 1600 students who are at top colleges and military academies across the country and who work at STEM companies, including Boeing, Microsoft, SpaceX, Facebook and NASA.
- WAS alumni frequently report that their experience builds their confidence, interpersonal skills, and prepares them for success in college.
Have more questions? Please visit our main page on The Museum of Flight website.
STEM Teachers
WAS is seeking STEM teachers to evaluate online coursework and participate as an academic facilitator during the summer. In addition to being exposed to university level curriculum and content, participants will also have opportunities to interact with professionals working in STEM fields, tour engineering and research facilities that are not open to the general public, work with highly engaged and motivated students, and learn new techniques for demonstrating STEM concepts in their classrooms.
For more information, contact WAS@museumofflight.org or call 206-764-5863.