Please note that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Sacramento State
has transitioned to virtual operations. This has delayed
university processes related to opening the ATS application for
our Summer 2020 program.
We apologize for the delay and plan to begin accepting
applications by early April. If classes are canceled, all course
fees will be refunded.
Overview
Sacramento State’s Academic Talent Search (ATS) provides an
exciting opportunity for 4th – 9th graders to explore subjects
they love in a fast-paced, supportive environment. Founded in
1982 by Dr. Terry Thomas, ATS has given over 47,500 a preview of
the college experience through academic, hands-on classes held in
real university classrooms and labs.
A wide variety of subjects are covered including art, computer
science, engineering, English, math, performing arts and science.
Students take classes grouped by grade level: current 4th & 5th
graders take classes separately from 6th – 9th graders.
New for 2020: No testing required for program admission.
To improve community engagement and access, Sacramento State has
eliminated the previous testing prerequisite for ATS. Now all
students in 4th – 9th grades for the 2019-2020 school year can
apply for the program!
Benefits
- ATS provides students with the opportunity to discover new
academic and creative challenges in topics not always available
in regular school and the chance to explore potential college
majors and career paths.
- The ATS teaching staff includes University professors,
community college faculty, area public and private school
teachers, and industry professionals.
- Through ATS, students can enhance their independence and
self-confidence while being treated like “college students” on
the Sacramento State campus.
- ATS brings together intellectual peers from throughout the
Sacramento Valley region, allowing them to make new friends, gain
self-confidence and improve social skills.
Audience
Open to any student in grades 4 – 9 as of January 1, 2020.
Structure
ATS offers two different programs each summer
4th & 5th Grade Program
- For students completing grades 4 or 5 for the 2019-2020
school year (rising 5th and 6th graders)
- Classes are offered Monday through Friday in one-week
sessions during the morning or afternoon.
6th – 9th Grade Program
- For students completing grades 6, 7, 8 or 9 for the 2019-2020
school year (rising 7th – 10th graders)
- Classes meet two to five days a week for 2- 3 hours each
day depending on the length of the course. One, three, and
five-week sessions are available.
