UMBC’s Grand Challenge Scholars Program is designed for students from all majors who are interested in solving important societal problems. The program fosters a vibrant interdisciplinary community to help tackle the National Academy of Engineering’s (NAE) Grand Challenges, and gives students experiences and skills to create solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.

What are the Grand Challenges?

The Grand Challenges are 14 broad problems in the areas of sustainability, health, security, and knowledge. Solutions to these issues require interdisciplinary teamwork and years of sustained effort. Read more at engineeringchallenges.org.

	Joy of living Reverse Engineer the Brain Enhance Virtual Reality Advance Personalized Learning Engineer the Tools of Scientific Discovery Learn More		Security Prevent Nuclear Terror Secure Cyberspace Restore & Improve Urban Infrastructure   Learn More
	Sustainability Make Solar Energy Economical Provide Energy From Fusion Develop Carbon Sequestration Methods Manage the Nitrogen Cycle Provide Access to Clean Water Learn More		Health Advance Health Informatics Engineer Better Medicines       Learn More

“The Grand Challenges are a call to action and serve as a focal point for society’s attention to opportunities and challenges affecting our quality of life.” –National Academy of Engineering

Applications are accepted during the Spring semester, with a new cohort starting at the beginning of each Fall semester. Click here for more information about the selection process.

Apply to become a UMBC Grand Challenge Scholar!