Students who do not successfully complete all online course assignments will not be invited to participate in the Summer Academy.
Acceptance to the summer academy is not guaranteed, but is based on course performance. This includes the completion of all required assignments and quizzes. No zeroes can be earned. Student assignments and final project will be graded by teachers who will send you their comments via the Moodle online course system, which will forward to your email address.
Is there a cost associated with the VASTS Summer Academy?
No. We receive funding that provides the entire VASTS experience to you free of cost! We even pay for your college credits from Virginia Peninsula Community College if you successfully register for the optional credit. VASTS provides your housing, food, and transportation between the housing location and NASA at the Summer Academy.
How are students selected for the Summer Academy?
Each of the seven online course modules and final project will be graded using the rubrics at the end of each module. Students are selected for the Summer Academy program based on completion of modules, quality of work and timeliness. This is a very competitive, proprietary process performed by a committee of VASTS program staff.
Where will I stay during the summer program?
You will be housed two to a room (same sex) at a local college dormitory or hotel. All meals will be provided, and you will be chaperoned at all times.
What if I have a medical condition that requires I take medicine during the day at the Summer Academy?
Please bring your medication with you during the day and please let us know about your requirement on your Medical Release Form that will be sent to you if you are accepted into the Summer Academy. If you have medicine that needs refrigeration and you must take it during the day, we can make arrangements as long as we know ahead of time.