• Choosing whether or not to attend the Utah County Academy of Sciences (UCAS) can be a difficult decision.  While UCAS is an outstanding school, potential students should know that UCAS is not the best choice for everyone.  Please consider these factors when making a decision regarding attending UCAS.

    ADVANTAGES

    1. UCAS is a small school where everyone knows each other. It is easier to participate in leadership roles and clubs because of the small numbers.
    2. UCAS students who have good grades can accelerate their education by taking college classes which can count for both high school and college requirements.
    3. UCAS pays for tuition and books for UVU classes taken while in high school for eligible students. The cost of a college education can be greatly reduced.
    4. UCAS students who work hard can earn their UVU associates degree when they graduate from high school.
    5. UCAS students learn from an experienced, award-winning faculty who are very good at what they do. UCAS teachers love their subjects and enjoy working with motivated high school students.

    DISADVANTAGES

    1. UCAS has no athletic programs. Because of time requirements, it is very difficult for students to attend UCAS and participate in sports at their neighborhood high school.
    2. UCAS has very limited course options. There are no shop classes, drama classes, instrumental music classes, business classes, or languages other than Spanish.
    3. Students who fail any class or whose GPA is below a 3.0 will find that they are quickly eliminating both their college and high school choices. Poor grades in college will stay with them forever.  If a student cannot maintain good grades in college classes, they should not come to UCAS.
    4. The UCAS classes are more difficult and move faster than traditional high school classes. Successful students must have excellent study skills, a high level of maturity, and a dedication to put school above work, romance, hobbies, or vacations.
    5. Remedial classes are usually not available in the regular schedule at UCAS. If a student needs a lower level class such as Secondary Math 1, it will be available only on-line.  On-line classes are usually more difficult than the traditional equivalent.

    Students who find it difficult to maintain the academic rigor and very rapid pace of UCAS even after attending tutoring should see their counselor as soon as possible.  We will be happy to help them explore other options.