Ross Mathematics Program
June 21 - Aug 13, 2010
Garden of Constants at Ohio State
Introduction
The Ross Program at the Ohio State University is an intensive summer experience designed to encourage motivated pre-college students to explore mathematics. During those eight weeks, students are immersed in a world of mathematical discovery.
Dr. Arnold Ross founded this multi-level program at Notre Dame University in 1957. Its growth was then spurred by the launch of the Sputnik satellite and the subsequent surge of interest in science education. Arnold Ross's Program has run every summer since then, moving to Ohio State in 1964. It is currently sponsored by the University in partnership with the Clay Mathematics Institute.
The central goal of the Ross Program has always been to instruct bright young students in the art of mathematical thinking and to inspire them to discover for themselves that abstract ideas are valuable and important. First year participants take the basic course in number theory. For most students, this is the first time they are asked to consider entirely new questions, to develop methods that they have not seen before, and to justify every answer.
The value of a mathematics education lies not only in obtaining proficiency in computational tasks, but also in building a foundation for critical thinking. Students who have never asked why things work the way they do are not prepared to lead the way to future scientific innovation. It is precisely this independence of thought and questioning attitude that the Ross Program strives to nurture.
Eligibility
University Hall, with the Math Tower, at The Ohio State University
Ambitious pre-college students with interests in mathematics and science are invited to apply. First-year students range in age from 14 to 18 years old. Admission decisions are based on several criteria, including: the applicant's work on some challenging math problems; essays concerning the applicant's interests and goals; teacher recommendations; and school transcripts.
Costs and Financial Aid
Fees for this program are determined entirely by cost of eight weeks of room and board. In the 2009 session, each participant
was responsible for $2,500.
Some financial aid is available.
Brochure
A brochure (PDF) about the Ross Program is available by clicking here.
Ross Program Support
The Ross Program is supported in several ways. Partners in this mathematical enterprise include:
 The Clay Mathematics Institute |
 The Ohio State University |
 The American Mathematics Society's Epsilon Fund |
and several private donors.