This project will contribute to the national need for well-educated scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and technicians by supporting the retention and graduation of high-achieving students with demonstrated financial need at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). Over its 6-year duration, this Track 2 project funds scholarships for 32 unique full-time students who are pursuing Master of Science (MS) degrees in research-focused Biology and Biotechnology programs. These students receive one or two-year scholarships. Scholars are introduced to new curriculum and cohort-based activities that foster resilience, develop research and professional skills, and prepare them to enter the biotechnology workforce. Scholars are paired with both near peer mentors and established faculty mentors to support academic and research progress. This project ultimately seeks to contribute well-prepared individuals to the biotechnology workforce in the region while simultaneously increasing the earning potential of scholars. The overall goal of this project is to increase STEM degree completion among high-achieving Master of Science (MS) students in Biology and Biotechnology with demonstrated financial need. This goal is achieved by awarding scholarships and enhancing curricular and co-curricular activities to foster resilient student cohorts, implement multi-tiered mentoring programs, and develop a new and sustainable MS program in biotechnology that continues beyond the funding period