What is a STEM-Designated Program?
A STEM-designated program is an academic program recognized by the federal government. That is, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It focuses on four main areas: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students and U.S. companies benefit. Why? Because they focus on technical and quantitative skills.
Benefits of STEM Designation
Employers love graduates from STEM-designated programs. Why? Technical and analytical skills are in high demand across various industries. The skills acquired in STEM programs are in demand. Those include critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical expertise. These skills will help you get jobs. They also add to personal growth and development.
The STEM designation in a graduate program fosters a skilled workforce. One that addresses the challenges of the modern world. The demand for STEM professionals continues to rise. As a result, the importance of these programs will grow. And is an excellent choice for students who want to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
For international students, a STEM-designated program is ideal. It opens the door for the extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT). International students on an F-1 visa are eligible for 12 months of OPT. Those who graduate from a STEM-designated program can apply for a 24-month extension. This allows them to work in the U.S. for up to three years without needing sponsorship and gives students a chance to gain work experience and make them more competitive in the global job market. This experience is invaluable. It lets students apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. They develop professional networks and a chance to secure long-term jobs in the U.S.
STEM designated degrees at the Muma College of Business
Master of Science in Accountancy and Analytics (MSAA)
The MSAA embraces the new CPA Evolution Model. Graduates learn data wrangling. They learn data analytics. They learn data visualizations. They know project management. USF graduate accounting students learn the latest technological innovations. They become sought-after hires. Graduate students build on the basics of an undergraduate degree. They have the knowledge and skills to generate insights from accounting numbers.
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics (AIBA)
The MS in AIBA prepares students for growing needs across all industries. Become an expert in business analytics and data science. Know how to use data engineering and information technology. These skills cross a wide range of sectors. That includes banking, health care, and energy. USF’s program teaches technical skills employers want, such as business analytics, machine/deep learning, SQL, and NoSQL databases. Students learn agile methods. Faculty teach coding, scripting, cloud computing, and big data.
Master of Science in Financial Analytics
This master’s degree teaches tomorrow’s finance leaders. They learn the skills to thrive in a changing industry. This STEM-designated degree covers essential financial concepts crucial for innovative decision-making. Graduates enter various careers. Those include jobs in investment analysis and portfolio management. Students also go into banking and corporate finance. Others enjoy careers in financial services, risk management and fintech. The degree program is perfect for those interested in a senior role. The course work also lays the foundation for professional certifications. Some include the CFA, CFP, CTP and ChFC.