Student Participation in a STEM Preparation Program and Decision to Major and Graduate in a STEM Field at an HBCU
Abstract
It is arguable the United States (US) lags behind in global competitiveness in providing an adequate supply of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workers. As the diversity of the United States population increases and is compounded by an underrepresentation of minority students pursuing a STEM, there is an increased need for minorities to pursue careers in STEM fields. This study examined if Black students’ participation in the Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE) program was related to their majoring and graduating in STEM-related fields. The study employed the science identity conceptual framework, utilized major’s data of RISE program participants, and compared them with non-program. Using the Average Treatment Effect on the Treated it was found that RISE program participants decided to major and graduate from STEM fields more frequently than non-RISE. The results may inform the government, policy makers, and educational leaders about funding and establishing the RISE program.