Research Study of STEM Programs for Improved Retention, Progression and Graduation (part 2)

By Richard Paul

Norfolk, VA – While Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) continue to grow, they are often the least understood and least studied institutions in higher education. But that's changing at Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. They have a grant to study their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) student scholarship program. It's part of what's called DNIMAS, the Dozoretz National Institute for Mathematics and Applied Sciences. Last week we learned the goal of DNIMAS is to address the severe shortage of minority scientists. Their graduates earn degrees in biology, chemistry, computer sciences, engineering, math, and physics. This week we learn that the DNIMAS graduation rate is 72%. That compares with just 26% for the university as a whole. And importantly, more than 90% of DNIMAS students stay in science, engineering, or math.