American students are falling behind their international counterparts in the academic areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). While this may be a negative thing for the future of the country’s technology sector, it may benefit students who are looking to enroll in a campus-based or online degree program in these fields.
Many organizations are seeking to increase the number of students entering STEM programs by offering scholarships. They believe that making degrees in the sciences more financially attractive, a greater number of top students will pursue degrees in the field.
For example, a Kentucky-based university was recently awarded a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to help provide scholarships to students pursuing STEM degrees, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader.
American students rank 35th in math knowledge and 29th in science skills worldwide, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Experts blame these scores largely on a lack of interest from students.
However, scholarship programs could revive interest in STEM fields and help American students become more competitive internationally.
