Underrepresented students in STEM

Abstract

African Americans, Mexican American/Latino, and Native American/Alaska Native students have historically been considered a minority in the United States. However, their population growth and influence in the nation is unproportioned to their growth in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The amount of students graduating from undergraduate school is even lower than those enrolled. Underrepresented students do not only take into account the individual’s race and ethnicity, but also the individual’s gender. The gap created by the lack of diversity in universities is a potential dilemma to the nation as a whole. This study will look into understanding diversity in STEM fields as well as practices implemented in schools that are effective in being inclusive and increase the rates of degree attainment from minorities in STEM majors.