The University of Virginia Masters in Commerce program has just recently received STEM certification for its Masters in Commerce program, along with two others. This is exciting news for all of the international students who are considering applying since programs that have this designation provide foreign students with additional time under an OPT extension (24 months) once they graduate. The designation will go into effect in spring 2019.
Over the past couple of years, STEM certification has become a really big thing, with most MSF programs seeking certification in order to attract international students. In addition to the Masters in Commerce program, the University of Virginia received certification on their Bachelors of Commerce and Management of Information Technology. As far as I know, this is one of the first undergraduate degrees with STEM certification.
Per the schools formal announcement, “A significant orientation toward technical, analytical, and quantitative skill development is a longstanding hallmark of all our curricula, and these STEM designations are a reflection of our strategic focus,” says Carl Zeithaml, Dean of the McIntire School. “As a community that deeply values diversity, these designations will allow us to attract applicants who bring competitive academic rigor, rich global perspectives, and significant value to our classrooms.”
All in all, I consider this a great announcement as more and more MSF programs receive STEM certification to provide the most value for their international students. In order to be competitive right now, being STEM is a must. Congrats to the UVA program for achieving this!
Here is a link to the University of Virginia Masters in Commerce Program
