RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Graduate student debt for STEM vs. non-STEM students, 2012
Burns, R. A., & Webber, K. (2019). Achieving the promise of educational opportunity: Graduate student debt for STEM vs. non-STEM students, 2012. Journal of Student Financial Aid, 48(3), Article 5. https://ir.library.louisville.edu/jsfa/vol48/iss3/5
Using NPSAS 2012 data, this study examines graduate student debt for STEM versus non-STEM students who were enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program in 2012. Findings showed significantly higher debt for those in non-STEM programs as well as differences by amount of undergraduate debt, race, and full- or part-time enrollment status. These differences may encourage more STEM participation, but may restrict some students from enrolling in graduate-level programs, particularly in non-STEM fields. The loss of a new generation of citizens with graduate level training may affect our national economy and productivity, and urges institution officials to consider means to offer financial aid to a larger number of graduate students.