STEM MBA Programs in USA | Top Programs, Eligibility & Tips

An interdisciplinary approach known as STEM motivates pupils to broaden their views. Colleges produce top-tier business executives when they combine this strategy with a highly regarded education like an MBA. International students frequently choose the STEM MBA programs in USA. There are several professional prospects for graduates with a STEM degree, and this degree is highly respected across the world.

Being an engineer and then enrolling in an MBA school in USA has been a very successful professional route. In the modern day, more and more universities in the United States include the STEM component - science, technology, engineering, and mathematics - into their MBA. Students find it to be a highly flexible curriculum, and the addition of STEM has really strengthened the degree.

What are STEM MBA Programs?

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. If a course of study comes under any of the four disciplines stated, then that program is classified as a STEM program. Academically, STEM MBA programs are a combination of the standard MBA and an MS. A STEM MBA USA graduate can operate the company objectives of an MBA role while performing data processing and analytical skills that are anticipated from MS degree holders. STEM MBA programs are available everywhere in different categories. Such as tech MBA USA, UK, Canada, Germany, etc.

Unlike the traditional MBA, STEM MBA programs demand aspirants to have substantial technical knowledge. It is created to build on current STEM information to help candidates learn how to embed this data to apply in a business environment. A STEM MBA initiates job openings that were previously closed to MBA graduates.

STEM MBA USA Overview

Prior to the pandemic, some American MBA programs discovered STEM certification as a competitive differentiation and to reduce the uncertainties in the visa application process.

Graduates of accredited STEM MBA programs are eligible for STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training), a 24-month extension of their F-1 visa that allows them to use the skills they acquired while studying for their degree while working full-time in the United States.

It’s true that business school applications have significantly increased during the 2020 admission season. According to the Graduate Management Admissions Council’s analysis of applicant patterns, 67% of American schools showed an increase from 2018 to 2019. (GMAC). In the summer of 2020, 1,085 graduate business programs from 325 business schools throughout the world participated in the global survey.

Reasons to Choose STEM MBA Programs

One of the most appealing aspects of a STEM MBA Programs is that it combines the best technology and corporate worlds. As a result, if you don’t have a regular MBA but do have a technical degree and want to work in that industry, a STEM MBA can help you get a job in these specialized fields.

Furthermore, it’s unsurprising that a management graduate with strong technical skills would be in higher demand in the job market. You are extremely qualified for higher-paying career prospects in the United States as a STEM graduate. 

With the twenty-first century being acknowledged as the prime period of technology, modern enterprises would demand not just people with administrative and business skills but also qualified applicants with technological and analytical skills.  Furthermore, with data analytics at the heart of corporate development, the demand for qualified employees with data analytical skills will only expand.

Are You a Good Fit for STEM MBA Programs?

Being academically and professionally fit for the program is of the utmost importance. Therefore, this means that the schools’ admission committee will look for candidates with holistically developed profiles. Moreover, the candidates applying for the STEM-OPT program will have to meet a certain set of criteria set by the schools themselves.

MBA Colleges in USA require the candidates who wish to study STEM MBA programs to be proficient in their technical domain, and applying for a STEM MBA Programs would require at least a GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate studies. On the other hand, some schools focus more on the candidate’s pragmatic exposure and allow them to waive the test if they possess a full-time work experience of a minimum of 3 to 4 years.

Importance of STEM MBA Programs

Several business schools indeed have ongoing Master’s programs that include the decency of technology and business knowledge. Nevertheless, MBA programs have only begun observing the potential that originates from a STEM appellation. Apart from Stem MBA, you can also check out MBA schools in the USA that offer other specializations.

According to a report by Jacqueline Varas, Director of Immigration and Trade Policy at the American Action Forum, there will be a deficit of 1.1 million STEM artisans by 2024. This deficit shows us the lack of opportunities for STEM graduates in the United States.

As more companies manage to use data to make business choices, data analytics and business skills will become more twisted together. This drift will result in companies requiring graduates with business as well as analytics insight. Eventually, STEM MBA USA programs graduates’ will be the people to rise to satisfy this increasing need.

STEM MBA programs or any other MBA program abroad, in particular, is worth much more than known. You can easily find the best student loans in India to support such education abroad.

Benefits of a STEM MBA Programs

Apart from other MBA degrees, the STEM MBA programs offers a number of benefits. There are a few significant benefits to pursuing a STEM MBA USA, including:

Increased market reach

STEM MBA graduates are trained in technical and managerial disciplines, allowing them to develop the necessary abilities for success in the workplace. It’s essential to keep up with technology playing such a large role in corporate operations, especially management and leadership. Moreover, with the widespread adoption of technology across many industries, the demand for such people will only expand in the future.

Better networking

By studying alongside these STEM MBA USA students, students with great technical backgrounds from top B-schools eventually acquire exemplary jobs in the market and more wonderful networking possibilities with the school’s alumni, which you can exploit throughout your career.

Visa extension

International students majoring in STEM MBA programs, which must be from SEVIS-approved and qualified US universities, can apply for an additional 24-month OPT extension on top of the basic 12-month authorization. As a result, STEM MBA graduates are eligible for a total OPT authorization duration of 36 months, giving international students an advantage in the job market.

STEM MBA Programs in the USA for Indian Students

MBA-educated engineers have had a lot of success in this field. Science, technology, engineering, and math are now part of the MBA curricula at an increasing number of American universities. The degree has been strengthened by its combination with STEM because it is a flexible curriculum.

With a STEM MBA or specialization track, a candidate can work for three years in the US and make enough money to pay for college. However, STEM programs are expensive in the US. Given that most business schools in the US only give you a maximum of 12 months to work and pay back the tuition, it might not be enough. In the US, STEM is useful in this situation.

STEM MBA Programs Applicants

Let us assist you in determining whether you are qualified for the STEM MBA programs.

There are no unique eligibility criteria for STEM MBA programs besides the conventional MBA qualifications. On the other hand, MBA applicants with a science or technical background prefer STEM MBA over typical MBA specializations like HR or General Management.

The reason being no one with a business background will be interested in following a curriculum that combines science and business basics. As a result, the STEM MBA programs are best suited for candidates with a science or technological background, making STEM a viable alternative to consider.

STEM MBA Programs Curriculum

Typical STEM MBA USA programs consists of 60 credit hours spread out over two years. The STEM MBA programs focuses on educating students about technology through coursework and hands-on learning initiatives.

The STEM MBA programs typically includes two core subjects.

• Statistics & Decision Making – CORE
• Business Analytics – CORE

Students must complete the core requirements of the full-time STEM MBA programs in the first year of the program. Then, in the second year of the program, students work directly with their MBA program manager and faculty director to select STEM-specific courses to fit their overall career ambitions and aspirations, following the usual MBA trend. Aside from that, all MBA students are strongly encouraged to conduct an internship while pursuing their degree.

STEM MBA Programs Tuition Fee

A variety of factors influence the cost of a STEM MBA programs. Tuition rates are influenced by the school’s location, delivery method, and reputation. Additional costs, such as living expenses, resources, including hardware and software, and transport, should be considered by students. However, there are education loans for abroad studies without collateral to assist.

Some of the most prestigious schools offering a STEM MBA USA program usually charge lower than the conventional MBA program. For Example, schools like Columbia, Chicago Booth, Northeastern University, and Haas offer a 24-month STEM-OPT program, with a tuition fee ranging from $210,000 to $240,000. On the other hand, some of the other top schools in the same country, like Purdue, will only charge $84,000 for a 12-month STEM-OPT MBA program.

STEM-OPT for International Students

A STEM-optimized program/ STEM MBA program means that students will be allowed to stay in the country for extended periods post-masters in search of a job or until they receive their offer letter. The extension period can go up to 2 -3 years on top of their existing 1-year authorized stay. Moreover, the extension periods can vary depending on the purpose of the stay.

STEM MBA Programs in USA

Here are the top MBA STEM programs in the USA that you must know about:

STEM MBA USA Career Prospects

STEM areas are essential to the growth of humanity as a whole. From creating advancements in machine learning and AI to improving alternative, renewable sources of energy, STEM graduates are at the vanguard of it all.

The STEM MBA programs intends to make professionals equipped with strong business acumen along with advanced analytical skills. It drives the creation of the following generation of professionals competent to meet the necessities of a complete emcee of distinct specialties. Other MBAs, like 1 year MBA in Australia, the UK, USA, etc., also have significant career prospects.

Here are a few industries you can anticipate serving in after graduating from STEM MBA programs.

Data Science

It is also known as ‘Business Translators’, graduates from the STEM MBA programs with a concentration in data science are in tremendous need as companies of all dimensions look to transform into data-driven businesses. The overall idea is that the more prominent a business’s capacity to provide data is, the higher it will perform in all aspects.

Graduates from a STEM MBA programs have a dominant edge over simple STEM MBA program aspirants because of their combined knowledge of what will serve most suitable for the company. They are experts when compared to plain STEM aspirants.

Environmental Energy

There will be World War III for natural resources in the upcoming time. Lifestyles all across the world have expanded around the effectiveness of oil, water, and a few other natural resources – but now, we are running thin of all of them. Environmental Energy searches to find the energy production ability within substitute resources that are considerably more ample than the things we use momentarily.

A qualified professional who can understand both the science and also the business aspect of Environmental Energy is crucial for most manufacturers in this domain. The STEM MBA programs with proper training in engineering offers you precisely that. 

Internet of Things

We exist in the era of smart technology. From mobile phones and watches to complete homes and vehicles, each and everything is quickly growing electronic and interconnected. There is no doubt that this interconnectivity will help us in every way it can, however, it can break us too.

If you have educational training in computing and software, a STEM MBA USA is all you require to convert into a profoundly coveted specialist for any company looking to automate or execute AI into its goods or services.

CyberSecurity

In the age where information and data is everything, from national security data to financial documents, there is a bunch of stuff that is extremely important and hence sensitive to hacking assaults. National governments and companies of all dimensions are evenly at the peril of cyber-attacks directed at stealing delicate information.

In the before-mentioned circumstances, professionals are required to recognize the highest menaces and vigorously take steps to preserve the most sensitive regions of an organization’s online appearance. A professional who gets the business understands precisely what information signifies most – and there is no one more qualified than a gradaute from STEM MBA programs.

Technology

The enormous need for graduates from STEM MBA programs who comes from the technology sector. We think it is simple to understand how precious a business expert with a STEM concentration is to an organization exploring to use of technology to produce the most beneficial outcomes for companies around the globe.

Tech professionals have opted for MBAs in pursuance of career progression for several years. The STEM MBA programs takes the elevation one step ahead by using and promoting their current STEM experience to intensify the advantage they have over standard MBA along with MS candidates.

USA Schools Offering STEM MBA Programs

Here are some of the top universities and colleges in USA that provide a STEM MBA programs: 

1. Harvard Business School STEM MBA Programs

In January 2020, Harvard Business School introduced a program for STEM students. It was included in its Harvard MBA program. In this, the Management Science department is in charge of both of the program’s two years and includes topics including operations management and entrepreneurial management.

Eligibility Criteria

• A four-year bachelor’s degree
• IELTS or TOEFL score of at least 7.5 or 109

Tuition Fee: Two years at about $150,000

Admission Process

Applications for the current year are still being accepted, and the deadline is in April 2022. Students must submit the application form, transcripts, and a recommendation letter.

2. Mendoza College of Business STEM MBA Programs

This university, which is one of the top names on the B-School circuit and was ranked #1 in the Best Catholic Colleges in America by NICHE, provides a full-time STEM MBA USA program. In this university, five of the nine MBA specializations are STEM-related. The classes train you to become a company leader with useful engineering and scientific knowledge.

Eligibility Criteria

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Authentic GMAT or GRE score
• 7.5 or 100 minimum on the IELTS or TOEFL, accordingly

Tuition Fee: $220,000 over two years.

Admission Process

• The third round of admissions is now accepting applications; the application deadline is March 2022.
• Along with your application, you must provide a self-assessment video, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), and two letters of recommendation.
• After submitting your application, you must appear in person for an interview. In April, the outcomes will be made public.

3. Ross Business School STEM MBA Programs

This business school, which is located in Michigan, is ranked #19 by the QS World Rankings and #15 by Times Higher Education.

The STEM MBA was added to Ross Business School MBA program which is accredited and offers courses in over seven different fields, from artificial intelligence in business to marketing analytics.

Eligibility Criteria

• A degree equal to a bachelor’s from a reputable institution
• A legitimate GMAT or GRE score.
• IELTS and TOEFL minimums of 7 and 84, respectively

Tuition Fee: Two years at about $150,000

Admission Process

• The deadline for round-3 admissions, for which you are applying now, is April 2022.
• Before the deadline, you must send the application form, transcripts, and other supporting documentation along with $200 in application costs.

4. Booth School of Business STEM MBA Programs

Chicago Booth announced its full-time STEM MBA programs in April 2020. Booth assists the students by offering them 13 various disciplines to pick from, including entrepreneurialism, behavioral science, and econometrics and statistics.

Eligibility Criteria

• A four-year undergraduate degree.
• IELTS and TOEFL minimums are 7 and 104, respectively.

Tuition Fee: Two years at about $150,000

Admission Process

• The current intake admission process has already started and will be completed by April 2022.
• Students may obtain the application for this STEM MBA USA program in the United States via the school’s website.

5. Columbia Business School STEM MBA Programs

The MBA and EMBA programs at Columbia have been given the stem distinction. Despite being in the center of New York City, Columbia Business School provides its students with a fast-paced, competitive environment to make them feel at home.

Students can submit an application to this college’s STEM MBA programs during the months of January and August. On the other hand, they must enroll for the EMBA between May and August.

Eligibility Criteria

• A bachelor’s degree from a university that is recognized.
  A legitimate GRE or GMAT score is required.

Tuition Fee: Two years at about $150,000.

Admission Process

• The application date is April 2022, and the course begins in August of that year. Students are required to pay $250 in non-refundable application costs.
• A CV and recommendation letter must be supplied with the application form.

6. Wisconsin School of Business STEM MBA Programs

The Wisconsin School of Business became the first in the United States to provide an MBA with a STEM concentration earlier in 2016. Candidates who select the track obtain an MBA concentrated in Operations and Technology Management. The track is supported by the Erdman Center for Operations and Technology Management, which draws together MBA and UW-Madison pharmacy candidates to generate solutions to global tech challenges.

7. Fuqua School of Business STEM MBA Programs

In 2017, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business began an MBA certificate program in management science and technology, which is a STEM-certified course. About a fraction of the MBA class has registered for the elective course. Duke is one of the Ivy League super-elite US schools. The business school is ranked 10th by US News.

The Fuqua School of Business at Duke University, which is ranked #13 by the Economist, provides a full-time MSTem (Management Science and Technology Management) degree with specializations in data analytics, Supply chain management, and Cryptocurrency. An additional benefit of the STEM designation is the 24-month practical training.

Eligibility Requirements

• 4-year bachelor’s degree or a 3-year certificate from a recognized university
• Scores on English language proficiency are not accepted by Fuqua. They substitute different techniques to gauge your English proficiency.

Tuition Fee: 14000 dollars for two years.

Admission Process

The third round of admissions is now accepting applications through March 2022. Along with your application, you must include academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and a résumé. An interview round will come after the application process.

8. Simon Graduate School of Business STEM MBA Programs

Simon Business School, a graduate institution run by the University of Rochester, is ranked #33 by US News. The Simon Business School’s STEM MBA programs offers more than 10 areas of specialization, from technology management to business analytics and data science.

Eligibility Criteria

• Equal to the US baccalaureate degree in bachelor’s degree.
• A legitimate GRE or GMAT score, as well as an IELTS or TOEFL score of 7.5 or 100, demonstrating your English language competency.
• Prior professional experience will be a bonus throughout the screening process.

Tuition Fee: Two years, around $98,000

Admission Process

The existing admission period will end in March 2022. To avoid fines, students must submit their applications by the deadline.

9. Terry College of Business STEM MBA Programs

The Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia provides a whole STEM MBA USA concentration. It could be exerted up to one year, substantially decreasing the cost of opportunity of not working, and candidates can save up to a year of tuition fees, too. The course is very cost-effective anyhow, and the expense is split between in-state residents.

10. Foisie Business School STEM MBA Programs

A curriculum designed by Foisie specifically enables STEM workers to assume management duties while still reaping the rewards of the STEM workforce, such as the support and networking provided by a top-notch course. Among the many options available are information and technology, user experience, innovation, analytical operations and management, and supply chain management—a critical aspect of management.

Eligibility Criteria

• A bachelor’s degree from in the country of residence.
• A minimum IELTS or TOEFL score of 6.5 or 80.
• The Foisie Business School does not require GRE or GMAT results for admission.

Tuition Fee: Two years, around $94,000

Admission Process

• The application period is now finished for the next autumn season. Around September 2022, applications for the next intake begin to open.
• Students must submit the application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other required documentation, along with a $70 application fee.

11. Marshall School of Business STEM MBA Programs

Students at this institution have access to a Management Science specialty that has STEM certification. This course combines decision-making and analytics based on analytics, business fundamentals and leadership skills.

Students are required to use a variety of quantitative and scientific techniques to address a variety of business difficulties, including statistics, data analytics, finance, forecasting, and digital marketing, among others.Some of the courses are in the field of “Management Science,” which includes topics like the use of statistical modeling, data mining and warehousing, programming, and the examination of organizational issues in business.

Conclusion

An increasing number of business schools in the United States are providing STEM MBA programs to proffer candidates the abilities they require for an era of digitization and robotics. When schools demonstrate that half their program substance is based on the ‘STEM’ fields of science, technology, engineering, and math, they obtain the status.

The STEM MBA programs were successful in assisting in enhancing MBA applications at several schools and raising curiosity among corporate business employers. According to information from Randstad North America, the US had three million extra STEM jobs than it had workers to satisfy these openings in 2016.

And from the view of post-study opportunities, a STEM MBA are more prevalent among recruiters. The abilities that candidates obtain while pursuing these programs, a mixture of technology and business management, can go an extended way in the contemporary business world.