FAQ about USD's STEM-Designated MBA Program
Find answers to common questions about the STEM MBA at the Knauss School of Business.
A STEM-designated MBA is an MBA program containing coursework with a high level of analytical content and rigor. STEM MBA graduates are prepared to manage data and utilize analytical models to make informed decisions about finance, marketing, operations, supply chain, staffing and strategy. A STEM MBA primarily benefits international students who want to remain in the United States to work after graduating.
USD’s MBA curriculum offers six optional concentrations, two of which are STEM-designated: business analytics and finance.
International students who complete the STEM MBA (like other STEM programs) may be eligible to work up to three years in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship from an employer. Additionally, because of a domestic talent shortage within the U.S., international STEM students may have a higher chance of gaining employer sponsorship and being able to legally live in the U.S. after they graduate.
Please visit the Office of International Students & Scholars website for more information about F-1 Employment, including STEM OPT.
A STEM-designated MBA signifies a high level of analytical rigor in the coursework. For this reason, a STEM MBA can help you stand out as a candidate to employers in certain industries, such as life sciences or tech, and may also set you up for a higher salary.
Students enrolled in the STEM MBA will take the same core requirements in classes with non-STEM MBA students. They will then be required to pursue MBA elective classes to earn one of the two STEM-designated concentrations: business analytics or finance.
Not at this time.
If you are interested in applying to the STEM MBA, you will need to select the "MBA in Management Science" during the application process. The requirements and deadlines for the STEM MBA are the same as the Full-Time MBA.