Getting Information Systems Programs Classified as STEM: A U.S.-based Perspective from an AIS Task Force Study and Panel Discussion

Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is a designation for educational degree programs that have certain benefits that non-STEM programs do not. To achieve a STEM classification, a program must meet certain criteria. Programs in the natural sciences, engineering, and math departments often readily meet these criteria. However, although programs such as information systems, information technology, and business intelligence have technology at their core, these programs, especially in business colleges, often face difficulties in meeting the STEM criteria. In this paper, we review the STEM designation and provide insight into information systems and related degree programs that have received this designation based on findings from an AIS task force and an AMCIS panel discussion

Getting Information Systems Programs Classified as STEM

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. This is a designation that we’ve heard about in higher education, particularly in North America and the United States, for several years now, and programs that fall under STEM can receive benefits beyond what others receive. So, you may be thinking, “I teach technology, and my school’s degree program is information systems, information technology, business intelligence, or some technology related major. So, it must be STEM, right?” Not necessarily. To be classified as STEM a program must fit a special set of pre-defined criteria. This panel is designed to help schools determine if their programs are a good fit for STEM designation and if so, how to navigate the steps toward gaining that designation