Overview of Science and Engineering in Higher Education
Higher education report on science and engineering.
The fields of science and engineering are becoming increasingly popular in higher education institutions throughout the country. For reference, science and engineering is defined to include the fields of astronomy, chemistry, physics, atmospheric sciences, earth sciences, ocean sciences, mathematics and statistics, computer sciences, agricultural sciences, biological sciences, psychology, social sciences, and engineering. To understand the scope of these changes, here is a summary of the higher education report on science and engineering.
In recent years, science and engineering in higher education has increased rapidly. This increase can be seen across virtually all higher education institutions and across all degree levels. In fact, the number of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees awarded to those in science and engineering fields has increased steadily between 2000 and 2017.
Despite the increase of those enrolled and graduating with science and engineering degrees, certain demographic groups remain underrepresented in these fields. While women are at or near parity with men at most degree levels overall, there is significant gender disparity within fields. For instance, men are disproportionately represented in fields such as engineering, computer sciences, and mathematics and statistics. In terms of race, African Americans are underrepresented at all degree levels, and Hispanics, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives are underrepresented at all but the associate’s level.
The U.S. remains a popular destination for international students, however, 2018 marked the second year of decline in international enrollment. China, India, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia continue to send the majority of science and engineering students to U.S. schools. International students account for one-third of science and engineering doctorate recipients and more than half of doctorate recipients in engineering, computer sciences, and economics.
This is an overview of the higher education report on science and engineering. Looking for a consulting firm with experience working with salary, legal, and other human resources issues? Then don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at McKnight Associates, Inc. We are ready to offer you hands-on human resources consulting for colleges, universities, medical centers, and organizations of all sizes.