Rutgers STEM MBA Frequently Asked Questions
What is a STEM MBA?
High-quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) MBA programs include extensive portions devoted to technology and math. Over 50% of the courses for our entire curriculum require advanced mathematics or deal directly with the management of technology.
Does the STEM designation only apply to certain concentrations?
No. You may pursue any concentration as a STEM degree. To qualify, 50% of your total required degree credits must be in STEM-designated courses. This requirement is easy to meet in concentrations such as Supply Chain Management, Finance, Pharmaceutical Management, and Analytics and Information Management. For other concentrations, consult with an academic advisor to plan your curriculum to meet the criteria for a STEM degree.
Does the STEM designation only apply to the Full-Time MBA?
No. Rutgers STEM MBA applies to the Full-time and Part-time Rutgers Business School MBA programs. Students in the Full-time and Part-time program can pursue a STEM degree.
What do I need to do to qualify for the benefits of a STEM MBA?
Take at least 50% of your course credits from the list of STEM-designated courses. The majority of the credits in the core curriculum (including what we call “Foundation” courses) are non-STEM. Therefore, you should work with your academic advisor and faculty from the appropriate academic department to design a plan of study that emphasizes STEM electives in your concentration.
How does the STEM MBA affect international students?
Under current federal policy, international students (e.g., those on F-1 student visas) are eligible to work in the US in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) after two full-time semesters in residence. CPT allows international students to have paid internships in the US. After graduation, these students are eligible for Optional Professional Training (OPT). For a non-STEM degree, OPT can last for one year, enabling the student to learn a job in a US-based company before going abroad or getting an H-1B visa. For a STEM degree, OPT is extended an additional 24 months (if properly designed by the employer), so international students who receive the Rutgers MBA can work in the US for up to 3 years.
Have admissions procedures or standards changed for the Rutgers MBA?
The move to a STEM designation does not bring any significant changes to the standards for admission to our MBA programs.
Is the STEM MBA a dual degree?
No. The STEM MBA is one degree with the option to pursue more than one concentration.
Is the STEM designation available to recent alumni?
The STEM designation was approved for RBS MBA programs in 2020. Therefore, both international and domestic students who graduated in May 2020 are eligible to receive the STEM designation as long as their coursework met the criteria for a STEM degree. International alumnus currently under OPT who meet this requirement are eligible for extended OPT. Graduates who earned their degrees before May 2020 are ineligible to receive the STEM designation. Contact Marc Limata in the Full-Time MBA Office or Julia Conroy in the Part-Time MBA Office if you would like to request a review of your transcript.
Why might I want to attend Rutgers and not pursue the STEM-designated curriculum?
Although this designation is valuable, it may not align with your career goals. The STEM curriculum heavily emphasizes the use of math, science, and technology in business. Some career paths require other skillsets that you might want to focus on, which might not qualify you for a STEM-designated degree. You should design a course plan that helps you to achieve your career goals.
How can I find out more information about the STEM MBA?
Contact Rutgers Business School’s Office of Graduate Admissions: admit@business.rutgers.edu or call 973-353-1234.