Missouri State will have extra scholarship money available for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM professions, beginning next autumn.

The National Science Foundation recently awarded the university $1.5 million to support STEM scholarships for the next six years.

“Obtaining NSF funding is a difficult, competitive process, so we are very appreciative,” said Ajay Katangur, MSU department chair of computer science and principal investigator, in a news release.

“It is critical to assist individuals who would otherwise miss out on a college degree.” If we do not, we will all miss out on any scientific contributions they may have made.”

He stated that boosting scholarship possibilities, particularly for low-income, high-achieving freshmen with established financial need, has become increasingly critical at Missouri State.

According to Jorge Rebaza, associate dean of MSU’s College of Natural and Applied Sciences, programmes like these also connect with MSU’s aims for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“Through this effort, MSU will be able to award scholarships to STEM undergraduates who have academic talent or potential but unmet financial needs,” Rebaza stated in a press release.

Beginning in the fall of 2023, the institution will provide $9,300 scholarships to a group of freshmen for three years in a row.

If a student maintains a 2.85 GPA and studies in STEM, the scholarship may be renewed each year until graduation.

The qualifying fields are as follows:

Biology
Biochemistry or chemistry
Engineering in computer science
Mathematics
Physics, astronomy, and materials science are all fields of study.
Every year, students must apply and demonstrate unmet financial need. Information on how to apply will be made available shortly. Students whose majors qualify will be notified via email.