Master of Science (M.S.) programs are often, but not automatically, STEM-eligible. It depends on the specific degree's Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code, which appears on the Department of Homeland Security's official STEM CIP code list, and not just the "M.S." label.
What is a CIP code?
The CIP codes were developed by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). CIP codes are a numerical taxonomy used to categorize and report on fields of study offered by educational institutions. They range in specificity, with designations from two digits to six digits. A two-digit code encompasses everything within that field of study, while four-digit and six-digit codes break down the field into more specific subcategories. DHS uses CIP codes to identify the STEM degrees that are eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.
What is an F-1 visa?
The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows an individual from a foreign country to enter the United States as a full-time student at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified university or other academic institution. You must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma or certificate, and your school must be authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.
What is an F-1 OPT STEM extension?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary work permission for international students in the United States with an F-1 visa. The STEM OPT extension is a 24-month period of temporary training that directly relates to an F-1 student's program of study. Eligible students with STEM degrees who finish their program of study and participate in an initial period of regular post-completion OPT may apply for a STEM OPT extension. It allows students to get real-world work experience related to their field of study.
Stevens School of Business M.S. programs with STEM-designated concentrations
Many of the Stevens School of Business master’s programs have STEM-designated concentrations, making international students eligible for a 24-month OPT extension for post-graduation work. The "STEM-designated" label matters for the F-1 OPT STEM extension since it is coded appropriately for inclusion on the Department of Homeland Security's official STEM CIP code list.
School of Business master’s programs with STEM-designated concentrations:
A master’s degree from the Stevens School of Business prepares students to be nimble leaders in a digital economy who can navigate and guide others through disruptive changes. The STEM-designated concentrations fuse business and technology, making international students eligible for a 24-month OPT extension and setting our future-focused, innovation-driven programs apart.
Learn more about the Stevens School of Business programs:
