Recruiting and Retaining Diverse High Ability, Low-Income Students in Computer Science, Engineering Technology, and Mathematics

Piedmont Technical College, Greenwood SC

Investigators

Abstract

Piedmont Technical College's project increases enrollment, retention and graduation rates in associate degree programs in computer technology, science, engineering, and mathematics (CSEM) for low-income, academically talented students, particularly those from underrepresented populations. This is accomplished through the provision of targeted, comprehensive academic support services, coupled with up to 30 scholarship awards per year. PTC CSEM Scholars are recruited in partnership with school districts and community agencies, with an emphasis on populations that are typically underrepresented in CSEM fields. The project also includes the creation of a "student ambassador corps" to assist in recruitment of high school students, targeted supplementary peer tutoring for students in barrier courses, and peer mentoring by senior CSEM students for students enrolled in developmental courses.