Providing Academic, Finanical and Social Support to Computer Science Majors to Improve Retention to the Bachelor's or Master's Degree

Saint Ambrose University, Davenport IA

Investigators

Abstract

The St. Ambrose University CSEMS Program provides 30 low-income or disadvantaged computer and information science majors the financial, academic, social, and peer support they need to persist to graduation. We offer four eligible majors: bachelor's degrees in computer science (CS), computer and information science (CIS), and computer network administration (CNA) and a new master's degree in information technology management (ITM). Students are selected based on financial need and academic promise. Students selected for the CSEMS program will receive the following support: enrollment in learning communities (for first year students); assignment to peer, professional and faculty mentors; monthly professional seminars (e.g., college transition for entering students, career planning and placement for upper level students); and academic support (tutoring). Upper-level students will participate in job shadowing and either an internship or practicum to get on-the-job experience and for career preparation.