HBCU: Stenghtening Minority Access to Research and Training (SMART) in Science, Education, and Mathematics (SEM)

Southern University, Baton Rouge LA

Investigators

Abstract

Title: Strengthening Minority Access Through Research Training (SMART) Southern University and A&M College HRD 0310426 PI: Mildred R. Smalley Southern University will implement comprehensive approaches to strengthen the institution's undergraduate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and research infrastructure. The University will (1) increase by 30% the number of STEM baccalaureates; (2) significantly increase the number of these baccalaureates who pursue doctoral degrees in STEM disciplines; and (3) increase the number of these STEM doctorates who enter the professoriate and the STEM workforce. Project efforts cut across the disciplines of architecture, agricultural sciences (animal, plant, soil, and urban forestry), biology, chemistry, computer science, physics, electrical engineering technology, engineering (chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical), mathematics, and science education in chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. The design of the SMART program operates on the proven thesis that the scope, depth, and quality of undergraduate training and participation of students in undergraduate research have a strong bearing on the desire and ability of undergraduate students to attend and to succeed in graduate studies.