This week, the University of Virginia’s M.S. in Accounting announced groundbreaking news that it is now STEM designated. McIntire has been a leader in incorporating analytics and technical skill sets across all of its undergraduate and graduate programs. The new STEM designation sends a strong signal to U.S. as well as foreign employers that our graduates possess the strong analytical and technical skills they are seeking.
“With its significant orientation toward data analysis, statistical analysis, coding, data mining, and forecasting, McIntire’s M.S. in Accounting curriculum accurately aligns with the way the field has evolved,” says Professor Andrea Alston Roberts, Director of the M.S. in Accounting Program.
This designation will be extremely valuable to international students as graduates are now eligible to apply for an additional 24 months of optional practical training (OPT). In the past, international students with F-1 visa status have been eligible for 12 months of work authorization following graduation. With the new STEM designation, F-1 visa holders are now able to apply to extend their employment authorization in the U.S. by an additional 24 months.
Read the University’s full press release to learn more.