Abstract
This quantitative analysis explored measures influencing time to STEM-degree-completion in a correlational, non-experimental analysis of archival data (N = 745). FGCS represent a significant portion of individuals pursuing a post-secondary degree in the United States however, FGCS are less likely to persist to graduation as compared to their continuing-generation peers. FGCS are entering colleges and universities declaring STEM majors yet, are changing their major and or leaving college without a four-year degree (Chen, 2013). FGCS, who identify as female, face additional barriers, whether perceived or actual, in the pursuit of earning a STEM degree. FGCS choose to pursue STEM majors, yet they are less likely to graduate with a STEM degree. A multiple linear regression was performed, and results indicated that time-to-completion was significantly related (R2 = .12, p < .001) to ACT score, Pell-eligibility, PSEO credit, learning community participation, and on-campus employment. For students who identified as female, (N = 209) time-to-completion was also significantly related (R2 = .26, p < .001) to ACT score, Pell-eligibility, PSEO credit, and on-campus employment. For students who identified as female, (N = 209) time-to-completion was not significantly related (R2 = .07, p = .18) to the type of STEM major.
Advisor
Jacqueline Lewis
Committee Member
Diane Coursol
Committee Member
Walter Roberts
Committee Member
Kerry Diekmann
Date of Degree
2019
Language
english
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Counseling and Student Personnel
College
Education
Recommended Citation
Clennon, K. (2019). Engagement and STEM degree completion: An analysis of the relationship between time-to-completion and engagement and pre-college variables [Doctoral dissertation, Minnesota State University, Mankato]. Cornerstone: A Collection of Scholarly and Creative Works for Minnesota State University, Mankato. https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/etds/966/
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Included in
Counseling Psychology Commons, Higher Education Commons, Higher Education Administration Commons