Beginning fall 2022 the University of Houston Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Degree Plan will join an elite group of supply chain programs in Texas that are STEM related as determined by the U.S. Department of Education’s Classification of Instructional Program (CIP), U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM Designated Program List, and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
The Supply Chain and Logistics Technology program is housed in the UH College of Technology.
"We are excited to share this major milestone for the program, as we become one of three undergraduate supply chain programs in Texas to have this distinction," said Program Director Margaret Kidd. "The other two are in the Dallas/Fort Worth area."
Kidd adds it is notable Houston will have a STEM-related supply chain program just as intelligent infrastructure and SMART cities become the new normal for economic prosperity, national security and a sustainable planet.
"Texas is the nation's #1 export state. Houston is the nation's 4th largest city, home to Port Houston, the #1 port in tonnage, the 'Energy Capital of the World' and the 'Innovation City on the Bayou.'" she said. "STEM-related classification expands student opportunities for scholarship funding, allows international students opportunity upon graduation to apply for STEM OPT extension for 24-month period of temporary training related to their program of study in an approved STEM field, and provides a competitive advantage when applying for internships and scholarships."
In an ever-changing, increasingly complex world, it's important that students can bring knowledge and skills to solve problems, make sense of information, and know-how to gather and evaluate evidence to make decisions. These are skills developed in science, technology, engineering, math and computer science (STEM/CS).
"If we want a nation where our future leaders, neighbors and workers can solve some of the complex challenges of today and tomorrow, and meet the demands of a dynamic and evolving workforce, building skills, content knowledge and literacy in STEM fields is essential," Kidd said. "We must also make sure that, no matter where children live, they have access to quality learning environments. A child's zip code should not determine their STEM literacy and educational options."
Beginning fall 2022 the Supply Chain & Logistics Technology - University of Houston B.S. Degree reflects a new CIP Code approved spring 2022 by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The new code 52.1301 Management Science is a STEM related field.