According to a Federal Register notice, the United States will introduce eight new study subjects for international students looking to work professionally there. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) will include additional subjects.
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On July 12, 2023, ICE and DHS announced in a Federal Register notice their amendment to the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List, adding eight new qualifying fields of study. This list determines the eligibility of international students in F-1 status to apply for a 24-month extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a STEM field. In January 2022, the Biden administration had previously expanded STEM OPT eligibility by including 22 additional fields, such as cloud computing, anthrozoology, climate science, and mathematical economics. The public can nominate fields for inclusion in the degree program list. OPT is crucial for international students to gain practical work experience, potentially leading to H-1B status and employment-based green card opportunities.
Fields Of Study
Landscape Architecture
This course of study equips students for independent professional practice in landscape architecture and research into many facets of it.
Includes Instruction in
- Geology and Hydrology
- Project and Site Planning
- Environmental Design
- Landscape Design, History, and Theory
- Soils, Groundcovers, and Horticultural elements
- Applicable Law and Regulations
- Professional Responsibilities and Standards
Institutional Research
This course of study equips students to work as institutional researchers in postsecondary institutions.
Includes instruction in
- Data Analysis
- Data-driven Decision-making
- Data Mining
- Higher Education Administration and Organization
- Research Methods
- Statistics
Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering Technology/Technician
A course that educates students to use fundamental engineering concepts and technical expertise to assist engineers in the conception, development, and operational assessment of autonomous, computer-controlled electro-mechanical systems.
Includes instruction in
- Computer and Software Engineering
- Robotics
- Electronic and Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Control Engineering
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Composite Materials Technology/Technician
A course of study that prepares students to apply fundamental engineering concepts and technical knowledge in support of engineers and other professionals working in the development, production, and use of composite materials in wind turbines, boats, cars, and other high-tech applications.
Includes instruction in
- Computer-Aided Design and Drafting
- Composite Manufacturing
- Composite Repair
- Composite Maintenance
- Material Science
- Composite Materials and Processes
- Mold Manufacturing and Production
Linguistics and Computer Science
A programme that focuses on how computational methods are used in natural language and how they relate to computer and human language.
Includes instruction in
- Computer Programming
- Human Languages
- Linguistic Analysis
- Logic
- Natural Language Processing
- Semantics
- Machine Learning
- Psycholinguistics
- Software Engineering
- Syntax
Developmental and Adolescent Psychology
This programme with a strong emphasis on the scientific investigation of the distinctive phases of psychological development and growth that people experience from adolescence to adulthood.
Includes instruction in
- Cognitive and Perceptual Development
- Emotional Development
- Personality Development
- The Effects of Biological Maturation on Behaviour
- Theories of Cognitive Growth and Related Research Methods
- Testing and Assessment Methods for Different Age Levels
- Research on Child and Adolescent Behaviour Therapy
- The Psychology of Aging
Geospatial-Intelligence
This course prepares students to relate human behaviours to cultural, political, economic, social, and physical landscapes to analyse security and intelligence issues from a geographic viewpoint.
Includes instruction in
- Aerial Photography Analysis
- Cartography
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Physical Geography
- Remote Sensing
- Spatial Programming
- Quantitative Methods in Geographic Research
Demography and Population Studies
A course that emphasises the methodical investigation of population models, population phenomena, and associated issues with social organisation and behaviour.
Includes instruction in
- Population Growth
- Spatial Distribution
- Mortality and Fertility Factors
- Migration
- Dynamic Population Modeling
- Population Estimation and Projection
- Mathematical and Statistical Analysis of Population Data
- Population Policy Studies
- Applications to Problems in Economics and Government Planning
Conclusion
The USA has taken a new step towards making fields of study more accessible to international students. The new policy will help many students get knowledge and participate in the choice of their fields. Students will get wonderful opportunities to grow and gain knowledge in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What are the eligible STEM fields for OPT?
The eligible STEM fields for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States are determined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The official list of eligible STEM fields is the STEM Designated Degree Program List. It includes computer science, engineering, mathematics, biological sciences, physical sciences, and more.
Q. How do I know if my degree qualifies as a STEM field?
To determine if your degree qualifies as a STEM field, you should consult the STEM Designated Degree Program List published by the DHS. This list specifies the degrees and corresponding fields eligible for OPT extension. If your degree program matches a field on the list, you can consider it a STEM field.
Q. Can I apply for an OPT extension if my degree is not in a STEM field?
No, the OPT extension is specifically designed for students who have completed degrees in STEM fields. If your degree is not in a STEM field, you are not eligible for the 24-month extension of OPT. However, you may still be eligible for the standard 12-month OPT period.
Q. Are there any restrictions or requirements for the OPT extension?
Yes, there are certain requirements and restrictions for the OPT extension. You must have completed a degree in an eligible STEM field from a recognized U.S. institution, work for an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program, and submit a Form I-983 training plan. Additionally, you must report any changes in employment or address to your designated school official (DSO) to maintain your legal status during the OPT extension period.
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