Challenges of Implementing Integrated Programs for Underrepresented Students in STEM: A Study of the CSU STEM Collaboratives

Abstract

With emerging evidence about the efficacy of integrated support programs for college students and increasing attention nationally to creating such programs, it is important to understand implementation barriers that might affect program success. This study is one of the first to examine implementation of integrated programs, with a particular focus on the challenges related to connecting or aligning programmatic elements across departmental and divisional boundaries. The authors conducted a case study of eight institutions that implemented integrated programs that supported the transition to college for underrepresented students in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and identified several implementation challenges that are unique to integrated programs.