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Bentley University’s graduate Analytics and Technology master’s degree programs—Business Analytics, Human Factors in Information Design (HFID), Information Technology (IT) and Marketing Analytics—have been assigned CIP codes that correspond with the DHS list of STEM eligible codes. International students on F-1 visas may apply to USCIS for a 24-month extension of their standard, 12-months of OPT based on this classification, which if approved would result in a total of 36 months of U.S. work authorization.

The much sought-after STEM designation is part of a U.S. Department of Education initiative designed to improve students’ skills in science, technology, engineering, and math — vital subjects known together as STEM.

The designation also has international implications, in that foreign students undertaking a STEM degree are eligible for an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Under the prior rules, an F-1 student could be authorized to receive up to a total of 12 months of practical training either before and/or after completion of studies. 

“International students are an important part of the Bentley community,” says Sharon Hill, assistant dean and director of graduation admissions at Bentley’s McCallum Graduate School of Business. “As the global marketplace expands, we are focused on bringing in the most talented students from abroad, and this will help that effort immensely.”

“With a STEM degree, international students will now have the ability to extend that training period by 24 months — meaning they can stay and work here for a total of three years,” says Hill. “This can really help students in terms of getting valuable professional work experience and, perhaps the ability to work with their employer on obtaining an H1B more permanent working visa.”

Bentley’s McCallum Graduate School of Business offers a distinctive combination of academics, technology, and hands-on experience, alongside access to a nationally ranked Career Services office and an alumni group that spans the globe. An MS in one of our analytics and technology programs provides an educational fusion of data and business, giving you the tools needed to master information, integrate it into successful business practice, and communicate the results like never before.