The Pentagon’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which develops new cutting-edge military technologies, is seeking to increase the number of American engineering and science students, particularly in the field of computer science. Citing a downward trend in college grads with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees, DARPA is concerned that a lack of qualified computer scientists will put the Department of Defense networks at risk in the future.
DARPA blames much of the decline of qualified graduates on public perception, pointing to the erroneous view that the recent dot-com bust and outsourcing have reduced available computer science jobs. To remedy this misperception, DARPA seeks promote STEM degrees by providing scholarships, internships, and other rewards for students, starting as early as middle-school. DARPA is especially eager to promote STEM education among women and minorities, who are particularly misrepresented in the field.
Read more at Wired.
View the Research Announcement here.
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