Retention through Research: Sitting Bull College Builds STEM Program around Research Experiences

In 1996, faculty at Sitting Bull College (SBC, Fort Yates, North Dakota) developed its Environmental Science (ENS) Program, basing it on the scientific method and techniques students would need for employment in environmental technician positions with local and tribal agencies. Over the course of 15 years, this employment-based training evolved into research-based training that also requires all students in the Environmental Science Department to conduct and defend a full research project for graduation. This requirement was not only well received but has led to many unexpected benefits for the program. Research and presentations are a core part of the ENS Program and enhance a student's organization, professionalism, and critical thinking skills. SBC currently offers four distinct research programs that provide stipends to allow students the opportunity to conduct individual research projects. These include: (1) Semester Research Courses; (2) Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU); (3) Native Undergraduates Tropical Research Opportunities (NUTRO); and (4) North Dakota Office of Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research's Nurturing American Tribal Undergraduate Research and Education (EPSCoR's NATURE).